Ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) refers to a weakened heart muscle due to damage caused by reduced blood flow (ischemia). Essentially, the heart's ability to pump blood effectively is compromised because portions of the heart muscle have been injured, typically as a result of coronary artery disease (CAD).
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Ischemia: This occurs when there's a lack of oxygen-rich blood supply to the heart muscle. This is most often caused by a blockage in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart.
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Cardiomyopathy: This is a general term for diseases of the heart muscle that make it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body.
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ICM (Ischemic Cardiomyopathy): Therefore, ICM specifically refers to cardiomyopathy caused by ischemia.
Because coronary artery disease (CAD) is the primary cause of the reduced blood flow leading to ICM, they are very closely related. CAD involves the buildup of plaque inside the coronary arteries, narrowing them and restricting blood flow. This lack of blood flow can lead to heart muscle damage, and eventually ICM.
Key takeaways:
- ICM is heart muscle weakness caused by reduced blood flow.
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common cause of ICM.
- ICM impairs the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.
