Reversal of left ventricular hypertrophy in asiatic hypertensives with lisinopril

ABSTRACT

LVH is considered to be a significant risk factor for coronary artery disease and sudden death. Angiotensin converting enzyme [ACE] inhibitors have been demonstrated to be effective for the regression of LVH when used in antihypertensive doses. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of Lisinopril on regression of left ventricular hypertrophy [LVH] in asiatic patients with hypertension. Thirty eight patients of essential hypertension with echocardiographically proven LVH [LVMI> 24 gm/m2 in males and> 122 gm/m2 in females] were studied to evaluate the changes in LV mass and function after the administration of ACE inhibitor Lisinopril. LV mass was calculated from Penn. convention measurement using cube formula of Devereux. Throughout the trial period, the mean arterial pressure was well controlled, at week 0 it was 128.33 +/- 5.81 mmHg, at week 12 it was 106.21 +/- 6.10 mmHg and at week 24 it was 107.26 +/- 3.61 mmHg. All patients showed regression of LV mass. LVMI at week 0 was 160.23 +/- 29.99 gm/m2, at week 12 it was 139.99 +/- 29.36 gm/m2 [P=0.0001] and at week 24 it was 132.52 +/- 30.02 gm/m2 [P=0.0001]. The mean ejection fraction increased by 4.40% [P=0.0001]. In conclusion LVH in hypertensive patients can be reversed by Lisinopril and that too without deterioration of LV function