Recently defined cardiomyopathies: a clinician's update.

Cardiomyopathy is a generic term for any heart disease in which the heart muscle is involved and functions abnormally. Recent developments and ongoing research in cardiology have led to descriptions of 3 previously less recognized or incompletely characterized cardiomyopathies. These entities are being increasingly noticed in adult patient populations. Primary care providers and cardiovascular specialists need to be aware of the clinical features of these illnesses and the best strategies for diagnosis and management. We have discussed the causes and diagnostic methods for these newly described cardiomyopathies and ways to manage them.