Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

Scanning Electron Microscopy of Macerated Tissue to Visualize the Extracellular Matrix
Published on: June 14, 2016
Extensive scar myocardium in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with severe myocardial bridge
Insights
This case study highlights hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) with apical scarring, identified via thallium-201 SPECT and 18F-FDG PET imaging. Coronary angiography revealed a myocardial bridge, not significant stenosis, as the likely cause.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Nuclear Cardiology
- Radiology
Background:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a primary cardiac condition.
- Apical scarring can be a feature of HCM.
- Diagnostic imaging plays a crucial role in evaluating cardiac conditions.
Observation:
- A patient presented with features of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
- Imaging with 201Tl SPECT and 18F-FDG PET revealed a large apical scar.
- Coronary angiography was performed for further investigation.
Findings:
- Coronary angiography showed no significant coronary artery stenosis.
- A myocardial bridge with severe systolic milking was identified in the left anterior descending artery.
- This finding suggests a potential mechanism for myocardial compromise in HCM.
Implications:
- Myocardial bridging can contribute to myocardial ischemia and scarring in HCM patients.
- Accurate diagnosis of coronary anomalies is essential in managing HCM.
- Advanced imaging techniques aid in understanding complex cardiac pathologies.
Abstract:
We present a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and a large scar in the apex demonstrated on 201Tl SPECT and 18F-FDG PET images. Subsequent coronary angiography revealed no significant coronary artery stenosis but a myocardial bridge with severe systolic milking in the middle segment of the left anterior descending artery.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Myocarditis I: Introduction
Cardiomyopathy IV: Restrictive Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
