ISSN:
1615-2573
Keywords:
Dilated cardiomyopathy
;
Beta-blockade
;
Adrenergic receptor
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Summary The effect of beta-blockade in dilated cardiomyopathy was studied by a questionnaire survey. Thirty-three cases were monitored in whom metoprolol (22 patients, 35.9 ± 20.4 mg, mean ± SD), propranolol (four patients, 26.3 ± 7.5 mg), or other beta-blockers (seven patients) were administered. Four patients died, but no direct relationship was found between administration of beta-blocker and death. The NYHA functional class improved significantly. The mean heart rate decreased from 96/min to 77/min (P 〈 0.01). The mean cardiothoracic ratio decreased from 55.6% to 52.1% (P 〈 0.01). The mean ejection fraction of the left ventricle measured by echocardiogram increased from 30.4% to 36.9% (P 〈 0.01). Exercise tolerance in the treadmill test improved significantly. There was no change in blood pressure, nor were there arrhythmias seen on Holter electrocardiograms. In two patients, congestive heart failure deteriorated after administration of beta-blockers. It is concluded that beta-adrenergic blockade has a beneficial effect in most of the patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01752530
Permalink