Clinical Issues

Ischemic cardiomyopathy is considered as the main cause of heart failure in industrialized countries. The condition can occur at any age, but its prevalence increases with age. In general, careful evaluation of the patient's history and physical examination can provide useful information about the underlying causes. Several biomarkers and laboratory variables are very important parameters for physicians during the clinical decision making. Echocardiography along with other imaging and heart failure management techniques can provide key information to clinicians about these parameters. This information can be used to provide adequate medical interventions and improve patient health while reducing the risk of sudden death due to cardiac arrest.

This volume of Frontiers in Heart Failure brings forth information about several topics related to assessing the risk of heart failure and treating patients who may be at high risk. Chapters in this volume cover topics such as ischemia, echocardiography, pharmacotherapy, interventional techniques and device therapies. Novel therapies, such as gene and cell strategies are also covered in this volume.