Left Ventricular Noncompaction

What Causes LVNC?

The cause of left ventricular noncompaction is often unknown. Up to 30 percent of cases may be linked to a mutation in in one or more genes.

Symptoms of Left Ventricular Noncompaction

People are born with LVNC, but symptoms may not appear until later in life, often middle age. The type and severity of symptoms can vary widely, ranging from no symptoms at all to sudden cardiac death. Additional symptoms may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Extreme fatigue with exercise
• Swelling of the legs, feet and ankles
• Irregular heart rhythm or palpitations
• Fainting

The most common complications of LVNC include heart failure and the formation of blood clots in the heart which can lead to sudden cardiac death.

How Is LVNC Diagnosed?

If a patient has any of the symptoms listed, a complete family and medical history will be taken and a physical exam performed. If LVNC is suspected, or if someone in your family has the condition, one or more of the following diagnostic tests may be performed:

• Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) scan. A non-invasive test that uses magnetic radio waves to generate a detailed image of the heart.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG). A non-invasive test that measures the electrical activity of the heart by recording the signals it produces.
• Echocardiogram. An ultrasound exam to evaluate the heart’s motion, blood flow and pumping efficiency of the ventricles.
• Genetic testing. A blood test that looks for the defective gene(s) associated with LVNC.

Personalized Treatment Plans for Left Ventricular Noncompaction

There's no cure for LVNC, but treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. Recommended treatments may include:

• Frequent, ongoing monitoring to watch for declining heart muscle weakness and/or arrhythmias.
• Beta-blockers and other antiarrhythmic medications.
• Limiting or eliminating strenuous exercise.
• Heart transplant (in severe cases).