CMR in Pericardial Diseases - an Update

Abstract

Purpose of Review: To review the latest developments and the current role of the cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in pericardial diseases and their complications. Recent Findings: Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) has the ability to incorporate anatomy, physiology, and “virtual histology” strategies to achieve the most accurate diagnosis for even the most demanding, pericardial diseases. Summary: Acute, chronic, recurrent, and constrictive pericarditis as well as pericarditis related complications, pericardial masses and congenital pericardial defects are commonly encountered in clinical practice with relatively significant morbidity and mortality. Owing to the challenging diagnosis, CMR imaging is often employed in confirming the diagnosis and elucidating the underling pathophysiology. In this review we outline the common CMR techniques and their expected diagnostic outcomes.