Unmasking the Unexpected: A Case of Acute Pulmonary Edema in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

Abstract

Acute heart failure, particularly acute pulmonary edema, is a common cause of hospitalization and impacts life expectancy, especially with age. The mortality rate among patients in Southeast Asia is 13%. The severity of the condition is classified based on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Only 21.5% of patients with acute pulmonary edema have preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This case involves a 63-year-old male patient with acute pulmonary edema due to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, secondary to acute hypertension and community-acquired pneumonia. Initial management followed guidelines, including symptomatic therapy and observation in the intensive care unit. After three days of treatment, the patient's condition stabilized, with improved hemodynamics and alleviation of symptoms. We want to highlight an uncommon case of HFpEF in a patient presenting with acute pulmonary edema.