cardiac myofiber disarray
Abnormal arrangement of cardiac muscle fibers characterized by loss of normal parallel orientation, commonly seen in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Full Definition
Cardiac myofiber disarray refers to the abnormal architectural arrangement of cardiac muscle cells, where the normal parallel alignment of myofibers is lost and replaced by a chaotic, intersecting pattern. This histological feature is most characteristically seen in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, where it may occupy significant portions of the myocardium. The disarray can be focal or extensive and is thought to contribute to the increased risk of sudden cardiac death. Small amounts of disarray can be seen in normal hearts, but extensive disarray (>20% of tissue) is considered pathological.
Usage
Usage note: Quantification of disarray extent is important for diagnostic significance.
In Context
- "Extensive cardiac myofiber disarray was present throughout the ventricular septum." — Pathology report
- "The degree of cardiac myofiber disarray exceeded 25% of the examined tissue." — Autopsy report