Center for Inherited Cardiovascular Disease

Hereditary heart diseases impact more than just you—they affect your loved ones as well. We take a family-based approach to inherited cardiac care, giving you the tools to manage your condition or plan for the future.

Doctor uses stethoscope on toddler while mother looks on

What is genetic heart disease?

An inherited cardiac disease happens when a disease-causing change in the DNA (variant) is passed down from a parent’s DNA to their children. Disease-causing genetic variants can cause problems with the heart’s structure or function.

If you and your family are at risk for inherited heart disease, it’s important that close relatives get tested. Evaluation at the Penn Medicine Center for Inherited Cardiovascular Disease can identify which family members are affected and each person’s risk for heart problems in the future.

Clinical trials

Clinical trials offer patients the opportunity to try new and effective treatments and take part in future research.

Second opinions

If you've received a diagnosis, our team of experts offers second opinions to grant you peace of mind.

Genetic heart conditions we treat

Advanced care for inherited heart disorders

Whether you already know that an inherited cardiac disease runs in your family or you’re trying to rule one out, accurate diagnosis and testing can help you prevent future complications and stay healthy. When you and your family visit Penn Medicine for inherited heart disease diagnosis or testing, you’ll find:

Exercising with inherited cardiac disease

Exercise is good for our health. But if you have a familial heart condition, you may have been told the safe option is to avoid exercise because of concerns that it could trigger abnormal heart rhythms. However, new guidance from leading national organizations encourages people with inherited heart conditions to be active with certain precautions.

Our team works closely with you to understand your personal goals. We listen to your needs and preferences regarding exercise. We’ll give you evidence and information about physical activity and heart disease and partner with you to make informed decisions about sports and activity.

Depending on your cardiac condition and the types of activities you participate in, we may recommend a few important precautions like developing an emergency action plan and sharing it with coaches, trainers, and other key people. Additionally, undergoing regular testing, at least annually, is advised to fully understand your risk of a cardiac event.

Pregnancy care for inherited cardiac disease

If you have inherited heart disease, it’s natural to think about how it might affect your pregnancy or your children. We collaborate with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia to offer a special program for pediatric patients affected by familial heart disease. Ours is the only program in the area that specializes in inherited heart conditions.

Our genetic counselors and physicians will take time to talk with you about:

  • The chances your baby might inherit heart disease
  • Medications you’re taking and whether they’re safe during pregnancy
  • Safe options for pain relief during labor and delivery
  • Prenatal testing to determine whether your baby’s heart is healthy
  • Options for in vitro fertilization (IVF) if your disease makes conceiving naturally difficult
  • Treatments prevent natural conception
  • Any questions you might have

We follow our patients carefully through pregnancy and consult with their obstetricians to help ensure safe delivery.

Stethoscope on EKG and blood sample test tubes

Genetic counseling for inherited cardiovascular disease

At Penn Medicine, we offer advanced genetic testing to assess your family’s risk for inherited heart disease. Our specialized physicians and counselors provide education and guidance, helping you and your loved ones take control of your heart health.

Closeup profile of black mother playing with infant

Duchenne and Becker Carrier Clinic

Our clinic is dedicated to caring for patients with muscle disorders caused by gene mutations. We provide multidisciplinary care for people assigned female at birth suspected or diagnosed as carriers of Duchenne or Becker muscular dystrophy.

Happy mom and son in the kitchen preparing food and making a heart shape with their hands

Familial Cardiomyopathy Program

Cardiomyopathy is an inherited condition that weakens the heart muscle, affecting its ability to pump blood and potentially leading to serious complications. Our specialists assess at-risk individuals and develop personalized treatment plans.

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