Diagnosis and management of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Abstract

The clinical spectrum of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is complex and includes a variety of phenotypes, which leads to different types of manifestations. Although most of the patients are asymptomatic, a significant proportion of them will develop symptoms or risk of arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Therefore, the objectives of HCM diagnosis and management are to relieve the patients' symptoms (chest pain, heart failure, syncope, palpitations, etc.), prevent disease progression and major cardiovascular complications and SCD. The heterogeneity of HCM patterns, their symptoms and assessment is a challenge for the cardiologist.

Introduction

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited heart disease defined by increased left ventricular (LV) wall thickness (≥15 mm in one or more LV myocardial segments), that cannot be explained by abnormal loading conditions (1). It is an autosomal dominant condition, which is present in one in 500 in the general adult population, making it the commonest genetic cardiovascular disease.

The clinical spectrum of HCM is complex and includes a variety of phenotypes, which leads to different types of manifestations. Although most of the patients are asymptomatic, ∼25% will develop symptoms or risk of arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD) (2).

Therefore, the objectives of HCM diagnosis and management are to relieve the patients' symptoms (chest pain, heart failure, syncope, palpitations, etc.), prevent disease progression and major cardiovascular complications, and SCD (2, 3). The heterogeneity of HCM patterns, their symptoms and assessment are a challenge for the cardiologist.

Diagnosis

The mainstay of the diagnosis is the increased LV wall thickness ≥15 mm (1). The distribution of LV hypertrophy (LVH) is characteristically asymmetric and heterogeneous, but most often involves the interventricular septum more than the posterolateral segments. Symmetric, apical and other atypical distributions are also observed (4, 5). Wall thickness is usually measured in M-mode images. However, M-mode measurements include only basal segments of interventricular septum and posterior wall and an incorrect alignment of the cursor may result in incorrect evaluation. For that reason, measurements of the wall thickness should be performed in all the segments in two-dimensional (2D) images in short-axis views from basal to apex. Asymmetric septal wall hypertrophy is associated with LV outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) in 20–30% of cases at rest (6). Symmetric hypertrophy appears to be present in ∼4% of HCM cases and should raise the suspicion of other causes of LV thickening (7). The occurrence of apical HCM, however, varies highly in the literature, ranging from 1 to 25% (4, 8). The diagnosis of apical HCM may be missed in standard transthoracic echocardiography and may be revealed with the use of 3D echocardiography, i.v. contrast agents or cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (9, 10) (Videos 1 and 2). The apex can form an aneurysm in some of these cases (7) (Videos 3 and 4). Predominant hypertrophy of the middle third of the left ventricle may lead to severe mid-ventricular narrowing and obstruction, which may also be associated with the formation of apical aneurysms, which result from the increased systolic pressures within the cardiac apex from the mid-ventricular obstruction or apical infarction (7, 11).

Video 1

2D echocardiogram: 4-chamber view showing hypertrophy of the LV apex. Download Video 1 via http://dx.doi.org/10.1530/ERP-15-0007-v1

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Video 2

Apical HCM on parasternal short axis at the level of the apex. There is concentric hypertrophy and collapse of the LV cavity during systole. Download Video 2 via http://dx.doi.org/10.1530/ERP-15-0007-v2

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Video 3

The same patient with HCM scanned without contrast. The use of i.v. contrast offers a better view of the endocardium. Apical aneurysm is clearly visualized on the contrast echocardiogram. Download Video 3 via http://dx.doi.org/10.1530/ERP-15-0007-v3

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Video 4

The same patient with HCM scanned with contrast. The use of i.v. contrast offers a better view of the endocardium. Apical aneurysm is clearly visualized on the contrast echocardiogram. Download Video 4 via http://dx.doi.org/10.1530/ERP-15-0007-v4

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Owing to a number of complex mechanisms involving also abnormal dissociation of actin and myosin filaments during the active phase of relaxation in early diastolic filling and LV myocardial properties, HCM is often associated with diastolic dysfunction (12). Decreased tissue Doppler indices-systolic annular velocities and increased E/E′ are typical findings for this (13). In pre-phenotypic gene-positive HCM, the E/E′ ratio has been described as a marker that can distinguish those individuals from controls (14). In later stages, the diastolic dysfunction may result in a restrictive filling pattern with secondary (consecutive) left atrial dilatation, which then may lead to the development of atrial fibrillation (11, 15). Throughout the course of the disease, there may be a ‘burn out’ phase, characterised by LV dilatation and loss of myocardium, which then is replaced by fibrosis, which is thought to be caused by small-vessel ischaemia (7, 16, 17). The absolute LV dilatation may be variably present and does not predict the outcome, but in serial observations increasing dimensions of the LV end-diastolic cavity have been described as well as decreasing septal wall thickness and LV ejection fraction (18).

Features in specific subtypes

The presence of LVH is a finding observed in systemic diseases with cardiac involvement such as Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) or Noonan's syndrome and metabolic diseases (i.e. Pompe, Fabry, mitochondrial disorders, amyloidosis, etc.) (6).

Anderson–Fabry's disease

Fabry disease is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by α-galactosidase A deficiency. Cardiac involvement is frequent and there is a strong correlation between age and LVH; all patients above 45 years of age are affected (19). A typical histological feature is the presence of lipid storage in all the cells of the heart, including myocytes, conduction system, valves and endothelium (20).

The common pattern is concentric non-obstructive LVH with end-diastolic wall thickness mildly increased (21), which may develop LV systolic dysfunction as the disease progresses (19, 21, 22, 23, 24).

2D echocardiogram usually shows normal left ventricle systolic function although the diastolic function could be mildly affected. Prominent papillary muscles have been described (25). A ‘Binary sign’, defined as an hyperechogenic interventricular septum border (26), has been described as a characteristic feature of Fabry's disease. Although it could shed light on the diagnosis, this feature has been questioned considering that it is not specific for Fabry's disease and it is highly operator dependent (27, 28). The right ventricle (RV) is commonly affected with hypertrophy but without haemodynamic significance (19, 25). In addition, tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and strain studies would help to detect early stage of cardiac dysfunction revealing reduced longitudinal and radial LV function. Segmental wall motion abnormality is only present at the advanced stage of the cardiomyopathy and is typically observed in the postero-lateral segments (19, 21, 22, 23, 24). Diastolic dysfunction is usually associated with the presence of LVH although Doppler studies may be able to detect it earlier than the development of LVH (24, 29, 30, 31).

Using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) with late gadolinium enhancement technique, replacement fibrosis has been described, especially in the basal inferior and postero-lateral segments (21, 32).

Friedreich's ataxia

FRDA is the commonest hereditary ataxia, autosomal recessively, caused by an inherited expansion of an intronic GAA triplet. Histological features explain that the hypertrophy derives from a striking proliferation of mitochondria within the cardiomyocytes, and a marked loss of contractile fibres (33). The cardiac involvement is high (more than 60% of patient affected) and usually asymptomatic (34). The typical pattern is concentric LVH with an end-diastolic wall thickness of <15 mm and absence of outflow tract obstruction (34, 35) (Video 5).

Video 5

Parasternal long axis view of patient with FRDA showing concentric LVH without LVOT obstruction. Download Video 5 via http://dx.doi.org/10.1530/ERP-15-0007-v5

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In a study of 178 patients, 42% showed concentric remodelling on the echocardiogram, 35% concentric hypertrophy (Video 6), and only 5% eccentric hypertrophy (36). This study also demonstrated a high percentage (>80%) of patients with abnormal diastolic function. Increased relative wall thickness as a sign of concentric remodelling has been discussed in these patients (37, 38).

Video 6

Patient with FRDA. Parasternal short axis at the mitral valve level, showing concentric LVH involving all segments, more prominent on the anteroseptum. Download Video 6 via http://dx.doi.org/10.1530/ERP-15-0007-v6

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There is impaired systolic function but with relatively preserved ejection fraction. Some patients with advanced disease develop a reduced ejection fraction with global hypokinesia and a slightly dilated LV (39). CMR often confirms the LVH and increased LV mass (35). LV mass decreases with longer disease duration (>15 years) suggesting cardiac thinning with prolonged disease (40).

Amyloidosis

Amyloidosis is an infiltrative disease characterised by deposition of amyloid fibrils within the extracellular tissue of one or multiple organs, including the heart. Cardiac amyloidosis pattern is symmetric LV thickening. Longitudinal LV function is severely affected in amyloidosis and this feature can carry diagnostic information (41). Although there are some echocardiographic features commonly associated with amyloidosis, such as ‘sparkling or speckled appearance’ of the LV thickening, there is no objective evidence that they can be used for the diagnosis. RV wall is usually hypertrophied as well. Diastolic function is often impaired with restrictive filling pattern in the advanced stages of the disease (42). Severe atrial dilatation, thickened interatrial septum and pericardial effusion are common findings on cardiac amyloidosis. The severe atrial dilatation is a consequence of the elevated filling pressures; subsequently high E/A and E/e ratios are usually present (42, 43, 44) (Video 7).

Video 7

Patient with amyloidosis, 4-chamber view showing concentric LVH, more prominent in the septum. There is septal hypokinesia and impairment of the LV systolic function. Loss of longitudinal systolic function. Both atria are dilated. Download Video 7 via http://dx.doi.org/10.1530/ERP-15-0007-v7

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CMR shows sub-endocardial or segmental late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and a highly specific pattern of myocardial and blood-pool gadolinium kinetics caused by similar myocardial and blood T1 signals (45).

There is delayed enhancement in 69% of patients, with the dominant distribution of enhancement being subendocardial, diffuse and not confined to one clear vascular territory (46, 42).

The presence of the above features could raise suspicion of amyloidosis as the aetiology of LVH rather than sarcomeric HCM, especially in the appropriate clinical context (6, 46, 42).

Anatomical abnormalities

There are a number of anatomical abnormalities of the mitral valve and the subvalvular apparatus commonly observed in HCM. Some of them may have their origin in the cardiac morphogenesis and others are more consistent with acquired changes. They play a role in the LVOTO, mid-cavity obstruction and the presence of mitral regurgitation (MR). These abnormalities include papillary muscle abnormalities (hypertrophy, anterior and internal displacement, direct insertion into the anterior mitral valve leaflet) and mitral leaflet abnormalities such as elongation or accessory tissue (1, 47, 48, 49). Systolic anterior motion (SAM) was described as a feature typical for HCM more than 50 years ago. But SAM can also be observed in conditions other than HCM. The LVOTO as a consequence of SAM is a common clinical finding that requires a detailed assessment from anatomical and clinical point of view. The severity of the SAM is related to the duration of leaflet/chordal contact with the septum (severe if >30%) (43). Abnormalities of the mitral valve usually present with excessive leaflet tissue, elongation of the chordal or mitral leaflets, anterior displacement of the mitral apparatus and abnormal insertion of the papillary muscle (directly into the anterior mitral leaflet), prolapse of one or both leaflets (43). The mechanism of the MR is variable. If the MR is solely related to SAM, then it is usually posteriorly directed as a consequence of the mitral leaflet abnormal coaptation (5). Leaflet contact length, posterior leaflet length, ratio of anterior-to-posterior leaflet length and posterior leaflet mobility have been described as significant univariate predictors of MR in relation to mitral SAM (50). Therefore, a meticulous assessment of mitral valve morphology is essential in HCM, particularly in those cases with LVOTO. A correct distinction between functional and primary valve pathology is also crucial for the optimal management of the patient. Transoesophageal echocardiography plays a key role in decision making before any invasive LVOTO therapy and in those cases in which severe MR caused by intrinsic valve abnormalities is suspected (1).

Overlap with other conditions

Differentiation of HCM against hypertensive heart disease, athlete's heart and LV non-compaction (LVNC) can be a challenge. Hypertension alone usually produces concentric remodelling of the left ventricle, isolated increased voltage without repolarisation abnormalities in the 12-lead-ECG and reversibility of hypertrophy after 6–12 months of tight systolic blood pressure control point towards this diagnosis, whereas a family history of HCM, RV hypertrophy, late gadolinium enhancement at the RV insertion points or localised to segments of maximum wall thickness on CMR, a maximum LV wall thickness ≥15 mm in Caucasians and ≥20 mm in Blacks, severe diastolic dysfunction and marked depolarisation abnormalities are more in keeping with HCM (1, 51). In Black people, diagnosis may be assisted by the identification of a non-hypertensive relative or genetic testing (6). Athletes tend to have an enlarged LV cavity, an enlarged left atrium, normal LV filling and relaxation, upright T-waves and a negative family history (52). Female sex, missing response to detraining and systolic anterior movement of the mitral valve are more in favour of the diagnosis of HCM (1). LVNC is characterised by the embryonic pattern of trabeculated myocardium in the left ventricle (53). It is, therefore, defined by prominent LV trabeculae, deep intertrabecular recesses and a thin compact layer (54). Use of contrast echocardiographic agents can be very useful for the delineation of the endocardium and identification of features compatible with LVNC (55).

LVOT obstruction

The presence of LVOTO should be suspected in all patients reporting symptoms in their daily activity or during exercise without evidence of resting LVOT pressure gradient. Significant gradient at rest is present in only 25–30% of patients with HCM (56); 75% of HCM patients develop LVOTO at rest or on provocation. The identification of LVOTO has important implications both in the management of symptoms and in the assessment of SCD; therefore, 2D and Doppler echocardiography during Valsalva manoeuvre in the sitting and semi-supine position and standing is recommended in all patients (1) (Fig. 1). Therefore, in addition to standing and Valsalva manoeuvres, some of these patients should be investigated for dynamic LVOTO either by exercise or by the use of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN). Exercise is considered the most physiological and effective modality to precipitate and assess the degree of obstruction. Exercise stress echocardiography is a well-validated safe technique (57, 58, 59) for the assessment of dynamic obstruction in adult asymptomatic and symptomatic HCM population. Several studies demonstrate, by the use of distinct methodologies, that 50–75% of patients with rest peak gradient of ≤30 or 50 mmHg present with ventricular obstruction easily induced by exercise (60, 61, 62). The incidence and severity of exercise-induced LVOT can be increased in post-prandial tests (63). A study has demonstrated that early development of obstruction is associated with higher reduction in the function capacity (64). Another study has shown a progressive increase in the LVOT gradient by a range of physiologic manoeuvres: from standing to Valsalva to exercise (65). The recording of the gradient at the peak of exercise can pose technical difficulties in obtaining the images. Considering the lack of comparative data of stress protocol, according to guidelines, laboratories should develop and validate their own data and ensure that staff are properly trained in the procedure (1). In patients unable to perform an adequate exercise test, sublingual GTN may be used to unmask dynamic obstruction, but it is not physiological and can be poorly tolerated (66). Other pharmacological provocations are not recommended in this clinical setting, being non-physiological and leading to a high rate of false positive: 17–43% of patients can develop LVOT gradient during dobutamine stress echocardiography and this is not predictive of LVOTO in their ‘real life’ (67, 68, 69).

Figure 1.

Continuous Doppler in a HCM patient during Valsalva. The LVOT gradient is progressively increasing during the manoeuvre.

Limitations of echocardiography

Radial contractile function, assessed using the ejection fraction or fractional shortening, is typically normal or supra-normal in patients with HCM both obstructive and non-obstructive. This is also in presence of long-axis function impairment, as demonstrated by the tissue Doppler-derived mitral annular velocities (70). Unfortunately, ejection fraction (EF) is a suboptimal measurement of ventricular function, mainly because of low end-diastolic LV volume. Additionally, the increased wall thickness results in augmented radial wall thickening and overestimation of ventricular systolic function (71, 72). There are suggestions that LV torsion and strain imaging may detect global subtle dysfunction even when traditional measurements are normal (13).

Echocardiography may underestimate the wall thickness when hypertrophy is confined to the anterolateral wall (73), posterior septum or apex (5, 74). In these cases, meticulous imaging and multiple views are mandatory and the use of other imaging modalities (i.e. 3D-echocardiography, contrast echocardiogram, cardiac computed tomography (cardiac CT) and CMR) should be considered (75).

Although the advantage of the use of cardiac MRI in patients with good echocardiography images is limited to the tissue characterisation, this technique can occasionally offer a more precise assessment of the pattern of hypertrophy and submitral valvular apparatus (76), quantification of LV mass (77), detection of myocardial crypts (78), aneurysm and thrombi (79, 80).

Management

Although most patients have a benign course of the disease, HCM can lead to heart failure and sudden death with an annual mortality ranging between 1 and 5% (81). In this context, echocardiography plays a key role in management and risk stratification.

Systolic dysfunction occurs in 10–15% of patients as a result of wall thinning, cavity dilatation and fibrosis, associated with the risk of SCD and overall increased mortality (18). Therefore, baseline and routine assessment of systolic function by means of Biplane Simpson's ejection fraction are important to guide any anti-failure therapy.

In some patients, heart failure is associated with diastolic dysfunction with preserved EF and small LV size. Assessment of diastolic dysfunction by use of Doppler echocardiography, in particular through the use of E/Ea ratio, provides an accurate estimation of filling pressures (82, 83, 84). The E wave/propagation velocity has also been shown to correlate well with invasively measured pressures (83). A mitral annular systolic velocity ≤4 cm/s assessed through TDI has been shown to be an independent predictor of hospitalisation for worsening heart failure (85). Predicting risk is a key component of the management of HCM: wall thickness, LVOTO gradient and left atrium dimension are part of the factors for the risk stratification of HCM patients (86). It is well established that the severity and extent of LVH measured by echocardiography are associated with the risk of SCD: a maximum wall thickness of ≥30 mm has a greater risk of SCD (87, 88, 89). The size of the left atrium is often enlarged and provides important prognostic information (86, 90). The majority of studies have used the anteroposterior LA diameter, but comparable findings are reported using LA volume indexed body also (15, 91, 92).

Despite the significant association between LVTO and SCD (86, 93, 94, 95), the question about the prognostic significance of the provocable LVOTO and the LVOT gradient after treatment remains unresolved. A recent retrospective study has suggested a lower rate of implantable defibrillator insertion, adverse events, medical interventions and septal ablations in patients who show a paradoxical response to exercise defined as a reduction in the LVOT gradient during exercise, therefore reinforcing the importance of echocardiography in risk stratification (96). Echocardiography also plays an important role in guiding interventions: through the use of myocardial contrast echocardiography, the target septal branch is identified during alcohol septal ablation, avoiding alcohol injection into the LV free wall or papillary muscles (97).

Conclusions

Despite some limitations, in the clinical scenario of a patient presenting with LVH, echocardiography plays a central role in the diagnosis of HCM, management of symptoms, risk stratification and decision for treatment. An accurate echocardiographic evaluation is the most helpful imaging test at baseline and follow-up and should be performed by well-trained operators.

Declaration of interest

The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of this review.

Funding

A S Vischer was supported by a research grant from the Swiss Heart Rhythm foundation. M C Perez-Tome was supported by a research grant from the Spanish Society of Cardiology. S Castelletti was supported by a research grant from the European Society of Cardiology.