Eisenmenger Syndrome

Diagnosis

Mayo Clinic doctors who have advanced training in heart disease (cardiologists) work with a team of specialists to accurately diagnose Eisenmenger syndrome and other congenital heart diseases. To diagnose you or your child, your cardiologist will discuss your medical history, perform a physical examination and order appropriate diagnostic tests. These tests may include:

• Cardiac catheterization. In this test, doctors insert a thin, flexible tube (catheter) into an artery in your groin and guide the catheter to your heart using X-ray imaging. Doctors use cardiac catheterization to measure the pressure and amount of blood in your heart and lungs.
• Chest X-ray. Your doctor may order a chest X-ray to look for heart and pulmonary artery enlargement.
• Echocardiogram. During an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart), sound waves create detailed images of your heart. This test assesses the structure of your heart and blood flow through your heart. Doctors usually use echocardiograms to diagnose Eisenmenger syndrome.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG). In an electrocardiogram, sensor patches with wires attached (electrodes) measure the electrical impulses given off by your heart. An ECG can point out increased right heart pressure (right ventricular hypertrophy).
• Blood tests. Blood tests may be conducted to assess your blood counts (which are often elevated in Eisenmenger syndrome), your kidney and liver function and your iron level.
• Walking test. A six-minute walk test may be conducted to assess your tolerance to a mild level of exercise.

Read more about chest X-ray, echocardiogram and electrocardiogram at www.MayoClinic.com.