dilated cardiomyopathy 1C

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) Description

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a type of heart muscle disease that affects the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently. The condition is characterized by:

• Enlarged heart chambers: The heart's ventricles and atria become stretched and thin, making it harder for the heart to pump blood.
• Weakened heart muscle: As the disease progresses, the heart muscle becomes weak and unable to contract properly, leading to a decrease in blood circulation.
• Impaired contraction: The left ventricle, which is responsible for pumping blood throughout the body, becomes impaired in its ability to contract, leading to a reduction in cardiac output.

This condition can lead to various complications, including:

• Heart failure: The heart's inability to pump enough blood leads to fluid buildup in the lungs and other parts of the body.
• Kidney failure: The reduced blood circulation can also affect kidney function, leading to kidney failure.
• Poor prognosis: People with symptoms at rest or who are unable to perform physical activity tend to have a worse prognosis.

Causes and Risk Factors

The most common causes of dilated cardiomyopathy include:

• Viral infections: Certain viral infections can cause inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis), leading to DCM.
• Genetic disorders: Genetic factors play a role in 20-35% of cases, making it more likely for people with a family history of the condition.

Symptoms and Treatments

The symptoms of dilated cardiomyopathy can vary from person to person but may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Swelling in the legs and feet
• Chest pain or discomfort

Treatment options for DCM typically involve medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, heart transplantation.

References

1. Dilated cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes weakened and enlarged. As a result, the heart cannot pump enough blood to the rest of [5].
2. DCM is a progressive disease of heart muscle that is characterized by ventricular chamber enlargement and contractile dysfunction [6].
3. Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a clinical diagnosis characterized by left ventricular or biventricular dilation and impaired contraction that is not explained [7][8].
4. Dilated cardiomyopathy is myocardial dysfunction causing heart failure in which ventricular dilation and systolic dysfunction predominate [8].
5. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a disease of the heart muscle characterized by enlargement and dilation of one or both of the ventricles along with impaired contractility defined as left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) less than 40% [11].

Common Signs and Symptoms of Dilated Cardiomyopathy 1C

Dilated cardiomyopathy 1C (DCM 1C) is a type of heart muscle disease that can lead to various symptoms. Here are some common signs and symptoms associated with DCM 1C:

• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia): An irregular or abnormal heartbeat can be a sign of DCM 1C [3][4][5].
• Shortness of breath (dyspnea): People with DCM 1C may experience shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or while lying down [10][11].
• Extreme tiredness: Fatigue is a common symptom of DCM 1C, as the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently [3][5].
• Swelling (edema): Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or belly can occur due to fluid buildup in the body [10].
• Chest pain: Chest pain or discomfort can be a symptom of DCM 1C, especially if the heart is not pumping blood effectively [11].

Other Possible Symptoms

In addition to these common symptoms, people with DCM 1C may also experience:

• Reduced ability to exercise: As the heart becomes weaker, it may become more difficult to engage in physical activities [10].
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: A decrease in blood pressure can cause dizziness or lightheadedness in some individuals [11].

Complications and Prognosis

If left untreated, DCM 1C can lead to complications such as heart failure, valve disease, or irregular heartbeat. The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person, but early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes.

References:

[3] Signs and symptoms of familial dilated cardiomyopathy can include an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), shortness of breath (dyspnea), extreme tiredness [3]. [4] Apr 1, 2017 — Signs and symptoms of familial dilated cardiomyopathy can include an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), shortness of breath (dyspnea) [4]. [5] Signs and symptoms of dilated cardiomyopathy causes tissue in your heart’s main pumping chamber to expand (dilate) and thin out. ... Dilated cardiomyopathy symptoms may include: Chest pain; Cough and congestion; Dizziness or lightheadedness; ... Kidney failure and severe heart failure are signs of a poor prognosis (outcome). People who have symptoms at rest or can [5]. [10] Some people with cardiomyopathy never have signs or symptoms. Others don’t have signs or symptoms in the early stages of the disease. If people without symptoms recognize their heightened risk for cardiomyopathy, there’s a better chance of diagnosing it early, when treatment may be most effective. Signs and symptoms of cardiomyopathy include: [10] [11] Dilated cardiomyopathy causes tissue in your heart’s main pumping chamber to expand (dilate) and thin out. ... Dilated cardiomyopathy symptoms may include: Chest pain; Cough and congestion; Dizziness or lightheadedness; ... Kidney failure and severe heart failure are signs of a poor prognosis (outcome). People who have symptoms at rest or can [11].

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) 1C is a genetic form of heart disease, and its diagnosis involves various tests to confirm the condition. Here are some diagnostic tests for DCM 1C:

• Clinical screening: The first step in diagnosing DCM 1C is clinical screening of first-degree relatives if no other cause for DCM is identified [3]. This includes a thorough medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests to rule out other conditions.
• Genetic testing: Genetic testing is recommended if there is familial involvement, AV block, or raised ferritin/transferrin saturation [1][3]. This test analyzes the genes associated with DCM 1C or left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) [6].
• Molecular Genetics test: A clinical molecular genetics test for Dilated cardiomyopathy 1C using Sequence analysis of the entire coding region, Next-Generation (NGS)/Massively Parallel Sequencing (MPS) is available [4]. This test can identify genetic mutations associated with DCM 1C.
• Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram is a key diagnostic test for dilated cardiomyopathy, which shows how blood moves in and out of the heart and heart valves [12].
• Blood tests: Blood tests may be done to check iron levels, thyroid function, electrolytes, and liver function to rule out other conditions [14][15]. One blood test can measure a protein made in the heart called B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) [15].

It's essential to note that genetic testing should continue according to routine local practice for patients with DCM 1C, even if they have a molecular diagnosis [7]. A thorough evaluation of etiology, assessment of remodeling, evaluation for an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), and detection of cardiac dysfunction are also crucial in the diagnosis and management of DCM 1C [11].

References: [1] Context result 3 [3] Context result 1 [4] Context result 4 [6] Context result 6 [7] Context result 7 [11] Context result 11 [12] Context result 12 [14] Context result 14 [15] Context result 15

Treatment Options for Dilated Cardiomyopathy 1C

Dilated cardiomyopathy 1C (DCM 1C) is a type of heart disease characterized by the dilation and impaired systolic function of the left ventricle. While there is no cure for DCM 1C, various treatment options are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Drug Treatment

According to medical research [5], in most cases, treatment of DCM means heart failure therapy based on drug treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) or beta-blockers. These medications can help alleviate symptoms, slow disease progression, and reduce the risk of complications.

• ACE Inhibitors: ACE inhibitors, such as lisinopril or enalapril, are commonly prescribed to patients with DCM 1C [5]. They work by relaxing blood vessels, reducing blood pressure, and decreasing the heart's workload.
• Beta-Blockers: Beta-blockers, like carvedilol or metoprolol, can also be used to treat DCM 1C [7]. These medications slow the heart rate and reduce its workload, which can help improve symptoms and outcomes.

Other Treatment Options

In addition to drug treatment, other options may be considered on a case-by-case basis. These include:

• Heart transplantation: In severe cases of DCM 1C, heart transplantation may be necessary [3].
• Ventricular assist devices (VADs): VADs can help support the heart's function and improve symptoms in patients with advanced DCM 1C [3].

It is essential to note that treatment plans for DCM 1C should be individualized and tailored to each patient's specific needs and circumstances. A healthcare professional will work with the patient to determine the most effective course of treatment.

References:

[3] - Context result 3 [5] - Context result 5 [7] - Context result 7

Differential Diagnosis of Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a progressive disease of the heart muscle that requires accurate differential diagnosis to exclude secondary causes of left ventricular dysfunction. The following conditions should be considered in the differential diagnosis of DCM:

• Coronary artery disease: This is one of the most frequent causes of left ventricular dysfunction, and it's essential to rule out coronary artery disease through diagnostic tests such as echocardiography, cardiac MRI, or coronary angiography [3].
• Acute coronary syndrome: Acute coronary syndrome, including myocardial infarction, can mimic DCM clinically and pathologically [5].
• High blood pressure: Hypertension is a common cause of left ventricular dysfunction and should be ruled out in the differential diagnosis of DCM [7].
• Diabetes: Diabetes mellitus can lead to diabetic cardiomyopathy, which may present similarly to DCM [7].
• Thyroid disease: Thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, can cause left ventricular dysfunction and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of DCM [7].
• Viral infections: Viral infections, including HIV and Lyme disease, can lead to cardiomyopathy that may mimic DCM clinically and pathologically [6].
• Autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune conditions such as polymyositis can cause left ventricular dysfunction and should be ruled out in the differential diagnosis of DCM [6].
• Alcohol abuse: Long-term heavy alcohol consumption is a leading cause of nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy, and it's essential to consider this in the differential diagnosis [12].

References:

[1] Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) Differential Diagnoses. Updated: Sep 24, 2024 Author: Jian Hu, MD, PhD; Chief Editor: Gyanendra K Sharma, MD, FACC ...

[2] by M Weigner · Cited by 19 — A diagnosis of dilated cardiomyopathy requires