Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) Services

People with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a thickening of the heart muscle, have access to comprehensive, personalized treatment at UPMC.

As a designated center of excellence by the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association (HCMA), UPMC provides people with access to:

• Advanced care and coordinated services all at one location.
• Innovative treatment options based on the latest research.
• A team of experts dedicated to HCM management.

What Is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a heart condition characterized by abnormal thickening (hypertrophy) of the heart muscle, most often in the left ventricle, the main pumping chamber.

In HCM, hypertrophy is caused by disorganized muscle fibers, most likely present at birth. The thickening is progressive and can eventually block blood flow from the left ventricle to the body.

What conditions do you treat?

Our doctors provide expert care for HCM. Since symptoms of HCM range from chest pain to sudden cardiac death, early treatment is a necessity.

There is no definitive cure for HCM, but most people can live long, healthy lives with the care of their doctors.

What HCM Services Does UPMC Offer?

People who have HCM have access to comprehensive, personalized treatment at UPMC. HCM services include:

Coordinated, multidisciplinary care

At UPMC, you receive advanced HCM care and coordinated services all at one location.

Starting with the initial visit, you will meet with members of your HCM team for a one-on-one consultation to develop your personalized treatment plan.

Our multidisciplinary team consists of:

• Cardiac electrophysiologists.
• Cardiac interventionalists.
• Cardiologists.
• Cardiovascular geneticists and genetic counselors.
• Cardiovascular imaging specialists.
• Cardiovascular surgeons.
• HCM specialty nurses.

These appointments most often can be coordinated with diagnostic imaging and cardiology testing in the same clinic on the same day.

Comprehensive disease management

At UPMC, people with HCM have access to:

• Coordinated, state-of-the-art care for diagnosing and treating this complex heart disease.
• Innovative treatment options based on the latest research protocols for HCM.
• A team of experts in HCM disease management, advanced cardiac imaging, and cardiovascular genetics.

Advanced diagnostic and imaging technology

We offer advanced diagnostic technology, including:

• Echocardiogram (ECHO) — This noninvasive ultrasound test uses sound waves to evaluate your heart's chambers and valves. The ECHO sound waves create an image on a monitor as an ultrasound transducer is passed over your heart.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) — This test records the electrical activity of your heart, shows abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias or dysrhythmias), and can sometimes detect heart muscle damage.
• MRI scans — MRI is a diagnostic procedure that combines large magnets, radio frequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within your body.
• Holter monitor — This wearable ECG device records your heart's activity throughout the day.
• Exercise stress test — This test will measure your heart rhythm during exercise.
• CT scan — CT scans create images of your heart

What Can I Expect From HCM Services?

The physicians and scientists at UPMC are actively involved in ongoing HCM research to advance patient care and develop new treatment options based on the latest research protocols.

Our team of HCM experts will create a comprehensive plan to manage your condition and reduce your risk of complications.

Before your visit

To prepare for your visit, you will be asked to provide:

• Name, address, and contact phone number.
• Insurance information.
• Relevant medical records and test results.
• A referral, if required by your health insurance company.

If you get a referral from your primary care doctor or another physician, they may be able to provide your test results and medical records to our team.

During your visit

You'll meet with a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant when you arrive for your first appointment. He or she will ask about your medical history and perform an exam.

We'll give you a:

• A complete explanation of your condition and treatment.
• A tailored patient education packet for you to take home.

Your health care provider will explain your treatment options based on how long you've had symptoms, your condition, and your health history.

Together, you will design and agree on a care plan.

Your care team may also:

• Order tests to learn more about your condition.
• Schedule a procedure in the hospital.

After your treatment for HCM

Our team will schedule follow-up appointments to check on your condition and how your treatment plan is working. You should contact our office if:

• You have questions about your treatment plan or medications.
• Your symptoms get worse or do not improve as expected.
• You have any other concerns about your condition.

By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2024-10-01.