15 yr old with HCM

[goaliemom30]

My 15 yr old son was diagnosed with HCM last January.  After stress tests, Echo cardiograms, EKG's, halter monitor and a heart MRI.  His cardiologist is still not sure he has HCM.  My son is about 50 lbs over weight and the doc is now thinking his weight may have something to do with it.  Any thoughts on this theory

Thanks

[Douglas Bogart, MD]

There are defined echocardiographic parameters to make a diagnosis of  hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.  In general obesity will cause mild but not marked hypertrophy (thickening of the heart).  Is there a family history of HCM or sudden cardiac death??  If there is then it might be of value to have him seen in a center with alot of expertise with this problem.

[LukeL]

A myocardial biopsy has a high diagnostick value for HCM, but is not without its risks. You may want to discuss this with his doctor. Also out of curiosity is there a history of unexplained sudden deaths if your family.

[CardioEric]

Excessive weight can have a lot to do with an enlarged heart for sure. You know there was a really good article on HCM in a recent Men's Health Magazine....not sure what issue. Are there any plans on more echo's or stress tests?