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.

Cureus
|August 17, 2019
PubMed

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.

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