Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

Question 1

What is Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)?

Answer 1

enlargement and dilation of the ventricles with impaired contractility (LVEF < 40%).

It can present with or without heart failure symptoms and is classified as primary (idiopathic) or secondary.

Question 2

What are common causes of Dilated Cardiomyopathy?

Answer 2

Common causes include idiopathic factors, genetic mutations, infections (e.g., viral myocarditis), ischemic heart disease, hypertension, alcohol abuse, HIV, peripartum cardiomyopathy, and certain medications (e.g., Anthracyclines).

Question 3

What are typical symptoms of Dilated Cardiomyopathy?

Answer 3

Classic symptoms include paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea, orthopnea, leg swelling, shortness of breath, fatigue, and weakness.

Severe cases may present with arrhythmias, thromboembolic complications, or sudden cardiac death.

Question 4

What is Stress Cardiomyopathy (Takotsubo)?

Answer 4

Stress cardiomyopathy, or Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, is a condition triggered by psychological or physiological stress, leading to transient left ventricular ballooning. It is often considered separate from primary DCM.

Question 5

What are the first-line treatments for Dilated Cardiomyopathy?

Answer 5

Initial treatments follow heart failure guidelines and include ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta-blockers, aldosterone antagonists (spironolactone), diuretics, and hydralazine with isosorbide dinitrate for advanced disease. Anticoagulation is used for certain complications like atrial fibrillation.