Genetic Testing in the Heart

Genetic Testing in the Heart

Genetic testing allows us to look at your DNA to identify any differences that could predispose you to developing certain health problems.

Genetic testing is available for most inherited cardiovascular conditions.  The goal of such testing is to find the difference in an individual's DNA that has caused that person to develop a heart condition.  Differences in our DNA that cause health problems are often called mutations.  Inherited cardiovascular conditions are caused by mutations in various genes that are involved in the structure and function of the heart.  Genetic testing looks for mutations in the genes that have been associated with the particular heart condition that is running in the family. 

In many cases, the genetic test results do not change an individual's diagnosis or how their heart condition is treated.  Instead, genetic testing is used to help determine which family members could develop the inherited heart condition that is running in the family.

In some cases, genetic testing can help in determining the right diagnosis and treatment.  Sometimes it's not clear exactly what sort of heart condition someone has, even after they have had cardiac tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) or an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart).  In these cases, genetic testing may be able to help make the right diagnosis.

Genetic counseling

We recommend genetic counseling before genetic tests are ordered to discuss the implications of the testing for you and your family. When results are available our team will make recommendations about follow up for both you and your family, based on the results.