Scientific Sessions

Cardiomyopathies are a diverse group of myocardial disorders characterized by structural and functional abnormalities of the heart muscle that are not explained by coronary artery disease, hypertension, or valvular disorders. They are broadly classified into four main types based on morphological and functional features: dilated, hypertrophic, restrictive, and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). Dilated cardiomyopathy involves ventricular dilation and impaired systolic function, often leading to heart failure. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is marked by abnormal thickening of the myocardium, particularly the interventricular septum, which can obstruct blood flow and cause sudden cardiac death in young individuals. Restrictive cardiomyopathy results from increased myocardial stiffness, restricting ventricular filling, while ARVC involves fatty or fibrofatty replacement of right ventricular myocardium, predisposing patients to life-threatening arrhythmias.

Clinical insights into cardiomyopathies have expanded significantly through advances in genetics, molecular biology, and imaging technologies. Genetic testing has revealed numerous mutations responsible for inherited forms, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and allowing for family screening and early intervention. Cardiac MRI and echocardiography now provide detailed assessments of myocardial structure, fibrosis, and function. Management strategies depend on the specific type and severity of the disease and may include pharmacological therapy to control symptoms, implantable devices such as defibrillators to prevent sudden death, or surgical interventions like septal myectomy in hypertrophic cases. Emerging approaches such as gene therapy, molecular-targeted drugs, and stem cell-based treatments are paving the way for precision medicine in cardiomyopathy care. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and clinical manifestations of these disorders is essential for improving patient outcomes and preventing disease progression.