Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy complicated with cardiac amyloidosis

I Kohno1, S Komori, K Yamamoto

  • 1Second Department of Internal Medicine, Yamanashi Medical University.

Insights

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and cardiac amyloidosis share similar echocardiogram findings. This case highlights the importance of differentiating these conditions, especially in older adults presenting with cardiac symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Cardiovascular Imaging
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and cardiac amyloidosis can present with overlapping echocardiographic features, complicating diagnosis.
  • Early diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and improved patient outcomes.

Observation:

  • A 76-year-old man initially treated for gastric cancer presented with symptoms suggestive of heart failure.
  • Electrocardiogram showed left ventricular hypertrophy, and echocardiography revealed asymmetric septal hypertrophy.
  • Subsequent re-admission showed decreased QRS amplitude and echocardiographic evidence of granular sparkling, indicative of infiltrative disease.

Findings:

  • The patient was diagnosed with both hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and cardiac amyloidosis.
  • The echocardiographic findings evolved over time, aiding in the final diagnosis.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the diagnostic challenges in distinguishing HCM from cardiac amyloidosis based solely on initial imaging.
  • Advanced echocardiographic features like granular sparkling may suggest an infiltrative process such as amyloidosis.
  • Integrated diagnostic approaches are essential for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies in complex cardiovascular cases.

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