Cardiomyopathy, restrictive

Restrictive Cardiomyopathy (RCM) is a form of cardiomyopathy in which the walls of the heart become rigid, leading to heart failure due to the inability of the ventricles to fill properly with blood. It is the least common type of cardiomyopathy and can occur for a variety of reasons, including endomyocardial fibrosis and amyloidosis. The condition can be idiopathic or secondary to another disease.

Causes

Restrictive Cardiomyopathy can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Endomyocardial fibrosis: A disease characterized by thickening of the endocardial lining of the heart chambers.
• Amyloidosis: A condition where protein deposits lead to tissue stiffness.
• Sarcoidosis: An inflammatory disease that can affect multiple organs, including the heart.
• Hemochromatosis: A disorder where too much iron builds up in the body, potentially damaging the heart.
• Radiation therapy to the chest can also lead to RCM.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Restrictive Cardiomyopathy may include:

• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or when lying down
• Fatigue
• Inability to exercise
• Swelling of the legs and feet (edema)
• Swelling of the abdomen due to fluid buildup (ascites)
• Palpitations due to atrial fibrillation

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Restrictive Cardiomyopathy involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, including:

• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart to assess its structure and function.
• Cardiac MRI: Provides detailed images of the heart's structure.
• Endomyocardial biopsy: A procedure where a small sample of heart tissue is removed and examined under a microscope.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the electrical activity of the heart.

Treatment

Treatment for Restrictive Cardiomyopathy focuses on managing symptoms and may include:

• Medications to reduce fluid buildup (diuretics), control blood pressure, and manage heart rhythm.
• Heart transplant: In severe cases, a heart transplant may be considered.
• Lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and restricted salt intake.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with Restrictive Cardiomyopathy varies depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. It is generally considered poorer than other types of cardiomyopathy due to the limited treatment options available.