If a patient has a left ventricular ejection fraction of 65%, what type of heart failure is indicated?

A left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 65% indicates a preserved ejection fraction, which is characteristic of diastolic heart failure, also known as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). In this condition, the heart can pump blood effectively (as indicated by the normal ejection fraction), but it struggles with filling properly due to stiff or hypertrophied ventricular walls. This impaired relaxation leads to symptoms of heart failure despite a seemingly normal LVEF.

Systolic heart failure, in contrast, is associated with a reduced ejection fraction, where the heart's ability to pump blood is impaired. Congestive heart failure is a general term that encompasses various forms of heart failure and does not specify the ejection fraction; thus, it is not as precise as identifying diastolic heart failure based on the LVEF provided. Acute heart failure refers to the sudden onset of heart failure symptoms and does not specify the ejection fraction, making it less relevant in this context. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of heart failure types.