DCM Basics
This structural heart abnormality defines dilated cardiomyopathy.
(eccentric hypertrophy)
The drug that should be initiated to improve contractility and vasodilation in dogs with CHF.
What is pimobendan?
Atenolol acts by this mechanism.
What is beta-1 adrenergic receptor antagonism?
This strategy is often used for managing beta blockers in dogs with DCM that have frequent decompensations into CHF, to help find the lowest tolerable dose.
What is slow tapering or dose reduction under close monitoring of heart rate, rhythm, and signs of CHF?
This breed is most commonly affected by DCM.
What is the Doberman Pinscher?
This diuretic has greater potency and bioavailability than furosemide.
What is torsemide?
Beta blockers must be held during this clinical state in DCM dogs.
What is acute decompensated CHF?
In human medicine, this class of drug is a mainstay in treating systolic heart failure due to its long-term benefits, but in veterinary medicine, its use is rare once a dog has decompensated into CHF.
What are beta blockers?
This is the most common arrhythmia seen in dogs with DCM that may warrant beta blocker or digoxin therapy for rate control.
What is atrial fibrillation?
The main benefit of oxygen therapy in CHF.
What is improved tissue oxygenation with reduced cardiac workload?
The main risk of continuing beta blockers in decompensated CHF.
What is impaired cardiac output due to negative inotropy?
This is the primary reason beta blockers are not routinely used in dogs with decompensated heart failure, despite their established benefits in human cardiology.
What is the risk of worsening systolic dysfunction and lack of strong evidence in veterinary patients?
This biomarker is commonly elevated in dogs with DCM and CHF.
What is NT-proBNP or BNP?
The most important parameter to monitor at home following a CHF episode.
What is resting respiratory rate?
This antiarrhythmic can be used in dogs with DCM and preserved systolic function despite being a beta blocker.
What is sotalol?
A Doberman with DCM presents in ventricular tachycardia that is unresponsive to Class I anti-arrythmics. What antiarrhythmic drug can you try next?
What is sotalol or amiodarone?
The most likely cause of sudden death in dogs with occult DCM.
What is ventricular tachyarrhythmia?
This drug class should be discontinued in azotemic CHF patients to protect renal function.
What are ACE inhibitors?
This antiarrhythmic should be used when systolic function is poor and V-tach is present.
What is mexiletine?
This drug class in Dr. Hammond's least favorite
ACE inhibitors!