Cabrini spearheading global study to revolutionise heart disease diagnosis
Cabrini, a leading healthcare service in Melbourne’s south east, is taking a pioneering step in transforming the diagnosis of heart disease through its involvement in an international study aimed at revolutionising diagnostic approaches. Spearheaded by Professor Nathan Better, Head of the Department of Cardiology Research at Cabrini, the study promises to enhance patient outcomes and pave the way for standardised diagnostic protocols globally.
The study, titled the International Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy Collaborative (I-TAC), is a collaborative effort involving fifteen countries and led by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, Austria. Cabrini proudly represents Australia in this ambitious four-year initiative.
Heart disease, particularly Transthyretin Amyloidosis Cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CMP), poses a significant challenge due to its underdiagnoses and detrimental impact on heart function. However, recent advancements offer hope, notably with the emergence of Tafamidis, a stabiliser drug that can prevent protein accumulation in the heart, thus mitigating heart failure risks.
Cardiac patient MRI
The I-TAC study however aims to establish new diagnostic standards for ATTR-CMP, utilising cutting-edge technology combining radioactive substances and co-registered CT scans of the heart. This innovative approach promises accurate and efficient diagnosis, enabling timely interventions and tailored treatment plans.
“By harnessing the power of this technology, researchers aim to gain valuable insights into effectively diagnosing ATTR-CMP more accurately,” said Professor Better.
Professor Better underscores the significance of this study, emphasising its potential to revolutionise patient care. By enabling earlier detection and monitoring of ATTR-CMP, healthcare providers can offer improved prognoses and enhanced quality of life to affected individuals.
Traditional diagnostic methods for ATTR-CMP, such as cardiac ultrasound and MRI, often fall short in providing definitive diagnoses. Professor Better and his team are pioneering 3D imaging techniques that promise to streamline and standardise diagnostic processes worldwide.
Cabrini’s participation in the I-TAC study underscores its commitment to advancing cardiology and improving patient care. Through collaborative research efforts, Cabrini aims to set new benchmarks in heart disease diagnosis, with the ultimate goal of saving lives and improving patient outcomes.
“The significance of this study cannot be overstated. By providing a more accurate and efficient diagnostic method, the study will empower healthcare providers to help in identifying ATTR-CMP earlier, monitor progress to allow for timely interventions and tailored treatment plans. This has the potential to significantly impact the lives of patients affected by ATTR-CMP, offering them a better prognosis and an improved quality of life,” added Professor Better.
For more information about Cardiac care at Cabrini, visit our Cardiac Services page.