What’s New in Cardiac MRI?

June 19, 2026 · 62 articles · 15 research themes · covering June 12, 2026 – June 19, 2026

Overview

This week’s digest is dominated by a “precision imaging” theme: multiple studies focus on how to measure cardiac structure and function more reliably (and interpret it more rigorously) using CMR/echo strain, fibrosis mapping, perfusion metrics, and advanced acquisition/segmentation methods. Several papers emphasize that biomarkers are not interchangeable across modalities or software pipelines—highlighting the need for correct statistical handling, uncertainty awareness, and standardized quantification (e.g., strain comparisons, thrombus volume methods, and cine/strain acquisition in challenging rhythms).

A second major thread is multimodal risk stratification using tissue characterization. Across heart failure, population cohorts, and HIV-associated endothelial dysfunction, diffuse and focal fibrosis measures (T1 mapping/ECV, LGE) and perfusion reserve add prognostic value beyond single-domain assessment. Relatedly, myocarditis work leverages CMR phenotypes to infer likely etiology (viral vs immune-mediated) and to understand recovery trajectories after pediatric COVID-19/MIS-C myocarditis.

Finally, the clinical “signal” comes from rare but high-stakes scenarios: immune- and drug-associated pericarditis/myocarditis, eosinophilic cardiac syndromes, and cardiotoxicity from cancer therapies. Case-based reports repeatedly show how multimodality imaging (especially CMR) can resolve diagnostic uncertainty—distinguishing thrombus from intramyocardial dissection, identifying unusual cardiac masses, and detecting cardiac involvement when standard tests are initially unrevealing. Together, these studies point toward a future where better imaging methods, AI-enabled quantification, and multimodal interpretation converge to improve diagnosis, monitoring, and patient selection for interventions.

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Cardiac MRI/CMR Strain Methodology & Quantification

Right Ventricular Strain Analysis with PET-derived Feature Tracking: Direct Comparison with Magnetic Resonance using Hybrid PET/MR.

This retrospective study evaluated feasibility of right ventricular (RV) global longitudinal strain quantification using a newly developed PET feature tracking technique on rest 13N ammonia PET/MR, using magnetic resonance (MR) strain as the reference standard. In 123 consecutive patients (mean age 68 years; 101 men), PET-derived RV strain was compared directly with MR-derived strain to assess agreement and performance. If validated, PET feature tracking could enable simultaneous assessment of RV function and metabolic/functional information in a single hybrid PET/MR workflow.

Katahira M, Fukushima K, Ikeda A et al. · Journal of nuclear cardiology : official publication of the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Segmental strain in chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy: clarifying the role of multiple-comparison adjustment and the clinical interpretation of limits of agreement.

This article discusses methodological considerations for interpreting segmental left ventricular longitudinal strain measurements in 55 stable patients with chronic ischemic heart disease and reduced ejection fraction, focusing on feature-tracking cardiac magnetic resonance (FT-CMR) versus 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography (2D-STE). It emphasizes that segment-level paired comparisons require multiple-comparison adjustment and that limits of agreement should not be used to treat the two imaging modalities as interchangeable for individual patient assessment or longitudinal follow-up. The significance is improved statistical rigor and more reliable clinical interpretation when comparing FT-CMR and 2D-STE strain across LV segments in chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy.

Malik MMUD, Jayaswal RP · Journal of cardiovascular imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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CMR Perfusion & Myocardial Fibrosis for Prognosis

Myocardial fibrosis is associated with worse left ventricular strain and synchrony assessed by novel CMR imaging in the general population: data from the Akershus Cardiac examination 1950 study.

This study examined how myocardial fibrosis relates to left ventricular (LV) deformation and mechanical synchrony in 200 elderly individuals born in 1950 without known coronary artery disease, using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Diffuse fibrosis quantified by septal extracellular volume (ECV) fraction and focal fibrosis quantified by late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) were associated with worse LV global longitudinal/circumferential strain and greater mechanical dispersion measured with CMR feature tracking (CMR-FT) (and additional segmental strain assessment with fast strain-encoded MR). These findings support CMR fibrosis measures as clinically relevant markers of subclinical myocardial dysfunction and impaired mechanical coordination in the general population.

Wimalanathan T, Sulkowska J, Melles AW et al. · The international journal of cardiovascular imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Incremental Prognostic Impact of Quantitative Perfusion CMR and T1 Mapping in Patients with Heart Failure.

This study evaluated the incremental prognostic value of combining quantitative perfusion CMR metrics with diffuse fibrosis assessed by T1 mapping in patients with heart failure (HF). In prospectively recruited HF patients undergoing stress/rest myocardial blood flow (MBF) and perfusion reserve (MPR) assessment alongside diffuse fibrosis quantification by CMR T1 mapping, the combined approach improved risk prediction beyond perfusion or fibrosis alone. Clinically, this supports multimodal CMR (perfusion + T1-based fibrosis) for more accurate prognostication in HF.

Takafuji M, Sia CH, Anderton T et al. · Journal of cardiovascular magnetic resonance : official journal of the Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Metabolic and Redox Pathway Dysregulation in HIV-Associated Coronary Endothelial Dysfunction.

This prospective observational study examined virally suppressed people with HIV (PWH) using in vivo stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) alongside high-throughput serum proteomics to identify mechanisms of coronary endothelial dysfunction. The key finding was that coronary endothelial dysfunction in treated, virally suppressed PWH was linked to circulating proteomic signatures indicating metabolic and redox pathway dysregulation. This is significant because it points to actionable biological pathways that may underlie persistent cardiovascular risk despite antiretroviral therapy.

Keole KS, Bukhari S, Minhas A et al. · American journal of physiology. Heart and circulatory physiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Association of Subclinical Cardiac Remodeling With Incident Cancer in the MESA Cohort.

This study examined whether cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) measures of subclinical cardiac remodeling predict incident cancer in participants from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). Using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, CMR-derived remodeling metrics were assessed for association with all-cancer and sex-specific cancer outcomes. If subclinical remodeling is predictive, CMR could help identify cardiovascular phenotypes linked to future cancer risk and improve risk stratification in population screening.

Cai X, White Q, Juarez J et al. · Journal of the American Heart Association · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Myocarditis Etiology, Imaging Phenotypes & Follow-up

Long-term CMR Findings in Pediatric COVID-19 Related Myocarditis.

This retrospective study characterized long-term cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) findings in 21 pediatric patients with suspected COVID-19-related myocarditis, assessed at early (<30 days), mid (30–364 days), and long-term (≥365 days) intervals using the 2009 Lake Louise criteria. While acute presentations were often favorable, the study quantified persistence or resolution patterns of myocarditis-related CMR abnormalities over time. These data inform follow-up strategies and expectations for recovery in children after COVID-19 or MIS-C–associated myocarditis.

Vasquez Choy AL, Adebo DA, Patel MD et al. · Pediatric cardiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Clinical and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Phenotype of Probable Viral versus Probable Immune-mediated Acute Myocarditis.

This study compared clinical presentation, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) phenotype, and prognosis between clinically defined probable viral myocarditis (pVM) and probable immune-mediated myocarditis (pIM) in patients referred for CMR. pVM was defined as myocarditis within 14 days of a documented infection, while pIM was defined as acute myocarditis in patients with known systemic autoimmune disease, and those meeting neither definition were excluded. By linking CMR phenotypes to likely etiology, the findings aim to improve noninvasive differentiation of myocarditis subtypes when endomyocardial biopsy is not routinely performed.

Bernhard B, Fabian E, Stoyanov K et al. · European journal of heart failure · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

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Immune-Related Cardiac Inflammation (Pericarditis/Myocarditis) & Biologic Therapy

Chest Pain With Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy: Harnessing the Power of Multimodality Imaging.

This case report described multimodality imaging findings in a 53-year-old woman with metastatic lung adenocarcinoma receiving the immune checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab who developed immune-related pericarditis presenting as pleuritic chest pain. Serial imaging showed progressive pericardial thickening on computed tomography alongside inflammatory marker elevation, despite initially negative troponin and prior misattribution to other causes. The report emphasizes that ICI-associated pericarditis can be underrecognized and that multimodality imaging can expedite diagnosis and management.

Roy R, Liu L, Li H et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Benralizumab as a steroid-sparing rescue therapy in ANCA-negative eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis: real-world experience from three cases and review of the literature.

This Rheumatology International report described three real-world cases of ANCA-negative eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) treated with benralizumab as steroid-sparing rescue therapy. Across the cases, benralizumab (anti–IL-5 receptor monoclonal antibody) induced eosinophil depletion and was associated with improved control of disease manifestations while reducing glucocorticoid requirements. The case series supports benralizumab as a potential option for refractory or steroid-dependent ANCA-negative EGPA, warranting larger prospective studies.

Sebastian A, Kosałka-Węgiel J, Puchala M et al. · Rheumatology international · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Lymphatic endothelial cells actively shape immune responses in the lungs.

This review summarized experimental evidence on how lung lymphatic endothelial cells actively regulate immune responses, including mechanisms that limit acute inflammation and shape adaptive immunity and tissue remodeling. It highlights pathways such as PAR1-mediated permeabilization of lymphatic junctions that influence lymphatic transport and immune cell trafficking. Understanding these mechanisms could inform therapeutic strategies targeting pulmonary inflammation and immune dysregulation.

Rivers AK, Migues Ramirez C, Cleary SJ · Current opinion in immunology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Myocardial tuberculosis: a diagnostic challenge illustrated by two cases and review of contemporary management.

This article reviewed and illustrated myocardial tuberculosis as a diagnostic challenge using two clinical cases of extrapulmonary tuberculosis involving the myocardium. The key finding was that myocardial tuberculosis can present with variable and sometimes misleading clinical/radiologic features, yet both reported patients improved after first-line anti-tuberculosis therapy (with one also receiving corticosteroids and therapeutic anticoagulation). Clinically, it emphasizes that myocardial tuberculosis should be considered in appropriate contexts to avoid misdiagnosis and to enable timely treatment.

Tremouilhac EM, Richaud C, Tresorier R et al. · The international journal of cardiovascular imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Constrictive Pericarditis and Bilateral Pleural Effusions Unmasked in an HLA-B27 Positive Patient.

This case report studied a 40-year-old HLA-B27–positive man with progressive dyspnea, fevers, and cough who developed constrictive pericarditis after initial acute pericarditis. The patient failed medical therapy and underwent radical pericardiectomy, with symptom resolution afterward. Clinically, it highlights that HLA-B27 positivity may be associated with constrictive pericarditis and should prompt consideration of autoimmune/spondyloarthropathy-related etiologies.

Villalonga M, Al-Dalakta A, El Roumi J et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Eosinophilic Cardiac Disease (Myocarditis/Pericarditis/Endocarditis)

Fulminant Eosinophilic Myocarditis After Sequential Biologic Therapy in Ulcerative Colitis.

This case report detailed fulminant eosinophilic myocarditis in a 35-year-old man with ulcerative colitis who developed cardiogenic shock after sequential biologic therapy (most recently vedolizumab) and corticosteroid withdrawal. Coronary angiography showed no obstructive disease, CMR suggested diffuse myocardial involvement, and endomyocardial biopsy confirmed eosinophilic myocarditis with severe biventricular dysfunction (LVEF ~10%) and marked hypereosinophilia. The case underscores the risk of severe eosinophilic cardiac inflammation after biologic sequencing and steroid withdrawal in susceptible patients.

Lee J, Kim D, Hong D et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Loeffler Endocarditis: Multimodality Imaging of a Common Cardiac Phenotype in Distinct Hypereosinophilic Syndromes.

This case report described Loeffler endocarditis in a 43-year-old man with long-standing atopy and persistent eosinophilia, representing a hypereosinophilic syndrome. Echocardiography showed biventricular apical thrombi and CMR confirmed ventricular thrombi with diffuse subendocardial late gadolinium enhancement consistent with fibrotic-stage disease, with rapid hematologic response after high-dose corticosteroids and anticoagulation. The multimodality imaging highlights the need for early recognition of Loeffler endocarditis in eosinophilic syndromes to prevent thromboembolic and progressive cardiac complications.

Salar T, Feitell S, Parikh V et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Hemorrhagic Eosinophilic Pericardial Effusion Associated With Probable Sparganosis.

This case report studied a 25-year-old man who developed hemorrhagic eosinophilic pericardial effusion after ingesting undercooked frog meat, with probable sparganosis due to Spirometra larvae. The key finding was that extensive diagnostic testing (cultures, cytology, cross-sectional imaging, CMR, PET/CT, and next-generation sequencing) failed to identify an alternative cause, while eosinophilia, eosinophils in pericardial fluid, markedly elevated IgE, and serology supported sparganosis. Scientifically and clinically, it highlights sparganosis as a rare infectious etiology of hemorrhagic eosinophilic pericardial effusion and the value of broad exclusion plus targeted serologic testing.

Zhu Y, Wang D, Wu Y et al. · International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Eosinophilic Cardiomyopathy in Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis After Dupilumab Therapy.

This case report studied a 64-year-old man who developed eosinophilic cardiomyopathy/eosinophilic myocarditis after starting dupilumab (IL-4Rα antagonist) with marked hypereosinophilia and elevated cardiac biomarkers. Echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance showed left ventricular dysfunction, and endomyocardial biopsy confirmed eosinophilic myocarditis; treatment with high-dose corticosteroids plus cyclophosphamide led to rapid improvement. The case is significant because it links dupilumab-associated eosinophilia to severe cardiac involvement resembling EGPA-spectrum disease, emphasizing the need for cardiac evaluation when symptoms and eosinophilia occur.

Agredano I, Michiels V, Argacha JF et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Cardiac Amyloidosis Imaging & Tracer-Based Diagnosis

Multimodality imaging characterization of Perugini scintigraphic grades in transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy: a single-center experience.

This retrospective single-center study evaluated technetium-99m pyrophosphate (99mTc-PYP) scintigraphy in patients with transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) to compare multimodality imaging characteristics across Perugini scintigraphic grades 2 vs 3. The authors reported differences in diagnostic yield and imaging phenotypes between Perugini grades, supporting that grade 2 and grade 3—while both diagnostic—may reflect distinct clinical/imaging presentations. These findings refine noninvasive ATTR-CM characterization using 99mTc-PYP and multimodality imaging, which may improve risk stratification and interpretation of borderline/variable scintigraphy results.

Bucius P, Zarambaite E, Lusaite K et al. · Journal of cardiovascular imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Design and Rationale of the REVEAL PET Study: A Study of 124I-evuzamitide to Diagnose Cardiac Amyloidosis.

This phase 3, open-label, single-arm REVEAL PET study was designed to test diagnostic performance of 124I-evuzamitide PET/CT for detecting cardiac amyloidosis in adults undergoing evaluation for suspected disease across 18 U.S. centers. The trial rationale is that 124I-evuzamitide is a fibril-targeting radiotracer binding hypersulfated heparan sulfate glycans present in amyloid fibrils across multiple amyloid subtypes. Successful results would support a standardized, noninvasive imaging approach to improve diagnosis and staging of cardiac amyloidosis.

Dorbala S, Maurer MS, Cuddy SAM et al. · Journal of nuclear cardiology : official publication of the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

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Aortic Valve Disease Progression & Multimodality Imaging

Aortic Stenosis Progression: Lessons from Multimodality Imaging.

This review studied the progression of calcific aortic stenosis and how multimodality imaging can characterize disease activity and severity. It found that echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance, cardiac computed tomography, and nuclear imaging provide complementary “checkpoints” for valve calcification burden and metabolic activity that may help identify targets to halt progression. Clinically, it supports using imaging beyond standard gradients to guide research and potentially future therapies aimed at slowing aortic stenosis.

Jain R, Padang R, Postalian A et al. · Mayo Clinic proceedings · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance reclassification of aortic regurgitation after transcatheter aortic valve implantation: A COMPARE-TAVI 1 substudy.

This COMPARE-TAVI 1 substudy studied patients randomized to Sapien 3/Sapien 3 Ultra versus Myval/Myval Octacor transcatheter heart valves, comparing transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) with cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) for aortic regurgitation (AR) assessment after TAVI using VARC-3 criteria. The key finding was that CMR reclassified AR relative to TTE by directly quantifying regurgitant flow rather than relying on semiquantitative, operator-dependent echocardiographic measures. The significance is that CMR may improve post-TAVI AR characterization and thereby refine clinical decision-making and trial endpoints.

Pedersen AAU, Pedersen ALD, Mogensen NSB et al. · Journal of cardiovascular magnetic resonance : official journal of the Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Transcatheter Pulmonary/Valve Therapy & Hemodynamics

Pectus Excavatum-Induced Preload Insufficiency Presenting as Long-Standing Sinus Tachycardia.

This JACC Case Reports report described a 65-year-old woman with long-standing sinus tachycardia due to severe pectus excavatum causing preload insufficiency from anterior cardiac compression. Right heart catheterization showed markedly low filling pressures (mean right atrial pressure 1 mm Hg) with preserved cardiac output, and CMR demonstrated severe pectus excavatum (Haller index 8.1) with anterior cardiac compression. The case highlights pectus excavatum as a rare, treatable hemodynamic cause of persistent tachycardia when preload is impaired.

Alkhatib R, Zghyer F, Hatab T et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Prospective Midterm Outcomes of the PULSTA Self-Expandable Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve: The PULSTA CE Approval Study.

This prospective, multinational PULSTA CE approval study assessed midterm safety, hemodynamic performance, and durability of the PULSTA self-expanding transcatheter pulmonary valve (PULSTA Carpentier Edwards) in patients with right ventricular outflow tract dysfunction. Across 58 enrolled patients in 11 centers across 6 countries, the trial evaluated procedural success and subsequent valve performance over midterm follow-up to characterize durability and adverse events. The study provides evidence supporting feasibility and midterm effectiveness of this self-expanding pulmonary valve platform for diverse native and surgically repaired anatomies.

Lee SY, Kim GB, Carminati M et al. · Circulation. Cardiovascular interventions · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Impact of systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt embolization on right heart hemodynamics in patients with bronchiectasis.

This clinical study evaluated right heart hemodynamic changes after systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt (SPS) embolization in patients with bronchiectasis using right heart catheterization and, when tolerated, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR). The key finding was that SPS embolization improved right heart hemodynamics within 24–48 hours, including measures such as stroke volume, cardiac index/output, pulmonary artery pressure, and shunt oxygen saturation. This is clinically significant because it supports SPS embolization as an effective intervention to rapidly reduce abnormal shunt physiology and improve cardiopulmonary hemodynamics in bronchiectasis-associated SPS.

Wu H, Jiang F, Guo L et al. · Journal of vascular and interventional radiology : JVIR · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

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Right Heart Remodeling & Arrhythmia Risk (Congenital/Repair)

Shape and flow characterization of the pulmonary arteries after the LeCompte maneuver.

This retrospective single-center study used statistical shape modeling (SSM) and 4D flow cardiac magnetic resonance imaging to characterize pulmonary artery (PA) geometry and flow in patients with transposition of the great arteries (TGA) after the LeCompte/arterial switch operation (ASO). The key finding was that PA shape and flow metrics could be quantified post-ASO and compared against 49 age/size-matched controls with structurally normal hearts. Clinically, this provides a framework to link post-surgical PA morphology to hemodynamics, potentially improving risk stratification for later right ventricular outflow or PA complications.

Bunag JE, Casto T, Phan TT et al. · JRSM cardiovascular disease · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Right Ventricular Remodeling in Repaired Tetralogy of Fallot: Imaging, Arrhythmia Risk, and Timing of Pulmonary Valve Replacement.

This review summarizes how right ventricular (RV) remodeling in repaired tetralogy of Fallot (rTOF) is assessed with imaging and how it relates to arrhythmia risk and the timing of pulmonary valve replacement in patients surviving into adulthood after surgical repair. It highlights that progressive RV dilatation and geometry changes, declining systolic/diastolic function, myocardial fibrosis, and electromechanical dyssynchrony—driven largely by chronic pulmonary regurgitation and residual outflow obstruction—create an arrhythmogenic substrate that informs when pulmonary valve replacement should be considered. The clinical significance is guiding risk stratification and timing of intervention to mitigate long-term RV dysfunction and arrhythmia in rTOF patients.

Fatima H, Akram MB, Sher A et al. · Cardiology in review · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

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Cardiac Thrombus/Intramyocardial Lesions & Differential Diagnosis

Giant Postischemic Left Ventricular Aneurysm Without Q Waves: Multimodality Imaging-Guided Surgery.

This JACC Case Reports article described a 55-year-old woman with inferolateral myocardial infarction who developed a giant postischemic left ventricular aneurysm without pathological Q waves, despite no Q-wave findings on serial ECG. Multimodality imaging demonstrated progressive LV remodeling with aneurysmal evolution and mural thrombus, guiding surgical management. The case illustrates that absence of Q waves can delay recognition of nonanterior aneurysms and that imaging-guided decision-making is critical for timely intervention.

Gaido L, Attisani M, Scalini F et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Agreement between ventricular stroke volumes and great vessel flow using cine and phase-contrast MRI in healthy subjects.

This study assessed agreement between ventricular stroke volumes (LV-SV, RV-SV) derived from cine MRI and great-vessel forward flow (ascending aorta and pulmonary artery) measured by phase-contrast MRI in 15 healthy volunteers. The key finding was systematic bias and imperfect agreement between RV stroke volume and pulmonary artery/aortic forward flow, quantified using Bland–Altman analysis and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Scientifically and clinically, it cautions that indirect regurgitation quantification methods assuming equivalence between ventricular SV and great-vessel flow may introduce error even in healthy subjects.

Kawaguchi A, Kawaguchi W, Hayashi M et al. · Radiological physics and technology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

A simplified geometric CMR method for reproducible quantification of left ventricular thrombus volume : Left Ventricular thrombus: a standardized measurement method.

This post-hoc analysis assessed feasibility and reproducibility of a simplified geometric CMR method for standardized quantification of left ventricular thrombus (LVT) volume in patients from the COVERT-MI trial. The key finding was that the geometric CMR approach enabled reproducible LVT volume measurement using a standardized method across scans/observers. Standardized, reproducible LVT quantification could improve prognostic studies and guide clinical management by enabling consistent thrombus characterization.

Fuzeau A, Angoulvant D, Pucheux J et al. · The international journal of cardiovascular imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Intramyocardial Dissecting Hematoma After Myocardial Infarction Diagnosed by Multimodality Imaging.

This case report studied a 47-year-old man after myocardial infarction who developed a large left ventricular mass initially presumed to be thrombus but ultimately diagnosed as an intramyocardial dissecting hematoma. Despite anticoagulation, he deteriorated with cardiogenic shock and ventricular tachycardia, and cardiac magnetic resonance showed extensive anterior transmural infarction with a dissecting intramyocardial cavity consistent with intramyocardial dissection. Clinically, it highlights that multimodality imaging—especially CMR—can distinguish intramyocardial dissection from LV thrombus, which is crucial because management differs.

Borg BC, Josephs C, Ghincea C et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Cardiotoxicity from Cancer Therapy & Drug-Induced Cardiac Injury

Sudden Death in Young Competitive Athletes Due to Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy: A 4-Decade National Referral Center Experience.

This Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology registry study analyzed sudden cardiac death in young competitive athletes (≤40 years) in the North-East Italy juvenile SCD registry from 1985–2024 to characterize arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) prevalence and features under evolving diagnostic criteria. ACM accounted for 29% of athlete sudden deaths, and the authors characterized clinical/pathology patterns of ACM cases in the context of preparticipation screening awareness. The results emphasize the ongoing importance of improved detection strategies for ACM in athletes to prevent sudden death.

De Gaspari M, Pilichou K, Zorzi A et al. · Circulation. Arrhythmia and electrophysiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Outcomes From the Multicenter ACCRU-LY-1804/CARiBOU TRIAL (Cytarabine, Acalabrutinib and Rituximab Integrated With Bortezomib-Based Outpatient Therapy) in 1st Line Mantle Cell Lymphoma.

This phase 2 multicenter ACCRU-LY-1804/CARiBOU trial evaluated first-line therapy for previously untreated mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) using a regimen combining cytarabine and bortezomib-based outpatient therapy with continuous acalabrutinib. The key outcome was complete metabolic response (CMR) rate, with secondary endpoints including safety, stem cell collection feasibility, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). The study provides evidence for an outpatient, multitargeted chemoimmunotherapy approach that may improve durable responses in MCL.

Smith SD, Sundaram S, Giri S et al. · American journal of hematology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Myopericarditis After Combined Idarubicin and Quizartinib in FLT3-ITD-Positive AML.

This JACC Case Reports article described a 64-year-old man with acute myelogenous leukemia who developed myopericarditis after sequential anthracycline-based therapy (cytarabine and idarubicin) followed by quizartinib in the setting of FLT3-ITD positivity. Cardiac magnetic resonance showed late gadolinium enhancement consistent with myopericardial involvement, indicating clinically significant cardiotoxicity temporally associated with FLT3 inhibition after anthracycline exposure. The case highlights the need for heightened cardiac monitoring and careful risk assessment when combining anthracyclines with quizartinib in FLT3-mutated AML.

Spahr ZR, Vasquez MA, Tangella A et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · 1 citations · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Fluoropyrimidine Cardiotoxicity With Overlapping Vasospastic and Pericardial Features: A Diagnostic Challenge.

This JACC Case Reports article presented a 57-year-old man with HER2-positive gastric cancer who developed fluoropyrimidine cardiotoxicity with overlapping vasospastic and pericardial features during 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) infusion as part of FOLFOX-6M plus trastuzumab. Despite initially negative biomarkers and normal echocardiography/coronary CT angiography, he developed evolving ECG changes including concave ST-segment elevation, consistent with a diagnostic challenge between coronary spasm and inflammatory pericardial involvement. The report underscores that fluoropyrimidine cardiotoxicity can present with mixed phenotypes and may require multimodal evaluation even when early tests are unrevealing.

Viñas-Mendieta AE, Valencia-Hernandez HA, Ruiz-Mori E et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · 1 citations · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Rapid Onset of Iron Overload Cardiomyopathy in Cirrhosis.

This case report studied two men with cirrhosis who developed iron overload cardiomyopathy (IOC) without hereditary hemochromatosis or transfusion-dependent anemia. Both patients rapidly developed severe cardiomyopathy with markedly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (e.g., 23% in patient #1). These observations suggest that clinically significant IOC can emerge quickly in cirrhosis even without classic hemochromatosis risk factors, supporting early iron assessment in new cardiomyopathy among cirrhotic patients.

Nouraee CM, Swain WH, Harmon DM et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Hydroxychloroquine-associated cardiomyopathy with nondiagnostic noninvasive evaluation: diagnostic value of endomyocardial biopsy in a case-based review.

This case-based review studied hydroxychloroquine (HCQ)–associated cardiomyopathy in a 57-year-old woman with Sjögren’s disease treated with HCQ 400 mg daily for ~21 years (~3,000 g cumulative dose). The key finding was that prolonged HCQ cardiotoxicity can progress despite nondiagnostic standard noninvasive testing, and endomyocardial biopsy provided diagnostic value when noninvasive evaluation was inconclusive. Clinically, the report supports early consideration of invasive myocardial sampling to confirm HCQ cardiomyopathy when symptoms (e.g., syncope, dyspnea) emerge and noninvasive workup fails to establish a diagnosis.

Alkhatib A, Al-Kofahi M, Abumuhfouz M et al. · Rheumatology international · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

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Cardiac Masses/Metastasis & Rare Cardiac Tumors

Osteosarcoma in a Young Patient: When the Tumor Reaches the Heart.

This case report studied a 17-year-old boy with prior osteosarcoma who presented with dyspnea and palpitations and was found to have a cardiac mass. Transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance (including late gadolinium enhancement) suggested malignancy, and surgical resection with histopathology confirmed metastatic osteosarcoma. Scientifically and clinically, it underscores that cardiac metastasis from osteosarcoma is rare but should be considered when imaging shows intracardiac masses in young patients with cancer history.

Melem IC, Baratta SJ, Gutierrez G et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) Phenotypes, Risk, and Detection

Occult Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation After Preoperative Cardiovascular Evaluation.

This case report described an occult idiopathic ventricular fibrillation event in a 50-year-old man occurring about 1 hour after preoperative cardiovascular clearance for elective surgery. Despite comprehensive evaluation—including coronary angiography, cardiac magnetic resonance, electrophysiological study, and genetic testing—no structural heart disease or inherited arrhythmia syndrome was identified, and a dual-chamber implantable cardioverter-defibrillator was implanted. The report highlights that idiopathic VF can present abruptly even after apparently normal preoperative workup, supporting careful perioperative risk awareness.

Ganthan RR, Isber R, Elcicek A et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Multimodal phenotypic clustering predicts cardiac outcomes in Fabry disease.

This Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases study developed and tested a multimodal phenotypic clustering framework integrating sex, genetics, clinical assessments, ECG, imaging, and biomarkers to predict cardiac outcomes in Fabry disease participants. In a cohort totaling 98 participants (525 “visit years”), the combined multimodal approach outperformed single-modality assessments for forecasting adverse cardiovascular outcomes over follow-up. The work supports a clinically comprehensive, data-integrated strategy for prognostication in Fabry cardiomyopathy, potentially guiding intensity of monitoring and therapy.

Shemesh E, Feigin P, Tan CY et al. · Orphanet journal of rare diseases · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Phenotype, genotype and prognosis of Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathies: A French multicentric cohort.

This French multicenter cohort study compared phenotype, genotype, and prognosis of apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (ApHCM) versus non-apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in 201 genetically evaluated ApHCM patients after excluding cases with Fabry disease and amyloidosis. Using echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance, genetic testing, and longitudinal follow-up, the study found that ApHCM has a distinct genetic/phenotypic profile and a different prognosis compared with non-apical HCM. These results clarify the natural history and genetic determinants of ApHCM, informing counseling and risk assessment in patients with apical-pattern LV hypertrophy.

Martel H, Lucas C, Benjelloun H et al. · European heart journal. Cardiovascular Imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Artificial Intelligence for the Detection of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy From Standard Electrocardiogram.

This diagnostic study evaluated an AI algorithm (Viz HCM, Viz.ai) for detecting hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) from standard 12-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs) in patients with suspected HCM who had cardiac MRI (cMRI) confirmation. Among 150 analyzable ECGs with cMRI-confirmed HCM and 83 controls without cardiomyopathy, the key finding was that the AI could classify ECGs as HCM with measurable performance and identifiable predictors of correct classification. Clinically, this supports earlier, scalable HCM detection using routine ECGs to reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Park J, Kermanshahchi J, Love CJ et al. · JACC. Advances · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Current landscape of paediatric and young adult cardio-oncology care in Latin America.

This cross-sectional survey characterized the current landscape of pediatric and adolescent cardio-oncology care across Latin America, focusing on workforce training, clinical infrastructure, diagnostic resources, follow-up strategies, and research capacity. The study found that implementation and resources remain variably developed and incompletely characterized across the region. Mapping these gaps is clinically significant for directing capacity-building efforts to reduce long-term cardiovascular morbidity in childhood cancer survivors.

Stelmaszewski EV, Biancolini J, Gonzalez Ortiz A et al. · Cardiology in the young · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

A Narrative Review of Risk Assessment Approaches for Implantable Defibrillator Therapy to Prevent Sudden Cardiac Death in Acute Myocardial Infarction.

This narrative review evaluated risk assessment strategies for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) therapy to prevent sudden cardiac death (SCD) after acute myocardial infarction (AMI), emphasizing limitations of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)-only models. It summarizes the shift from LVEF-based risk stratification toward more comprehensive approaches incorporating additional clinical and advanced imaging modalities, including cardiac magnetic resonance. More accurate multimodal risk assessment could improve ICD patient selection and reduce both missed SCD risk and unnecessary device implantation.

Kakavand N, Shojaei Y, Sadri M et al. · Cardiology research and practice · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Left ventricular strain and hemodynamic forces from cine CMR for detecting constrictive physiology in pericarditis.

This case report studied an African man with longstanding hypertension whose apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (ApHCM) was misdiagnosed as hypertensive heart disease due to anchoring bias. The key finding was that the diagnostic error persisted in a resource-limited setting where cardiac MRI (CMR) was unavailable, and the case illustrates how cognitive bias can override contradictory clinical evidence. Clinically, it underscores the need for careful differential diagnosis and access to CMR to correctly identify ApHCM in hypertensive patients.

Vollbrecht TM, Proff A, Juraschitz S et al. · Insights into imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Elite-Level Sports: A 12-Year Follow-Up Case.

This 12-year follow-up case studied an asymptomatic elite athlete diagnosed with apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (aHCM) from ages 17 to 31 years. Despite long-term elite-level sports participation, there were no adverse morphologic changes or progression of apical fibrosis or disease after stopping professional sports. The report supports the view that aHCM may have a more favorable long-term course than other HCM phenotypes, informing risk discussions for athletes.

Thio Q, van Hattum J, Nijland F et al. · JACC. Case reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Rates, Timing and Correlates of Suicide in Norwegian Prisons: A 23-Year National Cohort Study.

This national cohort study examined suicide mortality in Norwegian prisons by timing relative to incarceration and associations with sociodemographic, criminological, and clinical factors across 2000–2022. Using linked registry data from the Norwegian Prison Release study (nPRIS), it quantified rates and correlates of suicide over a 23-year period. The significance is public-health relevance: identifying when risk is highest and which factors correlate with suicide can inform targeted prevention strategies in correctional settings.

Bukten A, Mehlum L, Lokdam NT et al. · Archives of suicide research : official journal of the International Academy for Suicide Research · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Gene Therapy & Rare Inherited Cardiomyopathies

AAVrh.10hFXN Gene Therapy for the Cardiomyopathy of Friedreich Ataxia: A Nonrandomized Clinical Trial.

This nonrandomized JAMA Cardiology clinical trial assessed safety and preliminary efficacy of AAVrh.10hFXN gene therapy—an AAV serotype rh.10 vector delivering the normal human frataxin (FXN) coding sequence—in adults with Friedreich ataxia (FA) cardiomyopathy. The trial reported that systemic AAVrh.10hFXN administration was feasible and provided preliminary evidence of cardiomyopathy benefit alongside an acceptable safety profile for this early-phase study. The findings support FXN gene replacement as a disease-modifying strategy for FA cardiomyopathy and justify further controlled trials.

Crystal RG, Weinsaft JW, Kaminsky SM et al. · JAMA cardiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

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AI/Engineering for Cardiac Imaging, Segmentation & Quantitative Reliability

L1CAM signaling through planar cell polarity drives SOX2 expression and lung adenocarcinoma metastasis.

This study investigated how L1CAM signaling through planar cell polarity regulates SOX2 expression and promotes metastasis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). L1CAM was identified at the invasive front and in distant metastases and functionally promoted the emergence/persistence of SOX2+ metastatic progenitors, linking L1CAM-mediated signaling to a fetal-like, metastatic program. The work suggests L1CAM–SOX2 axis as a mechanistic driver of LUAD metastatic plasticity and a potential therapeutic target to limit dissemination.

Park JS, Kaygusuz Y, Kenum C et al. · Nature communications · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Analysis of cardiac dynamic global function.

This methodological study proposed a systematic approach to analyze dynamic global cardiac function across the cardiac cycle using AI-assisted segmentation to overcome limitations of conventional ejection-fraction-only analysis. The key finding was the introduction of standardized analysis concepts for dynamic changes in cardiac volumes over time rather than only end-diastole/end-systole. Scientifically, it enables more reproducible, clinically practical quantification of cardiac functional dynamics from imaging data.

Axel L, Kanski M, Jhaveri A et al. · JRSM cardiovascular disease · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Filling the Gaps: Generating 4D Dense Cardiac Anatomy from Sparse CMR for Enhanced Tetralogy of Fallot Assessment.

This study developed and validated a deep learning pipeline to generate 4D dense cardiac anatomy from sparse CMR slices for improved assessment of repaired tetralogy of Fallot (rToF), using CT-derived isotropic 3D whole-heart segmentations to train the model. The key finding was that the model could reconstruct comprehensive dense 3D four-chamber anatomy from CMR-like sparse, anisotropic slices, bridging CMR accessibility with CT-like spatial resolution. This is significant because it may reduce slice-mismatch and motion-related limitations in rToF follow-up and improve surgical/clinical decision-making.

Mauger C, Deng Y, Xu Y et al. · Journal of cardiovascular magnetic resonance : official journal of the Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Size-resolved microelectrical effects of fine aerosol on nocturnal ozone: Evidence from field observations and statistical modeling.

This field study investigated how fine aerosol electrical properties—specifically particle charge-to-mass ratio (CMR)—relate to abnormal nocturnal ozone (O3) enhancement under stable nighttime conditions in Xi’an (2023–2025). Using generalized additive models (GAM), partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), and an interfacial contribution model, the key finding was an association between aerosol electrical characteristics and nocturnal O3 variations. The results suggest that particulate electrical effects may contribute to nocturnal O3 chemistry beyond meteorological transport alone, informing atmospheric process models.

Wang Y, Zhang L, Li J et al. · Environmental research · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Advances in artificial intelligence for the evaluation of mitral regurgitation.

This narrative review summarized current evidence for artificial intelligence (AI) across the mitral regurgitation (MR) diagnostic pathway, from upstream screening to advanced multimodality imaging. The key finding was that AI tools (e.g., digital stethoscope approaches and ECG-based deep learning models) are largely used as enrichment or risk-stratification tools rather than standalone definitive diagnostics, with ongoing work needed for clinical integration. This is significant because it maps where AI can reduce time and interobserver variability in MR evaluation and highlights remaining validation and workflow challenges.

Sanchez AA, Sadeghpour A, Asch FM · Current opinion in cardiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Left Atrial Reservoir Strain for Predicting Progression to End-Stage in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.

This cohort study analyzed 925 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) followed for progression to end-stage HCM (LVEF <50% without reversible causes), and evaluated prognostic value of left atrial reservoir strain, with a CMR subcohort of 491 patients. The key finding was that left atrial reservoir strain measured at baseline echocardiography was associated with subsequent progression to end-stage HCM over a median 6.5-year follow-up. Clinically, this suggests left atrial reservoir strain could improve risk prediction and help identify HCM patients likely to deteriorate toward end-stage disease.

Kwak S, Jeong MH, Park CS et al. · European heart journal. Cardiovascular Imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Free-Breathing Dynamic, Regularized, Adaptive Cluster Optimization (DRACO) Cine Cardiac MRI in Atrial Fibrillation.

This prospective study developed and evaluated a free-breathing version of DRACO (Dynamic, Regularized, Adaptive Cluster Optimization) cine cardiac MRI to handle both cardiac and respiratory motion in atrial fibrillation (AF). In 30 participants (10 sinus rhythm and 20 AF) scanned at 3.0T using bSSFP with ECG-gated segmented cine and real-time acquisition, the tailored DRACO approach was assessed for image quality and quantifiable cine outputs under irregular rhythm. If effective, DRACO could improve reliable cine CMR acquisition in AF without breath-holding, enabling broader clinical use of cardiac MRI in arrhythmia patients.

Ming Z, Pogosyan A, Dong X et al. · Journal of magnetic resonance imaging : JMRI · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Quantification of mitral regurgitation: from traditional methods to artificial intelligence.

This review compared traditional echocardiographic methods for quantifying mitral regurgitation (MR) with emerging artificial intelligence approaches. It reports that AI-based MR quantification can analyze regurgitant flow throughout systole, better handle eccentric/multiple/non-holosystolic jets, and show favorable agreement with cardiac magnetic resonance. Improved MR quantification accuracy could enhance severity grading and treatment decisions, especially in complex jet geometries where geometric assumptions fail.

Cho K, Su J, Bonnefous O et al. · Cardiovascular ultrasound · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Parasitically coupled 16-port massive MIMO antenna for mmWave applications.

This engineering study investigated a parasitically coupled 16-port compact massive MIMO antenna designed for mmWave operation, using a replicated single-element structure with modified ground-plane features. The key finding was that the antenna resonated at 40 GHz and achieved the intended multiport massive-MIMO functionality by combining five triangular parasitic elements, a triangular feed-line element, and impedance matching with defected ground and stubs. Scientifically, it provides a compact, scalable antenna architecture for 40-GHz mmWave massive MIMO systems.

Mishra B, Sharma H, Misra NK et al. · Scientific reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Cardiac function and myocardial strain analysis at 7T using B1 shimming in comparison to 3T magnetic resonance imaging.

This study compared cardiac MRI at 7 Tesla versus 3 Tesla for cine imaging and myocardial strain quantification using B1 shimming to mitigate transmit B1 inhomogeneity in ten volunteers. The key finding was that an efficient workflow using a single B1 shim set (derived from B1 mapping at 7T) enabled assessment of volumetric and strain parameters with improved image quality despite spatial B1 heterogeneity. This is significant for advancing the feasibility of 7T cardiac cine and strain imaging toward more reliable quantitative measurements.

Jung B, Hundertmark M, Peters AA et al. · The international journal of cardiovascular imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Misdiagnosed as Hypertensive Heart Disease Due to Anchoring Bias in an African Man: A Case Report.

This retrospective single-center study evaluated how cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) findings changed diagnoses and management in 111 adult acute cardiovascular patients in a regional Australian hospital. The key finding was that CMR significantly improved diagnostic accuracy and led to measurable management changes after imaging, quantified using Cohen’s kappa for pre- vs post-CMR agreement. This is clinically significant because it supports CMR’s real-world impact on acute decision-making in non-metropolitan healthcare settings.

Okema JN, Chukwuocha C, Danvictor E et al. · International medical case reports journal · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

High resolution, 3D isotropic late gadolinium enhanced imaging for the quantification of left atrial fibrosis and post-ablation scarring.

This prospective CMR study evaluated a high-resolution, 3D isotropic late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) Dixon sequence for quantifying left atrial (LA) fibrosis and post-ablation scarring in 40 ablation-naïve atrial fibrillation (AF) patients (paroxysmal and persistent) and 20 healthy controls. The key finding was that the higher spatial resolution of the 3D isotropic LGE approach better characterizes the thin atrial wall, enabling more accurate assessment of LA fibrosis compared with conventional lower-resolution LGE. Scientifically and clinically, it provides improved imaging methodology for quantifying atrial myopathy and for evaluating fibrosis/scarring relevant to AF progression and ablation planning.

Fenski M, Hickstein R, Krüger LD et al. · European heart journal. Imaging methods and practice · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Nurses’ Clinical Decision-Making During Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Dressing Application and Removal: A Qualitative Study.

This qualitative study investigated how registered nurses in adult and paediatric cancer wards in Brisbane, Australia make clinical decisions when applying and removing peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) dressings and securement devices. Using think-aloud sessions and framework analysis mapped to dual process theory, the study characterized nurses’ reasoning during both dressing application and removal across four dressing/securement combinations. The findings are significant for improving PICC care protocols and training by clarifying the cognitive processes behind safe catheter management.

Larsen EN, Wickins J, Marsh N et al. · Seminars in oncology nursing · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Modeling Aleatoric Uncertainty in Cardiac MRI Segmentation: Probabilistic Detection and Contour Regression.

This engineering study modeled aleatoric uncertainty in cardiac MRI segmentation using probabilistic detection and contour regression to improve reliability of derived biomarkers such as left and right ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF/RVEF). The key finding was that estimating variance/uncertainty at the biomarker level can address calibration gaps left by evaluations focused mainly on average segmentation accuracy. Scientifically, it advances uncertainty-aware AI for cardiac MRI so individual-patient biomarker estimates better reflect true variability.

Zhao Y, Zhang Y, Tourais J et al. · IEEE transactions on medical imaging · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Generated automatically on June 19, 2026. Covers PubMed articles published June 12, 2026 – June 19, 2026. Summaries are AI-generated; always consult the original publication for clinical or research decisions.