Understanding Lab Tests for Cor Pulmonale
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Cor pulmonale is a condition where the right side of the heart becomes enlarged and weakened due to high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries (pulmonary hypertension). While cor pulmonale is typically diagnosed through imaging studies and physical examination, blood testing plays a fundamental role in detecting heart strain and monitoring the body's response to this serious condition.
Recommended Test
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP)
This test measures BNP, a hormone released by the heart when it's under stress or working harder than normal. Elevated BNP levels can indicate the presence of cor pulmonale and right-sided heart failure, helping healthcare providers assess the severity of heart strain caused by high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
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Why Blood Testing is Important for Cor Pulmonale
There isn't a single blood test that directly diagnoses cor pulmonale itself. However, lab testing is essential for assessing the degree of heart strain, monitoring disease progression, and evaluating how well the heart is functioning under the increased workload caused by pulmonary hypertension.
Understanding Your Results
BNP testing provides valuable information about heart function and can help guide treatment decisions. However, results must be interpreted in the context of your overall health status, symptoms, and other diagnostic findings. Your healthcare provider will use this information alongside other tests to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of cor pulmonale or any heart-related condition.
