Myocardial hypertrophy and cardiac failure: A complex interrelationship

The interrelationship between myocardial hypertrophy and myocardial function is a complex one. In patients with essential hypertension, the appearance of left ventricular hypertrophy may be an ominous sign, often presaging the evolution of congestive heart failure. In other settings, such as valvular heart disease, congestive cardiomyopathy, and ischemic heart disease, myocardial hypertrophy serves as a compensatory mechanism in response to excessive loading conditions. This article reviews experimental and clinical data concerning the evolution of hypertrophy and its relationship to myocardial function.