Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: August 19, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Ejection Fraction of 15%

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Ischemic Cardiomyopathy: This is the most common cause of a severely reduced ejection fraction. It occurs when the heart muscle is damaged due to a lack of blood flow, often as a result of a heart attack. The damage leads to a significant decrease in the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Dilated Cardiomyopathy: A condition where the heart becomes enlarged and cannot pump blood effectively. It can be caused by various factors, including genetics, infections, and alcohol abuse.
  • Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF): A condition where the heart's ability to pump blood is severely impaired, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling.
  • Valvular Heart Disease: Conditions such as mitral regurgitation or aortic stenosis can lead to a reduced ejection fraction if left untreated or if treatment is delayed.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Cardiac Amyloidosis: A rare condition where abnormal proteins accumulate in the heart, leading to stiffness and reduced function. It can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
  • Hemochromatosis: A genetic disorder that leads to iron overload, which can cause heart failure and a reduced ejection fraction if not treated.
  • Pulmonary Embolism: A blockage in one of the arteries in the lungs, which can lead to acute right heart failure and a reduced ejection fraction.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC): A rare genetic disorder that affects the heart muscle, leading to abnormal heart rhythms and a reduced ejection fraction.
  • Left Ventricular Non-Compaction: A rare congenital heart condition where the heart muscle does not develop properly, leading to a reduced ejection fraction.
  • Giant Cell Myocarditis: A rare and potentially fatal inflammatory condition that affects the heart muscle, leading to a reduced ejection fraction.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.