What is the LV wall thickness required for the diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)?

The diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is primarily based on the measurement of left ventricular (LV) wall thickness. For a condition to be classified as HCM, the LV wall thickness must reach a specific threshold that is indicative of the pathological changes seen in this disorder.

A wall thickness of 15 mm or greater is generally recognized as the diagnostic cutoff for HCM. This level of thickness reflects the abnormal hypertrophy often observed in patients with HCM, which may lead to various clinical complications, including outflow obstruction, arrhythmias, and heart failure.

Thicker measurements, such as those exceeding 15 mm, can further establish the severity of the condition, but the essential diagnostic criterion initiates at this threshold. Recognizing these specific measurements is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of patients suspected of having HCM.