MAPSE (Mitral Annular Plane Systolic Excursion): explanation, clinical significance and references
MAPSE measures the longitudinal displacement of the mitral annulus toward the apex during systole; it is commonly measured by M-mode at the septal and lateral annulus and reported in millimetres. Typical average values reported in contemporary reference studies are approximately 12–15 mm; lower values indicate reduced longitudinal LV systolic function. Several studies show good correlation between MAPSE and LVEF and demonstrated prognostic value (e.g., lateral MAPSE associated with mortality in hypertensive cohorts and MAPSE thresholds <8–10 mm linked to impaired LVEF and worse outcomes). Multiple regression equations to estimate LVEF from MAPSE have been published (examples presented above) but these are population-specific and should be used cautiously. Use MAPSE as a rapid bedside surrogate or adjunct to other echocardiographic indices; always integrate with full echocardiographic assessment and clinical data.
Key references:
Wang YH et al., "Normal reference values for mitral annular plane systolic excursion" (reference and norms).
Romano S. et al., "Prognostic implications of MAPSE (lateral) — mortality prediction in hypertensive patients" (MAPSE as independent predictor).
Grue JF. et al., "Automatic measurements — MAPSE <10 mm sensitivity/specificity for LV dysfunction" (MAPSE cutoff performance).
Schick AL. et al., "Focused cardiac ultrasound with MAPSE — diagnostic thresholds (MAPSE <8 mm predicts LVEF <50%)" (practical cutoff discussion).
Poudel / AJCR (and related regression studies), examples of gender-specific MAPSE→EF formulas (population-specific regression equations).