What causes cor pulmonale?

Cor pulmonale is specifically characterized by the alteration of the right side of the heart as a result of chronic lung disease, leading to pulmonary hypertension. When the lungs or the pulmonary blood vessels are diseased, the normal flow of blood through them is compromised, which increases the pressure within these vessels. Over time, this increased pressure forces the right ventricle to work harder to pump blood, which can lead to its enlargement and eventual heart failure.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary cause of cor pulmonale. Myocardial infarction pertains to damage of the heart muscle usually due to inadequate blood supply, which is unrelated to lung conditions. Abnormal enlargement of the left side of the heart focuses on different cardiac issues, typically related to conditions affecting systemic circulation. Difficulty concentrating does not relate to cardiac or pulmonary function directly and does not contribute to the development of cor pulmonale. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the underlying pathophysiology of cor pulmonale.