Catastrophic stroke in a patient with left ventricular non-compaction

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging
• Genetics

Background:

• Left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) is a rare congenital heart defect.
• It is characterized by prominent trabeculations and deep recesses in the left ventricle.
• Diagnosis is typically made via echocardiography.

Observation:

• A 32-year-old male presented with chest pain and was diagnosed with LVNC.
• He was asymptomatic with normal cardiac function at the time of diagnosis.
• One year later, he experienced a severe embolic stroke.

Findings:

• LVNC is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in adults.
• Thromboembolic events, including stroke, are a known complication.
• Echocardiography is the primary diagnostic tool, with CMR as a secondary option.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis and monitoring of LVNC are crucial for risk stratification.
• Patients with LVNC are at increased risk for thromboembolic events.
• Further research into the pathogenesis and management of LVNC is warranted.