Regression of heart hypertrophy. Criteria of regression from the viewpoint of the clinician
Just, H.; Holubarsch, C.; Kasper, W.; Wollschläger, H.; Friedburg, M.
Zeitschrift für Kardiologie 74 Suppl. 7: 127-134
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0300-5860 PMID: 2936014 Document Number: 251929
Regression of ventricular hypertrophy has been studied in cases of valvular disease after valve replacement, as well as in hypertension under drug treatment. All studies have focussed on the left ventricle. The right heart chamber has not been quantitatively assessed. Regression has been found in both conditions in the range of 15-40% of initial left ventricular muscle mass. In hypertrophic cardiomyopathy consistent results have not been obtained. The ECG, correlating with muscle mass only loosely, is but a semiquantitative, albeit reliable indicator of regression. Vectorcardiography seems to be useful and deserves further study and application. Echocardiography has been validated for both TM- and 3D-mode and allows quantitative estimation of LV-mass during regression. Further improvement can be achieved through the subcostal approach. Left ventriculography remains standard of comparison, but can be considered valid only if angulated biplane technique is used. Repeated application of this technique is limited, unless digital subtraction angiography is used. This technique, however, has not been applied for serial studies of LV-mass during the process of regression. Computed tomography and nuclear magnetic resonance have been used for estimation of muscle mass. The capability of NMR seems particularly high. First results are presented and show excellent quantitation of LV-mass.