What's New in Cardiac MRI? — June 05, 2026
AI-summarised digest of 90 PubMed articles on Cardiac MRI published in the last 7 days.
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What’s New in Cardiac MRI?
June 05, 2026 · 90 articles · 15 research themes · covering May 29, 2026 – June 05, 2026
Overview
This week’s digest is dominated by a clear “imaging-to-decision” theme: across pulmonary hypertension, valvular disease, myocardial infarction, cardiomyopathies, and systemic inflammatory conditions, studies repeatedly show that advanced CMR/CT/PET-derived metrics (mapping, strain, flow coupling, radiomics, and automated quantification) can refine prognosis beyond conventional clinical variables. Examples include CMR pressure–volume loop metrics improving risk stratification in PAH, feature-tracking strain and LA strain adding incremental post-STEMI risk prediction, and automated radiomics of microvascular obstruction heterogeneity improving MACE prediction after STEMI.
A second major thread is methodological maturation—making cardiac imaging more robust, scalable, and less dependent on ideal acquisition conditions. Multiple papers focus on practical engineering advances (contactless optical gating for MRI, real-time oxygenation-sensitive MRI without ECG triggering, vendor-agnostic segmentation comparisons, and standardized scar visualization via grayscale-inverted bright-blood LGE). Together, these efforts aim to reduce variability across scanners and operators and to enable more consistent biomarkers for longitudinal care.
Finally, the clinical landscape is increasingly “precision” and mechanism-linked. Several studies connect physiology or biology to measurable imaging phenotypes—such as metabolic adaptation in RV–PA coupling in pre-capillary PH, lymphatic immune activity predicting LV recovery after MI, and immune checkpoint inhibitor–associated myocarditis patterns. Complementing this, targeted therapies and management strategies are explored in specific contexts (e.g., SGLT2 inhibitors in acute takotsubo, abatacept/IL-6 blockade in high-risk kidney transplant sensitization, and imaging-guided low-dose radiotherapy for ATTRwt cardiac amyloidosis), while case reports emphasize how rare anatomy or evolving imaging findings can change management.
Cardiac MRI/CT Methods, Segmentation, and Image Processing
Laser HeartBeat: Feasibility of a Contactless Optical Gating Method for Cardiac MRI.
This paper studied the feasibility of a contactless optical cardiac gating method for cardiac MRI in human subjects using defocused laser speckle imaging to track chest-wall microvibrations (Laser HeartBeat, Laser HB). The key finding was that Laser HB can provide robust real-time triggering for cardiac MRI without ECG or other contact sensors, overcoming electromagnetic interference and setup constraints. Scientifically, it offers a practical alternative gating approach that could improve CMR workflow and image quality in settings where ECG-based gating is unreliable.
Gao Q, Zhu Y, Zhang X et al. · IEEE transactions on bio-medical engineering · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Monitoring Myocardial Oxygenation Response to Respiratory Maneuvers Using Real-Time MRI.
This study evaluated real-time MRI methods to monitor myocardial oxygenation responses to respiratory maneuvers using oxygenation-sensitive (OS) MR without relying on ECG triggering. In ten young healthy female volunteers on a 3T scanner, the key finding was that two real-time bSSFP/FLASH sequences plus a semi-automated analysis workflow enabled continuous, motion-robust assessment of myocardial oxygenation dynamics. The significance is a more practical, less manual approach for tracking oxygenation changes, which could improve feasibility of OS-MR in clinical and research settings.
Vogt N, Lebza S, Felblinger J et al. · Journal of cardiovascular magnetic resonance : official journal of the Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Cardiac magnetic resonance feature tracking in Olympic athletes: a myocardial deformation analysis.
This study evaluated myocardial deformation in Olympic athletes using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) feature tracking on cine images, comparing athletes with sedentary controls matched for age and sex. It found discipline- and sex-related differences in CMR-derived deformation parameters despite normal cardiovascular evaluation (full quantitative results truncated). The findings support CMR feature tracking as a tool to characterize sport-specific “athlete’s heart” remodeling and aid differential diagnosis from cardiomyopathies.
Monosilio S, Prosperi S, Filomena D et al. · European journal of preventive cardiology · (2026) · 7 citations · View on PubMed ↗
CardioMorphNet: Cardiac motion prediction using a shape-guided Bayesian recurrent deep network.
This paper studied CardioMorphNet, a shape-guided Bayesian recurrent deep learning framework for 3D cardiac motion prediction from short-axis cine CMR images. By using a recurrent variational autoencoder to model spatio-temporal dependencies across the cardiac cycle and posterior models for bi-ventricular segmentation (and additional components truncated), it aims to improve deformable registration accuracy over intensity-only approaches. The significance is more anatomically informed, potentially more robust automated cardiac motion estimation for functional assessment and abnormality detection.
Movahed RA, Rezaee A, Zakeri A et al. · Medical image analysis · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
A comparison of vendor artificial intelligence solutions for automated post-processing of short-axis cine images in cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging.
This study compared three vendor AI solutions for automated post-processing of short-axis cine CMR segmentation across 346 cases spanning dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), healthy volunteers, and other cardiac diseases. It evaluated agreement with expert-derived ventricular volumes and left ventricular mass using correlations, mean differences, Dice coefficients for segmentation, and slice detection metrics (full comparative results truncated). The significance is informing which AI segmentation tools perform best for reliable clinical CMR quantification across disease types and scanners.
Hadler T, Ammann C, Saad H et al. · Scientific reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
In vivo evidence of blood flow slippage: failure of the no-slip boundary condition assumption.
This study tested in vivo whether the cardiovascular “no-slip” boundary condition holds by measuring near-wall blood velocities in seven healthy adult volunteers using 4D-flow cardiovascular magnetic resonance (4D-flow CMR) of the descending thoracic aorta and Navier–Stokes data-assimilation modeling. Near-wall tangential velocities of ~30 (units truncated in abstract) and corresponding wall shear stress estimates indicated failure of the no-slip assumption. The results have implications for the validity of common cardiovascular fluid-dynamics models used to compute hemodynamic forces in vivo.
Jarolímová A, Hron J, Tůma K et al. · American journal of physiology. Heart and circulatory physiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Dual-Phase 3D Modified Dixon Steady-State MR Angiography in Pediatric Complex Congenital Heart Disease.
This retrospective single-center study assessed whether dual-phase 3D modified Dixon (mDixon) steady-state MR angiography (MRA) improves phase-dependent image quality and vessel measurement accuracy in pediatric patients with complex congenital heart disease (CHD). Using 3T free-breathing dual-phase 3D mDixon steady-state MRA with respiratory navigator gating and interleaved diastolic/systolic acquisition, the authors measured vessel diameters with two readers and evaluated image quality across breathing-, motion-, flow-, and susceptibility-related factors. The work supports a practical pediatric MRA technique that can better capture systolic/diastolic vessel measurements while maintaining diagnostic image quality.
Beissel LD, Hart C, Isaak A et al. · Radiology. Cardiothoracic imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Enhancing Intermediate-Risk Stratification in Pulmonary Hypertension: CMR-Derived Quantification of Right Ventricular-Arterial Coupling.
This retrospective study tested whether CMR-derived right ventricular (RV)–arterial coupling quantified as stroke volume to end-systolic volume ratio (SV/ESV) improves prognostic stratification in pulmonary hypertension (PH) patients classified as intermediate-risk by the 2022 ESC/ERS four-strata model. Patients were reclassified into intermediate-low (IML) and intermediate-high (IMH) groups, and SV/ESV-based assessment improved prediction of a composite endpoint of clinical worsening (hospitalization for heart failure or death). Clinically, SV/ESV may refine intermediate-risk PH management by identifying patients at higher risk who may benefit from closer monitoring or escalation of therapy.
Tian H, Wu Q, Wang Z et al. · Academic radiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Cardiac MRI Biomarkers for Prognosis & Risk Stratification
Biventricular dysfunction and blood oxygenation deficits in obstructive sleep apnea: a prospective study with non-contrast cardiac MRI.
This prospective study enrolled 75 newly diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients and used non-contrast cardiac MRI (cine, native T1 and T2 mapping) after polysomnography to compare biventricular function, mechanics, and tissue characteristics between severe and non-severe OSA. Severe OSA showed evidence of biventricular dysfunction and oxygenation-related myocardial deficits on MRI, and these imaging abnormalities were associated with markers of nocturnal hypoxemia. The study suggests non-contrast CMR can detect subclinical cardiac injury in OSA and may help identify patients at higher cardiovascular risk.
Wang J, Cheng Z, Du J et al. · BMC medical imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Integrative omics analysis incorporating cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging pinpoints potentially druggable plasma proteins for cardiovascular diseases.
This integrative omics study combined cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) traits with genetic and proteomic data to identify potentially druggable plasma proteins for cardiovascular diseases. The key finding was that using proteome-wide association study (PWAS) and Mendelian randomization (MR) frameworks with ARIC pQTL protein data and GWAS of 19 CVDs plus 82 CMR traits can prioritize plasma proteins linked to CMR phenotypes and disease risk. Scientifically, it is significant because it provides a gene-to-protein-to-phenotype pipeline for nominating therapeutic targets grounded in CMR-linked biology.
Gong W, Guo P, Liu L et al. · Life metabolism · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Interpretable machine learning models based on CMR radiomics for predicting left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
This study developed interpretable machine learning models using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) radiomics plus clinical variables to predict left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) in 175 patients with metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The combined radiomics–clinical approach improved LVDD risk prediction compared with clinical data alone while remaining interpretable. Clinically, this could enable earlier identification of MASLD/T2DM patients at high risk for LVDD for preventive cardiovascular management.
Xia J, Leng S, Xu B et al. · Journal of diabetes investigation · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Incremental prognostic value of left atrial strain for heart failure-related events following ST-Segment elevation myocardial infarction.
This study evaluated whether left atrial (LA) strain measured by cardiac MRI adds prognostic value for heart failure-related events after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) across patients with different left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) levels. The key finding was that LA strain provided incremental risk stratification beyond discharge LVEF for subsequent heart failure events such as rehospitalization and mortality. Clinically, it suggests LA strain can improve post-STEMI risk prediction and identify patients at risk even when LVEF appears normal.
Zhao Y, Chen XY, Zhu GJ et al. · European journal of radiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Dilated cardiomyopathy vs. non-dilated left ventricular dysfunction: genotype-phenotype relationship and outcome.
This genotype-phenotype and outcome study compared dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) versus non-dilated left ventricular dysfunction (NDLVD) in patients with LV ejection fraction (LVEF) <57% using comprehensive clinical, genetic, and CMR assessment. Patients were classified by LV dilation thresholds (end-diastolic volume >96 ml/m2 in women and >105 ml/m2 in men) and the study evaluated how genetic patterns related to phenotype and prognosis. The results aim to clarify heterogeneity in cardiomyopathy syndromes and improve prognostic stratification based on combined genetics and CMR-defined remodeling.
Bellisario I, Aimo A, Todiere G et al. · International journal of cardiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Systematic Review of International Population Studies With Cardiac Magnetic Resonance and Genomics Research Data (“Imagenomics”).
This systematic review evaluated international population studies that integrate cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) phenotyping with large-scale genomics data (“Imagenomics”). Across 17 identified biobanks (∼1 million participants with stored blood for genomic analyses, with >180,000 undergoing CMR), the review summarized opportunities and key challenges for gene–lifestyle–disease interaction research and highlighted data governance needs for expansive personal data. The synthesis supports the scientific rationale and practical considerations for scaling CMR-genomics biobank studies to enable new cardiovascular precision-medicine insights.
Hesse K, Aung N, Petersen SE et al. · JACC. Cardiovascular imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Myocardial Tissue Characterization (Fibrosis, Edema, Mapping)
Myocardial fibrosis and its relationship with ventricular arrhythmias and reduced ventricular systolic function in young and veteran endurance athletes.
This study assessed myocardial fibrosis measured by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and its relationship to ventricular arrhythmias and reduced ventricular systolic function in 296 young (median 19 years), 138 middle-aged (56 years), and 66 middle-aged non-athletic control male endurance athletes using 24-hour Holter monitoring. Non-hinge-point fibrosis was more prevalent in middle-aged athletes than in young athletes and controls, and fibrosis was evaluated for associations with ventricular arrhythmias and systolic function (full results truncated). The work supports CMR fibrosis as a potential mechanistic marker linking endurance training age-related remodeling to arrhythmia susceptibility.
De Paepe J, D’Ambrosio P, De Bosscher R et al. · European journal of preventive cardiology · (2026) · 2 citations · View on PubMed ↗
A Slc5a6-Deficient Mouse Model Reveals Metabolically Driven Cardiomyopathy with Therapeutic Potential for Vitamin-Based Intervention.
This work investigated how loss of the sodium-dependent multivitamin transporter SLC5A6 (cardiac-specific Slc5a6 knockout, Slc5a6cKO) drives cardiomyopathy and whether vitamin-based supplementation can rescue disease in a mouse model, motivated by human families with SLC5A6 mutations causing early-onset dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Slc5a6cKO mice developed progressive cardiac dysfunction with hypertrophy, fibrosis, impaired coenzyme A synthesis, and premature death, and the study identified a therapeutic potential for vitamin-based intervention. These findings link SLC5A6-dependent biotin/pantothenic acid uptake to metabolically driven DCM and suggest a genotype-directed nutritional therapy strategy.
Fullerton MO, Phillips LC, Redgrave RE et al. · JCI insight · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Cardiac MRI in Depiction of Myocardial Edema: A Comprehensive Review.
This comprehensive review studied the imaging depiction of myocardial edema across cardiovascular conditions and summarized how cardiac MRI techniques detect abnormal myocardial fluid accumulation. The key finding is that myocardial edema is a multifactorial pathologic process and that accurate detection requires awareness of imaging strategies, artifacts, and differential diagnoses that can mimic edema. The review is clinically significant because it guides risk stratification and interpretation of myocardial edema in ischemic, inflammatory, infiltrative, toxic, infectious, and autoimmune diseases.
Onder O, Kosanovich C, Kirshenboim ZE et al. · Radiographics : a review publication of the Radiological Society of North America, Inc · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Prediction of Anthracycline-induced Cardiotoxicity Using Cardiac MRI Parameters: An Animal Study.
This animal study evaluated whether cardiac MRI parametric mapping measures—native T1 and extracellular volume fraction (ECV)—predict early mortality in a rat model of anthracycline (doxorubicin) cardiotoxicity. In 31 Sprague-Dawley rats receiving weekly intravenous doxorubicin (2 mg/kg), the key finding was that specific MRI-derived tissue characteristics were associated with time-to-early death in Cox regression analyses. The scientific significance is that native T1/ECV could serve as early, noninvasive prognostic biomarkers for anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity before overt clinical failure.
Kim NY, Park J, Park HS et al. · Radiology. Cardiothoracic imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
A high-fat diet nutritional intervention reprograms cardiac metabolism and improves systolic function in a pig model of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.
This randomized pig model study investigated whether a high-fat diet (HFD; chow plus 20% lard) can reprogram cardiac metabolism and improve systolic function in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The key finding was that HFD altered the metabolic state toward improved cardiac function in pigs with HFrEF induced by progressive coronary artery stenosis, which created viable dysfunctional myocardium with a metabolic switch toward increased glucose uptake. Scientifically, it supports nutritional modulation of myocardial substrate use as a potential therapeutic lever in HFrEF.
Galán-Arriola C, Pérez-Camargo D, Ferrarini A et al. · Basic research in cardiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Grayscale-inverted bright-blood late gadolinium enhancement improves reader confidence in ischemic scar detection: a multivendor study.
This multivendor CMR study evaluated whether grayscale-inverted bright-blood late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) improves ischemic scar detection in 120 patients undergoing 1.5T LGE on GE, Philips, and Siemens scanners. Grayscale inversion increased visual scar-blood contrast and improved reader confidence (and diagnostic performance) for subendocardial infarcts where conventional bright-blood LGE can be difficult to interpret. The technique’s vendor-independent post-processing could standardize more reliable ischemic scar assessment across clinical sites and reader experience levels.
Károlyi M, Groenhoff L, Spiczak JV et al. · European journal of radiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
SGLT2 inhibitors therapy in patients with acute Takotsubo syndrome.
This comparative study assessed safety, tolerability, and effects on myocardial recovery and inflammation in acute takotsubo syndrome (TTS) in 22 patients treated with SGLT2 inhibitors (dapagliflozin or empagliflozin) versus 44 propensity-score matched untreated patients. Using cardiac MRI with T2 mapping within 7 days of admission, the SGLT2 inhibitor group showed differences consistent with improved myocardial recovery and modulation of inflammatory injury compared with controls. The findings support further investigation of SGLT2 inhibitors as a potential disease-modifying therapy in acute TTS beyond their established heart failure indications.
Arcari L, Camastra G, Sclafani M et al. · International journal of cardiology · (2026) · 1 citations · View on PubMed ↗
Arrhythmias & Electrophysiology (Diagnosis, Risk, Therapy)
Wide Complex Tachycardia of Uncertain Origin: Demonstration of Atrioventricular Dissociation by Doppler Echocardiography.
This JACC Case Reports report studied a 72-year-old woman with unstable wide complex tachycardia (WCT) of uncertain origin to demonstrate atrioventricular dissociation using Doppler echocardiography. The key finding was that Doppler echocardiography provided evidence of atrioventricular dissociation, clarifying the arrhythmia mechanism when initial cardioversion and subsequent management were complicated by stroke and contraindications to amiodarone. The case highlights Doppler echocardiography as a diagnostic tool for mechanistic clarification of WCT, which can directly influence acute treatment decisions.
Khattab A, Timmerman C, Kee A et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Treatment of Premature Ventricular Contractions: A Review of Medical Therapy, Catheter Ablation, and Emerging Treatments.
This review studied treatment options for premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), comparing medical therapy, catheter ablation, and emerging treatments across patients with and without structural heart disease. The key finding was that clinical significance depends on symptom burden, PVC frequency, ventricular function, and underlying myocardial disease, which in turn guides therapy selection. Scientifically and clinically, it consolidates evidence for when to escalate from conservative management to ablation or newer approaches to prevent PVC-induced cardiomyopathy and reduce arrhythmic risk.
Elattar S, Hodhod A, Basha NR et al. · Cardiology in review · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
The timing and relationship of ventricular arrhythmia with exercise patterns in veteran male endurance athletes.
This study examined whether exercise training patterns were associated with the incidence and timing of ventricular arrhythmias in 106 healthy veteran male endurance athletes (cyclists/triathletes aged ≥50 years) using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and implantable loop recorders (ILRs). Fifty-five ventricular arrhythmia events were recorded on ILR, and the study found relationships between exercise patterns and ventricular arrhythmia timing/incidence (details truncated in the abstract). These findings suggest that long-term endurance training characteristics may influence arrhythmia risk stratification in older athletes.
Javed W, Brown B, Chambers B et al. · European journal of preventive cardiology · (2026) · 2 citations · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Open-Irrigated Helical Radiofrequency Septal Ablation for Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.
This JACC Case Reports report describes a 60-year-old man with drug-refractory obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (oHCM) undergoing open-irrigated helical radiofrequency septal ablation via subclavian venous access. The provoked LV outflow tract gradient fell from 130 to 30 mmHg immediately and remained improved at 12 months, with septal fibrosis on 6-month CMR and no reported complications. The case suggests feasibility and potential effectiveness of this dedicated open-irrigated helical RF approach for septal reduction in oHCM.
Sun Y, Zhou X, Zhang M et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Electromagnetic interference during epicardial ablation in a patient with an extravascular implantable cardioverter-defibrillator and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy: a case report.
This case report evaluated electromagnetic interference during epicardial ablation in a 42-year-old man with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ACM) who had an extravascular implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (EV-ICD) with a retrosternal lead. During epicardial ablation for ventricular arrhythmia circuits, electromagnetic interference was encountered, highlighting practical safety/feasibility considerations for ablation in patients with EV-ICD systems. The report informs procedural planning and device-management strategies for electrophysiology in gene-elusive ACM patients requiring epicardial approaches.
Proust M, Ouyang F, Breitenstein A et al. · European heart journal. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Machine Learning-based Model for Major Adverse Cardiac Event Prediction in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.
This retrospective cohort study developed a machine learning model to predict major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) using cardiac MRI performed between September 2015 and December 2022. Using a penalized Cox proportional hazards approach with elastic net regularization (CoxNet) and MRI features including cine steady-state free precession, native T1/T2 mapping, and late gadolinium enhancement, the model identified high-risk patients and key predictors of performance. Clinically, this could enable more accurate MRI-based risk stratification for HCM patients to guide surveillance and preventive therapy.
Geyer T, McIntosh C, Sood V et al. · Radiology. Cardiothoracic imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Time trends in ICD recommendations and predictors of device activation hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a real-world cohort study.
This real-world cohort study analyzed time trends in implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) recommendations and predictors of device activation in 52 hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients who received primary-prevention ICDs between 2014 and 2024. Evolving ESC guideline criteria changed real-world ICD eligibility, and specific baseline clinical/imaging factors predicted subsequent ICD activation and event detection. The findings help clinicians understand how guideline expansion translates into actual arrhythmic event detection in contemporary HCM practice.
Marques Antunes M, Carvalheiro R, Cardoso I et al. · International journal of cardiology. Heart & vasculature · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Generation of three heterozygous and two homozygous hiPSC lines from a CPVT associated mutation RYR2_p.G357S from a large family of the Canary Islands.
This study generated induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) lines from skin fibroblasts of carriers in a Canary Islands family with catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) due to an RYR2 mutation (RYR2_c.G1069A/p.G357S). Using non-integrative episomal plasmids, the authors produced three heterozygous and two homozygous hiPSC lines that showed normal karyotype, pluripotency marker expression, and differentiation into cells of all three germ layers. These patient-specific hiPSC resources enable mechanistic modeling of RYR2-driven CPVT and downstream testing of gene- and drug-based interventions.
Carreras D, Martínez-Moreno R, Selga E et al. · Stem cell research · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Heart Failure & Advanced Mechanical Circulatory Support
Microaxial Left Ventricular Assist Device as Bridge to Transplantation in Postinfarction Left Ventricular Pseudoaneurysm.
This case report studied the use of a microaxial left ventricular assist device (Impella 5.5) as bridge-to-transplant in a 61-year-old man with post–myocardial infarction left ventricular (LV) pseudoaneurysm causing recurrent cardiogenic shock. Prolonged Impella 5.5 support stabilized hemodynamics while the patient awaited heart transplantation, which was ultimately successful. The report highlights a potential lifesaving alternative when surgical repair of LV pseudoaneurysm is prohibitively high risk.
Callahan S, Horvat N, Yu M · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Navigating Mechanical Support in Cardiogenic Shock With Arterial Hypoplasia: Lessons From Arterial Tortuosity Syndrome.
This article reports a 19-year-old man whose cardioembolic stroke and rapidly evolving cardiogenic shock were the first presentation of arterial tortuosity syndrome (ATS), focusing on how ATS-related arterial hypoplasia affected mechanical circulatory support decisions. The patient’s extreme iliofemoral and aortic hypoplasia/tortuosity (e.g., iliofemoral arteries ~3 mm; ascending aorta ~19 mm) made mechanical thrombectomy and peripheral VA-ECMO technically unfeasible despite multimodality imaging (cranial CTA, aortic angiography, cardiac MRI). The case highlights that ATS can be a critical, anatomy-driven contraindication to standard catheter-based and peripheral mechanical support strategies, requiring early expert imaging and alternative planning.
Lara-García A, Caro-Codón J, Canales L et al. · Catheterization and cardiovascular interventions : official journal of the Society for Cardiac Angiography & Interventions · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Pulmonary Hypertension & Right-Heart Hemodynamics
Right Ventricular Metabolic Adaptation to Afterload and Heterogeneous RV-Pulmonary Arterial Coupling in Pre-Capillary Pulmonary Hypertension: An FDG-PET/CMR Study.
This FDG-PET/CMR study investigated right ventricular (RV) metabolic adaptation to afterload and heterogeneous RV–pulmonary arterial (RV-PA) coupling in patients with pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension. The key finding was that higher pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) was associated with increased RV glucose metabolism and impaired RV-PA coupling, consistent with early maladaptive adaptation before overt structural remodeling. This is significant because it links metabolic imaging biomarkers to hemodynamic load and coupling abnormalities, potentially enabling earlier risk stratification in pre-capillary PH.
Nakamura T, Tahara N, Koga Y et al. · Journal of nuclear cardiology : official publication of the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
CMR-derived left ventricular pressure-volume loops enhance individualized assessment of disease severity and prognosis in pulmonary arterial hypertension in adults.
This study evaluated whether cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR)-derived left ventricular (LV) pressure–volume (PV) loops improve individualized assessment of disease severity and prognosis in 96 adult patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) undergoing clinically indicated CMR, compared with 32 matched healthy controls. CMR-based LV PV-loop metrics were analyzed alongside right heart catheterization data and clinical outcomes (death or lung transplantation), showing that LV mechanics derived from PV loops enhance prognostic stratification in adult PAH. The findings support using CMR PV-loop–based biomarkers to refine risk assessment in PAH beyond conventional hemodynamics, potentially improving clinical decision-making.
Castiglione A, Bergström E, Kjellström B et al. · Physiological reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Multimodality imaging of patent ductus arteriosus with severe pulmonary hypertension following 3 pregnancies.
This radiology case report studied multimodality imaging in a 46-year-old woman with severe pulmonary hypertension caused by a previously unrecognized large patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). The key finding was that imaging and catheterization demonstrated systemic-level pulmonary vascular resistance with bi-directional shunting, along with right ventricular dilation/dysfunction and systemic pulmonary arterial pressures. Clinically, it highlights the importance of comprehensive imaging to diagnose adult PDA with advanced pulmonary vascular disease and to guide appropriate management.
Corsi D, Mousa A, Patel D et al. · Radiology case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Ischemic Heart Disease, Infarction Healing & Coronary Physiology
Endotype-informed therapy and effects on illness perception and psychological health in patients with chest pain and no obstructive coronary artery disease.
The Coronary microvascular angina Cardiac Magnetic Resonance imaging (CorCMR) trial studied whether non-invasive stress perfusion CMR—used to define ischemic endotypes and guide targeted therapy—improves illness perception and psychological health in patients with chest pain and no obstructive coronary artery disease (ANOCA). The key finding was that endotype-informed, CMR-guided targeted therapy was evaluated against standard angiography-guided care for effects on diagnostic uncertainty–related distress. Clinically, if effective, this strategy would link CMR-based phenotyping to patient-centered outcomes in ANOCA, potentially reducing the psychological burden of diagnostic uncertainty.
Bradley CP, McKinley G, Orchard V et al. · European heart journal. Quality of care & clinical outcomes · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
AI-based Histologic Heterogeneity of Microvascular Obstruction at Cardiac MRI for Predicting MACEs: A Multicenter Study.
This multicenter retrospective study evaluated an AI-based model that automatically segments microvascular obstruction (MVO) and extracts radiomic features to quantify histologic heterogeneity of MVO on cardiac MRI for predicting MACEs in STEMI patients. In patients with STEMI and MVO who underwent cardiac MRI (June 2013–December 2023), the AI-derived heterogeneity features improved prediction of major adverse cardiovascular events compared with approaches relying on manual or less informative MVO quantification. The findings support automated radiomics of MVO heterogeneity as a scalable imaging biomarker for post-STEMI prognosis.
Chen BH, Li SL, Xiang JY et al. · Radiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Ferumoxytol-Enhanced Myocardial T1 Tracking Using a Hybrid 2D/3D Steady-State MRI Sequence Captures Cyclic Intramyocardial Blood Volume Dynamics.
This feasibility study developed a ferumoxytol-enhanced (FE) MRI myocardial “T1 tracking” method using a hybrid 2D/3D steady-state sequence to measure cyclic intramyocardial blood volume (iMBV) dynamics from systole to diastole. The technique was designed to capture iMBV changes on clinical scanners without vasodilator stress, aiming to provide a marker of coronary microcirculation and coronary artery disease (CAD). If validated, this approach could enable stress-free assessment of cyclic microvascular blood volume dynamics for CAD evaluation.
Unal HB, Zeynali S, Ahmed A et al. · NMR in biomedicine · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
A Case of the Uncommon Cause of Chronic Coronary Syndrome: Coronary Fistula and Coronary Stenosis, Which One to Intervene?
This case report studied a single patient with chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) who had both mid-left anterior descending (mid-LAD) coronary stenosis (~50%) and a high-flow coronary artery fistula from the LAD to the main pulmonary artery. Comprehensive noninvasive and invasive physiology/imaging before, during, and after intervention was used to determine which lesion to treat, highlighting the unexpected fistula as a key driver of symptoms despite only nonsignificant stenosis. The report is clinically significant because it emphasizes lesion selection and multimodal physiologic/imaging assessment when multiple coronary abnormalities coexist.
Sinurat MRMP, Taofan T, Tobing DPL et al. · The International journal of angiology : official publication of the International College of Angiology, Inc · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Prognostic value of cardiac magnetic resonance pulmonary transit time and myocardial strain across different stages of ST-elevation myocardial infarction.
This study evaluated pulmonary transit time (PTT) measured from 3.0-T cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) first-pass perfusion and global myocardial strain (CMR feature tracking) in 521 patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), stratified by Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) classification. Longer PTT and worse myocardial strain were associated with poorer prognosis across STEMI stages, with CMR-derived metrics providing incremental prognostic information. These findings support using CMR PTT and strain as noninvasive biomarkers to refine risk prediction and follow-up intensity in STEMI patients.
Hu YY, Zhang ZX, Li S et al. · European journal of radiology open · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Multi-biomarker approach for predicting cardiac magnetic resonance parameters at 30 days after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.
This pre-specified CLEVER-ACS substudy assessed whether baseline biomarkers—high-sensitivity troponin T (hsTnT), NT-proBNP, CCN1, and PCSK9—predict CMR-derived infarct characteristics at 30 days after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Baseline biomarker levels showed significant associations with specific 30-day CMR parameters reflecting intermediate post-infarction remodeling. The results support a multi-biomarker strategy to anticipate later CMR infarct phenotype, potentially improving early risk stratification and timing of targeted therapies.
Horbach T, Wenzl FA, Manka R et al. · International journal of cardiology. Heart & vasculature · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Diagnostic yield of second-line functional imaging after an abnormal coronary computed tomography angiography: an individual patient-data meta-analysis.
This individual patient-data meta-analysis studied which second-line functional imaging test (dobutamine stress echocardiography, SPECT, cardiac MRI, and/or PET) best performs after an abnormal coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) in 1410 patients with ≥50% diameter stenosis. The key finding was that diagnostic performance varied by the invasive reference standard used (fractional flow reserve, FFR), supporting more tailored selection of functional imaging rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Scientifically and clinically, it refines the evidence base for choosing stress imaging modalities to reduce unnecessary invasive angiography and improve diagnostic accuracy after abnormal CCTA.
Rasmussen LD, Hoek R, Westra J et al. · European heart journal. Cardiovascular Imaging · (2026) · 1 citations · View on PubMed ↗
Smoking cessation after first STEMI enhances infarct healing: a cardiac MRI study.
This prospective cardiac MRI study investigated infarct healing dynamics in 672 revascularized first-time ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients, comparing those who quit smoking after STEMI versus those who continued smoking. The key finding was that smoking cessation after STEMI enhanced infarct healing, as assessed by serial CMR over baseline, 4 months, and 12 months. Clinically, it strengthens secondary prevention evidence by showing that quitting smoking improves myocardial recovery trajectories measurable with CMR.
Troger F, Pamminger M, Reindl M et al. · European heart journal. Cardiovascular Imaging · (2026) · 1 citations · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Molecular imaging of lymphatic organs provides prognostic value after acute myocardial infarction.
This prospective trial studied whether molecular imaging of lymphatic organs after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) predicts functional recovery, using 68Ga-PentixaFor PET targeting CXCR4 in 41 timely reperfused ST-elevation MI patients. Higher radiotracer uptake in remote lymphatic organs (spleen, bone marrow, and heart-draining lymph nodes) identified individuals predisposed to better left ventricular ejection fraction outcomes during follow-up. The work suggests that CXCR4-directed PET of lymphatic immune activity could serve as an early prognostic biomarker after AMI.
Reiter T, Dörrler AL, Hasenauer N et al. · European journal of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging · (2026) · 1 citations · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Non-contrast multimodal cardiac MRI for predicting coronary microvascular dysfunction in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
This study developed a non-contrast radiomics model to predict coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) in 290 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), avoiding contrast-enhanced CMR. Radiomics features extracted from end-diastolic four-chamber and end-diastolic short-axis views were used with logistic regression to classify CMD status in training and test sets. A practical non-contrast approach could broaden CMD screening in HCM, reducing reliance on gadolinium while supporting earlier risk stratification.
Li J, Zhu L, Liu Y et al. · Magnetic resonance imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Inflammation, Myocarditis & Immune-Mediated Cardiac Disease
Myocarditis in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies: serologic and clinical correlates in a single-center registry.
This single-center retrospective registry studied 142 adults with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) to characterize serologic and clinical correlates of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR)-confirmed myocarditis using the 2018 Lake Louise Criteria at diagnosis and during follow-up. It found that high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-TnI) and specific clinical/serologic features correlated with CMR myocarditis, and that myocarditis had an independent prognostic impact relative to interstitial lung disease (ILD). Scientifically and clinically, the results support using hs-TnI and CMR for myocarditis detection and risk prediction in IIM patients.
Álvarez-Troncoso J, Refoyo-Salicio E, Díaz-Planellas S et al. · Rheumatology international · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Cardiovascular Manifestations of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Practical Multi-Modality Imaging Approach.
This review studied the cardiovascular manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and how to detect, characterize, and monitor them using multimodality imaging. It summarizes key imaging features across echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance, computed tomography, and nuclear techniques for pericardial disease, myocarditis, coronary artery disease, and valvular involvement (full table/section details truncated). The clinical significance is a practical imaging framework to improve diagnosis and longitudinal management of cardiac involvement in SLE.
Borchsenius JIH, Dons M, Sengeløv M et al. · The Canadian journal of cardiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
A rapid phage-free platform for antigen-specific VNAR screening with BATCH system.
This methods paper describes a rapid phage-free antigen-specific VNAR screening platform using a bacterial two-hybrid system with the BATCH system. Using a Cre recombinase–immunized Chiloscyllium plagiosum spleen cDNA library (~10^8 diversity) and dual lacZ/CmR readouts enhanced by triple lacO sites and cAMP feedback, the authors screened for binders and recovered two unique VNARs (VNAR1 and VNAR2, with details truncated). The platform provides a faster, phage-free alternative to phage display for discovering VNAR single-domain antibodies against immunized antigens.
Tang W, Hu J, Zhu Y et al. · Protein science : a publication of the Protein Society · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Clinical Features, Treatment, and Outcomes of Sintilimab-Induced Myocarditis.
This retrospective study analyzed 34 reported cases of myocarditis occurring after treatment with the PD-1 inhibitor sintilimab in patients with cancer. The key finding was that onset typically occurred within 1–120 days (median 21 days) and common presentations included dyspnea (41.2%) and chest tightness (35.3%), supporting a recognizable clinical pattern for sintilimab-induced myocarditis. Scientifically and clinically, the compiled features can improve diagnosis and management of immune checkpoint inhibitor–associated myocarditis by providing timing and symptom benchmarks.
Liu M, Sun W, Pan Y et al. · Journal of immunotherapy (Hagerstown, Md. : 1997) · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Effect of Interleukin-6 Receptor Inhibition by Tocilizumab on Platelet Activation and Markers of Thrombus Formation: A Substudy of the ASSAIL-MI Trial.
In the ASSAIL-MI trial substudy, investigators tested whether IL-6 receptor inhibition with tocilizumab (monoclonal antibody targeting IL-6R) alters platelet activation and thrombus-formation markers in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Tocilizumab treatment was associated with changes in soluble platelet activation markers (including P-selectin and sCD40L) and coagulation/fibrinolysis biomarkers (including tissue factor, TFPI, PAI-1, and D-dimer). This mechanistic evidence links anti-inflammatory IL-6R blockade to coagulation/platelet pathways, informing how tocilizumab may reduce post-MI thrombotic risk.
Ueland T, Dahl TB, Michelsen A et al. · Arteriosclerosis, thrombosis, and vascular biology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Diagnostic and prognostic value of T2 mapping in cardiac sarcoidosis.
This diagnostic/prognostic study evaluated T1 and T2 mapping on 3T cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in 39 patients with suspected or confirmed cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) who also underwent 18F-FDG PET. CMR T2 mapping (and related mapping metrics) reflected myocardial inflammation activity and showed diagnostic and prognostic utility relative to PET, potentially reducing reliance on radiation-based follow-up. These data support T2 mapping as a more practical imaging biomarker for monitoring active inflammation and predicting outcomes in CS.
Uno M, Kosuge H, Kobayashi M et al. · International journal of cardiology. Heart & vasculature · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Deciphering Leukocyte Subpopulation Contributions to Ventricle Remodeling and Neuroinflammation After Myocardial Infarction Using Total-Body Molecular Imaging.
This study used total-body molecular imaging PET in C57BL/6N mice after permanent coronary artery ligation to model myocardial infarction (MI), testing how macrophages and neutrophils contribute to concurrent ventricle remodeling and neuroinflammation. PET-based immune modulation with clodronate-loaded liposomes (macrophage depletion) and Ly6G neutralizing antibody (neutrophil inhibition) identified distinct roles of these leukocyte subpopulations in shaping post-MI cardiac inflammation and neuroinflammatory signals. These findings support leukocyte-targeted mechanisms as potential drivers of post-MI heart failure risk and cognitive impairment pathways, informing future imaging-guided immunomodulatory strategies.
Lolatte K, Hess A, Willmann M et al. · Journal of nuclear medicine : official publication, Society of Nuclear Medicine · (2026) · 2 citations · View on PubMed ↗
Cardio-Oncology & Cancer Treatment Surveillance
EuroNet-PHL-LP1: Complete resection or low-dose chemo for pediatric low-risk nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma.
This prospective phase III trial (EuroNet-PHL-LP1) studied children and adolescents (<18 years) with early-stage (stage IA/IIA) nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (nLPHL), comparing complete lymph node resection with active surveillance versus low-intensity anthracycline-free CVP (cyclophosphamide, vincristine, prednisone) chemotherapy for unresectable disease. The key finding was that early-stage nLPHL could be treated successfully with either surgery alone (for completely resected nodes) or with three cycles of CVP for unresectable nodal disease, aiming to maintain high event-free survival while reducing treatment intensity. This supports risk-adapted de-escalation strategies in pediatric nLPHL to preserve outcomes while limiting anthracycline exposure.
Shankar AG, Landman-Parker J, Mascarin M et al. · Blood advances · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Cardiac Biomarkers and Multimodality Imaging in Surveillance During Oncologic Therapy: An Integrated Approach to Cardio-Oncology.
This review article synthesizes evidence on how cardiac biomarkers and multimodality imaging are used for surveillance during oncologic therapy across major cardiotoxic treatment classes (anthracyclines, HER2-targeted therapies, VEGF inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors) and chest radiotherapy. It emphasizes the cardio-oncology framework from the 2022 European Society of Cardiology guidelines, focusing on early detection of cancer therapy–related cardiovascular toxicity using integrated biomarker and imaging approaches. Clinically, the article supports a structured surveillance strategy to identify cardiotoxicity earlier and tailor management to specific cancer therapies and patient risk.
Agrawal SP, Lussier A, Patel DS et al. · Cardiology in review · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Forecasting mortality and decomposition analysis for cancer deaths in Egypt (2014-2030).
This study modeled and forecast cancer mortality in Egypt from 2014–2030 using national vital registration data for 19 cancer types. The key finding was that a hybrid ARIMA–ETS forecasting approach projected future mortality trends through 2030 and that decomposition analysis quantified contributions from population growth, aging, and age-specific mortality rates to observed and projected cancer deaths. The public-health significance is that it identifies the main demographic and epidemiologic drivers of cancer mortality to support planning and resource allocation in Egypt.
Elshishiney G, Li M, Zou Y et al. · Cancer epidemiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Real-world multi-institution analysis of tarlatamab in patients with small cell lung cancer.
This multicenter retrospective real-world study evaluated tarlatamab outcomes in patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) who received at least one dose between 5/16/2024 and 6/15/2025 across three US institutions, including a “trial-ineligible” subgroup. The key finding was that real-world eligibility differences (e.g., poorer performance status and prior toxicities such as pneumonitis/interstitial lung disease) are common and can affect observed outcomes compared with pivotal trial populations. Clinically, it helps define how tarlatamab performs in broader practice and informs risk-benefit expectations for patients who would not have met clinical-trial inclusion criteria.
Cooper AJ, Liang J, McDonald S et al. · Lung cancer (Amsterdam, Netherlands) · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Three-Hour Infusion of Methotrexate at 3 g/m2 With or Without Intrathecal Chemotherapy Significantly Reduces CNS Relapses and Improves Survival in Patients With Large B-Cell Lymphomas at Increased CNS Risk.
This pharmacokinetic-informed clinical study in 336 patients with large B-cell lymphoma at increased CNS risk compared a high-dose methotrexate (HD-MTX) regimen of 3 g/m2 infused over 3 hours (with a preceding bolus) with or without intrathecal chemotherapy after achieving complete metabolic response by CMR. The 3-hour HD-MTX protocol significantly reduced CNS relapses and improved survival across updated CNS risk strata (e.g., CNS-IPI ≥4 and/or multiple extranodal sites). The results strengthen the evidence that schedule-optimized HD-MTX can meaningfully prevent CNS recurrence in high-risk LBCL, potentially refining CNS-directed treatment planning.
Ferreri AJM, Erbella F, Angelillo P et al. · American journal of hematology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Cardiac Amyloidosis (ATTR and Related Imaging/Trials)
Quantitative 99mTc-PYP SPECT/CT at 90 minutes improves diagnostic stratification in transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis.
This retrospective single-center study evaluated 170 patients with suspected transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CM) to determine whether quantitative 99mTc-PYP SPECT/CT at 90 minutes post-injection improves diagnostic stratification beyond standard planar imaging at 60 and 180 minutes. The key finding was that adding quantitative SPECT/CT at 90 minutes increased diagnostic specificity, particularly in patients with equivocal Perugini score 1 on planar imaging. This can reduce diagnostic uncertainty and improve noninvasive classification of ATTR-CM, supporting more accurate patient selection for downstream therapy.
Nazerani-Zemann T, Stanzel S, Weitzer F et al. · European journal of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
One-year worsening heart failure and myocardial T1 mapping in patients with wild-type transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy undergoing tafamidis treatment.
This retrospective cohort study evaluated 60 wild-type transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) patients receiving tafamidis and assessed whether myocardial T1 mapping on baseline CMR predicted one-year outcomes. The key finding was that baseline native myocardial T1 (T1native) and extracellular volume fraction (ECV) were used alongside biomarkers (high-sensitivity troponin T and NT-proBNP) to characterize responsiveness and risk for one-year worsening heart failure (WHF). Clinically, the study is significant because it tests whether CMR T1 mapping can refine prognosis and treatment monitoring in tafamidis-treated ATTR-CM.
Kitagawa T, Hamamoto K, Okamoto D et al. · International journal of cardiology. Heart & vasculature · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Low-dose ventricular radiotherapy in wild-type transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis: a prospective, first-in-human, exploratory clinical trial.
This first-in-human prospective exploratory trial studied low-dose ventricular radiotherapy (10 Gy in 5 daily fractions) in patients with wild-type transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (ATTRwt-CA). The key finding was that the intervention targeted left ventricular amyloid burden assessed by 18F-Flutemetamol amyloid PET (septal and lateral LV tissue-to-background ratio) and cardiac MRI (extracellular volume and T1 mapping) at baseline and 12 weeks, establishing feasibility for this imaging-guided approach. Scientifically, it provides early evidence for a potential disease-modifying strategy in ATTRwt-CA beyond standard anti-amyloid therapies, with objective multimodality endpoints.
Guijarro D, Massie E, Zilli T et al. · International journal of cardiology. Heart & vasculature · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Addressing disparities in transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy: A systematic review of artificial intelligence in the early identification to improve patient outcomes.
This systematic review studied artificial intelligence (AI) tools for early identification of transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM), with attention to disparities in underdiagnosis among Black populations. The key finding was that AI-based diagnostic and screening approaches are being developed to detect subtle ATTR-CM patterns using non-invasive data, potentially enabling earlier detection before overt symptoms. Scientifically and clinically, it supports further evaluation and equitable deployment of AI diagnostics to improve timely diagnosis and outcomes in high-risk groups.
Zhang Z, Lim N, Abi-Rached J et al. · Journal of the National Medical Association · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Congenital Heart Disease & Pediatric Cardiovascular Imaging
Muscular dystrophy cardiomyopathy in pediatric cardiac MRI.
This report studied pediatric cardiac MRI in a patient with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) who had normal ECG and echocardiography. The key finding was that cardiac MRI detected clinically relevant myocardial involvement/prognostic information despite normal initial screening tests. The study highlights cardiac MRI as a more sensitive tool for risk stratification and management planning in pediatric DMD cardiomyopathy.
Hansen RM, Takahashi MS, Sakthivel MK · The international journal of cardiovascular imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Examination of elevated myocardial extracellular volume and exercise capacity in pediatric Fontan patients at moderate altitude.
This retrospective cohort study examined pediatric Fontan patients at moderate altitude to assess whether CMR-derived measures of diffuse myocardial fibrosis—native T1 and extracellular volume (ECV)—relate to exercise capacity compared with healthy controls. The key finding was an association between elevated myocardial extracellular volume (and related T1/ECV fibrosis markers) and reduced exercise tolerance in the Fontan circulation. This suggests that CMR fibrosis quantification may serve as an early, clinically meaningful biomarker of Fontan physiology and functional limitation.
Arnouts EC, Drysdale ND, Gerstner Saucedo J et al. · Pediatric radiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
The Role of Multimodality Imaging in the Evaluation of Heart Failure and Surgical Transplant Planning of Patients with Adult Congenital Heart Disease.
This article reviews how multimodality cardiac imaging is used to evaluate heart failure and to plan surgical or advanced-therapy evaluation in adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD). It highlights that longitudinal, guideline-recommended surveillance at expert centers with condition-specific imaging protocols is key for identifying residual lesions and complications that trigger referral for advanced therapies. Scientifically and clinically, it underscores that imaging modality choice and protocol tailoring materially affect diagnostic yield and transplant/surgical planning in ACHD.
Duarte VE, Rajpal S · Cardiac electrophysiology clinics · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
The role of advanced imaging in the diagnosis and management of scimitar syndrome in pediatric patients.
This imaging-focused study/review examined pediatric scimitar syndrome and how advanced imaging with cardiac computed tomography (CT) and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) supports diagnosis and management planning. The key finding was that CT/CMR can delineate the full anatomic spectrum—such as partial/total anomalous right pulmonary venous drainage, right lung and pulmonary artery hypoplasia, and associated collateral and bronchial/cardiac malformations—across variants. Clinically, this is significant because it links specific imaging patterns to appropriate interventions (e.g., rerouting anomalous pulmonary veins or surgical strategies) in children.
Nguyen TVN, Emral HG, Voges I et al. · International journal of cardiology. Congenital heart disease · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
The Rapid Long-axis Strain-based Prognostic Models Evaluate Composite Adverse Events for Asymptomatic Dextro-Transposition of the Great Arteries Patients after the Switch Operation.
This study developed and validated rapid long-axis strain (RLAS)-based prognostic models, using biventricular strain and RLAS measured by cardiovascular magnetic resonance, to predict composite adverse events in asymptomatic patients with dextro-transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA) after arterial switch operation (ASO). Strain measures identified subclinical biventricular mechanical impairment and the resulting models stratified risk for composite adverse events in training/testing and external validation cohorts. The work supports strain-based CMR risk models to improve long-term follow-up planning in d-TGA ASO survivors.
Hu L, Guo C, Liu X et al. · Academic radiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
End-diastolic forward flow (EDFF) after tetralogy of Fallot repair: Evolution of its role in management and prognosis.
This review studied the hemodynamic marker end-diastolic forward flow (EDFF) in patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot (ToF), focusing on how its interpretation has evolved in the restrictive right-ventricular physiology context. It found that EDFF is no longer viewed as a specific surrogate of right-ventricular myocardial stiffness, but instead as a multifactorial hemodynamic phenomenon influenced by multiple mechanisms. Clinically, this reframing supports more nuanced use of EDFF in prognosis and management decisions after ToF repair rather than treating it as a single-pathophysiology marker.
Baneu P, van Dijk AP, Duijnhouwer AL et al. · International journal of cardiology. Congenital heart disease · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Valvular Heart Disease & Hemodynamics (e.g., MR/TR/AR)
Mitral Regurgitation Assessment Using a Novel Automated 3D Color Flow Quantification: Comparison With 2D PISA and CMR.
This retrospective study evaluated a novel automated 3D color flow quantification tool (3D Auto CFQ) for mitral regurgitation (MR) assessment in 185 patients undergoing transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), comparing it with 2D PISA and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). The key finding was the feasibility and performance of 3D Auto CFQ for quantifying MR severity and regurgitant volume using a fluid-dynamics-based model integrated with real-time 3D TEE color Doppler, benchmarked against CMR. Clinically, this could reduce geometric assumptions and single-frame limitations of 2D methods, improving accuracy and reproducibility of MR quantification.
Kim K, Lee SH, Lee HJ et al. · Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography : official publication of the American Society of Echocardiography · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Left Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain Improves Risk Stratification in Chronic Aortic Regurgitation.
This retrospective cohort study evaluated whether cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) feature-tracking derived left ventricular global longitudinal strain (FT-LVGLS) predicts adverse outcomes in 385 patients with chronic moderate-to-severe aortic regurgitation (AR) (NYHA I–II) who underwent CMR between 2010 and 2024. FT-LVGLS improved risk stratification and provided incremental prognostic value beyond the 2025 ESC/EACTS Class I/IIb surgical indication parameters. These findings support using CMR FT-LVGLS to refine timing of intervention and surveillance in chronic AR patients.
Li B, Liu Y, Dai L et al. · European heart journal. Cardiovascular Imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
The Effect of Aortic Regurgitation on Left Ventricular Flow Dynamics Assessed by 4D-Flow MRI.
This study assessed how aortic regurgitation (AR) alters left ventricular (LV) flow dynamics using 4D-flow MRI in patients with varying AR severity, focusing on regurgitant fraction (RF) and viscous energy dissipation (VED). AR severity was associated with measurable changes in LV diastolic filling flow patterns and increased hemodynamic burden captured by VED. The work supports 4D-flow MRI-derived metrics as quantitative tools to better characterize AR physiology beyond RF alone.
Abdallah W, Darwish A, Garcia J et al. · Annals of biomedical engineering · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Association of Mitral Annular Disjunction on Magnetic Resonance Imaging With Cardiovascular Outcomes.
This prospective CMR registry analysis (n=1969) examined whether mitral annular disjunction (MAD)—defined as ≥1 mm separation at the mitral hinge point—predicts cardiovascular outcomes and how it relates to native T1 relaxation times measured at end-systole and end-diastole. MAD prevalence and prognostic impact were characterized across an all-comer CMR population, and MAD was associated with differences in native T1 relaxation, consistent with underlying myocardial tissue changes. These results strengthen the case for MAD as a CMR-detectable marker for cardiovascular risk stratification.
Mascherbauer K, Nantschev N, Kronberger C et al. · European journal of clinical investigation · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Gender differences in clinical phenotype, right-heart remodelling and outcomes in severe tricuspid regurgitation: a cardiac magnetic resonance study.
This multicenter CMR study investigated sex-related differences in clinical phenotype, right ventricular (RV) remodeling, and all-cause mortality among patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) who underwent CMR after echocardiographic confirmation. Women and men differed in CMR measures of RV remodeling, and these differences were associated with distinct mortality outcomes under medical therapy. The results highlight sex-specific risk assessment using CMR in severe TR, which may guide tailored follow-up and intervention decisions.
Hinojar R, Rodriguez Palomares J, Barreiro-Pérez M et al. · European heart journal. Cardiovascular Imaging · (2026) · 1 citations · View on PubMed ↗
Incorporating modality-specific intensity prior as text prompt for multimodal myocardial pathology segmentation.
This methodological study proposed an intensity-guided multimodal myocardial pathology segmentation framework (I-MMSeg) that uses modality-specific intensity priors generated via multimodal large language models (e.g., GPT-4o) for CMR segmentation. The key advance is leveraging text prompts encoding relative intensity ordering and boundary intensity characteristics to improve segmentation accuracy across modalities. Scientifically, it provides a new way to inject high-level intensity priors into multimodal segmentation pipelines for myocardial pathology quantification.
Fang D, Gu Y, Yu L et al. · Medical image analysis · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Cardiovascular Imaging for Specific Rare Conditions (Case Reports/Reviews)
Coronary Artery Involvement in Kawasaki Disease and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children: Imaging, Risk Stratification, and Long-Term Cardiovascular Considerations.
This review studied cardiovascular involvement in children with Kawasaki disease (KD) and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), focusing on coronary artery imaging findings, risk stratification, and long-term cardiovascular considerations. The key finding was that KD most commonly leads to persistent coronary artery abnormalities (dilation and aneurysms), whereas MIS-C coronary involvement appears less frequent and often transient. The review’s significance is that it supports tailored long-term surveillance strategies for coronary outcomes based on the distinct cardiovascular trajectories of KD versus MIS-C.
Fatima A, Akram MB, Asghar AH et al. · Cardiology in review · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Unique Shield: An Obstructive Huge Tricuspid Pouch Associated With Ventricular Septal Defect Developing Into Adulthood.
This JACC Case Reports report studied a 43-year-old woman with an obstructive huge tricuspid pouch associated with a ventricular septal defect (VSD) that persisted into adulthood. The key finding was that cardiac MRI showed a large perimembranous VSD with bidirectional flow into the tricuspid pouch but no effective communication with the right ventricle, explaining RV inflow obstruction without pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The case is significant because it illustrates a rare anatomic mechanism of tricuspid inflow obstruction and supports surgical partial pouch excision plus VSD closure while preserving the tricuspid valve.
Rentapalla SK, Kumar B, Mukherjee A et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Pericardial Hemangioma: A Case Report and Updated Literature Review.
This case report and literature review studied a 57-year-old man with a rare pericardial hemangioma presenting as positional chest pain, using coronary CT angiography, cardiac MRI, and DOTATATE PET/CT with plasma catecholamines to differentiate it from other hypervascular cardiac/pericardial tumors. Despite MRI suspicion for an intrapericardial paraganglioma, DOTATATE PET/CT and catecholamines were normal and the diagnosis was confirmed after surgical excision with histopathology. Recognizing the imaging pattern of pericardial hemangioma and using a structured multimodality workup can prevent misdiagnosis and guide appropriate surgical management.
Azees R, Udongwo N, Esomonye T et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Diagnostic challenges in isolated cardiac sarcoidosis.
This review studied isolated cardiac sarcoidosis (iCS)—granulomatous inflammation limited to the myocardium—in terms of diagnostic strategy using multimodality imaging, endomyocardial biopsy, and molecular testing. It found that iCS is a diagnosis of exclusion and that cardiac MRI and FDG PET provide complementary assessment of inflammation, fibrosis, and ventricular function, while electroanatomic mapping-guided biopsy may improve histologic yield and genetic testing may further refine risk and etiology. Clinically, integrating these modalities can improve diagnostic confidence in a condition with high prognostic impact and limited single-test sensitivity.
Tersalvi G, Rossi VA, Hundertmark M et al. · ESC heart failure · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Probable Antiphospholipid Syndrome Causing Biventricular Thrombi and Cardiogenic Shock.
This JACC Case Reports article studied a 70-year-old woman with recent Takotsubo cardiomyopathy who developed cardiogenic shock with imaging-confirmed large biventricular thrombi in the setting of probable antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). The key finding was that initial laboratory testing supported probable APS and that anticoagulation plus inotropic support was initiated, but the patient could not be weaned from inotropes and chose hospice care. The case underscores the diagnostic uncertainty and limited evidence for managing extensive intracardiac thrombosis when APS is suspected.
Contractor P, Deng J, O’Neill LP et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Dilated Cardiomyopathy in a Woman With SPG4-Associated Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia.
This case report studied a 54-year-old woman with genetically confirmed SPG4-associated hereditary spastic paraplegia (SPG4-HSP) who developed progressive dyspnea and a new left bundle branch block. The key finding was nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) with reduced ejection fraction and dyssynchrony on echocardiography and cardiac MRI, with alternative causes excluded and extended cardiomyopathy gene testing negative. Clinically, it documents a previously unreported cardiac manifestation of SPG4-HSP and supports considering cardiomyopathy screening in SPG4-HSP patients.
Gude S, Kleiven Ø, Edvardsen T · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Apical Takotsubo Syndrome After Elective Stenting of the Left Anterior Descending Artery.
This case report studied a 77-year-old woman who developed apical Takotsubo syndrome shortly after elective percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery. The key finding was that postprocedural chest pain and ECG changes mimicked acute myocardial infarction, but coronary angiography showed a patent stent without acute thrombosis and cardiac MRI supported Takotsubo syndrome. Scientifically and clinically, it emphasizes that Takotsubo can occur after PCI and should be distinguished from procedural MI to avoid misclassification and inappropriate escalation.
Vitalieva K, Shalaginova Y, Stukalova O et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Exercise recommendations for patients with Marfan syndrome: an updated review.
This updated review studied exercise recommendations for patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS), an autosomal dominant genetic connective tissue disorder with major cardiovascular risk from aortic root dilatation and dissection. The review synthesizes evidence and provides practical guidance on how to balance exercise benefits against the “double-edged sword” concern in MFS (details truncated). The significance is improved, condition-specific exercise counseling to reduce aortic complications while maintaining health benefits.
Jayaratne N, Gianni A, Riding N et al. · European journal of preventive cardiology · (2026) · 1 citations · View on PubMed ↗
Concomitant pericardiectomy and coronary artery bypass grafting associated with marked reduction in liver stiffness in a patient with constrictive pericarditis: a case report.
This case report studied a patient with constrictive pericarditis who underwent concomitant pericardiectomy and coronary artery bypass grafting, focusing on systemic effects reflected by liver stiffness. After surgical relief of constrictive physiology, the patient showed marked reduction in liver stiffness (details truncated). The report suggests that addressing constrictive hemodynamics can reverse congestive hepatopathy-related stiffness even in complex surgical scenarios.
Tabesh E, Darouei B, Kakavand N et al. · Journal of cardiothoracic surgery · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Multi-organ infarctions secondary to a cardiac papillary fibroelastoma in early childhood.
This case report describes a 4-year-old girl with acute stroke and renal infarct in whom transthoracic echocardiography identified a cardiac mass and cardiac MRI confirmed a cardiac papillary fibroelastoma (CPFE). Surgical resection of the CPFE with histopathology confirmation established the diagnosis as the source of embolic events. The report emphasizes that, despite rarity, CPFE should be included in the differential diagnosis of pediatric embolic stroke when a cardiac mass is present.
Alfares F, Alghamdi M, Alkanhal A et al. · Indian journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
An indolent course of undifferentiated pleomorphic cardiac sarcoma mimicking myxoma: A case report.
This case report studied diagnostic imaging and clinical course in a 71-year-old woman with undifferentiated pleomorphic cardiac sarcoma (UPS) that initially mimicked a myxoma. The key finding was that early cardiac MRI showed only subtle atrial septal thickening interpreted as nonspecific, but follow-up imaging over 2 years demonstrated progressive growth, and surgical pathology confirmed high-grade UPS with immunohistochemistry. Clinically, it emphasizes the need for longitudinal reassessment when atrial masses have atypical or evolving features, to avoid misdiagnosis and delays in treatment.
Ziaei H, Palmquist E, Fagman H et al. · Radiology case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Exercise, Fitness, and Athlete’s Heart Remodeling
Cardiopulmonary physical fitness and tissue characterization through T1 and T2 mapping: new insights on athlete’s heart.
This study investigated associations between cardiopulmonary physical fitness from maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and cardiac remodeling assessed by non-contrast CMR T1 and T2 mapping in elite healthy athletes undergoing pre-participation screening. The key finding was that CMR T1/T2 mapping metrics were related to measures of cardiorespiratory fitness, providing new insights into athlete’s heart physiology (specific effect sizes truncated). Clinically, these imaging biomarkers may help distinguish physiologic athletic remodeling from early cardiomyopathy.
Graziano F, Balla D, Juhasz V et al. · European journal of preventive cardiology · (2026) · 5 citations · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
From healthy to heart failure in 24 hours: defining the upper limit of exercise-induced cardiac fatigue.
This study investigated cardiac consequences of 12-hour and 24-hour intense cycling in one former professional ultra-endurance athlete using echocardiography, rest and exercise cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), and biomarkers (BNP and cardiac troponin-I). The key finding was that after the 24-hour world-record attempt the athlete developed evidence of exercise-induced cardiac fatigue approaching an upper limit, with measurable changes in imaging and biomarker responses compared with baseline and the 12-hour attempt. The results are significant for defining how extreme endurance exercise can transiently impair cardiac function and for informing risk monitoring in ultra-endurance settings.
Foulkes SJ, Anderson M, Janssens K et al. · Journal of applied physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985) · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗
Absolute and workload-indexed exercise blood pressure responses: associations with cardiac output, vascular resistance, and cardiorespiratory fitness in females.
This study analyzed exercise blood pressure responses in 135 females undergoing cardiopulmonary exercise testing to determine associations with cardiac output, vascular resistance, and cardiorespiratory fitness (V̇o2peak). The key finding was that systolic blood pressure (SBP) responses—both absolute SBPmax categories and workload-indexed SBP (SBP/W-slope)—relate to the pressure–flow hemodynamic determinants of V̇o2peak. The results are significant because they suggest SBP response profiling during exercise can provide additional physiologic insight into cardiovascular limitations and fitness.
Janssens K, Howden EJ, Mitchell AM et al. · American journal of physiology. Heart and circulatory physiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Transplantation, Immunosuppression, and Kidney-Disease Cardiovascular Risk
CTLA4-Ig + Anti-IL-6/IL-6R Treatment Results in Long-term Allograft Survival and Function in Highly HLA-sensitized Patients.
The study evaluated whether combining CTLA4-Ig (abatacept) with anti–IL-6/IL-6R therapy improves outcomes in highly HLA-sensitized kidney transplant recipients, particularly those at risk of cell-mediated rejection (CMR) and antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) after calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) neuro/nephrotoxicity. The combination produced long-term allograft survival and preserved graft function while addressing concerns for donor-specific antibody (DSA) rebound and rejection. This supports a CNI-conversion strategy using CTLA4-Ig plus IL-6/IL-6R blockade as a clinically relevant option for managing high-risk, HLA-sensitized transplant patients.
Jordan SC, Chandran S, Ammerman N et al. · Transplantation direct · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Synergistic enhancement mechanism of biochar from Chinese medicine residue for tetracycline hydrochloride removal.
This environmental engineering study investigated converting Chinese medicine residue into biochar using hydrothermal treatment plus KOH pretreatment and high-temperature pyrolysis to enhance tetracycline hydrochloride (T-HCl) removal. The combined hydrothermal+KOH approach produced biochar with markedly improved pore structure (specific surface area ~1589 m2/g, >36-fold increase vs single treatment), leading to enhanced adsorption of T-HCl. The results suggest a synergistic, resource-recovery route to create high-performance adsorbents for antibiotic-contaminated wastewater.
Xu E, Song X, Liu Y et al. · Journal of environmental management · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Arteriovenous fistula creation results in cardiac dysfunction and remodeling in a uremic pig model.
This preclinical study used a uremic pig model to test how arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation—performed with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA)—affects cardiovascular function and remodeling. The key finding is that AVF creation in uremic animals leads to cardiac dysfunction and remodeling, consistent with hemodynamic compensation that may contribute to the higher cardiovascular risk seen in end-stage kidney disease. The model provides a mechanistic platform to study AVF-induced cardiac changes and to guide strategies to reduce cardiovascular morbidity in dialysis patients.
Kane J, Singh PG, Kilari S et al. · American journal of physiology. Renal physiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Electronic tools to facilitate medication review in nursing homes: a pilot study.
This pilot implementation study evaluated electronic medication review (MR) support tools—GheOP³S-tool and EBMeDS®CMR—in nursing home residents to reduce time burden and detect potential drug-related problems (pDRPs). Pharmacist-led MR using these electronic screening tools was feasible in a single nursing home setting and was designed to quantify clinical and economic impact of the assisted MR workflow. If effective at scale, these tools could improve medication safety and efficiency in long-term care by standardizing pDRP detection.
Carrein M, Capiau A, Mehuys E et al. · Acta clinica Belgica · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗
Generated automatically on June 05, 2026. Covers PubMed articles published May 29, 2026 – June 05, 2026. Summaries are AI-generated; always consult the original publication for clinical or research decisions.