Cardiomyopathy: DCM vs HCM Quiz

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

• Characterized by a gradual enlargement of the heart chambers, often leading to heart failure years later.
• Common symptoms include shortness of breath with exertion, difficulty breathing when lying down, fatigue, and sudden shortness of breath at night.
• Other signs include weakness, swelling in the legs and feet, and fluid buildup in the abdomen.
• Heart sounds can reveal the presence of an S3 or S4 heart sound, as well as a murmur indicating a leaking valve.
• Individuals with DCM are at risk for abnormal heart rhythms which could lead to sudden death.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

• Characterized by thickening of the heart muscle, which can restrict blood flow and lead to ischemia.
• This condition can cause chest pain, fainting, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, and heart palpitations.
• A characteristic harsh murmur can be observed at the lower left sternal border and the heart apex, and a S4 heart sound may also be present.
• Symptoms are often triggered by physical activity due to increased oxygen demand.

Restrictive Cardiomyopathy (RCM)

• Often goes unnoticed, but when symptoms appear, they often include difficulty exercising.
• A noticeable symptom is an increased jugular venous pressure.
• Doctors may hear the presence of an S3 or S4 heart sound.
• This condition is relatively rare in children and frequently linked to genetic factors.

Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia (ARVD)

• Most commonly diagnosed before 40 years old, and it can go undetected until sudden death occurs.
• Symptoms include irregular heart rhythms, conduction disturbances, and fainting
• Diagnosis relies on imaging and special tests.

Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM)

• This condition is often hereditary and needs specialized tests, such as an MRI, biopsy, and blood tests, for diagnosis.
• Symptoms vary and can include the standard signs of heart failure.

Unclassified Cardiomyopathies

• This group contains cardiomyopathies that don't fit neatly into other categories.
• Symptoms vary and depend on the specific dysfunction within the heart.

Test your knowledge on Dilated and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. This quiz covers key characteristics, symptoms, diagnostic signs, and risks associated with both conditions. Understand the differences and similarities to enhance your cardiovascular health knowledge.