Multimodality Imaging for Cardiac Evaluation in Patients with COVID-19

Purpose of Review A growing number of cardiovascular manifestations resulting from the novel SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (COVID-19) have been described since the beginning of this global pandemic. Acute myocardial injury is common in this population and is associated with higher rates of morbidity and mortality. The focus of this review centers on the recent applications of multimodality imaging in the diagnosis and management of COVID-19-related cardiovascular conditions. Recent Findings In addition to standard cardiac imaging techniques such as transthoracic echocardiography, other modalities including computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging have emerged as useful adjuncts in select patients with COVID-19 infection, particularly those with suspected ischemic and nonischemic myocardial injury. Data have also emerged suggesting lasting COVID-19 subclinical cardiac effects, which may have long-term prognostic implications. With the spectrum of COVID-19 cardiovascular manifestations observed thus far, it is important for clinicians to recognize the role, strengths, and limitations of multimodality imaging techniques in this patient population.

Automated summary

This review highlights the increasing cardiovascular manifestations of COVID-19 and the role of multimodality imaging in diagnosis and management. In addition to standard techniques, other modalities such as CT and cardiac MRI have emerged as useful adjuncts in select patients. Data also suggest lasting subclinical cardiac effects of COVID-19 with potential long-term prognostic implications.