Application of magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of occult myocardial diseases in civil aviation pilots

Objective To investigate the practical value of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) in evaluating the occult myocardial disease in the physical examination for civil aviation pilots. Methods The pilots who diagnosed as suspicious myocardial disease due to the abnormal electrocardiography or echocardiography from 2012-2016 were referred to CMR examination. CMR were performed by a 3.0 Tesla MRI scanner (Magnetum, Tim Trio, Siemens). Scanning protocol consisted with standard cardiac function, first perfusion (Magvist, 0.15 mmol/kg), and late gadolinium enhancement. CMR image analysis and diagnosis were done by experienced doctors. Results Six pilots received CMR exams (6 males, age range by 24-52 years). All images quality was good enough for analysis and diagnosis. Finally, 3 cases were diagnosed as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, 1 case was hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy, 1 case was left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) and 1 case was eliminated the possibility of myocardial disease. In follow-up, no clinical cardiovascular events were reported in all patients. Only the case with LVNC deteriorated into dilated cardiomyopathy with reduced systolic function. Conclusions Occult myocardial diseases could occur in pilots. CMR is very valuable in diagnosing and evaluating suspicious myocardial diseases for pilot population. Key words: Heart; Magnetic resonance imaging; Cardiomyopathies; Electrocardiography; Pilots