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Ebstein's Anomaly
Abnormal development of the tricuspid valve during pregnancy, causing an abnormally positioned valve, located towards the apex of the right ventricle, that does not open easily (stenosis) and allows backflow of blood from the right ventricle into the right atrium (regurgitation).

Echocardiography
A method of studying the heart’s structure and function by analyzing sound waves bounced off the heart and recorded by an electronic sensor placed on the chest. A computer processes the information to produce a one, two, or three dimentional moving picture that shows how the heart and heart valves are functioning.

Edema
Sweling that is typically caused by an accumulation of fluid in body tissues.

EGCG
Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is one of four major catechins in Green Tea. Catechins are flavonoid phytochemical compounds that appear predominantly in Green Tea. Smaller amounts of catechins are also in black tea, grapes, wine, and chocolate. Due to their potent antioxidant capabilities, catechins, often referred to as "tea flavonoids," are being investigated for their ability to prevent cancer and heart disease. In experimental models, catechins show a wide range of protective effects, including cardioprotective, chemoprotective, and anitmicrobial properties. Green Tea catechins, especially EGCG, make up approximately thirty percent of the dry weight of Green Tea leaves. Of the catechins, EGCG is the most abundant one in Green Tea leaves. EGCG is the principal catechin used in supplements.

Eisenmenger's Syndrome or Physiology
End stage result of pressure elevation within the heart causing blue blood from the right side mixing with oxygenated blood on the left side leading to cyanosis and eventually death.

Ejection Fraction
A measurement of blood that is pumped out of a filled ventricle (The normal percentage is 50 percent or more).

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
A test in which several electronic sensors are placed on the body to monitor electrical activity associated with the heartbeat.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)
A test that can detect and record the brain’s electrical activity. The test is done by pasting metal discs, called electrodes, to the scalp.

Electrophysiological Study (EPS)
A cardiac catheterization to study electrical current in patients who have arrhythmias.

Embolus
Also called embolism; a blood clot that forms in a blood vessel in one part of the body and travels to another part.

Endarterectomy
Surgical removal of plaque deposits or blood clots in an artery.

Endocarditis
An infection of the valves and/ or interior surfaces of the heart.

Endocardium
The membrane that covers the inside surface of the heart.

Endothelium
The smooth inner lining of many body structures, including the heart (endocardium) and blood vessels.

Enlarged Heart
A condition of the heart in which it is larger than normal.

Epicardium
The membrane that covers the outside of the heart.

Exercise Stress Test
A common test for diagnosing coronary artery disease, especially in patients who have symptoms of heart disease. The test helps doctors assess blood flow through coronary arteries in response to exercise, usually walking, at varied speeds and for various lengths of time on a treadmill. A stress test may include use of electrocardiography, echocardiography, and injected radioactive substances. Also called Exercise test, stress test, or treadmill test.