Introduction

Heart failure is the pathophysiologic state in which the heart fails to meet the requirements of the metabolizing organs and tissues, or is able to do so only with an increased diastolic filling pressure. It is the symptom of a common syndrome among the elderly that causes significant morbidity and mortality both in developed and developing parts of the world. Frontiers In Heart Failure is a book series that focuses on issues in cardiology and therapeutic strategies employed to treat heart failure. The series attempts to integrate published data on heart failure research with current information about heart failure management techniques. Chapters in each volume are contributed by experts in cardiology, molecular biology and medical imaging. The series is a useful resource of updated information about various cardiomyopathies for medical researchers, imaging technicians, clinicians and postgraduates. Information presented in the series is also useful to working professionals in the field of nuclear medicine and nephrology.