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. Typically, left ventricular volume is reduced.
Systolic gradients are sometimes present.
Typical presentations include dyspnea, arrhythmia, and sudden death. Presentations are usually with heart failure. The cardiomyopathies are not the only causes of heart failure syndrome . In western countries, coronary artery disease with resultant ischemic cardiomyopathy remains the primary cause of the heart failure syndrome. Home Page 2.