Researchers have uncovered partial causes for dilated cardiomyopathy, a form of potentially fatal child heart disease that often goes undetected. DCM means the heart fails to pump properly and the condition can often lead to heart failure. The US research, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found heart inflammation is the most common cause.
British heart experts said the research provided “valuable information”.
DCM occurs when the left ventricle, the heart’s major pumping chamber, becomes enlarged and cannot pump effectively.
It is the most common form of heart muscle disease at any age.