A Comparison of Left Ventricular Geometric Patterns in Hypertensives and Normotensives in South-South Nigeria

Abstract

Left ventricular hypertrophy defined as increased left ventricular mass is an important surrogate marker for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and manifests diverse geometric patterns in hypertensive individuals. This study was aimed at determining the patterns of left ventricular geometry among hypertensives compared with normotensives. The study found a high prevalence of concentric hypertrophy by two different Echo criteria among hypertensives. Echocardiography should thus be a vital tool for the initial evaluation and risk stratification of hypertensive patients.