Re: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on December 27, 1998 at 17:41:20:

In Reply to: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy posted by Jill on December 27, 1998 at 10:48:57:






My sister was recently diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.  Could you tell me exactly what this is and what kind've prognosis does she have?  Thanks, Jill
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Dear Jill
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy - HOCM - refers to abnormal enlargement of the heart muscle. When extreme, this enlargement can impede the hearts ability to deliver blood to the rest of the body. This can lead to symptoms of heart failure, shortness of breath, chest pain and fainting. The condition can be managed with medicines, but if her symptoms are severe, open heart surgery may be required. There is also a newer procedure done in a catheterization laboratory to eliminate the problem - we are doing this procedure, but it is still experimental. This new procedure is called alcohol ablation.
Her prognosis depends on the severity of the enlargement. Like most diseases, the prognosis ranges from mild with minimal impact to her life, to extremely critical. She of course should be evaluated by a cardiologist with some experience in this area.
I hope this has been useful. Feel free to write back with further questions. Good luck.
Information provided here is of a general nature.  Specific diagnoses and treatments can only be made by your doctor.  If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment with a cardiologist at Desk F15.