Echocardiographic reference values in elderly with a focus on octogenarians and older

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Geriatric Medicine
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Published echocardiographic reference values often exclude individuals over 60-70 years.
• Reference values for healthy octogenarians and older adults are scarce.
• Accurate interpretation requires updated values reflecting healthy aging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare transthoracic echocardiographic reference values in healthy octogenarians and older individuals with younger age groups.
• To establish age-adapted reference values for improved diagnostic accuracy in the elderly.

Main Methods:

• A total of 248 individuals were studied.
• Participants were categorized into three age groups: sexagenarians, septuagenarians, and octogenarians or older.
• Standard transthoracic echocardiographic examinations were performed according to current guidelines.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant differences were observed in echocardiographic parameters, especially those reflecting left ventricular diastolic function.
• A significant decrease in mitral annular plane systolic excursion was noted in octogenarians compared to younger groups.
• Differences in systolic function parameters were also found between age groups.

Conclusions:

• Echocardiographic parameters show significant age-related differences, particularly in diastolic and systolic function.
• Existing reference values may not be accurate for individuals aged 80 and above.
• Age-adapted reference values are essential for enhancing diagnostic accuracy in the elderly population.