Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Home ] Up ]


Pages Below:

Dilated Cardiomyopathy


  • dilatation
  • impaired function of left (+/- right) ventricle

Aetiology

  • familial in 20%
  • ? autoimmune
  • 25-30% asymptomatic ventricular enlargement

Systemic diseases present with similar features

Clinical Features

  • Heart Failure
    • cardiomegaly
    • tachycardia
    • ↑ JVP
    • 3rd/4th heart sounds
    • basal crackles
  • mitral / tricuspid regurgitation

Investigations

  • chest X-ray
    • generalised cardiac enlargement
  • ECG
    • diffuse non-specific ST segment & T wave changes
    • sinus tachycardia
    • conduction abnormalities
    • arrythmias
      • atrial fibrillation
      • ventricular premature contraction
      • ventricular tachycardia
  • echocardiogram

Treatment

  • conventional treatment of
  • as necessary
    • prolonged bedrest
    • avoidance of alcohol
    • nutritional supplements
  • metoprolol
    • improves haemodynamic and clinical function
  • growth hormone therapy
  • cardiac transplantation
 

Home ] Up ]