Left Ventricular Non-Compaction Cardiomyopathy-Still More Questions than Answers

Left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) describes the phenotypical phenomena characterized by the presence of excessive trabeculation of the left ventricle which forms a deep recess filled with blood. Considering the lack of a uniform definition of LVNC as well as the golden standard it is difficult to estimate the actual incidence of the disease, however, seems to be overdiagnosed, due to unspecific diagnostic criteria. The non-compacted myocardium may appear both as a disease representation or variant of the norm or as an adaptive phenomenon. This article covers different approaches to incidence, pathogenesis, diagnostics, and treatment of LVNC as well as recommendations for patients during follow-up.

Automated summary

Left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) refers to the excessive trabeculation and formation of a deep recess filled with blood in the left ventricle. Due to the lack of a standardized definition and criteria, it is difficult to accurately estimate the incidence of the disease, and overdiagnosis is a common issue. Non-compacted myocardium can be a disease representation, a variant of normal, or an adaptive phenomenon. This article covers different approaches to the incidence, pathogenesis, diagnostics, and treatment of LVNC, as well as recommendations for patient follow-up.