myocardial perfusion imaging
Also written as: MPI — myocardial perfusion imaging
A nuclear cardiology technique that evaluates blood flow to the heart muscle, used to detect coronary artery disease and assess cardiovascular risk in asymptomatic patients.
Full Definition
Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is a non-invasive nuclear imaging technique that assesses blood flow to the myocardium at rest and during stress conditions. The procedure involves injection of radioactive tracers (such as technetium-99m or thallium-201) followed by imaging with a gamma camera or SPECT scanner. MPI can detect regional perfusion abnormalities that suggest coronary artery stenosis, evaluate the extent and severity of coronary disease, and provide prognostic information. In preventive cardiology, MPI is particularly valuable for risk stratification in intermediate-risk patients or those with diabetes. Normal MPI studies are associated with excellent short-term prognosis, while abnormal studies indicate increased cardiovascular risk requiring more intensive management.
Usage
Usage note: MPI is the standard abbreviation; specify the type of stress agent used (exercise, pharmacologic) when relevant.
In Context
- "Myocardial perfusion imaging revealed a moderate reversible defect in the anterior wall consistent with LAD stenosis." — nuclear cardiology report
- "Consider myocardial perfusion imaging for cardiovascular risk stratification in diabetic patients with multiple risk factors." — clinical practice guideline