Left ventricular mass reduction and hypertrophy regression following renal artery revascularization: a meta-analysis

Prevention and treatment of hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy (LVH) is a well recognized target organ adaptation to longstanding uncontrolled hypertension and other cardiovascular risk factors. It is also a strong and independent predictor of many cardiovascular disorders.

RECENT FINDINGS

This focused review explores the current concepts in screening, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of LVH in patients with hypertension. Currently, the primary screening and diagnostic tools for LVH are ECG and 2D echocardiography. Implementing machine learning in the diagnostic modalities can improve sensitivity in the detection of LVH. Lifestyle modifications, blood pressure control with antihypertensive therapy, and management of comorbidities aid in preventing and reversing LV remodeling.

SUMMARY

LVH is a common and often silent complication of hypertension. Prevention and reversal of LV remodeling are crucial for cardiovascular risk reduction in patients with hypertension.

Is Thoracic Aortic Diameter an Independent Predictor of Cardiovascular Disease and Mortality? A Narrative Review

Subclinical alterations in cardiac structure and function include a variety of abnormal phenotypes of recognized adverse prognostic values, such as left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), concentric remodeling, systolic/diastolic dysfunction, left atrial dilatation, and alterations of LV geometry. The excess cardiovascular risk associated with these markers has been documented in multiple clinical settings, such as the general population, hypertensive cohorts, patients with coronary heart disease, diabetes mellitus, chronic heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. On the contrary, the value of aortic root (AR) and ascending aortic diameter in predicting cardiovascular outcomes and all-cause mortality in populations free from overt aortic pathology is still debated. The present review, aimed at pointing out the prognostic implications of thoracic aortic dimensions in populations free from known connective and aortic diseases, suggests that available evidence supporting an association between aortic diameter and cardiovascular events, and all-cause mortality is based on the limited number of studies, conducted with different imaging techniques and definition of the aortic phenotype.