A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW: SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS, CLINICAL PRESENTATION, AND DIAGNOSIS OF NONCOMPACTION MYOCARDIUM

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study is to present an updated view of the noncompaction myocardium, in addition to providing a detailed analysis of the clinical manifestations and diagnostic methods. Methodology: To conduct this research, the following question was formulated: "What are the main signs and symptoms of Left Ventricular Noncompaction (LVNC), what are the methods used for its diagnosis and what are the therapeutic resources used in clinical practice?" The searches were carried out in the PubMed Central (PMC) database. Using the Boolean term "AND", the following 5 descriptors were combined: Isolated Noncompaction of the Ventricular Myocardium, Thrombosis, Signs and Symptoms, Pathological Conditions and Cardiomyopathies. In all, 45 articles were found, of which, after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 10 studies were selected to compose the review. Results: LVNC is characterized by the occurrence of heart failure, arrhythmias, and a high risk of embolic events. The prevalence of atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachyarrhythmias is noteworthy. The diagnosis is based on specific morphological criteria, with transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging being the main diagnostic methods. Conclusion: The variations in the echocardiographic criteria used to diagnose LVNN underscore the urgent need for a more standardized consensus. The correct identification of LVNC is essential to ensure effective clinical management of patients, aiming at reducing complications and significantly improving quality of life.