Cardiomyopathies are a heterogeneous group of myocardial disorders characterized by structural and functional abnormalities of the heart muscle, often leading to heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. Despite significant advances in cardiology, early diagnosis and optimal management remain challenging due to their diverse etiologies and overlapping clinical presentations. Cardiomyopathies are broadly classified into hypertrophic, dilated, restrictive, and arrhythmogenic forms, each with distinct genetic, molecular, and structural mechanisms. Advanced imaging techniques, including echocardiography and cardiac MRI, alongside genetic testing, have significantly improved diagnostic accuracy and risk stratification. Management strategies encompass pharmacologic therapy, device implantation, interventional procedures, and, in selected cases, heart transplantation. Emerging therapies targeting specific molecular pathways and gene defects show promise for personalized treatment. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of cardiomyopathies, focusing on their classification, pathophysiology, diagnostic strategies, and contemporary management approaches based on recent literature.

Cardiomyopathy; hypertrophic; dilated; restrictive; arrhythmogenic; heart failure; diagnosis; management; genetics

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