Asymptomatic left ventricular noncompaction--implications for athletic participation

Left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is a poorly understood and much debated morphological abnormality of the left ventricular myocardium. Much of what is known about this cardiomyopathy derives from large referral centers in patients presenting with significant symptoms and advanced disease. Disease progression and outcomes for adult patients with incidentally found and asymptomatic LVNC have not been established yet. As such, there are currently no evidence-based recommendations on clinical follow-up or interventions. Since LVNC's effect on athletic participation is unknown, there is insufficient evidence to support limiting athletic participation in low-risk individuals.