Myocardial oedema: pathophysiological basis and implications for the failing heart.

Myocardial fluid homeostasis relies on a complex interplay between microvascular filtration, interstitial hydration, cardiomyocyte water uptake and lymphatic removal. Dysregulation of one or more of these mechanisms may result in myocardial oedema. Interstitial and intracellular fluid accumulation disrupts myocardial architecture, intercellular communication, and metabolic pathways, decreasing contractility and increasing myocardial stiffness.