In dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), what is a characteristic change in the heart chambers?

In dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a defining characteristic is the enlargement of the heart chambers, leading to a spherical shape. This condition results in an increase in the volume of the left ventricle and often the other chambers of the heart, as the muscle becomes weakened and unable to pump blood effectively. As the chambers dilate, the structural shape tends to shift from the normal elongated configuration to a more rounded, or spherical shape, which is indicative of the progression of DCM. This change can affect cardiac function significantly, leading to symptoms of heart failure as the heart struggles to maintain adequate circulation. Understanding this alteration in chamber shape is crucial for diagnosing and managing DCM effectively.