Pulmonary Vascular Obstructive Disease
Progressive elevation of pulmonary vascular resistance due to structural changes in pulmonary arteries, often resulting from chronic increased pulmonary blood flow.
Full Definition
Pulmonary Vascular Obstructive Disease (PVOD) represents progressive structural changes in the pulmonary vasculature characterized by increased muscularization, intimal proliferation, and eventual obliteration of small pulmonary arteries. This condition typically develops in response to chronic increased pulmonary blood flow from left-to-right shunts in congenital heart disease. As the disease progresses, pulmonary vascular resistance increases substantially, potentially leading to reversal of the original shunt (Eisenmenger syndrome). The condition represents a critical determinant of operability in congenital heart disease, as advanced PVOD precludes many surgical interventions. Editorial teams should maintain consistent terminology and distinguish from acute pulmonary hypertension.
Usage
Usage note: Spell out fully on first use; PVOD acceptable as abbreviation in subsequent references.
In Context
- "Cardiac catheterization revealed severe pulmonary vascular obstructive disease precluding VSD closure." — Pre-operative assessment
- "The development of pulmonary vascular obstructive disease necessitated heart-lung transplantation evaluation." — Transplant consultation