Elastography Distinguishes Cardiac Amyloidosis Types
Shear wave velocity measurements in the basal anteroseptal and right ventricular walls differed between transthyretin and light chain cardiac amyloidosis when conventional echocardiographic parameters did not.
By
Kathryn Wighton
June 28, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Elastography Distinguishes Cardiac Amyloidosis Types
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Cardiac Amyloidosis Key Mechanisms Myocardial amyloid deposition increases myocardial stiffness and contributes to diastolic dysfunction. Target Population Patients with cardiac amyloidosis, including those with light chain and transthyretin subtypes. Care Setting Clinical assessment using transthoracic three-dimensional shear wave elastography.
Key Highlights
Study involved 72 patients with cardiac amyloidosis. Transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis generally has a slower disease course compared to light chain cardiac amyloidosis. Shear wave velocity was higher in transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis than in light chain cardiac amyloidosis. An algorithm achieved 100% sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing the two subtypes. Echocardiographic parameters did not discriminate between the subtypes. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Utilize three-dimensional shear wave elastography to assess myocardial stiffness. Management
Transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis is managed with transthyretin-directed therapies. Light chain cardiac amyloidosis typically requires prompt chemotherapy. Monitoring & Follow-up
Monitor myocardial stiffness using shear wave elastography. Risks
Progression of light chain cardiac amyloidosis is more rapid than transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis. Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients diagnosed with cardiac amyloidosis, including both light chain and transthyretin types.
Treatment varies based on subtype; transthyretin requires specific therapies while light chain necessitates chemotherapy.
Clinical Best Practices
Incorporate age, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, and shear wave velocity in diagnostic algorithms. Related Resources & Content
