Differentiation of myocardial scar from potential pitfalls and artefacts in delayed enhancement MRI

E B Turkbey1, M S Nacif, R A Noureldin

  • 1Radiology and Imaging Sciences, National Institutes of Health/Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.

Insights

Delayed enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance (DE-CMR) imaging helps detect myocardial scar. Awareness of image quality factors, pitfalls, and artefacts is crucial for accurate DE-CMR interpretation to avoid misdiagnosis of cardiac scar.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Imaging
  • Radiology
  • Medical Diagnostics

Background:

  • Delayed enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance (DE-CMR) is increasingly utilized for myocardial scar assessment.
  • Accurate identification and quantification of focal myocardial scar are vital in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline the interpretation factors for DE-CMR images.
  • To identify potential pitfalls and artefacts that may mimic myocardial scar.

Main Methods:

  • The standard of reference for DE-CMR is the inversion recovery gradient recalled echo sequence.
  • Alternative sequences allowing single or free-breathing acquisition exist.
  • Image quality factors influencing interpretation are discussed.

Main Results:

  • Factors affecting DE-CMR image quality are detailed.
  • Common pitfalls and artefacts that can be mistaken for myocardial scar are highlighted.
  • Understanding these elements is key to accurate diagnosis.

Conclusions:

  • Radiologists must be cognizant of factors influencing DE-CMR interpretation.
  • Recognizing artefacts and pitfalls is essential to prevent misidentification of myocardial scar.
  • This knowledge ensures the reliable use of DE-CMR in clinical settings.

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