QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
A CTPA scan can be used to diagnose reduced LV function but is not the first-line imaging technique recommended by NICE.
10003577
b
Computerised tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA)
QuestionChoice
D-dimer can be used as a prognostic factor in patients with heart failure but is not used in its diagnosis.
10003580
e
Serum D-dimer
QuestionChoice
This man has developed heart failure. An echocardiogram will show poor left ventricular (LV) function and reduced ejection fraction. NT-pro-BNP is used to determine the urgency of the echocardiogram.
10003576
a
Echocardiography
QuestionChoice
Coronary angiography is considered the best method for diagnosing coronary heart disease.
10003578
c
Coronary angiography
QuestionChoice
Heart failure can cause an abnormal ECG, but ECG changes are not enough to be able to diagnose heart failure.
10003579
d
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Concept
Chapter
2693
3798
Heart Failure
Topic
134
Cardiology
13262
A 68-year-old retired electrician is currently an inpatient on the cardiology ward. He complains of worsening breathlessness that woke him up during the night. He had a myocardial infarction 4 months ago.

His pulse is 99 bpm, blood pressure is 162/101 and respiratory rate is 20 breaths/minute.

Auscultation of his chest reveals bibasal crepitations and there is a dullness to percussion of both bases.

His chest x-ray shows small bilateral pleural effusions with upper lobe blood vessel diversion.

What is the most appropriate diagnostic investigation for this man's condition?
a