A Study of Clinical Presentation, Electrocardiographic, and Echocardiographic Changes in Patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Abstract

Background: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by ventricular dilatation and impaired systolic function and may present with varying degrees of heart failure, arrhythmia, and structural cardiac abnormalities. Clinical examination, electrocardiography (ECG), and echocardiography are important for comprehensive assessment.

Aim: To evaluate the clinical presentation, ECG abnormalities, and echocardiographic changes in patients with DCM and to assess the relationship between clinical severity and cardiac imaging findings.

Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of General Medicine, Katihar Medical College and Hospital, Bihar, from September 2024 to February 2026. A total of 100 patients aged >18 years with confirmed DCM were included. Clinical examination, 12-lead ECG, and transthoracic echocardiography were performed.

Results: The mean age was 49.65 ± 18.50 years, with 65% males and 35% females. NYHA Class II was most common (50%). Breathlessness (87%), fatigue (75%), and pedal edema (72%) were the leading symptoms. Rhythm abnormalities and conduction defects occurred in 76% each. LVEDD was ≥60 mm in 31%, while EF was 20–29% in 39%. Significant associations were observed between NYHA class and LVEDD (p=0.001) and EF (p=0.001), whereas LVESD was not significant (p=0.055).

Conclusion: Clinical assessment combined with ECG and echocardiography effectively characterizes DCM severity and identifies important structural and functional abnormalities.