Does a Reduction in Left Ventricular Hypertrophy Reduce Cardiovascular Morbidity and Mortality?

Summary

Left ventricular hypertrophy is an important risk factor for sudden death and other cardiovascular morbidity and mortality irrespective of the level of arterial blood pressure. Left ventricular hypertrophy, i.e. an increase in wall thickness at the expense of left ventricular volume, is an adaptive mechanism observed in patients with long standing arterial hypertension. Severe left ventricular hypertrophy is associated with a reduction in left ventricular compliance, impaired coronary reserve, ventricular ectopy, and impaired contractile function. Left ventricular hypertrophy can be reduced by antihypertensive therapy; however, not all antihypertensive agents have the same effect on left ventricular hypertrophy despite their similar effects on arterial blood pressure. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors appear to be the most powerful agents for reducing left ventricular hypertrophy, followed by the nondihydropyridine calcium antagonists. In addition to reducing left ventricular mass and arterial blood pressure, certain calcium antagonists also improve left ventricular filling, suppress ventricular ectopy, and maintain or enhance contractile function. However, despite these beneficial effects, it is not known whether the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality can be prevented or reduced by specific antihypertensive agents.