Differences in Quantitative Native T1 Mapping Values Between Non-ischaemic, Hypertrophic and Infiltrative Cardiomyopathies, and Normal Controls by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging at 3 Tesla

Aim: Native T1 mapping by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging is a novel approach for quantifying the magnetic relaxation time as a marker of myocardial tissue composition without the need for gadolinium contrast. It can provide both diagnostic and prognostic information in a variety of cardiac disease states. The quantitative values are dependent on field strength, sequence used, and have been predominantly determined using 1.5 T scanners. In this study, we evaluate differences in native T1 values between normal controls in a local population and patients with non-ischaemic (NICM), hypertrophic (HCM) and infiltrative (INF) cardiomyopathies on a 3 T scanner. Method: 89 consecutive cardiomyopathy patients (HCM n = 28, NICM n = 51, INF n = 10) and 21 normal controls underwent a CMR exam on 3 T scanner. A standardised MOLLI sequence was acquired on a single basal or mid short axis slice. A mean native T1 value from a region of interest including all myocardium excluding papillary muscles was obtained. Results: The mean T1 values are: Normal control–1259 + - 29, HCM–1296 + - 51, NICM–1304 + - 48, INF–1403 + - 54. Significant differences between normal controls and patients (HCM p–0.03, NICM p–0.002, INF p < 0.001), and between INF patients and other cardiomyopathies (all p < 0.001) were seen. Conclusion: Significant differences in native T1 mapping values at 3 T have been identified between normal controls and between patients with diffuse cardiomyopathies. The differences can be used to assist with the diagnosis and management of these patients.