Characterization of epicardial adipose tissue in Ischemic Heart Disease: a CMR study

Introduction: Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) has endocrine and paracrine properties due to its close relationship to the adjacent myocardium. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) provides accurate quantification of EAT even in misshapen hearts. Objectives: To assess EAT volume in patients with ischemic heart disease and its correlations with structural, functional and clinical features in this group of patients. Methods: Patients referred for CMR for any clinical reason during a 1-year period with a CMR diagnosis of ischemic heart disease were consecutively included. In each case, CMR was performed with a GE 1.5 T magnet. EAT was manually traced in each case covering both ventricles from the end diastolic phase in the SSFP-B short axis images. The EAT volume was calculated multiplying the area subtended by the slice thickness. Results: Thirty-seven patients were included. Mean age was 59,7 (12,7) years and 81% were male. The most common indication for CMR was viability assessment- 60% of cases. CMR changed a...