Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular dilation, impaired systolic function, and eventual heart failure. This session explores genetic, inflammatory, metabolic, and idiopathic contributors to DCM, emphasizing early recognition, precise diagnosis, and evidence-based management. As clinicians increasingly seek a focused cardiology conference, this session provides in-depth insight into the full DCM spectrum.

The description begins with DCM pathophysiology, examining how sarcomeric mutations, viral myocarditis, autoimmune injury, toxins, endocrine abnormalities, alcohol, and metabolic disturbances weaken myocardial structure. Participants will explore how remodeling leads to chamber dilation, reduced contractility, mitral regurgitation, arrhythmias, and progressive heart failure.

Diagnosis includes clinical evaluation, ECG, echocardiography, CMR with late gadolinium enhancement, strain imaging, coronary evaluation, genetic testing, and targeted laboratory studies. The session explains how to differentiate DCM from ischemic cardiomyopathy, peripartum cardiomyopathy, tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy, and infiltrative disease.

A major emphasis focuses on implementing advanced dilated cardiomyopathy management strategies. Participants will learn guideline-directed medical therapy, including ARNI, beta-blockers, MRAs, SGLT2 inhibitors, diuretics, and vasodilators. The content addresses arrhythmia risk, indications for ICD or CRT, antiarrhythmic approaches, and management of atrial fibrillation in DCM.

Case-based discussions highlight when to pursue genetic evaluation, how to manage familial DCM, and how to monitor high-risk features such as mid-wall fibrosis. Participants will explore advanced options including LVAD, mechanical support, and transplant referral for refractory cases.

Future directions include gene therapy, targeted molecular therapy, precision medicine based on genotype, and AI-supported prognostic models. This session provides a comprehensive framework for improving outcomes in DCM patients.