Evaluation of the left ventricular systolic and diastolic functions by echocardiography in patients with acute leukemia

Eighteen patients with acute leukemia were studied to evaluate their left v entricular systolic and diastolic function by M mode, two-dimensional and D oppler echocardiographic techniques. The study group was compared with anot her group of 18 patients of similar age with iron deficiency anemia. The la tter group had a comparable heart rare and levels of Hb. There were no diff erences in systolic function, whereas the diastolic function was lower in p atients with acute leukemia (E/A ratio = 1.1 +/- 0.3 vs. 1.42. +/-. 0.5, p < 0.05). It is concluded that left ventricular diastolic dysfunction is mor e common in patients with acute leukemia and may be an indicator of restric tive cardiomyopathy.