Revolutionary Cheek Swab Can Detect Deadly Heart Condition in children Years Before Symptoms Appear
Madrid, Spain – A groundbreaking new test utilizing a simple cheek swab has the potential to identify children at risk of Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy (ACM), a potentially fatal heart condition, up to five years before traditional diagnosis methods. The research, unveiled at the European Society of Cardiology congress in Madrid, offers a beacon of hope for early intervention and prevention of sudden cardiac death in young people.
ACM, a genetic condition affecting the proteins between heart cells, is responsible for over 10% of sudden cardiac deaths in children. frequently enough developing without warning, it disrupts the heart’s structure and electrical activity. Currently, diagnosis relies on identifying these abnormalities after symptoms manifest, or through genetic testing which isn’t always conclusive.
however, this new research demonstrates that these protein abnormalities aren’t limited to the heart. Thay can also be detected in the lining of the cheeks.Researchers have developed a remarkably quick – just two minutes - cheek swab test to capitalize on this finding.
The study, conducted by experts at great Ormond Street hospital and City, University of London, involved 51 children with a known genetic risk of ACM. Over a seven-year period, participants underwent regular cheek swabs every three to six months. The results were striking: 10 children went on to develop ACM, and in eight of those cases, the cheek swab detected abnormalities years before other diagnostic tests confirmed the condition.
Intriguingly, the test also showed promise in identifying ACM risk in children without a known family history. Among a group of 21 children with no genetic risk factors, five exhibited abnormalities in their cheek swab samples.”There is a real need for a quick and easy test to flag suspected ACM, which can then be confirmed by hospital tests,” explained Joanna Jager, of City, university of London. “This swab could be that crucial first step.”
Currently, it’s estimated that approximately one in 10,000 people in the UK live with ACM. Symptoms can include heart palpitations, but frequently enough the first sign is a life-threatening cardiac event. Early detection through this innovative cheek swab could dramatically improve outcomes for affected children.
While the swab isn’t a definitive diagnosis, researchers believe it will serve as a valuable screening tool, prompting further investigation and potentially saving lives. The team is now focused on refining the test and exploring its potential for wider implementation.Key Takeaways:
Early Detection: A simple cheek swab can identify children at risk of ACM up to five years before traditional diagnosis.
Genetic Basis: ACM is a genetic heart condition responsible for a significant percentage of sudden cardiac deaths in children.
non-Invasive: The test is quick, easy, and non-invasive, making it ideal for widespread screening. Potential Lifesaver: Early detection allows for timely intervention and potentially prevents life-threatening cardiac events.
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