A restrictive cardiomyopathy primarily affects which aspect of heart function?

Restrictive cardiomyopathy primarily affects diastolic performance due to the stiffness of the heart muscle, which results in impaired filling of the ventricles during diastole. In this condition, the heart chambers become less compliant, meaning they cannot expand as easily to accommodate blood returning from the body and lungs. As a result, there is increased pressure in the atria and possible subsequent symptoms of heart failure, such as dyspnea, especially during exertion.

While systolic performance, which refers to the heart's ability to contract and pump blood out during systole, can also be affected over time, the hallmark of restrictive cardiomyopathy is its impact on diastolic function. This distinction is crucial, as it differentiates restrictive cardiomyopathy from other forms of cardiomyopathy, such as hypertrophic or dilated cardiomyopathy, where systolic dysfunction may be more prominent. The condition does not primarily present with problems in electrical conduction or coronary perfusion, although some patients may experience secondary effects in these areas due to overall decreased cardiac function and increased pressures.