Genetic Heart Disease

The Role of Genes in Heart Disease
Genes play an important role in determining who is at risk for certain types of heart disease. We offer genetic testing to determine if you or your family members carry a gene or genetic mutation that may indicate you have increased disease risk. You may benefit from our comprehensive services if you or your family members have an inherited heart disorder such as inherited arrhythmias, cardiomyopathies, connective tissue disorders, or aneurysms, or a family history of sudden death or very high cholesterol levels. You may also benefit if you have a genetic condition that could increase your child's risk of developing a congenital heart disease or a heart defect. 

We Help You Manage Your Disease Risk
Our genetic counselors and cardiologists work closely with you to provide the best level of medical care available. We treat a wide variety of inherited heart conditions. including connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos, Loeys-Dietz, and Marfan syndromes. We help you and your family live long, healthy lives.

Comprehensive Evaluation

Our specialists collect a thorough medical and family history and perform a complete physical examination. Your evaluation may also include CT and MRI screenings, as well as a stress test to determine the extent of your condition.

Genetic Testing

Blood and/or saliva is taken to analyze your DNA and determine whether you carry a gene or a genetic alteration that may suggest an increased risk for an inherited heart condition.

Genetic Counseling

Your genetic counselor and your physician will discuss with you the results of your genetic testing, any concerns you have, and appropriate next steps for treatment.

Treatment Recommendations

Depending on your condition and the results of your genetic testing and genetic counseling, your treatment options may range from a regular screening plan to medication. Or they may include interventional therapies like cardiac ablation and surgery.

Leading Genetic Heart Disease Researchers
Our physicians are also scientists who are nationally renowned for their involvement in the discovery of genes linked to early-onset heart disease and ways to help identify people most likely to benefit from certain treatments. Our participation in the latest research regarding how genes influence heart disease ensures we are up to date on, and you have access to, the most advanced treatments available.

Comprehensive Services
Our genetic counselors partner with you to identify and manage your risk for inherited heart disease. Our cardiologists specialize in treating inherited heart conditions, including familial dilated cardiomyopathy, inherited clotting disorders (such as Factor V Leiden), and a family history of sudden cardiac death or heart attack. Our genetic counselors work closely with cardiologists, including electrophysiologists, on conditions like inherited arrhythmia that are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the heart.

Access to Clinical Trials
As a Duke patient, you may be eligible to participate in clinical trials which give you access to therapies before they are widely available.

Personalized Care
We work with you to ensure you receive individualized care that takes into account your current health status. We help you navigate future appointments, insurance, follow-up, and physician referrals.