Detection of subclinical heart failure

Abstract: Identification of subclinical cardiomyopathy in patients with various systemic diseases provides an opportunity for early intervention and prevention of advanced heart failure. Although left ventricular ejection fraction is commonly used to identify subclinical cardiomyopathy, it often identifies late stages of myocardial dysfunction. Myocardial strain may be an ideal measure to identify early subclinical cardiomyopathy and discriminate patients at risk of subsequent advanced heart failure. In this review, we summarize the use of strain for diagnosis and prognosis in patients receiving cancer therapy, as well as those with hypertension, and diabetes.