LVH

[Janale]

Hi,

I have a question regarding LVH. How do you differentiate between
athletic, high bp and congenial lvh? In echo, is there a different type of enlargement? Thanks a bunch.

Andrew

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

Good question. A lot of the differentiation is based on history.  There are differences but sometimes it can be difficult to tell what is the cause of LVH.  If athletic LVH is suspected from history a hiatus from activity for 3-6 months can help determine the difference.  If the LVH is pronounced (>1.3 cm) it is probably congenital.  By far and away the most common cause is high blood pressure.

[Andrew]

Thank you very much for your response. Do you mean to say that
in athletic or bp lvh, the mass doesn't enlarge more than 1.3cm?
If it is the congenial lvh, how long does it take a mild lvh to progess to serious? Is it possible that the congenial LVH is bening, I mean would not progress over time? Thanks again.

Andy

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

Generally speaking athletic LVH will not be greater than 1.3 cm.  You can find previous postings with more information on congenital LVH also called HOCM.