What does dilated cardiomyopathy primarily affect?

Dilated cardiomyopathy primarily affects the myocardium, which is the muscular layer of the heart responsible for its contraction. In this condition, the heart muscle becomes weakened and stretched, leading to an impairment in the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. This deterioration primarily impacts the ventricles, resulting in their enlargement and reduced contractile function.

When the myocardium is compromised, it can lead to various clinical symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention, ultimately resulting in heart failure. Understanding the specific impact on the myocardium is crucial for diagnosing and managing this condition, as it distinguishes it from other heart-related issues that may involve different structures of the heart, such as the valves, pericardium, or the electrical conduction system.