Milič Kaja
Klinični oddelek za intenzivno terapijo otrok, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Zoran Blagojević
Klinični oddelek za intenzivno terapijo otrok, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Koder Lea
Klinični oddelek za intenzivno terapijo otrok, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Abstract

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is one of the most severe forms of myocardial disease in the pediatric population and represents a significant cause of both acute and chronic heart failure. It is characterized by left ventricular dilatation and systolic dysfunction, leading to reduced cardiac output and subsequent systemic hypoperfusion. Clinically, DCM manifests with signs and symptoms of heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias, and thromboembolic complications, all of which significantly influence disease progression and patient prognosis. In children, DCM often follows a more severe course than in adults, with a higher risk of rapid clinical deterioration, recurrent hospitalizations, and progression to end-stage heart failure. In advanced stages, management frequently requires admission to a pediatric intensive care unit, where advanced hemodynamic support, mechanical ventilation, and, in selected cases, mechanical circulatory support may be necessary.

Key words: critically ill child, dilated cardiomyopathy, heart failure, complications, pediatric intensive care unit, Berlin Heart EXCOR