[Factors predicting mortality in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy].

A study of factors predicting mortality was performed in 69 patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy by analyzing 14 parameters according to clinical, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic findings. On admission 64% of the patients were in NYHA functional class 3 or 4. During a mean follow-up period of 18 months 43 patients died; 31 of refractory heart failure and 12 suddenly. 1 year survival was 58%. Multivariate analysis (Cox model) revealed that the independent predictors for mortality due to refractory heart failure were left ventricular enddiastolic diameter, NYHA functional class and systolic blood pressure; the presence of tricuspid regurgitation predicted mortality due to sudden death.