Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026

Real-Time Cardiac Mapping with a Noninvasive Imageless Electrocardiographic Imaging System
Published on: April 11, 2025
Ventricular arrhythmias due to left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy: a diagnosis in hindsight
Jackson J Liang1, Kyle M McKenzie1, Yong-Mei Cha2
1Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
Insights
Left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy is a rare congenital heart condition. This case highlights its diagnosis in a young man with a history of ventricular tachycardia and an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Pathology
Background:
- Left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC) is a rare congenital cardiomyopathy.
- It is characterized by excessive trabeculation and deep recesses in the left ventricle.
- LVNC is associated with an increased risk of heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old man with a history of sustained ventricular tachycardia requiring an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) presented with a device infection.
- During hospitalization for the infection, diagnostic workup revealed findings consistent with LVNC.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy.
- This diagnosis was made subsequent to his initial presentation and treatment for ventricular tachycardia and ICD placement.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering LVNC in young individuals with unexplained ventricular arrhythmias and cardiac devices.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate management of LVNC are crucial for preventing adverse cardiovascular events.
- Further research into the genetic basis and long-term outcomes of LVNC is warranted.
Abstract:
Left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy is a rare congenital cardiomyopathy which predisposes to sudden cardiac death. We describe the case of a 24 year-old man who had previously received an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator for sustained ventricular tachycardia and was later diagnosed with left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy during a hospitalisation for device infection.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
Cardiomyopathy IV: Restrictive Cardiomyopathy
ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias

