1. Best Practices in Nuclear Imaging for the Diagnosis of Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) in KSA: The Eagle Eyes of Local Experts.
- Author
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Alqarni, Abdullah, Aljizeeri, Ahmed, Bakhsh, Aquib Mohammadidrees, El-Zeftawy, Hossam Ahmed Maher, Farghaly, Hussein R., Alqadhi, Mukhtar Ahmed M., Algarni, Mushref, Asiri, Zain Mohammed, Osman, Ahmed, Haddadin, Haya, Alayary, Islam, and Al-Mallah, Mouaz H.
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CARDIAC magnetic resonance imaging , *TRANSTHYRETIN , *CARDIAC amyloidosis , *MEDICAL personnel , *BEST practices , *CEREBRAL amyloid angiopathy , *DELAYED diagnosis - Abstract
Transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) is a complex and serious form of heart failure caused by the accumulation of transthyretin amyloid protein in the heart muscle. Variable symptoms of ATTR-CM can lead to a delayed diagnosis. Recognizing the diagnostic indicators is crucial to promptly detect this condition. A targeted literature review was conducted to examine the latest international consensus recommendations on a comprehensive diagnosis of ATTR-CM. Additionally, a panel consisting of nuclear medicine expert consultants (n = 10) and nuclear imaging technicians (n = 2) convened virtually from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to formulate best practices for ATTR-CM diagnosis. The panel reached a consensus on a standard diagnostic pathway for ATTR-CM, which commences by evaluating the presence of clinical red flags and initiating a cardiac workup to assess the patient's echocardiogram. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging may be needed, in uncertain cases. When there is a high suspicion of ATTR-CM, patients undergo nuclear scintigraphy and hematologic tests to rule out primary or light-chain amyloidosis. The expert panel emphasized that implementing best practices will support healthcare professionals in KSA to improve their ability to detect and diagnose ATTR-CM more accurately and promptly. Diagnosing ATTR-CM accurately and early can reduce morbidity and mortality rates through appropriate treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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