[Idiopathic cardiomyopathy: pathophysiology and hemodynamics]

Idiopathic cardiomyopathy is classified into three categories, namely, hypertrophic, dilated and restrictive cardiomyopathy. Pathophysiology and hemodynamics are quite different between the three types of cardiomyopathies. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is hemodynamically characterized by outflow obstruction and diastolic dysfunction. In dilated cardiomyopathy, progressive dilatation and systolic dysfunction of the left ventricle are predominant. This left ventricular remodeling is strongly associated with neurohormonal activation occurred in this disease. In restrictive cardiomyopathy, left ventricular distensibility is markedly impaired and differential diagnosis from constrictive pericarditis is often difficult.