Brief report
Natural history of incidentally discovered, asymptomatic idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy

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Abstract

In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the frequency with which IDC is diagnosed in the asymptomatic state is increasing. The true prevalence of asymptomatic IDC remains unclear. Whereas the short and intermediate prognosis for asymptomatic IDC is relatively good, the 7-year mortality rate approaches 50%. In a disease that often affects people early in life, asymptomatic IDC cannot be considered a benign diagnosis. An aggressive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of asymptomatic patients with IDC is clearly warranted.

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This study was funded in part by grants from the Mayo Foundation, Rochester, Minnesota, and the Joseph P. and Jeanne Sullivan Foundation, Chicago, Illinois.

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