Restrictive cardiomyopathy

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Heart, front view

Heart, section through the middle

Cardiomyopathy - restrictive; Infiltrative cardiomyopathy

Little therapy is known to be effective for the treatment of restrictive cardiomyopathy. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms and to improve the quality of life.

Various medications may be used to control symptoms. Diuretics may help somewhat in removing fluid, which can improve breathing. Depending on the underlying heart disease, some patients with restrictive cardiomyopathy may benefit from steroids or chemotherapy. A heart transplant may be considered if the function of the heart is very poor.

People with restrictive cardiomyopathy may be candidates for heart transplant. Prognosis is dependent on the underlying cause but it is usually poor. Average (mean) survival after diagnosis is 9 years.

Progressive heart failure, mitral regurgitation, tricuspid regurgitation.

Call your health care provider if symptoms of restrictive cardiomyopathy are present.

Review Date: 05/31/2006
Reviewed By: Glenn Gandelman, MD, MPH, Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.