DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Cardiac Disease

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

HIGH SEVERITY

A condition in which the heart's main pumping chamber (left ventricle) becomes enlarged and weakened, reducing the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. Can lead to heart failure and sudden cardiac death.

Global Affected

2.0M

Countries

16

Symptoms

Fatigue
Dyspnea (exertional, then at rest)
Orthopnea
Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea
Peripheral edema
Palpitations
Chest discomfort
Syncope

Treatment Options

ACE inhibitors/ARBs
Beta-blockers (carvedilol, metoprolol)
Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists
SGLT2 inhibitors
Diuretics
ICD (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator)
CRT (cardiac resynchronization therapy)
Heart transplantation

Risk Factors

1Family history (30-50% genetic)
2Viral myocarditis
3Alcohol abuse
4Chemotherapy (doxorubicin)
5Pregnancy (peripartum cardiomyopathy)
6Thyroid disease
7Autoimmune diseases
8Nutritional deficiencies

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Echocardiogram (dilated LV, reduced EF)
  • 2ECG
  • 3Chest X-ray
  • 4Cardiac MRI
  • 5Coronary angiography (exclude ischemia)
  • 6Genetic testing
  • 7BNP/NT-proBNP

Prognosis

Variable; 5-year mortality 20-50% without transplant. Modern medical therapy significantly improves outcomes. ICD reduces sudden death risk. Transplant offers best survival for refractory cases.

Prevention

  • Genetic counseling for familial cases
  • Avoid alcohol excess
  • Cardiac monitoring during chemotherapy
  • Treatment of underlying conditions
  • Family screening

Research Status

Medical therapy with ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, MRAs, SGLT2 inhibitors improves survival. Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), ICDs for arrhythmias. Ventricular assist devices and transplant for end-stage.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilIndiaChinaNigeriaSouth AfricaMexicoAustralia

Sources

  • https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiomyopathy/what-is-cardiomyopathy-in-adults/dilated-cardiomyopathy-dcm
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.