What is a condition where the heart muscle is weakened and unable to pump blood effectively, often leading to heart failure?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy refers to a condition where the heart muscle is weakened and unable to pump blood effectively, leading to heart failure. This is because the heart muscle becomes enlarged, thickened, or stiff, affecting its ability to pump blood efficiently.
Incorrect choices:
B: Myocarditis - Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle, not necessarily associated with weakening of the heart muscle leading to heart failure.
C: Endocarditis - Endocarditis is inflammation of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves, not directly related to the weakening of the heart muscle.
D: Pericarditis - Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium (the outer lining of the heart), and does not directly involve the weakening of the heart muscle.