A 70-year-old male with a history of heart failure presents with shortness of breath. A cardiac ultrasound shows dilated ventricles with poor systolic function. What could be the potential diagnosis?
The cardiac ultrasound findings of dilated ventricles with poor systolic function are indicative of dilated cardiomyopathy. This condition could be the result of multiple causes, including ischemic heart disease, valvular disease, or it could be idiopathic. Given the patient's age and history of heart failure, ischemic or valvular causes are most likely. Further investigations may include coronary angiography or cardiac MRI, and treatment should focus on managing heart failure and addressing any underlying causes.