Towards a New Classification of Cardiomyopathies

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Genetics
• Medical Informatics

Background:

• Cardiomyopathies represent a heterogeneous group of myocardial diseases.
• Current disease notation systems for cardiomyopathies face challenges in integrating evolving etiological insights.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical approach to cardiomyopathy disease notation.
• To identify limitations in current systems, particularly concerning etiological factors.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing cardiomyopathy classification systems.
• Case example: arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy to illustrate limitations.

Main Results:

• Existing classification systems for cardiomyopathies are inadequate for diverse user needs (scientists, clinicians, patients).
• The concept of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy highlights the need for more comprehensive notation.
• Classical subtypes remain useful but require modification.

Conclusions:

• Current cardiomyopathy notation requires significant updates to reflect new knowledge on phenotypes and aetiologies.
• A unified classification system is needed to accommodate basic scientists, clinicians, and patients.
• Future notation must integrate genetic and etiological data for improved understanding and management.