Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 16, 2026

Scanning Electron Microscopy of Macerated Tissue to Visualize the Extracellular Matrix
Published on: June 14, 2016
Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Needs in Nonobstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Milind Y Desai1, Niccolo Maurizi2, Elena Biagini3
1HCM Center, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Insights
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a heart condition affecting many globally. This review details nonobstructive HCM, its varied impacts, and current research for new treatments.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) affects over 1 in 500 individuals globally.
- Nonobstructive HCM, comprising 30-70% of cases, is highly heterogeneous.
- It leads to significant morbidity, including heart failure and arrhythmias.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of nonobstructive HCM.
- To cover epidemiology, natural history, genetics, pathophysiology, and clinical aspects.
- To discuss current treatments and ongoing clinical trials.
Main Methods:
- This is a narrative review.
- Literature search on nonobstructive HCM.
- Synthesis of existing data on the condition.
Main Results:
- Nonobstructive HCM presents with diverse clinical manifestations.
- Genetic factors play a crucial role in its pathophysiology.
- No pharmaceutical therapies are currently approved, but trials are active.
Conclusions:
- Nonobstructive HCM requires further research due to its heterogeneity and burden.
- Understanding its natural history and genetics is key.
- Ongoing trials offer hope for future therapeutic strategies.
Abstract:
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) affects individuals worldwide with an estimated prevalence of over 1 in 500 individuals. Nonobstructive HCM accounts for approximately 30% to 70% of cases, is extremely heterogeneous, and is associated with a notable degree of morbidity, including daily life limitations, ventricular tachyarrhythmias, progression to heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. No approved pharmaceutical therapies target the pathophysiology of nonobstructive HCM, although several clinical trials are underway. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of nonobstructive HCM, focusing on epidemiology, natural history, genetics, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, burden of disease, and current treatments and ongoing clinical trials.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification
Pathophysiology of Heart Failure
Heart Failure II: Pathophysiology

