Researchers at Kumamoto University have found that combining two specific markers from a standard cardiac CT scan can predict serious future heart events with high accuracy.
The study, led by Professors Yasuhiro Izumiya and Kenichi Tsujita, analyzed data from 1,207 patients followed for an average of 26 months.
By adding a delayed phase to cardiac CT, the team measured late iodine enhancement (LIE) to detect localized scarring and extracellular volume fraction (ECV) to identify more widespread, subtle heart muscle damage.
Patients showing abnormalities in both LIE and ECV had a significantly higher risk of unexpected hospitalization or death compared to those without these markers.
While LIE and ECV provide different types of pathological information, their combination allows detection of potential heart damage that might otherwise go unnoticed, the researchers noted.
This approach offers a faster, more accessible alternative to costly and time-consuming cardiac MRI for identifying patients who could benefit from early, life-saving interventions.
As medical technology advances, cardiac CT is evolving from a simple diagnostic tool into an essential instrument for long-term heart health management.
What are LIE and ECV in cardiac CT?
Late iodine enhancement (LIE) detects localized scarring in the heart muscle, while extracellular volume fraction (ECV) identifies more widespread and subtle damage throughout the myocardium.
How does this method improve patient care?
By identifying high-risk patients earlier through a non-invasive scan, doctors can intervene sooner with preventive treatments to reduce the risk of heart failure or death.