99mTechnetium-labeled cardiac scintigraphy for suspected amyloidosis: a review of current and future directions

Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is an underdiagnosed form of restrictive cardiomyopathy leading to a rapid progression into heart failure. Evaluation of CA requires a multimodality approach making use of echocardiography, cardiac magnetic imaging, and nuclear imaging. Technetium (Tc)-labeled cardiac scintigraphy has witnessed a resurgence in its application for the workup of CA. Advancements in disease-modifying therapies have fueled the rapid adoption of cardiac scintigraphy using bone tracers and the need for transformative novel studies. The goal of this review is to present diagnostic utility, currently recommended protocols, as well as a glimpse into the rapid evolution of Tc-labeled cardiac scintigraphy in the diagnosis of CA.

Automated summary

Cardiac amyloidosis is a form of restrictive cardiomyopathy that is often underdiagnosed and can rapidly progress to heart failure. Evaluating CA requires a multimodal approach, with the resurgence of technetium-labeled cardiac scintigraphy playing a key role in its diagnosis.