Left Ventricular Non-Compaction (LVNC) is a cardiomyopathy in which the left ventricular muscle fails to develop properly, leaving deep trabeculations (spongy, irregular tissue) within the ventricular wall instead of the compact muscle seen in a normal heart. It can be inherited or develop later in life.
LVNC can cause heart failure, blood clot formation within the heart, and life-threatening arrhythmias including ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation, making it a recognised cause of sudden cardiac arrest. Some people with LVNC have no symptoms and are diagnosed incidentally. Diagnosis is usually by cardiac MRI or echocardiography.
Management depends on the degree of dysfunction and may include anticoagulation to prevent clots, heart failure medications, ICD implantation for arrhythmia protection, and cardiac rehabilitation. Family screening is recommended following diagnosis, as LVNC has a genetic component in many cases. Referral to an inherited cardiac conditions service is usually appropriate.
« Back to Glossary Index