Imaging of Pulmonary Hypertension

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Cardiology
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Noninvasive imaging is crucial for pulmonary hypertension (PH) diagnosis and management.
• Initial imaging like chest radiography and echocardiography have limitations in evaluating the right ventricle (RV) and pulmonary vasculature.
• Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging are gaining prominence for PH assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe noninvasive imaging techniques for pulmonary hypertension (PH).
• To highlight the role of CT and MR imaging in diagnosing PH and assessing RV function.
• To review imaging findings in the management of suspected or known PH.

Main Methods:

• Review of noninvasive imaging modalities for pulmonary hypertension (PH).
• Focus on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.
• Description of imaging findings related to PH and RV function.

Main Results:

• Chest radiography, V/Q scintigraphy, and Doppler echocardiography are initial PH evaluation tools but have limitations.
• CT and MR imaging provide detailed assessment of pulmonary vasculature and RV function in PH.
• Specific CT and MR findings aid in identifying causes and effects of PH.

Conclusions:

• Advanced imaging like CT and MR are valuable for PH diagnosis and management.
• These techniques improve the evaluation of the right ventricle and pulmonary vasculature in PH.
• Noninvasive imaging plays a key role in the comprehensive care of PH patients.