Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Systemic Arterial Hypertension

Abstract

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is an important and independent cardiovascular risk factor. In this Editorial are the main causes of LVH, in addition to hypertension, such as neurohumoral and genetic factors. Are also addressed some of its major complications, as there is much to know: stroke, heart failure, coronary artery disease and sudden death. There is strong evidence that reversal of LVH may reduce the incidence of these adverse events, a goal that can be obtained with several antihypertensive drugs. It seems essential, however, blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).