In diastolic dysfunction, which parameter is typically preserved?

In diastolic dysfunction, which parameter is typically preserved?

• A. End-systolic volume is increased
• B. Ejection fraction is decreased
• C. Left atrial size is reduced
• D. Ejection fraction is preserved

Answer: (D)

Diastolic dysfunction is about the ventricle’s impaired relaxation and reduced compliance, which raises filling pressures while the heart’s pumping ability remains intact. Because systolic function is preserved, the ejection fraction stays normal, even as filling pressures rise and symptoms of heart failure appear. That’s why this scenario is classic for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. End-systolic volume isn’t characteristically increased since systolic contraction is conserved, and left atrial size tends to enlarge over time from sustained high filling pressures rather than decrease.

Diastolic dysfunction is about the ventricle’s impaired relaxation and reduced compliance, which raises filling pressures while the heart’s pumping ability remains intact. Because systolic function is preserved, the ejection fraction stays normal, even as filling pressures rise and symptoms of heart failure appear. That’s why this scenario is classic for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. End-systolic volume isn’t characteristically increased since systolic contraction is conserved, and left atrial size tends to enlarge over time from sustained high filling pressures rather than decrease.