Restrictive cardiomyopathy
A form of heart muscle disease characterized by rigid ventricular walls that restrict cardiac filling despite normal contractile function.
Full Definition
Restrictive cardiomyopathy is the least common form of cardiomyopathy, characterized by impaired diastolic filling due to increased stiffness of the ventricular walls while systolic function typically remains preserved. The condition can be caused by infiltrative diseases such as amyloidosis or hemochromatosis, fibrotic processes, or idiopathic factors. Patients typically present with symptoms of right-sided heart failure including elevated jugular venous pressure, peripheral edema, and exercise intolerance. Echocardiographic findings include normal or mildly reduced ejection fraction with evidence of diastolic dysfunction, enlarged atria, and characteristic filling patterns. Differentiation from constrictive pericarditis is crucial as the latter may be surgically treatable.
Usage
Usage note: Must be distinguished from constrictive pericarditis, which has similar clinical presentation but different pathophysiology.
In Context
- "Cardiac MRI findings were consistent with restrictive cardiomyopathy secondary to cardiac amyloidosis." — Imaging report
- "The differential diagnosis included restrictive cardiomyopathy versus constrictive pericarditis based on the hemodynamic profile." — Cardiac catheterization report