Related Experiment Videos
Left ventricular hypertrabeculation/noncompaction.
Claudia Stöllberger1, Josef Finsterer
1Krankenanstalt Rudolfstiftung, 2. Med. Abteilung, Vienna, Austria. claudia.stoellberger@chello.at
Summary
Left ventricular hypertrabeculation (LVHT) is more common than previously believed and often linked to genetic disorders. Increased awareness and standardized diagnostic criteria are crucial for this cardiac abnormality.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
- Genetics
Background:
- Normal human hearts feature limited left ventricular (LV) trabeculations.
- An increased number of LV trabeculations is termed LV hypertrabeculation (LVHT), also known as spongy myocardium or LV noncompaction.
- LVHT is increasingly identified with advancements in cardiac imaging techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of LVHT.
- To highlight the increasing prevalence and diagnostic considerations for LVHT.
- To discuss associated conditions, potential genetic origins, and ongoing controversies surrounding LVHT.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on LVHT.
- Analysis of diagnostic criteria and imaging modalities.
- Examination of associated cardiac and extracardiac disorders.
Main Results:
- LVHT prevalence is higher than previously estimated, with improved cardiac imaging.
- LVHT is often associated with other cardiac and neuromuscular disorders.
- Genetic factors are implicated in the heterogeneous causes of LVHT.
Conclusions:
- Echocardiographers require training to recognize LVHT.
- Controversies persist regarding LVHT classification, prognosis, and pathogenesis.
- Further research is needed to standardize diagnostic criteria and understand the full spectrum of LVHT.