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Cardiomyopathy is a condition that affects the structure and function of the heart muscle. There are several forms of the disease, and each one has a variety of possible causes and symptoms. If your child has been diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, it is important that you find a doctor who is experienced in treating cardiomyopathy in children and who thoroughly understands all forms of the condition.

About cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle that decreases the heart's ability to pump blood. It is a leading cause of heart failure and the most common reason for a person to need a heart transplant.

Unlike other congenital heart conditions, there is currently no surgical or medical treatment to “cure” and repair the damaged heart. Some medications have been shown to decrease the progression of the disease. Treatment options may include:

  • Medication to improve the functioning of the heart
  • Surgery to remove obstruction of enlarged heart muscle
  • Defibrillators (ICD) for cardiomyopathy patients with arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythm)
  • Ventricular assist devices
  • Heart transplant for children who do not respond well to medical management

See more about cardiomyopathy and how Boston Children’s cares for children with cardiomyopathy.

Our expertise in cardiomyopathy

As one of the nation's best children's hospitals, we are fortunate to have a number of cardiomyopathy experts who regularly evaluate and care for babies, children and teens with this disease.

Services offered through our Cardiomyopathy Program include:

  • Advanced diagnostic testing
  • Individualized medication regimens
  • Family screening and genetic assessment
  • Implantable automatic defibrillator placement
  • Ventricular assist device placement
  • Surgical evaluation
  • Heart transplantation
  • Customized second opinion evaluation and care plan
  • Partnership and collaboration with each family's local pediatrician and/or cardiac caregiver