Comparison of cardiac magnetic resonance findings in idiopathipulmonary arterial hypertension and that associated with CHD

BACKGROUND: To compare cardiac MRI findings between children diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension and those with pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with CHD, and to determine whether there are prognostic differences between these groups. METHODS: This prospective cross-sectional study included 40 paediatric patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension, who underwent standardised cardiac MRI evaluation. Key functional and flow parameters were analysed and compared between the two groups. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in right ventricular volume, mass, and function parameters, and right atrial volume index, or septal shift findings. However, left ventricular end-diastolic volume index, left ventricular end-systolic volume index, left ventricular ejection fraction, left ventricular mass index, and right-left ventricle volume ratios were significantly different between groups. A ventricular mass index ≥75% was more common in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension patients. CONCLUSION: Cardiac MRI-based assessment reveals meaningful differences in left ventricle volume and mass parameters between idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension and pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with CHD patients. These findings may aid in follow-up strategies for paediatric pulmonary arterial hypertension.