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.