global longitudinal strain
Pronunciation: gee-ell-ess
Also written as: GLS — global longitudinal strain
Echocardiographic measure of left ventricular systolic function assessing myocardial deformation during contraction using speckle-tracking analysis.
Full Definition
An advanced echocardiographic parameter (GLS) that quantifies the percentage change in myocardial fiber length from end-diastole to end-systole, measured using speckle-tracking echocardiography technology. GLS provides a more sensitive assessment of left ventricular systolic function compared to traditional ejection fraction, particularly for detecting subclinical myocardial dysfunction in conditions such as chemotherapy-related cardiotoxicity, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or early heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Normal GLS values typically range from -18% to -22%, with less negative values indicating impaired contractile function. This parameter has gained importance in cardiovascular research as an early marker of myocardial injury.
Usage
Usage note: Express as negative percentage; more negative values indicate better function.
In Context
- "Global longitudinal strain was measured at baseline and every 3 months during chemotherapy to detect early cardiotoxicity." — Cardio-oncology study protocol
- "Patients with global longitudinal strain >-16% were considered to have subclinical left ventricular dysfunction." — Diagnostic criteria definition