Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited condition which is characterised by thickening of the heart muscle without another explanation. It affects one in 500 people. Whilst the majority of those affected will live long and healthy lives, symptoms (breathlessness, palpitations, chest pain and blackouts) and potentially serious complications can occur. Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham has a longstanding service dedicated to the care of individuals with HCM. Our main objectives are to:
- ensure an accurate diagnosis
- assess and manage the risk of worrisome heart rhythm abnormalities in the future
- provide targeted treatment when obstruction of blood flow leaving the heart causes symptoms
- manage symptoms when the heart muscle becomes weakened
- perform genetic testing and screening for the condition
- make information available through access to electronic patient records portal and Cardiomyopathy UK
- promote involvement in research
The service is run by Dr William Moody, with support from colleagues within the cardiology, cardiothoracic, genetics and neurology departments.
How to contact the service
Gina Campbell, Medical Secretary
Last reviewed: 18 January 2024