What is a common cardiac manifestation of Emery-Dreifuss Muscular Dystrophy?

Emery-Dreifuss Muscular Dystrophy (EDMD) is a genetic condition characterized by progressive muscle weakness and atrophy, as well as specific cardiac issues. A common cardiac manifestation associated with EDMD is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This condition involves the thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the left ventricle, which can lead to various complications such as heart failure and arrhythmias.

In EDMD, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is often attributed to mutations in genes that encode for proteins in the nuclear envelope, which play vital roles in maintaining muscle and heart function. Regular surveillance for cardiac symptoms is essential in patients with EDMD, especially since the cardiac manifestations can arise even before significant muscle weakness is evident.

The other cardiac issues listed are less characteristic of Emery-Dreifuss Muscular Dystrophy. While myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation, and coronary artery disease can occur independently of this muscular dystrophy, they are not the typical or early manifestations linked specifically to EDMD. Therefore, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the primary cardiac concern that clinicians monitor in individuals diagnosed with this condition.