What condition could lead to sudden death during exercise in a young patient with a family history of such events?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic condition characterized by abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the interventricular septum. This thickening can lead to a variety of complications, most notably arrhythmias and outflow obstruction. In young athletes, especially those with a family history of sudden cardiac death, HCM is a significant concern because the structural changes in the heart can compromise coronary blood flow and trigger dangerous heart rhythms during periods of intense physical exertion.

During exercise, the heart relies on efficient pumping and adequate blood supply. In individuals with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the thickened heart muscle may not be able to accommodate increased demands for blood flow, leading to ischemia. Additionally, arrhythmias can occur due to the abnormal electrical conduction caused by the altered myocardial architecture. As a result, this condition has been a leading cause of sudden cardiac death in young athletes, often presenting with no prior warning signs.

In contrast, while conditions like myocardial infarction, aortic stenosis, and valvular heart disease can also pose risks, they are less commonly associated with sudden death in young individuals without pre-existing cardiac conditions or significant coronary artery disease. HCM’s prevalence and the nature of its effects during