Diagnostic Ambiguity in Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Case-Based Insights and Review of Evolving Criteria.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a unique subtype of HCM characterized by predominant hypertrophy of the left ventricular apex. Due to its unique morphology, apical HCM often manifests with nonspecific symptoms, leading to a challenging diagnosis. Apical measurements on transthoracic echocardiography may be altered depending on the quality and technique with which the images were obtained; thus advanced imaging, such as cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), may be needed to establish the diagnosis.

Case summary

We present 2 cases in which patients presented with nonspecific symptoms and initial transthoracic echocardiography was inconclusive for apical HCM, requiring CMR to better visualize structural changes and establish the diagnosis.

Discussion

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SUBMITTER: Li-Jedras M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12540283 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature