Constrictive Pericarditis (CP) vs Restrictive Cardiomyopathy (RCM) Why this distinction matters Both conditions present with right-sided heart failure, preserved or mildly reduced EF, normal or small ventricles, and elevated filling pressures. However, management and prognosis differ dramatically: Constrictive pericarditis is potentially curable with pericardiectomy. Restrictive cardiomyopathy is a myocardial disease, usually managed medically or with transplant consideration. --- Definitions and Core Pathophysiology Constrictive Pericarditis Disease of the pericardium Thickened, fibrotic, often calcified pericardium Creates a non-compliant shell around the heart Ventricular interaction and dissociation between intrathoracic and intracardiac pressures Diastolic filling abruptly stops after early rapid filling Restrictive Cardiomyopathy Disease of the myocardium Ventricular walls are stiff but not necessarily thick Impaired ventricular relaxation and compliance Intrathoracic press...
Dr. Usman's Cardiology Notes
Cardiology Notes: Clinical Cases including ECG, Echocardiography, Cath, and MOCK Exams to sharpen your cardiology data interpretation skills. Healthcare is stressful!!! Learning cardiology shouldn't be !!!