St. Vincent Services Genetics Cardiovascular Genetics
St. Vincent Cardiovascular Genetics

Cardiovascular Genetics

What does cardiovascular genetics consultation involve?

In recent years there have been rapid developments identifying the role that genetics plays in a variety of cardiovascular diseases.  In addition to lifestyle choices playing a role in the development of heart disease, some individuals are genetically predisposed to develop heart disease.

A visit to the HSHS St. Vincent Hospital Medical Genetics Clinic usually includes time with a genetic counselor that has expertise in inherited cardiovascular syndromes. We educate our patients about cardiac risks and the implications for them and their family members.

  • An appointment is scheduled for a discussion of medical and family history.

  • A personal hereditary cardiovascular risk assessment is provided.

  • Testing options for you and your family are discussed.

  • Follow-up includes discussion and interpretation of test results.

  • Medical management recommendations are made when a hereditary cardiovascular condition is diagnosed.

Who benefits from cardiovascular genetics consultation?

 

Patients and families who have:

  • Inherited cardiomyopathies

  • Inherited heart rhythm disorders, including Long QT syndrome, Brugada, CPVT, ARVD and sudden cardiac death

  • Inherited vascular conditions such as early onset familial forms of coronary artery disease, inherited syndromic and non-syndromic disease of the aorta, such as Marfan syndrome and other connective tissue diseases

  • Inherited lipid disorders

  • Inherited vascular disease

  • Congenital heart defects

If recommended, genetic testing may be performed with a health care team that has the experience and resources to provide important genetic counseling before and after testing.  This counseling helps individuals make informed decisions about pursuing genetic testing and ensures that individuals and their families are appropriately cared for and understand what the results mean.  Genetic counselors also ensure that the proper testing is performed.


To make an appointment or get more information call 920-433-8559.