Dilated cardiomyopathy
Definition
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart becomes weakened and enlarged, and cannot pump blood efficiently. The decreased heart function can affect the lungs, liver, and other body systems.
There are several different types of cardiomyopathy. Dilated cardiomyopathy is the most common form.
See also:
- Alcoholic cardiomyopathy
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Ischemic cardiomyopathy
- Peripartum cardiomyopathy
- Restrictive cardiomyopathy
Alternative Names
Cardiomyopathy - dilatedCauses
There are many causes of dilated cardiomyopathy. They may include nutritional deficiencies, valvular heart disease, anemia, stress, viral infections (rare), alcoholism (alcoholic cardiomyopathy), and coronary artery disease. The most common causes of dilated cardiomyopathy in children are idiopathic, myocarditis, coronary disease, and some infections.
It can affect anyone of any age, although it is most common in adult men.
Risk factors in adults include obesity, cocaine use, a personal or family history of cardiac disorders (such as myocarditis), and alcoholism.
References
Hare JM. The dilated, restrictive, and infiltrative cardiomyopathies. Zipes DP, Libby P, Bonow RO, Braunwald E, eds. Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine. 8th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2007: chap 64.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.