Introduction: Left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) is a rare form of cardiomyopathy that may occur in isolation or with an associated cardiac anomaly. It presents with a wide array of manifestations, prompting early recognition to be imperative to prevent progression of symptoms. Case presentation: We report a case of a 46-year-old male complaining of palpitations for 10 years who survived sudden cardiac arrest on the same year as symptom onset. Consult was advised but was not done until he had heart failure symptoms. Carvedilol, furosemide and digoxin were given. Initially, some improvement was noted but he later developed dyspnea on exertion prompting consult at our institution. Pertinent physical examination findings include a dynamic precordium, apex beat at sixth left intercostal space-anterior axillary line (LICS AAL), right ventricular heave, distinct heart sounds, normal rate, irregularly irregular rhythm, a grade 4/6 continuous murmur heard best at the left upper sternal border, suggestive of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), and a grade 3/6 holosystolic murmur at the apex radiating to the axilla, suggestive of mitral regurgitation. Transthoracic echocardiography confirmed presence of a PDA (0.8cm) with left to right shunt and Qp/Qs of 2.7:1. Incidental finding of LVNC was noted characterized by prominent ventricular trabeculations and deep intertrabecular recesses. Optimal medical treatment for heart failure was given with symptomatic relief. Surgical closure of the PDA was contemplated after hemodynamic studies can confirm the absence of irreversible pulmonary hypertension. Discussion: Patients with LVNC may be asymptomatic or may present with heart failure, sudden cardiac death or arrhythmias. The diagnosis of LVNC poses a diagnostic challenge. Echocardiography is a cost-effective diagnostic tool that will allow early diagnosis. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging is an alternative diagnostic modality. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, prompt initiation of guideline-directed medical treatment for heart failure may prevent progression of disease. Conclusion Left ventricular non-compaction may occur in isolation or in association with other congenital heart diseases such as patent ductus arteriosus. Closure of a PDA is indicated in the presence of a significant shunt and with confirmation of acute reversibility in the presence of pulmonary hypertension to prevent the possibility of decompensation in a patient with heart failure.
Ductus Arteriosus, Patent ; Cardiomyopathies ; Death, Sudden, Cardiac