hypertrophic cardiomyopathy 14

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) Description

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a disease in which the heart muscle becomes thickened, also called hypertrophied. This thickening can lead to obstruction of blood flow out of the heart and can cause symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fainting.

Causes and Characteristics

• HCM is most often caused by abnormal genes in the sarcomere protein genes encoding for cardiac myocytes [5].
• The heart muscle cells enlarge more than normal, leading to thickening of the heart walls [7].
• This type of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may be called hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) [3].

Prevalence and Impact

• HCM is the most common genetic cardiovascular disease [8].
• It affects approximately 1 in 500 people, making it a relatively rare condition [9].
• However, due to its potential severity, it is essential for individuals with a family history of HCM or those who experience symptoms to seek medical attention.

References

[1] - Not available (initial query did not contain any relevant information) [2] - Not available [3] - This type of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may be called hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). HCM also may cause thickening in other parts of your ... [4] - May 8, 2024 — Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes thick. Sometimes, only one part of the heart is thicker ... [5] by H Basit · 2023 · Cited by 24 — Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an autosomal dominant cardiac myocyte disease caused by mutations in sarcomere protein genes encoding ... [6] FEATURED. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) Comprehensive Treatment & Care · Stanford: Genetic Testing and Advanced Care for Families With Heart Disease · Find ... [7] Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic disease that causes thickening (hypertrophy) of the heart muscle. The heart muscle cells enlarge more than ... [8] Aug 14, 2024 — Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common genetic cardiovascular disease. This disorder is caused by a mutations in genes ... [9] by AJ Marian · 2017 · Cited by 1336 — Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic disorder that is characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy unexplained by secondary ...

Common Signs and Symptoms of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) can manifest in various ways, and the symptoms may vary from person to person. Here are some common signs and symptoms associated with HCM:

• Chest Pain: Chest pain or angina is a common symptom of HCM, especially during physical exertion [2][3].
• Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath, especially with physical exertion, is another frequent symptom [1][4].
• Fatigue: Fatigue or feeling tired easily can be a sign of HCM, particularly in adults [3].
• Dizziness and Fainting: Dizziness and fainting spells, especially during exercise, are also common symptoms [5][9].
• Irregular Heartbeat (Arrhythmia): An irregular heartbeat or palpitations can occur in people with HCM [4].
• Irregular Sound (Systolic Murmur): A systolic murmur, which is an abnormal sound heard during the heartbeat, can be a sign of HCM [6].

It's essential to note that some individuals may not experience any symptoms at all. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms or have concerns about your heart health, consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.

References: [1] Feb 23, 2024 — This can cause shortness of breath with activity, chest pain, dizziness and fainting spells. [2] May 29, 2024 — Signs, symptoms and risks · Chest pain, especially with physical exertion [3] Difficulty breathing (shortness of breath) and fatigue, especially with exertion. These symptoms are more common in adults with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. [4] What Is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy? · Chest pain · Fatigue · Shortness of breath, especially with exercise [5] May 8, 2024 — Symptoms · Chest pain · Dizziness · Fainting, especially during exercise [6] Symptoms and Signs of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy · angina), · palpitations, and · syncope. [7] by C Harris · 2017 · Cited by 3 — Signs and symptoms. While some individuals don't experience symptoms, others may experience chest pain, shortness of breath or fainting, especially during exercise. [8] Sep 19, 2024 — Among people who do develop symptoms, the most common complaints include chest pain, shortness of breath with exertion, fatigue, palpitations, [9] Result: chest pain | heart symptoms | abnormal pulsations or palpitations | shortness of breath | dizziness

Diagnostic Tests for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) can be diagnosed using various tests, which are essential in confirming the condition and ruling out other possible causes. Here are some of the diagnostic tests used to diagnose HCM:

• Echocardiogram: This is the most common test used to diagnose HCM, as it shows the thickening of heart walls [5]. An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create images of the heart and its blood vessels.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG can show signs of left ventricular hypertrophy, which is a characteristic feature of HCM [7].
• Genetic testing: Genetic testing can be done from a blood sample and is important for identifying affected individuals in families with a history of HCM [6]. This test can also provide information on the prognosis and potential risks associated with the condition.
• Exercise test: An exercise test, such as a stress echocardiogram or cardiac MRI, can help diagnose HCM by showing changes in heart function during physical activity [3].
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Cardiac MRI is another diagnostic tool used to visualize the heart and its blood vessels. It can show signs of hypertrophy and other abnormalities associated with HCM [8].

These tests are often used in combination to confirm a diagnosis of HCM. A physical exam, medical history, and family history are also essential components of the diagnostic process [4].

Treatment Options for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic condition that affects the heart muscle, causing it to become thickened and obstructed. While there is no cure for HCM, various treatment options are available to manage its symptoms and improve quality of life.

Medications

Several medications can help alleviate symptoms of HCM:

• Beta blockers: These medications slow down the heart rate and reduce the force of contraction, which can help decrease symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath. [1][2]
• Calcium channel blockers: These medications can also help reduce symptoms by relaxing the blood vessels and reducing the pressure on the heart. [3][4]
• Disopyramide: This medication is used to treat abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) associated with HCM. [5]

Other Treatment Options

In addition to medications, other treatment options are available for HCM:

• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve obstruction in the heart or to repair any damage caused by the condition. [6]
• Heart transplantation: For severe cases of HCM, a heart transplant may be considered as a last resort. [7]

New Developments

Recently, a new medication called mavacamten (Camzyos) has been approved to treat adults with symptomatic HCM. This medication works by reducing the strain on the heart and improving symptoms. [8][9]

It's essential to note that each individual with HCM is unique, and treatment plans may vary depending on the severity of symptoms and other factors.

References:

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Differential Diagnosis of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) can be challenging to diagnose due to its complex symptomatology and potential for devastating consequences. Therefore, it is essential to consider a range of differential diagnoses when evaluating patients with suspected HCM.

Common Differential Diagnoses:

• Systemic hypertension: This is the most common cause of acquired left ventricular hypertrophy and should be excluded when HCM is suspected.
• Aortic stenosis: Another common cause of acquired left ventricular hypertrophy, which can mimic the symptoms of HCM.
• Physiologic remodeling due to fitness: Athletes may experience left ventricular hypertrophy as a result of intense physical training, which can be mistaken for HCM.

Other Differential Diagnoses:

• Increased left ventricular wall thickness due to acquired disorders: Such as Fabry disease, other storage diseases, and cardiac amyloidosis.
• Nonsyndromic disorders: Without other systemic involvement, such as hypertrabeculation or noncompaction of the left ventricle.

References:

• [8] Systemic hypertension and aortic stenosis are the most common causes of acquired left ventricular hypertrophy and should be excluded when HCM is suspected.
• [10] Differential Diagnosis. Systemic hypertension and aortic stenosis are the most common causes of acquired left ventricular hypertrophy and should be excluded when HCM is suspected.
• [12] The differential diagnosis for HCM includes increased left ventricular wall thickness due to acquired, syndromic (with other systemic involvement), and nonsyndromic (without other systemic involvement) disorders.