Primary idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy
Evidence: Unconfirmed
Names
Idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy
Primary idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Description
A disease in which the immune system attacks the heart muscle causing inflammation, normally beginning in the heart’s left ventricle (the heart’s main pumping chamber). The ventricle stretches and thins and is unable to pump blood as a healthy heart can. Not all patients experience symptoms, but for some it can be life-threatening.
Patient Groups
American Heart Association
Womenheart
Research Registry: Share: A Cardiomyopathy Registry
Bloggers
N/A
Prevalence
US Cases: 120,000 [Codd 1989] Many researchers and clinicians agree that the likely prevalence of DCM is more common than 1 in 2700 persons, and that it may be under-diagnosed.
Typical Age of onset
16 years or younger
Symptoms
● Fatigue
● Shortness of breath when active or lying down
● Reduced ability to exercise
● Swelling in legs, ankles and feet
● Swelling of abdomen due to fluid buildup
● Chest pain
● Heart murmurs
