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Definition
A disease of the heart muscle resulting in lower overall efficiency due to a reduced ability to pump blood or maintain a normal heart rhythm.
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Incidence: higher than 1 in 500 individuals
HCM: 1 in 500
DCM: 1 in 2500 -
Cardiomyopathy risk factors:
Long-term Hypertension
Coronary Artery Disease
Uncontrolled Heart Rhythm
Infection
Metabolic Disorders
Nutritional Deficiencies
Genetics -
Cardiomyopathy symptoms
Chest Pain
Cough
Syncope
Dyspnea
Fatigue
Palpitations or Arrhythmias
Swelling in The Ankles and Feet
Heart Failure
Sudden Death
Genetic testing for inherited cardiac conditions is recommended by several medical societies including the American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology, and Heart Rhythm Society.
What is CARDIOMYOPATHY?
What is ARRHYTHMIA?
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Definition
Causing an irregular heart rhythm caused by abnormal electrical activity.
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Incidence: up to 1 in 1000 individuals
LQTS: 1 in 2000
Brugada: 5 in 10000
CPVT: 1 in 2000 -
Arrhythmia risk factors
Heart Disease
High Blood Pressure
Stress
Caffeine
Smoking
Alcohol Use
Certain Medications
Genetics -
Arrhythmia symptoms
Palpitations
Slow or Irregular Heart Beat
Dizziness
Near-Syncope or Syncope
Chest Pain
Sudden Death
WHO/WHY GET TESTED?
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Risk Insight – You May Be At Higher Risk If…
A personal or family history of any of the following might be appropriate for testing:
Unexplained arrhythmia
Cardiomyopathy or enlarged heart
Sudden and unexplained cardiac arrest
Unexplained syncope and/or syncope with exercise or emotional distress
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) or Pacemaker placement at <50 years of age
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
Heart failure and/or transplant
A family member with one of the above conditions whose genetic cause is already known -
Why Should Patients Get Tested?
Testing can provide patients better understand potential future cardiac risks, and take action through tailored and proactive medical management plans. Other benefits of genetic testing may include:
Establish or confirm a specific diagnosis
Provide an explanation of the underlying cause of your heart condition
Uncover potential risk of developing an underlying, multisystem condition that affects more than your heart
Make informed medical decisions and provide an opportunity to start risk reduction strategies
Identify other at-risk relatives for whom genetic testing is recommended
Make informed family planning decisions