What characterizes hypertrophic obstructive myopathy?

Hypertrophic obstructive myopathy is primarily characterized by the thickening of the ventricular walls, particularly the left ventricle. This condition leads to an abnormal increase in the mass of the heart muscle, which can obstruct blood flow out of the heart during contraction. The thickening usually occurs in an asymmetric pattern, often affecting the interventricular septum, which can contribute to outflow obstruction and can produce symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and palpitations.

This thickening can also lead to further complications, such as arrhythmias or heart failure if not managed properly. The structural changes resulting from hypertrophic obstructive myopathy differ substantially from those described in the other options, which pertain to different cardiac conditions.