Myofiber disorganization
Pronunciation: MY-oh-fy-ber dis-or-gan-ih-ZAY-shun
Loss of normal parallel arrangement of cardiac muscle fibers, creating a characteristic whorled or chaotic architectural pattern.
Full Definition
Myofiber disorganization represents a pathological alteration in the normal parallel arrangement of cardiac myocytes, resulting in areas where muscle fibers are arranged in whorled, perpendicular, or chaotic patterns rather than their typical organized alignment. This architectural abnormality is most commonly associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy but can also be seen in other conditions causing cardiac hypertrophy or developmental abnormalities. The disorganized areas create regions of inefficient contraction and altered electrical conduction, potentially contributing to arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Histologically, myofiber disorganization is best appreciated on low-power examination and can be quantified as a percentage of the total myocardial area examined. The extent of disorganization often correlates with disease severity and clinical outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Quantify the percentage of affected tissue when possible. Often associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
In Context
- "Significant myofiber disorganization was present in 40% of the examined myocardial sections." — Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy biopsy
- "The characteristic whorled pattern of myofiber disorganization supported the diagnosis of familial HCM." — Genetic cardiomyopathy evaluation