Obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: specialists urge early diagnosis

Medical specialists have highlighted the importance of early diagnosis for obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a debilitating and progressive heart condition. In Italy, it is estimated to affect approximately 11,000 people, though the actual number may be higher due to frequent misdiagnosis.

Recent scientific evidence presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress has reviewed the efficacy and safety of mavacamten over a five-year treatment period. Lia Crotti, a specialist from the University of Milano-Bicocca and the Irccs Istituto Auxologico Italiano, noted that the disease involves the thickening of heart muscle walls, which can obstruct blood flow from the left ventricle.

Experts emphasize that because the condition has a strong genetic and familial component, screening is vital. Currently, Italy maintains a network of over 100 specialized centers to assist with the diagnosis and management of the disease.