Cardiac Magnetic Resonance for Myocardial Inflammation: Current State and Future Directions

Purpose of Review This paper summarizes the evolution of cardiac magnetic resonance for the diagnosis of myocarditis and the evidence supporting its use, and possible future directions for development. Recent Findings The development of non-invasive imaging techniques, with the possibility of tissue characterization by magnetic resonance imaging, has revolutionized the diagnosis of myocarditis. Summary Endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) remains the gold standard in the diagnosis of myocardial inflammation. Cardiac magnetic resonance has emerged as the non-invasive diagnostic technique of choice. Classic Lake Louise criteria, including evaluation of edema, hyperemia, and myocardial necrosis, have become obsolete due to their low negative predictive value, among other limitations. Emerging parametric mapping techniques have been incorporated into the new criteria.