What are the causes of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a rare disease that affects 1 in 500 people. Since it is an inherited disorder, it is primarily caused by genetic mutations. Abnormality in the gene stimulates proteins, called sarcometric contractile proteins, leading to abnormal growth of the heart muscle fibers. A person with a defective gene or family history of HCM is at a higher risk of developing this disease. However, a few people with defective HCM gene don’t develop this disease. In some cases, HCM may result from aging or high blood pressure. How is hypertension cardiomyopathy diagnosed? The diagnosis of HCM is done on the basis of physical examinations and various investigations. The doctor first reviews the family and medical history of the patient. In the physical examination, the doctor checks for abnormal heart sounds or murmur using a stethoscope. Different tests are performed to diagnose the abnormal thickening of the heart muscles, mitral valve regurgitation or problems with blood flow.
