• Vol. 30 No. 5, 539–541
  • 15 September 2001

Isolated Non-compaction of Ventricular Myocardium: A Report of Three Cases

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Isolated non-compaction of ventricular myocardium (INVM) is a rare disorder of myocardial morphogenesis in the absence of other cardiac anomalies. Both sporadic and sex-linked recessive forms have been described. It can be identified with two-dimensional echocardiography.

Clinical Picture: We report a series of 3 cases of adult males with INVM in June 2000. Clinical manifestations were congestive cardiac failure with severely depressed left ventricle systolic function and stroke. One patient had biventricular INVM.

Conclusion: Early diagnosis of INVM is important as it is associated with a high incidence of cardiac failure, ventricular arrhythmia and remobilisation. Anticoagulation and screening of first-degree relatives is advisable.


Non-compaction of ventricular myocardium is a rare morphogenic arrest of compaction of the ventricular myocardial fibres during intrauterine life. Usually, the left ventricle is more compact and less trabeculated than the right ventricle.

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