What disease is characterized by left ventricular enlargement caused by hypertension?

Study for the Funeral National Board Pathology Exam. Tackle multiple choice questions insightfully designed with hints and explanations to ensure your success. Prepare efficiently for your exam!

Hypertensive Heart Disease is characterized by structural and functional changes in the heart resulting from chronic high blood pressure. One of the primary manifestations of this condition is left ventricular enlargement, also known as left ventricular hypertrophy. When the heart continuously works harder to pump blood against elevated blood pressure, the walls of the left ventricle can thicken and the chamber may enlarge over time. This hypertrophy can ultimately lead to heart failure if not managed effectively.

In contrast, myelitis refers to inflammation of the spinal cord, which is unrelated to heart function or structure. Cyanosis is a condition characterized by bluish discoloration of the skin due to low oxygen levels in the blood and does not involve ventricular enlargement. Atherosclerosis is the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can contribute to hypertension but is not a disease defined by left ventricular enlargement itself. Thus, the specific link between hypertension and left ventricular enlargement firmly establishes Hypertensive Heart Disease as the correct answer.

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