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Prognostic implications of left ventricular hypertrophy.
B A Vakili1, P M Okin, R B Devereux
1Department of Medicine (Cardiovascular Medicine), Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA.
American Heart Journal
|March 7, 2001
Summary
Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. Early detection of LVH is crucial for managing adverse clinical outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Clinical Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a common cardiac condition.
- The association between baseline LVH and adverse clinical events requires comprehensive review.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the association between baseline left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and subsequent adverse clinical events.
- To synthesize evidence on the prognostic value of LVH.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of 20 studies (48,545 participants) published between 1960 and 2000.
- Analysis of baseline electrocardiographic (ECG) or echocardiographic data on LVH.
- Assessment of cardiovascular morbidity and all-cause mortality.
Main Results:
- Baseline LVH prevalence varied: 16%-74% (echocardiographic) vs. 1%-44% (ECG).
- LVH increased cardiovascular morbidity risk (mean risk ratio: 2.3) and all-cause mortality risk (mean risk ratio: 2.5).
- Prognosis trended worse in women; findings were consistent across diverse populations.
Conclusions:
- LVH consistently predicts high risk for adverse outcomes, independent of covariates.
- No significant differences in risk were observed based on race, hypertension, or coronary disease.
- Detection of LVH is clinically important for risk stratification and management.