Ageing and regression of left ventricular hypertrophy.

Objective. - This study was aimed at determining factors acting on the regr ession of left ventricular hypertrophy due to essential hypertension. Methods. - It was a non-randomized, echocardiographic study of 60 previousl y untreated hypertensive subjects (20 to 75 years of age). Results. - Following a 5-year therapy, the decrease in the left ventricular mass was 14%. Normalization of blood pressure and reversal of left ventric ular hypertrophy were obtained in 50% and 58% of patients, respectively. Pa tients of the non-responder group (non-response being defined as a less tha n 10% decrease in the left ventricular mass) were older and had a longer hi story of high blood pressure. A positive correlation was observed between a ge and decrease in the left ventricular mass, the latter being less marked in older patients. Antihypertensive drugs classes had no influence on rever sal of left ventricular hypertrophy. Conclusion. - Ageing may be a factor of resistance to the decrease in left ventricular mass with therapy. These results suggest that early screening a nd management of hypertension are essential. (C) 1998 Elsevier, Paris.