Written by a distinguished authority in cardiac physiology, this volume explains and integrates the many mechanisms responsible for heart failure. Chapters examine impaired pump function, neurohumoral responses to reduced cardiac output, and contraction and relaxation abnormalities. The author explains why physiologic processes and pharmacologic therapies that are adaptive or helpful over the short term often have deleterious long-term consequences. Coverage includes detailed analyses of underlying molecular mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and therapy.