Letter to the Editor

Serious Cardioembolic Stroke Resulting from an Overlooked Left Ventricular Noncompaction

Authors: Jung-Ju Sir, MD, Bora Lee, MD, Jong-Chun Nah, MD, Yong-ln Kim, MD, PhD, Wook Hyun Cho, MD, PhD, Suk-Koo Choi, MD, PhD

Abstract

To the Editor:


Left ventricular hypertrabeculation/noncompaction (LVHT) is a rare congenital cardiomyopathy that remains frequently overlooked and is known to have an increased tendency to lead to thromboembolic events.1 Because of the serious potential for cardiovascular complications, early recognition is essential. We report the case of a 14-year-old boy with Down syndrome who developed an acute cardioembolic stroke during hospital admission for heart failure. Three years previously, he had undergone surgical repair of a ventricular septal defect (perimembranous type), and a permanent pacemaker was implanted due to complete atrioventricular block after repair. During follow up, progression of aortic regurgitation was noted; the left ventricular cavity had become dilated and systolic function had worsened.

This content is limited to qualifying members.

Existing members, please login first

If you have an existing account please login now to access this article or view purchase options.

Purchase only this article ($25)

Create a free account, then purchase this article to download or access it online for 24 hours.

Purchase an SMJ online subscription ($75)

Create a free account, then purchase a subscription to get complete access to all articles for a full year.

Purchase a membership plan (fees vary)

Premium members can access all articles plus recieve many more benefits. View all membership plans and benefit packages.

References

1. Weiford BC, Subbarao VD, Mulhern KM. Noncompaction of the ventricular myocardium. Circulation 2004;109:2965–2971.
 
2. Alehan D. Clinical features of isolated left ventricular noncompaction in children. Int J Cardiol 2004;97:233–237.
 
3. Stöllberger C, Finsterer J. Left ventricular hypertrabeculation/noncompaction and stroke or embolism. Cardiology 2005;103:68–72.