Echocardiogram results interpretation

Anonymous · November 2016

AwtcT · November 2016

I just had a third echo after starting TCHP in April 2016 (now on just Herceptin until next April). I get them done at a local radiology center and the results get sent to my medical oncologist. I've had to ask about them each time since the MO apparently won't tell me about them unless it's bad news. According to her, my ejection fraction rate did go down a little between the first and second echos.

For this third one, I don't know how to read it. There's something that says "EF (Teich): 70%" but then there's also something that says "LVEF MODA4C: 47%." I had originally taken that second number to mean my EF rate had gone down to 47 and definitely freaked out about it so I called my MO practice and they spoke to the MO, who said the EF was fine and was the 70%. Not that I'm doubting her but is the first number the actual EF rate? The report goes on to say that the left ventricular systolic function is hyperdynamic because the EF is over 70%. Is this also worrisome? Would my EF go back up from 55 to 70

MaineRottweilers · November 2016

I cannot speak to specifics but I do know that each ECHO is subjective to many factors. It's important to always try to schedule with the same tech every time on the same machine. Consistency is of primary importance. The techs take the measurements but each tech brings their own skill set and way of doing things. Think of it like penmanship. There's a standard way to make a B and everyone will recognize it as a B. However, there are a lot of ways to make a B and the same person's B will look different if they use a different pen. The techs make the measurements and the software will do the calculations based on the measurements

ECHOs: same tech same equipment every time, insist on it.

Echocardiogram results interpretation

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