Medical Treatment of Acute Decompensated Heart Failure Syndrome / 대한내과학회지

ABSTRACT

Acute decompensated heart failure syndrome is the most common cause of cardiovascular hospitalization with a high rate of in-hospital mortality. The clinical presentation is characterized by different clinical profiles due to various underlying causes, precipitating factors, volume status, and tissue perfusion status. Therefore, clinicians should carefully examine the hemodynamic status of acute decompensated heart failure patients in the initial management. Risk stratification might provide guidance to clinicians who care for patients with acute decompensated heart failure syndromes, and might improve decision-making in emergent care when decisions must be made quickly and accurately. Intravenous loop diuretics are the main treatment option for the relief of congestive symptoms. This article reviews how to assess hemodynamic status of acute decompensated heart failure patients and how to perform risk stratification of patients. Additionally, the initial treatment approach with a variety of pharmacological therapies including inotropic agents, diuretics, beta-blockers, angiotensinogen converting enzyme-inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, digoxin, and other medications that are routinely prescribed in the management of acute decompensated heart failure patients are also discussed.