Canine infantile left ventricular noncompaction

• Main Authors: Maria Vilcu, Iuliu Scurtu, Dan G. Ohad, Ionel Papuc, Laura Scurtu, Flaviu Tabaran
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2020-07-01
• Series: BMC Veterinary Research
• Subjects: Left ventricle noncompaction; cardiomyopathy; tricuspid valve dysplasia; pulmonary valve stenosis; dog
• Online Access: http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12917-020-02480-7

Abstract Background Left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is a rare form of cardiomyopathy currently described in humans and cats. It consists of a spongy myocardium characterized by prominent trabeculation and deep recesses involving more than 50% of the ventricular thickness. We describe the clinical and pathological features of LVNC combined with tricuspid valve dysplasia, double-orifice tricuspid valve and severe pulmonary stenosis in a puppy. In addition, we briefly review the LVNC causes, pathogenesis, forms and current diagnostic criteria. Case presentation A seven-week-old intact German Shorthaired Pointer-cross male was presented with a poor body condition, exercise intolerance and dyspnea. Clinical exam identified a bilateral systolic murmur (grade IV/VI over the right heart base and grade III/VI over the left heart base). Echocardiography identified tricuspid valve dysplasia, mild mitral regurgitation, and severe pulmonic stenosis with a trans-valvar systolic pressure gradient of 106 mmHg. Left ventricular noncompaction was diagnosed by necropsy and further confirmed histopathologically by the presence of two distinct myocardial layers: an inner noncompacted zone covering more than 50% of ventricular thickness containing prominent trabeculation and deep recesses, and an outer zone of compact myocardium. Conclusions This is the first case describing LVNC in a canine patient, supporting the introduction of this form of heart disease as a differential diagnosis for cardiomyopathies in juvenile and adult dogs.