Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a primary myocardial disorder with an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance, characterised by an asymmetric thickening (hypertrophy) of the muscle of the left ventricle. In approximately 25% of patients there is a narrowing (obstruction) of the left ventricular outflow tract. The estimated prevalence of HCM in the general population is 1 in 500. Men and women are equally affected. Most patients are asymptomatic. Shortness of breath, chest pain, palpitations or syncope may occur. Exercise-dependent cardiac arrhythmias can lead to sudden death. Athletes with HCM are generally discouraged from competitive sport.

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