Ischemic cardiomyopathy

Alternative names:

cardiomyopathy - ischemic

Definition:

A disorder caused by lack of oxygen to the tissues of the heart, in which the muscles of the heart are affected and the heart cannot pump properly.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Ischemic cardiomyopathy is a cause of heart failure and is a complication of ischemic heart diseases such as acute MI, angina, and unstable angina. It affects approximately 1 out of 100 people, most often middle-aged to elderly men, usually over 65 years old. In older age ranges, the gender asymmetry becomes less pronounced.

Risks include having a personal or family history of MI, angina, unstable angina, atherosclerosis, or other coronary artery diseases. Hypertension, smoking, diabetes, high fat diet, high blood cholesterol, obesity, and (rarely) stress can all precipitate ischemic heart disorders.