Non-compaction on autopsy in Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Left ventricular hypertrabeculation (LVHT) /non-compaction is frequently associated with neuromuscular disorders. Recently, LVHT has been detected in a 28-year patient with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Here, the patho-anatomic findings of this patient are presented, which showed LVHT located within in the apex and the anterior and lateral wall, being the most demanded segments during systole. The septum and the left ventricular outflow tract were not involved. The patho-anatomic specimen also showed aberrant bands and false tendons, a frequent finding in hearts with LVHT. The patho-anatomic findings were in line with those of LVHT patients with or without neuromuscular disorders. Copyright (c) 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.