Cardiomyopathies are defined by the World Health Organization as diseases of the myocardium associated with ventricular dysfunction. They are classified as dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and restrictive cardiomyopathy.
Presentation is usually with heart failure.
Arrhythmia, thromboembolism, and sudden death are common. Click here to view an example of dilated cardiomyopathy . Typically, left ventricular volume is reduced. Systolic gradients are sometimes present. Typical presentations include dyspnea, arrhythmia, and sudden death.