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Myocardial Disease
Myocardial Disease
By far the most common form of myocardial disease is known as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). It affects the muscular walls of the heart and prevents them from expanding and contracting correctly. In most cases, the cause of the disease is unknown, although it has been associated with nutritional deficiencies, viral infections and certain medications. There is also thought to be a genetic link, since it affects some breeds more than others. Males are more commonly affected.
This illustration shows part of the muscular wall of the heart that can be affected by myocardial disease.
Failure of the heart muscle fundamentally affects the heart's ability to circulate blood around the body.
Affected Breeds
Although dilated cardiomyopathy can affect any dog, it is more commonly seen in certain large breeds, such as Dobermanns, Irish Wolfhounds, Great Danes, St Bernards and Newfoundlands.
Symptoms
In common with other types of heart disease, symptoms include fatigue, exercise intolerance, coughing and weight loss. Some will become pot bellied as a result of a build up of fluids in the abdomen.
Outlook
In people, myocardial disease calls for a heart transplant. Heart transplants are not currently available for dogs, and the outlook for a patient with this condition is, sadly, very poor. Most will not be expected to live for more than 6-12 months following diagnosis.
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