Prognostic Value of LGE-CMR in HCM: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract Objectives The aims of this study included performing a meta-analysis of the predictive value of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) for adverse events and death in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Background CMR with LGE can identify areas of myocardial fibrosis; however, controversies remain regarding the independent prognostic importance of LGE-CMR in HCM. Methods We searched PubMed and Web of Science for studies that investigated the prognostic value of LGE in patients with HCM. Pooled odds ratios (ORs), hazard ratios (HRs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the role of LGE CMR in the risk stratification of HCM. Results Seven studies were retrieved from 393 citations for the analysis, of which 2 were eliminated because of overlapping data. In total, 2,993 patients (mean age 54.6 years; median follow-up 36.8 months) were included in the analysis. Meta-analysis showed the presence of LGE was associated with an increased risk for sudden cardiac death (SCD) (OR: 3.41; 95% CI:1.97 to 5.94; p  adjusted : 1.36/10% LGE; 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.69; p = 0.005). Conclusions Quantitative LGE by CMR exhibited a substantial prognostic value in SCD events prediction, independent of baseline characteristics. Assessment of LGE can be used as an effective tool for risk stratifying patients with HCM.