Gender and age related differences in left ventricular function and geometry with focus on the long axis

Abstract

To study age and gender related alterations in left ventricular (LV) long axis function. Eighty-two healthy individuals from the general population in three age groups were investigated. LV long axis and short axis function and dimensions were studied with echocardiographic M-mode and two-dimensional technique. The most prominent age related differences were observed in LV long axis function, whereas only minor alterations in short axis function were noticed. Both systolic and diastolic long axis function decreased with advancing age; maximal systolic velocity (r=0.61, p<0.0001), maximal early diastolic filling velocity (r=0.87, p<0.0001). The length of the long axis decreased with age, while the relative contraction amplitude was maintained. LV global and short axis measurements revealed significant differences between genders, males having generally larger dimensions, even when correcting for body surface area. Females exhibited a more pronounced remodelling process with advancing age. Functional age related changes in LV function are more prominent in the long axis, while differences between genders are more pronounced in short axis and in volume measurements. These findings might be of importance when remodelling processes are evaluated, as these appear to be different in men and women and also age related.