Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Parametric Mapping Techniques: Clinical Applications and Limitations

Purpose of Review Parametric mapping represents a significant innovation in cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) tissue characterisation, allowing the quantification of myocardial changes based on changes on T1, T2 and T2* relaxation times and extracellular volume (ECV). Its clinical use is rapidly expanding, but it requires availability of dedicated equipment as well as expertise in image acquisition and analysis. This review focuses on the principles of CMR parametric mapping, its current clinical applications, important limitations, as well as future directions of this technique in cardiovascular medicine. Recent Findings There is increasing evidence that CMR parametric mapping techniques provide accurate diagnostic and prognostic tools that can be applied to and support the clinical management of patients with a range of cardiovascular disease. Summary The unique capability of CMR myocardial tissue characterisation in cardiovascular diseases has further expanded by the introduction of parametric mapping. Its use in clinical practice presents opportunities but has also limitations.