Differential diagnosis of thickened myocardium: an illustrative MRI review

Objectives The purpose of this article is to describe the key cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features to differentiate hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) phenotypes from other causes of myocardial thickening that may mimic them. Conclusions Many causes of myocardial thickening may mimic different HCM phenotypes. The unique ability of cardiac MRI to facilitate tissue characterisation may help to establish the aetiology of myocardial thickening, which is essential to differentiate it from HCM phenotypes and for appropriate management. Teaching points • Many causes of myocardial thickening may mimic different HCM phenotypes. • Differential diagnosis between myocardial thickening aetiology and HCM phenotypes may be challenging. • Cardiac MRI is essential to differentiate the aetiology of myocardial thickening from HCM phenotypes.