Study note

Investigations for dilated cardiomyopathy

THE CONTEXT
Investigations establish the diagnosis, help distinguish coronary artery disease-related ventricular dysfunction and identify when genetic testing is indicated.

Cardiac imaging and electrocardiography

FeatureDetails
Echocardiography
This usually establishes the diagnosis.
Electrocardiography
Changes are common but non-specific; examples include T-wave inversion and minor ST segment deviation.
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging
This can help distinguish dilated cardiomyopathy from ventricular dysfunction due to coronary artery disease.
CT coronary angiography
This can also help distinguish dilated cardiomyopathy from ventricular dysfunction due to coronary artery disease.

Familial disease

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Genetic testing: Testing is indicated if more than one family member is diagnosed with the condition.
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