Case of a patient with heart failure, dilated cardiomyopathy and atrial fibrillation treated with sacubitril/valsartan

Abstract

A novel combination consisting of the neprilysin inhibitor, sacubitril, and the angiotensin-receptor blocker, valsartan (belonging to the newly established class of angiotensin receptor/neprilysin inhibitors), was shown to be effective in the treatment of heart failure (HF) by improving patient clinical status, and reducing re-hospitalization rate and mortality. We report a case of a 29 year old male with HF, dilated cardiomyopathy possibly related to myocarditis and atrial fibrillation with reduced ejection fraction. Sacubitril/valsartan treatment was initiated after two years of standard treatment. In two years, therapy with sacubitril/valsartan led to persistence in sinus rhythm, progressive recovery of ejection fraction, functionality and reduction of cardiac volumes. The patient is currently in good condition and has suspended diuretic therapy in the last six months.

Keywords: Heart failure; atrial fibrillation; dilated cardiomyopathy; sacubitril/valsartan.