Which physical examination finding is commonly associated with dilated cardiomyopathy?

Dilated cardiomyopathy is characterized by the dilation and dysfunction of the left ventricle, leading to impaired systolic function. One significant physical examination finding associated with this condition is the presence of mitral regurgitation. This occurs because the enlargement of the left ventricle causes the annulus of the mitral valve to dilate, preventing effective closure during contraction. As a result, blood leaks backward from the left ventricle into the left atrium during systole, which can be assessed during a physical examination.

Mitral regurgitation can manifest as a holosystolic murmur best heard at the left sternal border. This finding is crucial as it not only reflects the underlying structural changes in the heart but also contributes to the clinical picture of heart failure commonly associated with dilated cardiomyopathy.

Other options such as bradycardia, hypotension, or cardiac tamponade do not have the same direct association with dilated cardiomyopathy. Bradycardia is typically associated with different arrhythmias or conduction disturbances rather than a dilated cardiomyopathy itself. Hypotension may occur in advanced heart failure but is not a specific finding. Cardiac tamponade, which involves the accumulation of fluid in the peric