Michał Maksymilian Wilk, Rafał Tymków
Heart failure (HF) remains a major challenge in cardiovascular medicine, contributing to high global rates of hospitalization and mortality. Recent research (2022-2025) has emphasized its heterogeneity, highlighting distinct phenotypes-HFpEF, HFmrEF, and HFrEF-driven by mechanisms such as chronic inflammation, myocardial fibrosis, and neurohormonal imbalance. Advances in therapy, particularly with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI), and iron supplementation, have reshaped treatment strategies. Moreover, the growing recognition of overlaps between HF and cardiomyopathies such as hypertrophic, Takotsubo, and amyloidosis underscores the need for integrated care. This review summarizes recent findings from leading journals, mapping the evolving understanding of HF pathophysiology and management, and outlining emerging directions for research and clinical practice.