Comparison of clinical and echocardiographic parameters in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy under and over 60 years of age

Background: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is one of the most common genetic myocardial diseases. Transthoracic echocardiography which includes speckle tracking technique is tool for HCM diagnosis and monitoring the course of the disease. The aim of this study was to compare clinical and echocardiographic parameters in HCM patients older and younger than 60 years old (yo). Material and methods: We prospectively enrolled 53 HCM patients, who were divided into two groups: younger and older than 60 yo. Clinical parameters, standard echocardiographic indices, as well as strain parameters were assessed and compared between the groups. Results: The older subgroup was characterized by a higher prevalence of coronary artery disease. In the younger subgroup the incidence of atrial fibrillation was quite high, which occurs far more often than in the general population. Echocardiographic analysis showed worse diastolic function in older, as well as lower volume of the LV. The global longitudinal strain was worse in <60 patients. The 3D strain parameters differed significantly between the groups: the area and radial strains were worse in younger patients. Conclusions: HCM patients older and younger than 60 yo differ significantly in terms of clinical and echocardiographic parameters.