Abstract
Left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is a relatively newly recognized cardiomyopathy. Its morphological traits are excessive trabeculations and deep recesses. Clinical features of this disorder vary widely from asymptomatic to severe ventricular dysfunction. There are several issues to be resolved on this disorder. In this review, we discuss the following issues:
1) Diagnostic criteria (how to diagnose LVNC)
2) Pathogenesis (Is it congenital or acquired?)
3) Differential diagnosis (Is there any overlap with other cardiomyopathies such as dilated cardiomyopathy or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?)
4) Relevance of neuromuscular disorders
5) Natural history, predictors of prognosis
6) Ultrasonic evaluation of myocardial function
