2015 ACVIM Forum Research Abstract Program

Inter-observer agreement varies with measurement method. The magnitude of difference between LL or LT methods for measuring LV wall thickness is sufficient to change the diagnosis between LV hypertrophy and equivocal (or equivocal and normal). Results of LA:Ao measured at ES or ED are not interchangeable. Measurement methods for LV wall thickness and LA should be specified, or else a consensus reached on standardization. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in the cat is difficult to easily and rapidly detect in clinical practice by physical examination in both sub clinically and clinically affected cats. Auscultation of the heart is insensitive for the diagnosis even in clinically affected cats. A rapid and reliable diagnosis is desirable before decisions on e.g.: sedation/anesthesia, therapy of acute dyspnea, or screening for breeding purposes. Standard diagnostic tools such as echocardiography, radiography or sampling of blood for analysis of biomarkers are time consuming, not always affordable, or unavailable. A simple, rapid and easily available method to diagnose HCM would be beneficial for many clinicians and clients. Electrocardiographic abnormalities are reported in both subclinical and clinically affected cats. A simple electrocardiographic instrument would simplify the detection of these. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate if iPhone ECG (iPECG) using an "AliveCor" veterinary heart monitor could be used to detect HCM in cats. The unit is a small plate containing a microprocessor, and has 2 flat electrodes on it. It attaches as a cover to an iPhone and is controlled by an app.