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FAMILY CARDIOMYOPATHY STUDY

The University of Colorado Cardiovascular Institute Familial Cardiomyopathy Study is currently being funded by the National Institute of Health, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and the American Heart Association. This site is designed to provide information on inherited forms of cardiomyopathy for patients and their families.

The Familial Cardiomyopathy Study began enrolling patients in Denver, Colorado in 2000. Dr. Luisa Mestroni and Dr. Matthew Taylor oversee a diverse research team that includes clinicians, scientists, genetic counselors, and students who all share a common interest in cardiology and genetics.

The goal of this study is to enroll 600 patients with cardiomyopathy and their family members. Family members will be invited to undergo cardiac screening, which includes an echocardiogram, electrocardiogram (ECG) and physical examination. Further testing may be requested if indicated to define a diagnosis of cardiomyopathy. Research genetic studies will also be conducted at our Molecular Genetics Laboratory to identify and better understand the genes responsible for cardiomyopathy. It is hoped that the information learned from this study will help improve methods of screening, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Screening for family members is offered free of charge if completed at one of our enrollment centers; any members unable or unwilling to come to one of our sites are still eligible to enroll in the study and can bill insurance for the appropriate screening tests.