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Published on: August 8, 2022
A Case of an Acutely Ill Adult Athlete with Previously Undiagnosed Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy
Michael R Minckler1, Madeleine Maker2
1Emergency Medicine, Providence St. Mary Medical Center, Walla Walla, USA.
Insights
Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) is a rare genetic heart condition. This case highlights a unique late diagnosis in an active 53-year-old male presenting with exercise-induced dyspnea.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) is a genetic disorder.
- It typically involves ventricular septum hypertrophy, causing left ventricle outflow obstruction.
- HOCM is often diagnosed in adolescents, particularly athletes.
Observation:
- A 53-year-old male presented with dyspnea during a bike race.
- He had no prior diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).
- The patient experienced elevated troponin and pulmonary edema.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM).
- This represents a late-onset presentation of the condition.
- The diagnosis occurred in an otherwise active, middle-aged individual.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering HOCM in adults presenting with exertional symptoms.
- Late diagnosis in active individuals highlights the need for broader screening.
- Understanding atypical presentations of HOCM is crucial for timely intervention.
Abstract:
Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) is a genetic condition most commonly characterized by hypertrophy of the ventricular septum, which leads to left ventricle outflow obstruction. Due to the severity of the condition, it is often diagnosed in adolescents, especially in those who exercise. We describe the case of a 53-year-old male, previously undiagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), who became dyspneic during a bike race. He was found to have elevated troponin, pulmonary edema, and was diagnosed with HOCM. The late presentation of the case, in an active individual, makes the situation unique.
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