Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Left Ventricular Noncompaction Panel Test code: 02262 • 10–21 days turnaround time Up to 80 genes
Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Left Ventricular Noncompaction Panel
This panel analyzes genes definitively associated with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC), and other inherited cardiomyopathy conditions that may present with clinical features similar to DCM or LVNC.
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by unexplained enlargement and/or impaired function of the left ventricle. Depending on the severity and underlying cause, DCM may be associated with heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias, chest pain, or stroke.
Left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is characterized by a distinctive spongy appearance of the left ventricular muscle, with prominent trabeculations and areas of noncompacted myocardium. LVNC may be associated with cardiac arrhythmias, impaired heart function, and heart failure.
Because DCM and LVNC can have significant clinical and genetic overlap, genetic testing may help identify an underlying inherited cause and distinguish between isolated cardiac disease and broader genetic conditions.
Individuals with clinical symptoms or findings suggestive of DCM or LVNC may benefit from genetic testing to:
- Establish or confirm a diagnosis
- Identify an underlying genetic cause
- Clarify potential cardiac and health risks
- Guide individualized medical management
- Support appropriate cardiac monitoring and surveillance
- Inform risk-reduction strategies
- Provide information for genetic counseling and family testing
Family Testing:
Asymptomatic individuals with a known familial pathogenic variant may also benefit from targeted genetic testing. Determining whether an individual carries the familial variant may clarify their personal risk of developing DCM, LVNC, or a related cardiomyopathy and may help guide appropriate medical monitoring and management.
Evaluation for Syndromic Conditions:
This panel also evaluates genes associated with multi-system genetic disorders that may mimic or present with DCM or LVNC. Individuals who initially appear to have isolated DCM or LVNC may, through genetic testing, be identified as having a broader genetic condition in which left ventricular dilation or dysfunction is an initial or prominent clinical feature.
Genetic testing results should be interpreted alongside the individual's medical history, family history, cardiac imaging, and other clinical findings to develop an appropriate management and surveillance plan.