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Asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction: an overlooked part of the continuum of heart failure
Arunima Misra1, Abhinav Diwan, Douglas L Mann
1Winters Center for Heart Failure Research, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine,VA Medical Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Insights
Early diagnosis of asymptomatic left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction is crucial. Identifying and treating patients before symptoms appear may prevent or delay symptomatic heart failure.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Heart failure affects over 4.7 million Americans, with 50,000 new diagnoses annually.
- A significant population segment has asymptomatic left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction, estimated at 0.9-5.9% prevalence.
- A substantial number of individuals with asymptomatic LV dysfunction will progress to symptomatic heart failure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of asymptomatic LV systolic dysfunction.
- To emphasize the importance of early detection and intervention for patients with asymptomatic LV dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes existing research and clinical data.
- Focuses on epidemiological studies, pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic criteria, and therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Asymptomatic LV systolic dysfunction is prevalent and a precursor to symptomatic heart failure.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are key to potentially delaying or preventing symptomatic progression.
Conclusions:
- Intervention in asymptomatic LV systolic dysfunction may alter the natural history of heart failure.
- Further research and clinical focus on this population are warranted for improved patient outcomes.
Abstract:
Over 4.7 million Americans have heart failure, and 50000 new cases of heart failure are diagnosed every year. In addition, a significant proportion of the population may have asymptomatic left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction. Population studies estimate that the prevalence of asymptomatic LV dysfunction ranges from 0.9-5.9%. Of these, a substantial number will eventually develop symptomatic heart failure. Diagnosing and treating these patients before they develop symptoms may help to delay or prevent the development of symptomatic heart failure. This review highlights the currently available data on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of asymptomatic LV systolic dysfunction.