L-Carnitine plays a role in the utilization of fatty acids and glucose in the myocardium. Previous studies have indicated carni
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tine deficiency in patients with congestive heart failure. However, the extent of altered carnitine metabolism and left ventric
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lar function is not fully determined. This study is designed to determine if plasma L-carnitine levels can serve as a marker fo
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impaired left ventricular function in patients with congestive heart failure.