Which is a leading cause of heart failure assessed by PET?

• A. Coronary artery disease
• B. Hypertension
• C. Aortic stenosis
• D. Arrhythmia

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that ischemic heart disease from coronary artery disease is the most common underlying cause of heart failure, and PET is particularly suited to evaluating that ischemic contribution. PET lets us measure regional blood flow to the heart muscle and, with metabolic imaging, determine whether affected areas are scarred or still viable. In CAD, reduced perfusion and prior infarction create dysfunction that can progress to heart failure, and PET patterns of perfusion defects paired with metabolic signals help confirm ischemic cardiomyopathy as the culprit. While hypertension, aortic valve disease, or rhythm problems can lead to heart failure, PET’s strongest diagnostic role is in identifying ischemic damage from CAD, which is why this option fits best.