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Idiopathic left ventricular apical hypoplasia
Ali Raza1, Mohammad Waleed, Matthew Balerdi
1Department of Cardiology, Castle Hill Hospital, East Yorkshire, UK.
Insights
A routine ECG revealed abnormalities in a 46-year-old man with chest discomfort. Further investigation suggested possible left ventricular hypoplasia, a rare congenital heart condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Congenital Heart Disease
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- A 46-year-old male presented with non-specific central chest discomfort during a routine health check.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) revealed sinus rhythm, normal axis, poor R wave progression, and lateral T wave flattening.
Observation:
- Echocardiogram demonstrated a dilated left ventricle with a thinned, hypokinetic septum exhibiting rightward bulging.
- The left ventricular apex appeared thin and hypokinetic.
- Right heart structures and valves were within normal limits.
Findings:
- The echocardiographic findings were suggestive of left ventricular hypoplasia.
- The combination of ECG abnormalities and ventricular morphology prompted further investigation.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering rare congenital conditions in adult patients presenting with atypical cardiac symptoms.
- Early diagnosis and investigation of left ventricular hypoplasia are crucial for appropriate management.
- Further research into the presentation and long-term outcomes of adult-onset left ventricular hypoplasia is warranted.
Abstract:
A 46-year-old man was found to have an abnormal ECG taken during a routine health and blood pressure check. His only symptom was non-specific central chest discomfort, unrelated to exertion. His ECG showed sinus rhythm, a normal axis and poor R wave progression across the chest leads and lateral T wave flattening. An echocardiogram showed a dilated left ventricle with a thin and hypokinetic septum bulging to the right. The apex was 'not well seen' but also appeared thin and hypokinetic. The right heart and valves were normal. The patient was further investigated for left ventricular hypoplasia.
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