Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: New hope for an old disease.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a common congenital heart disease, is the leading cause of sudden cardiac death in adolescents, young adults, and athletes. Older adults with HCM are less likely to experience sudden cardiac death, but their quality of life can be impaired. This article discusses diagnostic criteria, treatments, and nursing interventions, including patient teaching, for adults with HCM.