Cardiomyopathies (Restrictive Cardiomyopathy)

Question 1

What characterizes restrictive cardiomyopathy?

Answer 1

Increased myocardial stiffness

This stiffness impairs ventricular relaxation.

Question 2

What effect does restrictive cardiomyopathy have on diastolic pressures?

Answer 2

Increased diastolic pressures

This is due to impaired vent relaxation.

Question 3

Name one cause of restrictive cardiomyopathy.

Answer 3

• Infiltrative diseases (e.g., amyloidosis, sarcoidosis, hemochromatosis)
• Endomyocardial fibrosis
• Fabry’s disease
• Prior mediastinal irradiation

These conditions lead to increased myocardial stiffness.