Understanding the genetics of adult-onset dilated cardiomyopathy: what a clinician needs to know

There is increasing understanding of the genetic basis to dilated cardiomyopathy and in this review, we offer a practical primer for the practising clinician. We aim to help all clinicians involved in the care of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy to understand the clinical relevance of the genetic basis of dilated cardiomyopathy, introduce key genetic concepts, explain which patients and families may benefit from genetic testing, which genetic tests are commonly performed, how to interpret genetic results, and the clinical applications of results. We conclude by reviewing areas for future research in this dynamic field. [GRAPHICS] .

Automated summary

This review provides a practical primer for clinicians on the genetic basis of dilated cardiomyopathy, including the clinical relevance, key genetic concepts, which patients may benefit from genetic testing, common genetic tests performed, how to interpret genetic results, and the clinical applications. Areas for future research in this dynamic field are also discussed.