Pannus refers to what kind of growth in the heart?

Pannus refers to the pathological growth of host tissue, which typically occurs in the setting of a chronic inflammatory process. In the heart, this overgrowth can be associated with conditions such as infective endocarditis or prosthetic valve endocarditis, where the body responds to the presence of a foreign object or infection by forming new, often disorganized tissue. This extensive growth can lead to complications, including obstruction of blood flow or damage to cardiac structures.

Understanding this concept is important in echocardiography, as the presence of pannus can be imaged and assessed for its potential effects on heart function. Recognizing the appearance and implications of pannus can aid clinicians in making more informed decisions regarding treatment and management of cardiovascular conditions.