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Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT) ProgramHereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT) is a genetic disorder that affects about one in 5,000 people. HHT is also known as Osler-Weber-Rendu (OWR).
| HHT is caused by a gene mutation that creates malformed blood vessels that lack the structure and durability required to prevent bleeding. Bleeding can occur virtually anywhere, but the nose, lungs, and the GI tract are most susceptible, and heavy nosebleeds are common in some patients. The disease varies in symptoms and severity from person to person. While symptoms can be treated, there is no cure. Serious complications such as stroke, brain hemorrhage and even death can be prevented with the right care. |
HHT patients have an abnormality in their blood vessels that causes them to bleed easily, even spontaneously. Learn more more about the signs and symptoms of HHT or visit www.hht.org. |
The Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Program is the only program of its type in Wisconsin and one of only a few in the Midwest. Our HHT program follows international, evidence-based guidelines for screening and managing the disease. While the program is adult-focused, we will test children for HHT.
Expert Care
Our experienced, dedicated team offers the full spectrum of coordinated care, treating HHT as a chronic condition instead of an acute state.
The program’s focus is on coordinating care for HHT patients age 14 and older with a variety of specialists who offer genetic counseling, diagnostic testing and treatment. Coordination also includes the patient’s primary care physician.
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To find a doctor or make an appointment, call 1-800-DOCTORS. Online Requests: Use our online form. Our coordinators will call you as a follow-up to your online request. |
Diagnosing HHTSince HHT is hereditary, genetic testing is typically the first step to confirming a diagnosis. It is critical that physicians have the knowledge and expertise to test for underlying symptoms and conditions that put patients at risk, including arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). AVMs are abnormal connections between the arteries and veins. A bubble-enhanced echocardiogram study may be used to find AVMs in the lungs. A brain MRI scan may be requested to determine the presence of AVMs in the brain. CT scans may be requested, as well. Learn more about diagnosing HHT.
Treating HHTHHT’s blood vessel abnormalities affect people in many different ways – from minor or heavy nosebleeds to organ damage and hemorrhaging. That’s why seeking coordinated care from a team of specialists like those at Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin is a wise choice. Treatments may include medical management, laser procedures and embolization to manage symptoms. Learn more about treating HHT.
Enhancing Quality of LifeMany HHT patients come from great distances and have experienced limited access to care in the past. For this reason, the Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Program is designed to educate patients about their disease and give them and their families the tools to cope with HHT when they return home. Genetic counseling is just one of many resources offered. Support groups are also offered. Learn more about support for HHT patients.
Date: May 21, 2012 Last Review Date: Aug. 10, 2012 Online Editor(s): Kathryn Adam |
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