Secondary Cardiomyopathy Classification

Secondary cardiomyopathy refers to heart muscle diseases that develop as a result of systemic or other underlying conditions. The primary manifestation of this type of cardiomyopathy is dilated cardiomyopathy. Based on the causes, secondary dilated cardiomyopathy can be categorized into three major groups.

Autoimmune-Related Cardiomyopathy

Autoimmune cardiomyopathy occurs due to autoimmune disorders that affect the heart muscle. Conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Behçet's disease, and collagen vascular diseases can lead to inflammation and damage of the myocardium. These diseases trigger abnormal immune responses, which in turn harm the heart tissue and impair cardiac function.

Metabolic, Endocrine, and Nutritional Disorders

Common Conditions Linked to Cardiomyopathy

Certain metabolic and hormonal imbalances can significantly impact heart health. Diseases such as pheochromocytoma, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), and diabetes mellitus are known to cause structural and functional changes in the heart muscle. These conditions often lead to increased cardiac stress, altered energy metabolism, and eventually, myocardial dysfunction if left untreated.

Cardiomyopathy Resulting from Other Organ Diseases

Examples of Secondary Organ-Related Heart Conditions

This category includes heart diseases that arise due to dysfunction in other organs. For example, uremic cardiomyopathy is associated with chronic kidney disease and the buildup of toxins in the bloodstream, which negatively affects heart muscle function. Similarly, anemic cardiomyopathy develops in cases of severe or prolonged anemia, where the heart is overworked due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood. Both conditions demonstrate how systemic health issues can directly influence cardiac health.