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Cardiac Computed Tomography for Amyloidosis

  • Cardiac Computed Tomography (A. Crean and G. Small, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Cardiovascular Imaging Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Detecting cardiac amyloid (CA) is challenging. Traditional approaches have not always succeeded in achieving a timely diagnosis. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) has begun to change this, but access to CMR may be limited due to availability or contraindications and may not be considered if clinical suspicion is not high. In contrast, cardiac CT (CCT) is widely available, fast, and has few contraindications. In this review, we will consider the role of CCT to identify CA using anatomy, function, and tissue characteristics.

Recent Findings

We discuss the different CT protocols that have been employed and reflect on the emerging data.

Summary

It is likely that CCT will complement existing modalities. It will help detect disease sooner and allow therapy to start earlier. Thus, CT may yet shed light on CA and provide a brighter future for patients.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada

    Gary R. Small, Anthony Poulin, Anahita Tavoosi, Toby D. Small, Andrew M. Crean & Benjamin J. W. Chow

  2. University of Ottawa Heart Institute, 40 Ruskin Street, Ottawa, ON, Canada

    Gary R. Small

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Correspondence to Gary R. Small.

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Conflict of Interest

Dr Small has received honoraria from Pfizer. Dr Poulin, Dr Tavoosi, Mr Small and Dr Crean have no financial disclosures. Dr. Chow has received research and educational support from TeraRecon; and has investment equity in GE.

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Small, G.R., Poulin, A., Tavoosi, A. et al. Cardiac Computed Tomography for Amyloidosis. Curr Cardiovasc Imaging Rep 14, 10 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12410-021-09560-8

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