Multimodality Imaging, Diagnostic Challenges and Proposed Diagnostic Algorithm for Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy

Noncompaction cardiomyopathy (NCCM) is a clinical-patho-anatomic entity, disputably believed to result from abnormal arrest in embryonic endomyocardial morphogenesis. Introduction of echocardiography has led to recognition of NCCM for the first time in 1984. During almost 35 years of technical improvements in imaging alongside a more dedicated research of NCCM, more knowledge has developed alongside uncertainties concerning every aspect of the disease. In this chapter, we present the role of multimodality imaging in NCCM alongside diagnostic uncertainties and practical aspects on how to overcome these challenges. Limitations of the current diagnostic criteria will be reviewed. The inter-technique differences will be contrasted. Finally, future aspirations will be outlined in providing a more thoughtful appraisal towards NCCM diagnosis.