Endomyocardial fibrosis

ABSTRACT

Two cases of endomyocardial fibrosis seen in the state of Ohio are described and related to the incidence and prevalence of endomyocardial fibrosis throughout the world. The pathophysiology and clinical findings are reviewed, along with the various forms of medical and surgical therapy. The unique nature of this condition allowed a diagnosis prior to surgery in the second case. Endomyocardial biopsies might be useful not only to diagnose the disease, but also to stage its activity. This may be an important consideration in other countries where the disease is more common and earlier operation has been proposed.