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Evaluation of Left Ventricular Structure and Function using 3D Echocardiography
Published on: October 28, 2020
Pitfalls in the diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrabeculation/non-compaction
1Second Medical Department, Krankenanstalt Rudolfstiftung, Steingasse 31/18, A-1030 Wien, Austria. claudia.stoellberger@chello.at
Postgraduate Medical Journal
|October 28, 2006
Summary
Left ventricular hypertrabeculation/non-compaction (LVHT) is a cardiac issue often overlooked. This review highlights misdiagnoses and conditions mimicking LVHT, emphasizing improved echocardiographer awareness for accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
- Pathology
Background:
- Left ventricular hypertrabeculation/non-compaction (LVHT) is a congenital cardiac abnormality.
- LVHT can be associated with heart failure, arrhythmias, and neuromuscular disorders.
- Accurate diagnosis of LVHT is crucial for appropriate patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cases where LVHT was initially overlooked or misdiagnosed.
- To identify cardiac conditions that can be falsely diagnosed as LVHT.
- To enhance awareness among echocardiographers regarding LVHT and its differential diagnoses.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of reported cases of overlooked LVHT.
- Analysis of conditions mimicking LVHT.
- Literature search for diagnostic modalities and misdiagnoses.
Main Results:
- In 50 cases, LVHT was misdiagnosed as cardiomyopathy, endocardial fibroelastosis, myocarditis, or thrombus.
- Diagnostic imaging modalities included echocardiography, CT, MRI, and ventriculography.
- Conditions leading to false LVHT diagnosis include false tendons, aberrant bands, and cardiac tumors.
Conclusions:
- LVHT is frequently overlooked and misdiagnosed.
- A broad spectrum of cardiac conditions can mimic LVHT.
- Increased awareness and consideration of differential diagnoses are essential for echocardiographers.
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