bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P804 Heart complication of chikungunya fever: ecocardiographic evaluation of late effects
Authors: Del Castillo J M , Albuquerque E S , Mazzarollo C , Oliveira K B , Araujo D C L , Sena A D M , Alencar M P C , Brindeiro-Filho D F , Silveira C A M
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Chicungunya fever, epidemic caused by Alphavirus (CHIKV) transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes, is characterized by highly debilitating joint pain and can cause atypical cardiac complications in 10% of patients. CHIKV produces direct damage to myofibrils (inflammation and infiltration) and secondary damage due to hypersensitivity and necrosis.

Objective

To evaluate, by echocardiography, the chronic cardiac alterations of the CHIKV infection.

Methods

Thirty-two patients were studied (mean age was 56 ± 14 years, 17 females) with CHIKV-confirmed infection and signs of cardiac involvement between 5 and 25 months of evolution. The dimensions and function of the ventricles were measured by two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography. The global longitudinal strain (GLS) of the left ventricle (LV) and left atrial longitudinal strain (LALS) were evaluated. Patients were divided into Group A, with duration of CHIKV infection shorter than 12 months (12 patients) and Group B, with disease duration equal to or greater than 12 months (20 patients). Comparative statistical data were considered significant when p <0.05.

Results

The diameters and volumes of LV, Left atrium (LA), right ventricular (RV) diameter and RV wall thickness were increased in Group B. LV ejection fraction (EF) was lower in Group B patients. The GLS was decreased in both Groups and the regression equation with EF were significant (r = 0.74, r ² = 0.55, p <0.00001). LALS was decreased in Group B. Diastolic dysfunction was predominantly grade 1 in Group A and restrictive in Group B. Segmental alteration (akinesia, dyskinesia) occurred in 7 patients. No patient had a history of precordial pain or coronary disease, nor clear signs of myocardial infarction on the ECG. Seven patients were hypertensive and four were diabetic. Eccentric LV hypertrophy and concentric remodeling of the walls were observed in 14 patients. Two patients had atrial fibrillation. Nine patients presented other types of arrhythmia, mainly ventricular extrasystoles.

Conclusion

Decreased EF of LV and SLG was observed in most patients with chronic CHIKV infection. In the first 12 months of evolution, the dimensions of the LV were normal, but after one year, most of the patients had dilatation of the cavity. LV concentric remodeling was more frequent in the first year and eccentric hypertrophy after one year of evolution. Segmental changes were observed in almost a quarter of the cases, as well as a high incidence of arrhythmias. All these findings suggest the progressive nature of the disease. Echocardiography plays an important role in the detection of cardiovascular alterations caused by Chicungunya fever and should be used after confirmation of infection, to initiate appropriate treatment already in the acute phase, which will probably minimize the deleterious effects of disease.
P818 Association between baseline left ventricular longitudinal strain and follow-up left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Jung I H , Byun Y S , Park J H
Published: January 2020

Funding Acknowledgements

no

Background

Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV GLS) offers sensitive and reproducible measurement of myocardial dysfunction. The authors sought to evaluate whether LV GLS at the time of diagnosis may predict LV reverse remodeling (LVRR) in DCM patients with sinus rhythm and also investigate the relationship between baseline LV GLS and follow-up LVEF.

Methods

We enrolled patients with DCM who had been initially diagnosed, evaluated, and followed at our institute.

Results

During the mean follow-up duration of 37.3 ± 21.7 months, LVRR occurred in 28% of patients (n = 45) within 14.7 ± 10.0 months of medical therapy. The initial LV ejection fraction (LVEF) of patients who recovered LV function was 26.1 ± 7.9% and was not different from the value of 27.1 ± 7.4% (p = 0.49) of those who did not recover. There was a moderate and highly significant correlation between baseline LV GLS and follow-up LVEF (r = 0.717; p <0.001).

Conclusion

There was a significant correlation between baseline LV GLS and follow-up LVEF in this population.

Baseline Follow-up Difference (95% CI) p-value All patients (n = 160) LVEDDI, mm/m2 35.6 ± 6.6 35.6 ± 6.6 -2.7 (-3.4 to -2.0) <0.001 LVESDI, mm/m2 30.3 ± 6.1 26.6 ± 6.6 -3.7 (-4.6 to -2.8) <0.001 LVEDVI, mL/m2 95.0 ± 30.7 74.3 ± 30.2 -20.7 (-25.6 to -15.8) <0.001 LVESVI, mL/m2 70.0 ± 24.8 50.2 ± 26.8 -19.8 (-24.2 to -15.4) <0.001 LVEF, % 26.8 ± 7.5 33.9 ± 12.6 7.2 (5.2 to 9.2) <0.001 LV GLS (-%) 9.2 ± 3.1 11.0 ± 4.8 1.8 (1.3 to 2.2) <0.001 Patients without LVRR (n = 115) LVEDDI, mm/m2 34.9 ± 6.8 34.1 ± 6.8 -0.8 (-1.3 to -0.3) 0.002 LVESDI, mm/m2 29.5 ± 6.1 28.4 ± 6.4 -1.4 (-1.8 to -0.4) 0.002 LVEDVI, mL/m2 92.0 ± 30.5 83.4 ± 29.8 -8.6 (-12.4 to -4.8) <0.001 LVESVI, mL/m2 67.1 ± 24.4 59.5 ± 25.3 -7.6 (-10.9 to -4.3) <0.001 LVEF, % 27.1 ± 7.4 27.8 ± 7.4 0.7 (-0.2 to 1.6) 0.126 LV GLS (-%) 8.2 ± 2.9 8.7 ± 3.2 0.5 (0.7 to 3.6) <0.001 Patients with LVRR (n = 45) LVEDDI, mm/m2 37.4 ± 5.5 29.8 ± 5.2 -7.5 (-9.1 to -6.0) <0.001 LVESDI, mm/m2 32.2 ± 5.7 21.9 ± 4.4 -10.3 (-11.9 to -8.6) <0.001 LVEDVI, mL/m2 102.7 ± 30.2 51.1 ± 15.0 -51.7 (-61.6 to -41.7) <0.001 LVESVI, mL/m2 77.3 ± 24.5 26.4 ± 11.3 -50.9 (-58.8 to -43.1) <0.001 LVEF, % 26.1 ± 7.9 49.4 ± 9.5 23.9 (20.4 to 27.5) <0.001 LV GLS (-%) 11.9 ± 1.6 16.9 ± 2.7 5.1 (4.2 to 5.9) <0.001 Baseline and Follow-up LV Functional Echocardiographic Data

Abstract P818 Figure.
P820 Echocardiographic assessment of late-onset right ventricular dysfunction following continuous-flow left ventricular assist device
Authors: Ruiz Cano M , Ramazyan L , Morshuis M , Schoenbrodt M , Lauenroth V , Gummert J , Paluszkiewicz L
Published: January 2020

Early right ventricular failure (RVF) remains one of the main factors associated with early mortality following continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. However, late-onset RVF (LoRVF) has emerged as an increasing concern, but little is known about its incidence rate and the value of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) to predict this complication during the LVAD follow-up.

Methods and results

We retrospectively analyzed the 1-year hemodynamic and clinical data from patients (p) that, between 2016 and 2018, underwent a right heart catheterization (RHC) after LVAD as bridge to transplantation (BTT). 73 p (84% males, 52 ± 12 years, 49% Heart Ware LVAD, 51% Heart Mate 3 LVAD), out of 187 LVAD implants, were studied. According to the Intermacs definition, LoRVF was assigned if the RHC showed a central venous pressure (CVP)>18 mmHg with cardiac index< 2.3 L/min/m2. Isolated LoRVF was assigned if LoRVF was present in the absence of elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) ≤15 mmHg. TTE was performed at the time of the RHC and the following parameters were obtained: parasternal long-axis left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDD), basal (RVED1) and mid-cavity (EDRV2) end diastolic RV linear dimension in 4 chamber view, severity of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and of mitral regurgitation (MR), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), and the position of the LVAD inflow cannula (IC).

LoRVF was present in 16 p (22% of the studied population): 12 p (75%) presented a PCWP > 15 mmHg and 4 p (25%) presented isolated LoRVF. Symptoms and signs of venous congestion were present in 2/3 of the p with LoRVF and elevated PCWP. On the other hand, all the p with isolated LoRVF presented severe signs of venous congestion, and 50% of them could be successfully transplanted in high urgent status. P with LoRVF showed more dilated RV (RVED1 43.8 ± 9.2 vs 37.7 ± 5.3 mm, p = 0.02) and lower TAPSE (11 ± 2 vs 14 ± 2 mm p < 0.01) than the no LoRVF group. RVED1 showed a weak significant correlation with CVP (R = 0.3, p = 0.02). On the other hand, the presence of an elevated PCWP was not related to etiology of the cardiomyopathy, type and speed of LVAD, position of the IC, LVEDD, nor the presence of MR > mild.

Conclusion

LoRVF is a frequent complication during LVAD support as BTT and most of the cases are associated with persistent elevated PCWP. Isolated LoRVF, which is not associated with high PCWP, has a bad prognosis. RV evaluation with TTE during the clinical follow-up can be useful to detect LoRVF. However a persistent elevated PCWP is not associated with echocardiographic signs of incomplete unloading of the LV by the LVAD.
P839 The lucky unlucky patient: a case report
Authors: Habjan S , Cantisani D , Scarfo` I S , Avitabile V , Semeraro G , Cicchini L , La Canna G
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Carcinoid tumors are rare neuroendocrine malignancies arising from the neural crest amine precursor uptake decarboxylation cells and are most commonly (90%) located in the gastrointestinal system, the most malignant arising from the ileum. Approximately 50% of patients with carcinoid syndrome will develop carcinoid heart disease, which is commonly characterized by the thickening and retraction of the tricuspid ± the pulmonary valves resulting in significant regurgitation ± stenosis. Hepatic metastasis must be present for the carcinoid heart disease to develop. In order to develop left-sided heart valve lesions, communication between the left and right heart chambers must be present.

Case presentation

A 50-year-old female patient with a known neuroendocrine tumor of the ileum with hepatic and peritoneal metastasis presented at our facility for evaluation of the heart valves. She was diagnosed with the neuroendocrine tumor in 2017, a resection of the intestinal ileocecal segment and peritoneal nodules was done in the same year (stadium pT3N1M1b ki 67 2%), the tumor was angio and neuroinvasive. The disease was treated with somatostatin analogues with minimal regression of the disease. She started peptide receptor radionuclide therapy and completed 3 cycles. In October 2018 an increment of one of the hepatic lesions was documented, with other hepatic lesions remaining of stable dimensions. Due to the recent appearance of dyspnea in mild to moderate physical activities she was sent to our facility for echocardiography.

The transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography revealed severe tricuspid regurgitation with mild stenosis (tricuspid anatomic area 3.5 cm², max gradient 7 mmHg, mean gradient 4 mmHg) caused by thickened and retracted cusps with a significant coaptation deficit. Severe stenosis and insufficiency of the pulmonary valve was also noted (maximum gradient 22 mmHg, mean gradient 15 mmHg, pulmonary valve area 0.5 cm²), with a rapid deceleration regurgitation jet limited to protodiastole, caused by thickened and retracted pulmonary valve leaflets. The interatrial septum exhibited an aneurysm with a patent foramen ovale (PFO) and mild left-to-right shunt. Despite the shunt left-sided heart valves were not affected, therefore we recommended a replacement of the tricuspid and pulmonary valves with an intraoperative closure of PFO and intraoperative verification of the efficacy of the surgical closure.

Conclusion

Carcinoid heart disease is an important cardiac complication of the neuroendocrine neoplasms. Communication between the right and left heart chambers (for example a PFO) must be present for the development of left heart valve lesions. Our patient had a PFO with a mild left to right shunt, but fortunately no left sided lesions were found.

Abstract P839 Figure. Carcinoid heart disease
P867 Mitral stenosis: from mild to severe in less than a year
Authors: Ugedo Alzaga K , Candina R , Lambarri A , Castellanos M , Aurrekoetxea G , Bravo I , Codina M , Manzanal A , Garcia N , Ramirez-Escudero G , Ruiz L , Ormaetxe J M
Published: January 2020

We report the case of an 82-year-old woman, with personal history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipemia and permanent atrial fibrillation. In 2013 aortic valve substitution surgery was performed with a mechanic prosthetic valve. In her last echocardiogram in May 2018 a mild double mitral lesion was detected, with a normal aortic valve functioning.

In March of 2019 she was admitted in hospital with symptoms of heart failure and 38ºC fever.

A transthoracic echocardiogram was performed, which revealed a vegetation in the native mitral valve that caused a severe mitral stenosis (area 0.64 cm2). In blood cultures Streptococcus gallolyticycus was isolated.

In this situation, a tranesophagical echocardiogram was performed, which confirmed the diagnosis of an infective endocarditis in the native mitral valve. It also showed spontaneous echocontrast as well as a thrombus in the left atrial appendage, despite anticoagulant medication.

Given these findings, antibiotic therapy was initiated and surgery programmed. Substitution of the native mitral valve for a biological prosthesis was made. In the transthoracic echocardiographic control the prosthesis was normal functioning. A colonoscopy was performed taking into account the strong association between Streptococcus gallolyticus and colonic lesions, which showed no abnormal findings. At the discharge the patient had no signs or symptoms suggestive of heart failure or infection.

Streptococcus gallolytycus is included in the D group of Streptococci. Among hospitalized patients, this group accounts for approximately 5% of streptococcal bloodstream isolates. For humans, the gastrointestinal tract is the most frequent entry point, other potential sources include the hepatobiliary tree and the urinary tract. Clinical manifestations include bacteremia and endocarditis, which is usually highly destructive and frequently bivalvular. Bone infection, meningitis or peritonitis can also be present. Due to the frequent association between this microorganism and colonic neoplasm, colonoscopy is necessary to dismiss pathological findings. Typically D Streptococci can be treated with penicillins, ceftriaxone, carbapenems, vancomycin, daptomycin, and linezolid. The preferred regimen for streptococcal prosthetic valve endocarditis includes a beta-lactam combined with an aminoglycoside, to achieve synergistic effect.

Abstract P867 Figure. Mitral stenosis
P873 A rare and potentially treatable cause of left ventricular hypertrophy
Authors: Wong C Y
Published: January 2020

Introduction

A 67-year-old man was referred for care of "asymptomatic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy". He did not have hypertension. No significant positive family history could be elicited. Electrocardiogram showed sinus rhythm with voltage criteria of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Outside Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE) reported normal ejection fraction with asymmetric septal hypertrophy without outflow obstruction. He was put on observation for few years and was not any treatment. On first encounter in our clinic, physical examination including skin and eye assessment, and laboratory tests including renal function were unremarkable.

Procedure

TTE was repeated in our clinic showing normal left ventricular size with ejection fraction 55%, and impaired diastolic relaxation. There was asymmetric septal hypertrophy with septal thickness 2.1 cm (Figure A). There was mild systolic anterior motion of mitral apparatus and mild mitral regurgitation, without resting or Valsalva provoked outflow obstruction. Global longitudinal strain was -7.7% with most prominent abnormalities seen at apex, mid to basal anteroseptal and anterior wall (Figure B). Further assessment by Cardiac MRI showed similar asymmetric septal wall thickening. Late gandolinium enhancement study demonstrated patchy fluffy hyperenhancement of the mid wall of the basal to mid anteroseptal segment, and mid to apical anterior segment, suggestive of myocardial fibrosis (Figure C1 and C2).

Dried spot blood was sent to Taiwan for enzyme study which revealed partial acid alpha-galactosidase A deficiency. Further genetic study detected a mutation of Hemizygous NM_000169.2(GLA):c.640-801[G > A] at intron 4. Finally endomyocardial biopsy was done which confirmed the cardiac involvement of Fabry disease (Figure D, myelin body shown under electron microscopy). This gentleman was referred for consideration of Enzyme Replacement Therapy (ERT).

Discussion

Fabry disease is an X-linked glycolipid storage disease with accumulation of globotriaosylceramide in lysosomes in multiple cell types throughout the body leading to various organ involvement. Cardiac manifestations include unexplained LVH, valvular regurgitation, conduction abnormalities etc. It occurs in up to 0.3-5% of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Fabry disease should be considered as a differential diagnosis in all men with sporadic or non-autosomal dominant transmission of unexplained LVH, since treatment with ERT is available which may reduce LVH and improve myocardial function, although any impact on long term outcome has not yet been established.

Conclusion

This case illustrated a rare but potentially treatable cause of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Myocardial strain imaging should be integrated in routine TTE study for assessment of unexplained left ventricular hypertrophy. Multi-modality imaging and multi-specialty approach help in identifying patients of cardiac variant of Fabry disease who may benefit from ERT.

Abstract P873 Figure.
P877 Multiple diverticula of left ventricule - rare atypical picture finded in asymptomatic patient
Authors: Rezek M , Groch L , Moravcova H
Published: January 2020

We report the case of 74 years old asymptomatic patient, who was initially sent for a transthoracic echocardiography examination, because of a new changes on his ECG - RBBB with LAH. We found atypical multiple aneurysmatic formations. Ischemic heart disease as a probable cause was suspected. The patient underwent a coronary angiography, where we found a critical stenosis of LAD and RCA. Both stenosis were treated by PCI. Atypical aneurysmatic ventricular changes were confirmed by left ventriculography and this picture didn’t correspond with ischemic cardiomyopathy. MRI confirmed multiple aneurysmatic formations of left ventricle, but without scars or fibrotic changes in aneurysmal parts of LV. The patient remained asymptomatic and our final diagnosis was multiple left ventricle diverticula - probably a congenital heart disease. The picture on echocardiography and MRI and patients clinical status remains unchanged in follow-up. LV diverticula are very rare finding and its multiple form in aged asymptomatic adult is rather very unique. MRI is crucial in differential diagnosis with ischemic aneurysmal changes and this is nicely demonstrated in our case.

Abstract P877 Figure. LV ventriculography
P888 How many diagnoses can one heart gather?
Authors: Sturzu A , Balahura A M , Dumitrascu S , Calmac L , Alexandrescu A , Vatasescu R , Badila E , Bartos D
Published: January 2020

Background

Apical hyperthrophic cardiomyopathy (AHCM) is an uncommon form of hyperthrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) with less prevalent detection of gene mutations and sudden cardiac death compared with other types of HCM.

Purpose

We present the case of a 76 years old patient with multiple cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, former smoker) with history of unprovoked pulmonary embolism - PE (2018), without evidence of deep venous thrombosis, in treatment with rivaroxaban, who presented with worsening severe dyspnea at effort and peripheral edemas, symptoms started a few days before admission. He denied angina or palpitations.

Methods

On clinical examination we identified obesity grade II and bilateral leg edema and routine laboratory tests revealed controlled dyslipidemia. The electrocardiogram (ECG) showed atrial flutter (AF) with block 5:1, heart rate 50/min, with negative T waves in DI, aVL and V2-V6. Transthoracic echocardiography with contrast was performed showing no wall motion abnormalities otherwise with a mild concentric left ventricle hypertrophy (LVH) except for the apex where there was severe LVH suggestive for AHCM; there was an increased aortic velocity with an aortic valve with degenerative changes. We thought that the changes on the ECG were most likely due to AHCM. A thoracic tomography scan with contrast was also performed because of associated dyspnea which excluded an acute recurrence of PE. The next day the T waves on ECG normalized, putting forward for consideration an acute coronary syndrome. We performed a coronarography which confirmed a 80% stenosis of proximal left anterior descending (LAD) artery with subsequent placement of a drug eluting stent. We also did a transesophageal echocardiography (noncompliant patient) for exclusion of intracardiac thrombi (which also showed bicuspid aortic valve) and then we performed radiofrequency ablation of the cavotricuspid isthmus followed by atrial overdrive pacing for typical AF, but unsuccessful, with degeneration into atrial fibrillation.

Results

Sometimes heart failure might occur due to multiple etiological factors and mechanisms of decompensation. We had a patient with AHCM with an ECG that could be interpreted as typical for this pathology but with concomitent severely affected LAD coronary artery, with AF and high grade atrioventricular block plus mild aortic stenosis with a bicuspid aortic valve with indication for strict follow up.

Conclusions

AHCM was first described in Japan where has the highest prevalence, but is also documented in other countries (rare in Caucasian population). Note that AHCM often mimic acute coronary syndromes through clinical manifestations and electrocardiographic aspects. Our case report showed a Caucasian patient with AHCM with concomitent severe atherosclerotic desease and aortic stenosis on a bicuspid valve.
P907 Ventriculo-vascular interaction in patients with severe aortic stenosis: a comparison of three different clinical settings
Authors: Vijiiac A E , Neagu C , Cherry A , Onciul S , Zamfir D , Onut R , Stoian M , Iancovici S , Dorobantu M
Published: January 2020

Funding Acknowledgements

This work was supported by CREDO Project - ID: 49182, financed through the SOP IEC -A2-0.2.2.1-2013-1 cofinanced by the ERDF

Ventriculo-arterial coupling (VAC) reflects the interaction between the ventricle and the arterial system and its prognostic role was studied in different clinical settings. VAC can be assessed with echocardiography as the ratio between the arterial elastance (Ea) and the end-systolic left ventricular elastance (EES). Data concerning the role of VAC in severe aortic stenosis (AS) are scarce.

We aimed to determine VAC in patients (pts) with severe AS and assess its relationship with symptoms.

We included 61 consecutive pts with severe AS (vave area < 1 cm2) and we divided them in 3 groups according to their symptoms: group A consisted of 28 pts (81 ± 10 yrs, 14 men) admitted for acute pulmonary edema, group B consisted of 25 pts (76 ± 12 yrs, 13 men) with either angina, syncope or dyspnea class I-III NYHA and group C consisted of 8 asymptomatic patients (71 ± 19 yrs, 3 men). We determined the VAC non-invasively and we compared the results between the 3 groups using one-way analysis of variance and a post-hoc Tukey test.

There were no significant differences in age (p = 0.08) and aortic valve area (p = 0.18) between groups. Variations of Ea and EES between groups were not significant (p = 0.08 and p = 0.94, respectively). However, VAC differed significantly between the 3 groups, being most impaired in group A (1.11 ± 0.69), followed by 0.77 ± 0.23 in group B and 0.73 ± 0.16 in group C (p = 0.03). The left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) also differed significantly between groups: 41 ± 13% in group A, 51 ± 11% in group B and 57 ± 3% in group C (p < 0.001). VAC and the EF had a moderate negative correlation in group A (r=-0.52, p = 0.004) and group B (r=-0.51, p = 0.009), but no correlation in group C (p = 0.37).

VAC is impaired in patients with severe AS and acute heart failure and it differs significantly from VAC in severe AS with chronic, stable symptoms and from VAC in asymptomatic severe AS. This suggests that the progression of symptoms in severe AS might be related to the interactions between the left ventricle and the vascular load, making thus VAC a potential therapeutic target and a parameter to be considered in the thorough evaluation of patients with severe AS.

Group A Group B Group C Ea 2.69 ± 1.31 2.09 ± 0.94 1.95 ± 0.60 p = 0.08 EES 2.93 ± 1.90 2.87 ± 1.33 2.71 ± 0.73 p = 0.94 VAC 1.11 ± 0.69 0.77 ± 0.23* 0.73 ± 0.16* p = 0.03 EF 41 ± 13% 51 ± 11%* 57 ± 3%* p < 0.001 *significant difference with group A
P940 Usefulness of the subendocardial and subepychardial longitudinal strain in the differential diagnosis between cardiac amyloidosis and hypertrophic myocardiopathy
Authors: Ramos Polo R , Moral Torres S , Tiron De Llano C , Morales Fornos M , Frigola Marcet J M , Albert Beltran X , Robles Fernandez R , Graterol Torres F , Vilardell Rigau P , Brugada Terradellas R
Published: January 2020

INTRODUCTION

Differential diagnosis by echocardiography between cardiac amyloidosis (CA) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is based on the evaluation of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) of the entire myocardial wall. Nevertheless, histopathological studies describe a higher involvement of subendocardial tissue in CA. The aim of our study was to evaluate whether the subanalysis of the GLS by layers (subendocardial and subepicardial) and segments (apical and basal) can provide further information.

METHODS

Retrospective study including 33 consecutive patients diagnosed with CA (with histological confirmation and imaging tests) or HCM by established criteria. Advanced myocardial deformation analysis software was used for both subendocardial and subepicardial evaluation of the left ventricle wall by transthoracic echocardiography.

RESULTS

Seventeen patients (52%) had CA and sixteen (48%) had HCM. Differences were observed in LVEF (52.9 ± 10.9% vs 62.4 ±5.0%; p = 0.004), but not in the analysis of the entire wall GLS (-12.3 ± 4.9 vs -13.4 ± 2.8; p = 0.457) nor in the LVEF/GLS ratio (4.7 ± 1.4 vs 4.8 ± 1.1; p = 0.718). In the layered analysis there was no difference in subendocardial GLS (-16.2 ± 5.0 vs -16.4 ± 3.2%; p = 0.916) or subepicardial GLS (-11.7 ± 4.1 vs -11.6 ±2.7%; p = 0.945); however, the increase in GLS from base to apex was greater for CA than for HCM both at subepicardial level (increase: 101% vs 16%; p = 0.006) and subendocardial level (increase: 242% vs 114%; p = 0.006), with inversion of the greatest values for each group (Fig. 1).The ratio (apical GLS/basal GLS) was diagnostic predictor of CA (area under the curve = 86%; p = 0.002): a value >2 presented a sensitivity of 84% and a specificity of 85% for the diagnosis of CA.

CONCLUSIONS

CA presents an impairment of both subendocardial and subepicardial deformation in transthoracic echocardiography. These patterns provide additional information on differential diagnosis with HCM.

Abstract P940 Figure. Subendo vs subepicardial mean values
P942 Outcome prediction by exercise stress echocardiography and cardiopulmonary exercise testing assessment in patients with heart failure
Authors: Sakata K , Mitsuda H , Ito J , Isaka A , Gouda A , Soejima K
Published: January 2020

Background

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) is essential to the assessment of functional impairment and prognosis in patients with heart failure (HF). Peak oxygen consumption (peak VO2) continues to be considered the gold standard for assessing prognosis in HF. The minute ventilation-carbon dioxide production (VE-VCO2) slope has recently demonstrated prognostic significance in patients with HF. Ergometer stress echocardiography (Erg-Echo) is useful to evaluate the exercise-induced pulmonary hypertension and the potential cardiac dysfunction that are difficult to evaluate in the resting state.

Objective

The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between CPX and Erg-echo indices, and the usefulness of Erg-echo to determine the severity of cardiac dysfunction and the prognosis in patients with HF.

Methods

We studied 58 patients with HF (age 65.2 ± 11.9 years) and performed CPX and Erg-Echo. The peak VO2 and the VE-VCO2 slope were measured by CPX. Cardiac output (CO) and estimated mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) were measured by Erg-Echo at rest and peak exercise load, and the change ratio (ΔmPAP / ΔCO) were calculated. We evaluated the clinical outcome during a1 year period.

Results

The ΔmPAP / ΔCO was significantly correlated with the peak VO2 (R = -0.6767, P <0.0001) and the VE-VCO2 slope (R = 0.6809, P <0.0001). Cardiovascular events (1 patient of cardiovascular death, 8 patients of re-hospitalization due to HF, 4 patients of myocardial ischemia, 2 patients of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) devices implantation, 1 patient of ventricular tachycardia) developed in 16 of the 58 patients (27.5%: Group CE) during the 1 year. The peak VO2 was significantly lower (12.1 ± 2.5 vs. 16.1 ± 3.1ml/min/kg, P <0.0001) and the VE-VCO2 slope was significantly higher (41.1 ±. 12.3 vs. 31.8 ± 6.1ml/ml, P <0.0001) in Group CE compared to the other 42 patients (Group N). The ΔmPAP was significantly higher (19.1 ± 4.4 vs. 14.9 ± 6.4, P = 0.0408) and the ΔCO was significantly lower (2.4 ± 1.2 vs. 4.1 ± 2.0, P = 0.0078), and the ΔmPAP / ΔCO was significantly higher (9.7 ± 4.6 vs. 4.4 ± 2.4, P <0.0001) in Group CE compared to Group N.

Conclusions

The ΔmPAP/ ΔCO by Erg-Echo is useful to evaluate the severity of cardiac dysfunction and the prognosis of HF patients.
P966 Impact of systolic dysfunction and elevated left ventricular end diastolic pressure on three years clinical outcome in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Ahn J , Yu H Y
Published: January 2020

Background

Systolic and diastolic dysfunction is related with adverse clinical outcomes in the patients with sinus rhythm. Purpose: The aim of this study is to clarify the prognostic significance of both systolic and diastolic dysfunction in the patients with chronic persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: A total of 114 consecutive patients who have chronic persistent AF. Whole patients were divided into 2 groups according to left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF): those with an LVEF < 50 (n = 24) (REF) and those with an LVEF ≥ 50 (n = 90) (PEF). And PEF group was also divided into two groups according to left ventricular end diastolic filling pressure (LVEDP): patients with LVEDP ≥ 15 mmHg (n = 38) and those with < 15 mmHg (n = 52). Results: 3-year clinical outcomes were compared between each groups (PEF groups vs. REF groups and LVEDP ≥ 15 mmHg vs LVEDP < 15 mmHg). The incidence of death, hospitalization, stroke, bleeding, AF with rapid ventricular rhythm (RVR) and heart failure (HF) hospitalization were similar PEF and REF group. However, during 3-year follow up period, the incidence of HF hospitalization (29.2% vs 8.9%, p < 0.02) and AF with RVR (20.8% vs 3.3%, p < 0.01) were frequent in REF group compared with PEF group. In multivariate analysis, REF is an only predictor of HF hospitalization (Table 1). Conclusion: During 3-year follow up period, systolic dysfunction is an important predictor of HF hospitalization in AF patients. However, elevated LVEDP is not related with 3-year adverse clinical outcomes in AF patients without systolic dysfunction.

Table 1 variable Odd Ratio (HR) 95% Confidence Interval (CI) P Age .973 .925-1.023 .286 Diabetes mellitus .487 .138-1.721 .264 BNP 1.000 1.000-1.000 .908 Hypertension 1.061 .330-3.413 .921 LVEDP > 15 mmHg 1.302 .396-4.285 .664 EF < 50 4.712 1.478-15.016 .009 Predictors of 3-year follow-up clinical outcomes of all participants
1045 T1-mapping and CMR feature tracking in mitral valve prolapse
Authors: Guglielmo M , Fusini L , Muscogiuri G , Baggiano A , Loffreno A , Baessato F , Bonalumi G , Zanobini M , Alamanni F , Pepi M , Pontone G
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

Several studies suggest that mitral valve prolapse (MVP) can be related to sudden cardiac death, owing to sustained ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). In patients with sudden cardiac death and complex VAs, a high percentage of either left ventricle (LV) papillary muscle fibrosis or inferobasal fibrosis has been described using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) with late gadolinium enhancement technique (LGE). However, LGE presents several technical limitations and requires contrast agent administration. Thanks to T1 mapping (T1-map) and feature tracking (FT) techniques, CMR may identify myocardial fibrosis and deformation abnormalities respectively. We sought to demonstrate that, in patients with MVP, T1 map can accurately identify the presence of myocardial fibrosis which, being related to myocardial stiffness, is associated to abnormal deformation indexes at CMR FT strain evaluation.

METHODS

Consecutive patientswith indication to mitral valve surgery for severe mitral regurgitation due to mitral valve prolapse were prospectively enrolled. CMR including Modified Look-Locker (MOLLI) sequences for T1 mapping was performed in each patient. In addition, CMR FT analysis of steady state free precession (SSFP) cine images was performed to obtain 2D global and segmental circumferential and radial strains.

RESULTS

70 consecutive patients (age: 59 ± 12) were successfully evaluated with CMR. T1 native values were significantly higher in the basal and mid LV inferolateral wall compared to the remote myocardium (1074 ± 67 vs 1046 ± 40 msec, p< 0.001). Moreover, the average radial and circumferential strains of the basal and mid LV inferolateral were significantly reduced compared to those of the remote myocardium (21.1 ± 10.4 and -12.8 ± 5.6 vs 31.6 ± 9.1 and -17.3 ± 3.6 respectively, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with MVP and severe mitral regurgitation native T1 values of the LV inferolateral are higher as compared to remote myocardium and associated with reduced circumferential and radial strains. T1 mapping and CMR FT strain may be used as tools for the early identification of tissue changes in the LV inferolateral myocardial segment. Further studies are needed to evaluate if these changes are able to predict LGE development and are associated with higher risk for VAs
1232 Acute myocarditis: prognostic role of speckle tracking echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance
Authors: Trovato R L , La Franca E , Nugara C , Di Lisi D , Zarcone A , Bellavia D , Carmina G , Clemenza F , Novo S , Novo G
Published: January 2020

Background

Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the myocardium predominantly caused by infection with subsequent immunological response. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is the currently best imaging modality to confirm a suspected diagnosis of myocarditis. Conventional echocardiography can detect regional or global wall motion abnormalities but it could also be negative. Speckle tracking echocardiography can help to identify subtle systolic dysfunction, in patients with myocardits and apparently negative echocardiogram.

Purpose

the aim of this study was to identify cardiac imaging parameters predictive of cardiovascular events in patients with acute myocarditis.

Methods

a prospective study was carried out using 76 patients with acute myocarditis. Cardiological evaluation including echocardiogram and CMR with quantitative analysis of edema and delayed enhancement (DE) was performed in all patients at the hospital admission.

In 43 patients we assessed multilayer 2D speckle tracking analysis measuring GLS at three levels (mid-wall layer, endocardial and epicardial) and mechanical dispersion (MD). We assessed cardiovascular events during hospitalization in all patients (arrhythmias, heart failure, cardiogenic shock, syncope).

Results

we found significant higher value of DE mass in patients with cardiovascular events compared to patients without cardiovascular events (20,23 ± 11,47gr vs 11,58 ± 9,54gr; p = 0,021). GLS and multilayer strain at each level was significantly lower in patients with events than in patients without events (GLS epicardial -16,29 ± 1,76% vs -14,54 ± 2,19%; p = 0,013; GLS mid-wall -18,22 ± 1,94% vs -16,27 ± 2,48%; p = 0,013; GLS endocardial -19,83 ± 1,91% vs -17,81 ± 2,65%; p = 0,011).

MD was significantly higher in patients with cardiovascular events (48.50 ± 15.79 ms vs 34.12 ± 6.22ms; p < 0,001). Logistic regression analysis showed that DE is a good predictor of events (ROCarea 0,81-OddsRatio 1,09). Also GLS seems to be predictive of events (GLS epicardial: ROC area 0,72-OddsRatio 1,57; GLS mid wall: ROC area 0,73-OddsRatio 1,52; GLS endocardial: ROC area 0,72-OddsRatio 1,48).

With segmental analysis, inferior and lateral walls seemed to be more predictive of events. Segment 9 had a good predictability in all layers (epicardial: ROCarea 0,8-OddsRatio 1,69; mid wall: ROCarea 0,83- OddsRatio 1,77; endocardial: ROC area 0,82-OddsRatio 1,69).

MD was a slight predictor of events with ROC area < 0,7.

Conclusions

Speckle tracking echocardiography could be used in addiction to cardiac magnetic resonance to get more information about prognosis and events risk stratification in patients with acute myocarditis.
1234 The cardiac isovolumetric contraction time is an independent predictor of cardiovascular morbidity in the general population
Authors: Saed Alhakak A , Mogelvang R , Jensen G B , Gislason G , Biering-Sorensen T
Published: January 2020

Background

Color Tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) M-mode through the mitral leaflet is an easy and precise method to obtain the cardiac time intervals including the isovolumic contraction time (IVCT), the isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT) and the left ventricular ejection time (ET). The myocardial performance index (MPI) is defined as [(IVCT + IVRT)/ET]). It is our hypothesis that the duration of the cardiac time intervals can reveal early cardiac dysfunction.

Purpose

Our aim was to investigate if the cardiac time intervals can be used to predict cardiovascular morbidity in the general population.

Methods

A total of 1,915 participants from the general population (mean age 58 ± 16 years, 42% male) underwent a general health examination including TDI echocardiography. The IVCT, IVRT and ET were measured. The primary endpoint was the composite of ischemic heart disease (IHD), heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF). Participants with previous IHD, prevalent HF and AF were excluded (n = 336).

Results

During a median follow-up time of 11 years, 277 (17.5%) participants reached the composite endpoint. Assessing the association between IVCT and the composite outcome, the risk of IHD, HF and AF increased with 20% per 10ms increase in IVCT (per 10 ms increase: HR 1.20; 95% CI (1.11-1.30), p < 0.001; figure). The association remained significant even after multivariable adjustment for clinical and echocardiographic parameters (per 10ms increase: HR 1.11; 95% CI (1.01-1.22), p = 0.037).

IVRT, LVET and MPI were significant predictors of the composite outcome in unadjusted analysis (p < 0.001 for all). However, none remained significant after multivariable adjustment.

Additionally, the IVCT provided incremental prognostic information, as assessed by a significant increase in the net reclassification improvement (NRI) index, beyond the SCORE risk chart (continuous NRI, 0.266; 95% CI, 0.093-0.386) and the ACC/AHA Pooled Cohort Equation (continuous NRI, 0.252; 95% CI, 0.078-0.371).

Conclusion

In a low risk general population, the IVCT provides novel and independent prognostic information on the long-term risk of cardiovascular morbidity.

Abstract 1234 Figure.
P1334 Multimodal imaging assessment of a very rare cause of heart failure in adults
Authors: Darabont R O , Balinisteanu A E , Rimbas R C , Nicula A , Vinereanu D
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Congenitally Corrected Transposition of the Great Arteries (CCTGA) is a rare defect consisting in the abnormal twisting of the heart during fetal development. As a result, the two ventricles and their valves are reversed. CCTGA is frequently associated with other cardiac abnormalities. 25% of patients are developing heart failure, related to perfusion mismatch (the morphological left ventricle is supplied by a single coronary artery), and to the progressive deterioration of the structural right ventricle situated on the systemic side of the circulation.

Case report

A 45-year-old male was referred to our hospital for fatigue and dyspnea, occuring in the last five months. Physical examination revealed tachypnea, a slightly intense systolic murmur at the apex, and pulmonary congestion, in the absence of cyanosis, peripheral edema or jugular venous distension. Heart rate and blood pressure were normal. Usual laboratory work-up indicated increased levels of NT-proBNP, without any other abnormalities. ECG presented signs of pressure overload of the systemic ventricle (Figure Ia). Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) highly suggested the diagnosis of CCTGA, due to atrioventricular valve displacement, with the morphological tricuspid valve closer to the apex in 4-chamber view (Figure Ib). TTE showed also dilated and dysfunctional left ventricle, mild left atrioventricular regurgitation, and normally functional right ventricle. Cardiac computed tomography emphasized a specific feature of CCTGA: the parallel emergence of aorta and pulmonary trunk, with the aortic arch crossing over the left pulmonary artery (Figure Ic). Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging confirmed dilatation and low ejection fraction of the systemic ventricle (20%), and displayed presence of trabeculations and the moderator band in the systemic ventricle (Figure Id). None of these evaluations found additional cardiac structural anomalies. Thus, patient was diagnosed with heart failure due to isolated CCTGA.

Discussions and relevance of case report. This case emphasizes a very rare cause of heart failure in adults. CCTGA is reported in 0.5-1% of all congenital diseases, especially in males. Isolated CCTGA accounts for less than 10% of all cases, and represents the phenotype that is usually diagnosed in adulthood. In the absence of associated anomalies, the prognosis of these patients is particularly affected by the occurrence of heart failure in the 4th or 5th decade of life. Meanwhile, this case highlights the importance of a multimodal approach in CCTGA, and the specific contribution of each imaging method in the process of an accurate diagnosis.

Abstract P1334 Figure I
P1355 Short-term cardiac side-effects from radiotherapy in women with breast cancer
Authors: Witkowski T , Konat-Baska K , Dupla D , Maciejczyk A , Matkowski R , Jankowska E A , Kosmala W
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Breast cancer radiotherapy provides an apparent benefit for long-term survival and local recurrence rate. However, there is still much concern about the early and late radiation-induced cardiac toxicity. Therefore, various radiotherapy techniques have been developed to reduce the cardiopulmonary radiation doses in patients with left-sided breast cancer, who are at particular risk of developing post-radiation cardiac injury.

Aim

We sought to investigate the early effect of radiotherapy on left (LV) and right ventricular (RV) function in females subjected to this treatment.

Methods

Fifty left-sided breast cancer patients , who underwent adjuvant radiotherapy between May 2017 and May 2018 were included in the study. Forty-nine enrollees were initially treated with breast conserving surgery, and 1 - with mastectomy and axillary lymph node resection. Adjuvant radiotherapy was carefully planned to minimize the radiation side effects and 37 patient received radiotherapy with deep inspiration breath hold technique and 13 patients with free breathing technique. In most cases (n = 33), 3D conformal tangential field radiation therapy was applied, 13 patients received radiotherapy with dynamic-Rapid-Arc technique with additional 3D fields, and 4 patients underwent radiotherapy only with Rapid-Arc technique. Before surgery and 3 months after radiotherapy, echocardiography with measurement of conventional cardiac function parameters, as well as LV and RV longitudinal deformation analysis by speckle tracking technique was performed, and venous blood for biomarkers - galectin-3 reflecting myocardial fibrosis and NT-proBNP was sampled.

Results At a mean follow-up of 97 ± 19 days , there were no significant changes in any of the studied cardiac systolic or diastolic function parameters (Table). There were no relationships between the change in LV longitudinal strain at follow-up and type of radiotherapy, as well as type of radiotherapy gating (both R = 0.02, p = 0.90). Similarly, no analogous associations were demonstrated for RV longitudinal strain (R = 0.02, p = 0.88, and R = 0.04, p = 0.77, respectively). No significant changes were found post radiotherapy in serum galectin-3 (7.2 ± 2.6 ng/ml vs. 6.8 ± 2.5 ng/ml; p = 0.58) and NT-proBNP (83 ± 68 pg/ml vs. 84 ± 54 pg/ml; p = 0.90).

Conclusions

Breast cancer radiotherapy with the use of contemporary planning techniques shows an excellent early cardiac safety.

Abstract P1355 Figure.
P1364 Contractile reserve predicts reverse remodelling after successful percutaneous mitral valve repair in patients with functional mitral regurgitation
Authors: Mortelmans P , Debonnaire P , Paelinck B P , De Bock D , Coussement P , Claeys M J , Van De Heyning C M
Published: January 2020

Background

Recent randomised trials have shown conflicting results regarding the usefulness of percutaneous mitral valve repair using MitraClip in patients with severe functional mitral regurgitation (FMR). At present, it remains unclear whether patients with FMR and advanced heart failure might benefit from MitraClip therapy. Moreover, it has been shown that left ventricular reverse remodelling (LVRR) post-MitraClip is associated with a favourable outcome.

Purpose

We sought to assess whether baseline contractile reserve (CR) can predict LVRR and improvement of LV ejection fraction (EF) in FMR patients undergoing MitraClip therapy.

Methods

Consecutive patients with symptomatic severe FMR referred for MitraClip were recruited in two tertiary centres. All patients were scheduled for a semi-supine bicycle exercise echocardiography before and 6 months after the intervention. Patients who were not able to perform an exercise test and who did not complete 6 month follow up were excluded from further analysis. Baseline CR was obtained by subtracting peak exercise LVEF from LVEF at rest. LVRR was defined as a 10% decrease in LV end systolic volume (ESV) at follow-up.

Results

34 patients completed 6 month follow up (61% male, age 71 ± 10 years, LVEF 32 ± 8%). LVRR was observed in 15 patients (44%). We found a trend towards a moderate correlation between baseline CR and relative decrease in LVESV at 6 months (Pearson Rho -0.321, p = 0.064). This correlation became significant in a sub-analysis considering only patients with post-procedural FMR grade ≤2 (n = 27; Pearson Rho -0.444, p = 0.020). In contrast, LVRR was not related to baseline LVEF, LV dimensions or volumes. Furthermore, baseline CR was strongly correlated with an increase of LVEF at 6 months post-MitraClip in these patients (Pearson Rho 0.653, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

CR predicts LVRR and improvement of LVEF in patients with FMR after successful MitraClip therapy (reduction of FMR towards grade ≤2), in contrast to resting indices of LV dysfunction and dilatation. More studies with outcome data are needed to determine whether CR is a useful parameter to identify patients with FMR who might benefit from MitraClip therapy.