LOC285766
Understanding Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Description
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic disorder characterized by the abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the left ventricle. This thickening can lead to impaired heart function, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. HCM is primarily an inherited condition, with most cases linked to mutations in genes that control the production of heart muscle proteins.
Associated Diseases
Individuals with HCM may also have associated diseases, including:
- Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC): A heart condition that affects the right ventricle and can cause life-threatening arrhythmias.
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM): A condition where the heart muscle becomes weakened and dilated, leading to heart failure.
- Aortic stenosis: A narrowing of the aortic valve that can obstruct blood flow from the heart.
- Mitral valve prolapse: A condition where the mitral valve between the left atrium and left ventricle does not close properly.
Did you Know ?
HCM affects approximately 1 in 500 people, making it one of the most common heart conditions. However, many individuals with HCM have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, and may remain undiagnosed.
