Multimodality imaging in apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (AHCM) is a rare variant of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).
• Myocardial hypertrophy is localized to the left ventricular apex in AHCM.
• AHCM symptoms can mimic coronary artery disease, leading to misdiagnosis and inappropriate hospitalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review various imaging techniques for diagnosing AHCM.
• To highlight the role of these techniques in detecting and understanding AHCM.
• To address the diagnostic challenges posed by apical localization of hypertrophy.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on imaging modalities for AHCM.
• Analysis of transthoracic echocardiography's limitations in diagnosing AHCM.
• Evaluation of advanced imaging techniques for improved detection.

Main Results:

• Transthoracic echocardiography is the initial diagnostic tool but may miss apical hypertrophy.
• Advanced imaging techniques offer better visualization and characterization of AHCM.
• Accurate diagnosis relies on recognizing specific patterns of apical hypertrophy.

Conclusions:

• Early and accurate diagnosis of AHCM is essential for appropriate patient management.
• A comprehensive approach utilizing multiple imaging modalities improves diagnostic accuracy.
• Further research into optimal imaging strategies for AHCM is warranted.