Utilization of Strain Parameters Assessed by CMR Feature Tracking Analysis for Persistent Cardiac Symptoms Following the Exertional Heat Stroke

Motivation: More attention has been paid to the diagnosis and treatment of patients with heatstroke, while little research has been done on its prognosis. Goal(s): The main hypothesis is that left ventricle strain parameters assessed by CMR feature tracking can predict long-term heart symptoms in exertional heatstroke patients. Approach: Patients with exertional heatstroke underwent serologic cardiac enzyme levels and CMR at baseline and follow-up to assess the relationship between left ventricular strain parameters and recovery training. Results: The 2D-global longitudinal strain provided incremental prognostic value over traditional outcome predictors (areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve comparing models, 0.788 vs 0.883; P = 0.023). Impact: Our findings suggest that ongoing reduction in left ventricle strain may explain the lingering cardiac symptoms in patients with previous heat illness. It will help identify individuals at risk, improve follow-up, and provide assistance for return-to-play and reducing future risks.