flash pulmonary edema
Sudden onset of severe pulmonary edema, often associated with acute hypertensive episodes or cardiac decompensation.
Full Definition
Flash pulmonary edema is the rapid development of severe pulmonary edema over minutes to hours, typically triggered by acute increases in left ventricular filling pressures. Common precipitants include hypertensive crises, acute myocardial ischemia, or severe mitral regurgitation. Unlike gradual heart failure decompensation, flash pulmonary edema presents with dramatic symptoms including severe dyspnea, anxiety, and pink frothy sputum. The condition requires immediate intervention with diuretics, vasodilators, and sometimes mechanical ventilation. Rapid recognition and treatment are crucial as the condition can be life-threatening.
Usage
Usage note: Do not hyphenate; 'flash' describes the rapidity of onset.
In Context
- "The patient developed flash pulmonary edema secondary to acute mitral regurgitation from papillary muscle rupture." — Emergency department report
- "Flash pulmonary edema responded rapidly to IV nitroglycerin and high-dose furosemide." — Treatment response note