Unconventional etiology for heart failure and stroke: Non-compaction cardiomyopathy

Abstract

Introduction: Noncompaction cardiomyopathy is a rare, primary, genetic cardiomyopathy that results from intrauterine arrest of the compaction process. It commonly involves the apical area of the left ventricle, and uncommonly involves the right ventricle. Case Report: A 45yearold male presented to the hospital for heart failure. He was started on anticoagulation for the apical thrombus and later he suffered cerebrovascular accident. On careful evaluation he was found to have ventricular noncompaction both in right and left ventricles. Conclusion: Noncompaction cardiomyopathy should be considered in all refractory cases of heart failure. Anticoagulation is crucial in patients with decreased systolic function and atrial fibrillation.