Clinical impact of left ventricular hypertrophy and implications for regression

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is an independent risk factor and predictor of cardiovascular (CV) events and all-cause mortality. Patients with LVH are at increased risk for stroke, congestive heart failure, coronary heart disease, and sudden cardiac death. Left ventricular hypertrophy represents both a manifestation of the effects of hypertension and other CV risk factors over time as well as an intrinsic condition causing pathologic changes in the CV structure and function. We review the risk factors for LVH and its consequences, concentric remodeling, and its prognostic significance, clinical benefits and supporting evidence for LVH regression, and its implications for management. We conclude our review summarizing the various pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapeutic options approved for the treatment of hypertension and LVH regression and the supporting clinical trial data for these therapeutic strategies.