What can genetic studies of left ventricular mass tell us?

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), whether measured by electrocardiography, echocardiography, or at autopsy, is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.1,2 Although LVH has been associated with several clinical characteristics such as age, sex, body mass index, and hypertension, the effects and their directionality have varied according to the criteria for LVH.3 Aggregation within families suggests a heritable component due to genetics,4 although a recent study of echocardiographic left ventricular mass in a large sample was unable to identify common genetic factors.5 Treatment of hypertensives with LVH can lead to its regression and with it reduction in risk of cardiovascular disease.6 Thus, it appears to be a modifiable risk factor, although LVH induced by exercise training is thought to be benign. Thus, LVH is a complex trait with diverse definitions, has multiple clinical and genetic contributors and is a modifiable risk factor in some but not all settings.