Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 24, 2026

In Vivo Quantitative Assessment of Myocardial Structure, Function, Perfusion and Viability Using Cardiac Micro-computed Tomography
08:13

In Vivo Quantitative Assessment of Myocardial Structure, Function, Perfusion and Viability Using Cardiac Micro-computed Tomography

Published on: February 16, 2016

Changes in myocardial perfusion correlate with deterioration of left ventricular systolic function in chronic Chagas'

Flávio C Hiss1, Thiago F Lascala, Benedito C Maciel

  • 1Division of Cardiology, University Hospital, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.

JACC. Cardiovascular Imaging
|April 10, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Myocardial perfusion defects in chronic Chagas

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Nuclear Medicine
  • Cardiovascular Imaging

Background:

  • Coronary microvascular dysfunction and myocardial perfusion disturbances are implicated in the pathogenesis of Chagas' cardiomyopathy (CCC).
  • Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for managing myocardial damage in CCC patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the association between myocardial perfusion changes and the progression of left ventricular systolic dysfunction in patients with chronic Chagas' cardiomyopathy (CCC).

Main Methods:

  • Prospective evaluation of 36 CCC patients (mean age 57 years) after 5.6 years.
  • Quantification of stress and rest myocardial perfusion defects using single-positron emission computed tomography (SPECT) and polar maps.
  • Assessment of left ventricular ejection fraction and systolic function via 2-dimensional echocardiography.

Main Results:

  • Significant reduction in left ventricular ejection fraction and increase in rest perfusion defect area observed over time.
  • Increased rest perfusion defect area strongly correlated with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction.
  • Reversible perfusion defects progressed to rest defects in 68% of segments, indicating disease progression.

Conclusions:

  • Progression of left ventricular systolic dysfunction in CCC is linked to reversible and increasing rest myocardial perfusion defects.
  • Myocardial perfusion disturbances play a significant role in the pathogenesis of myocardial injury in chronic Chagas' cardiomyopathy.
  • SPECT imaging can identify perfusion abnormalities that predict disease progression in CCC.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Ultrasound Based Assessment of Coronary Artery Flow and Coronary Flow Reserve Using the Pressure Overload Model in Mice06:39

Ultrasound Based Assessment of Coronary Artery Flow and Coronary Flow Reserve Using the Pressure Overload Model in Mice

Published on: April 13, 2015

Related Concept Videos

Imbalances in Cardiac Output01:26

Imbalances in Cardiac Output

The heart's primary function is to pump blood throughout the body, maintaining a balance between blood sent out (cardiac output) and blood returning (venous return). If this balance is disrupted, it can result in congestive heart failure (CHF), a severe condition where the heart becomes an inefficient pump, leading to inadequate blood circulation.
CHF can occur due to the failure of either side of the heart. Left-side failure leads to pulmonary congestion—the right side continues to send blood...
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy01:30

Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...
Myocarditis I: Introduction01:21

Myocarditis I: Introduction

Myocarditis is inflammation of the myocardium, which is the muscular layer of the heart.EtiologyMyocarditis has a diverse etiology, including a wide range of infectious and non-infectious causes:Infectious CausesViral: Common viruses include Coxsackie A and B, adenovirus, parvovirus B19, enteroviruses, and influenza A.Bacterial: Examples include infections caused by Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Mycoplasma species.Rickettsial: Infections like Rocky Mountain spotted fever can result in...
Pathophysiology of Cardiac Performance01:29

Pathophysiology of Cardiac Performance

Typical heart performance is influenced by heart rate, rhythm, myocardial contraction, and metabolism or blood flow. The cardiac muscle exhibits distinct electrophysiological features, including pacemaker activity and calcium channel control, which play a vital role in the heart's response to various drugs. The autonomic nervous system, comprising the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches, regulates heart rate. Sympathetic activation increases heart rate, while parasympathetic activation...
Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction01:20

Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction

Mitral regurgitation is characterized by the backward circulation of blood from the left ventricle to the left atrium during systole, a phase of the cardiac cycle when the heart contracts and pumps blood out of the chambers. This abnormal flow occurs primarily due to the dysfunction of the mitral valve or its supporting structures, which include the mitral leaflets, chordae tendineae, annulus, and papillary muscles.Etiology and Mechanisms:Primary Mitral Regurgitation: This type arises from...
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy01:29

Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM, is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy without ventricular dilation. It is more common in men and is typically diagnosed in young, athletic adults.EtiologyHCM is primarily genetic and is caused by mutations in genes encoding sarcomeric proteins. Researchers have identified over 1400 mutations across at least 11 different genes. Among these, the most frequently occurring mutations are found in the...