Clinical monitoring of stage B heart failure: echocardiography.

Estimates of the prevalence of asymptomatic left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) vary widely depending on the study sample and definition of LVSD. Subtle reductions in LV systolic or diastolic function are now detectable with newer echocardiographic measures, which can influence estimates of the burden of stage B heart failure (HF). If the definition is broadened to include diastolic filling abnormalities, the estimated prevalence of stage B HF increases dramatically. This article reviews the rationale for echocardiographic screening for stage B HF, describes currently available measures of cardiac structure and function, and assesses the potential role of echocardiography in selected subgroups.