[Diagnostic algorithm of idiopathic cardiomyopathy].

In this review, diagnostic algorithm of idiopathic cardiomyopathy is discussed. In the primary care, most of the patients with cardiomyopathy are initially found by signs and symptoms of systolic/diastolic cardiac dysfunction and arrhythmia, and the myocardial involvement is recognized by chest roentgenogram and electrocardiogram. In the next step, echocardiography is extremely useful to confirm cardiac size, ventricular hypertrophy, systolic/diastolic function and structural abnormalities. After this examination, detailed diagnostic approaches including invasive strategy can be planned to each type of cardiomyopathy(DCM, HCM, RCM, ARVC). In each case, any etiology to develop myocardial disorder should be carefully examined to exclude secondary cardiomyopathy.