[Management of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy - the most common inherited heart disease].

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common cardiogenetic disease affecting 1/500-1/1 000 individuals. Dyspnea is common but chest pain, dizziness or fainting may also cause considerable limitation for the patient. The diagnosis can be suspected from ECG. Echocardiography confirms hypertrophy of at least 15 mm, usually in the septum. If the obstruction of the outflow tract is severe, myectomy or alcohol ablation can relieve symptoms. Genetic evaluation of family members is advisable. To reduce symptoms, betablockers are used; verapamil or disopyramide are alternatives. Atrial fibrillation is often prevalent and requires special attention concerning anticoagulation and rhythm or rate control. An end-stage heart failure warrants advanced treatment options such as cardiac resynchronization therapy, ventricular assist devices or heart transplant. Sudden cardiac death is unpredictable and evaluation of risk markers is important to identify potential candidates for an implantable defibrillator.