What condition is characterized by a thickened ventricle and may present with syncope?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is characterized by an abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the ventricles, which can lead to various complications, including syncope. This condition often results from genetic mutations affecting cardiac muscle proteins and can obstruct blood flow out of the heart, particularly during exertion, contributing to symptoms such as lightheadedness or fainting.

Patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may also experience arrhythmias due to the structural changes in the heart and the increased stiffness of the ventricle. The thickened muscle can lead to impaired diastolic filling and decreased cardiac output, which when combined with exertion, can precipitate syncope. The risk of these episodes is especially pronounced in younger individuals who may be unaware they have the condition until they experience their first symptoms, which can include syncope during physical activities.

In contrast, conditions like coronary artery disease primarily involve reduced blood flow due to blockages in the coronary arteries and present differently. Aortic stenosis involves narrowing of the aortic valve leading to similar symptoms, but it primarily affects the outflow of blood rather than causing significant ventricular thickening from hypertrophy itself. Pulmonary hypertension affects the right side of the heart and has a different pathophysiological basis,