bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
281 Home delivery of the communicator for remote monitoring of cardiac implantable devices: a multicentre experience during the COVID-19 lockdown
Authors: Bernardini Alessia , Magnocavallo Michele , Mariani Marco Valerio , Mei Maria Chiara , Di Iorio Martina , Vetta Giampaolo , Piro Agostino , Trivigno Sara , Giunta Giuseppe , Chimenti Cristina , Nicosia Antonino , Adduci Carmen , Grossi Stefano , Saporito Davide , Quaglione Raffaele , Rapacciuolo Antonio , Marini Massimiliano , Santarpia Giuseppe , Pentimalli Francesco , Rordorf Roberto , Vaccaro Paola , Campari Monica , Valsecchi Sergio , Fedele Francesco , Lavalle Carlo
Published: December 2021

Aims

During the COVID-19 pandemic in-person visits for patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices should be replaced by remote monitoring (RM), in order to prevent viral transmission. A direct home-delivery service of the RM communicator has been implemented at 49 Italian arrhythmia centres.

Methods and results

According to individual patient preference or the organizational decision of the centre, patients were assigned to the home-delivery group or the standard in-clinic delivery group. In the former case, patients received telephone training on the activation process and use of the communicator. In June 2020, the centres were asked to reply to an ad hoc questionnaire to describe and evaluate their experience in the previous 3 months. RM was activated in 1324 patients: 821 (62%) received the communicator at home and the communicator was activated remotely. Activation required one additional call in 49% of cases, and the median time needed to complete the activation process was 15 min (25th–75th percentile: 10–20). 753 (92%) patients were able to complete the correct activation of the system. At the time when the questionnaire was completed, 743 (90%) communicators were regularly transmitting data. The service was generally deemed useful (96% of respondents) in facilitating the activation of RM during the COVID-19 pandemic and possibly beyond.

Conclusions

Home delivery of the communicator proved to be a successful approach to system activation, and received positive feedback from clinicians. The increased use of a RM protocol will reduce risks for both providers and patients, while maintaining high-quality care.
190 SARS-CoV-2 associated myopericarditis in a patient with previous myocarditis
Authors: Amore Ludovica , Alghisi Fabio , Vizzardi Enrico , Cersosimo Angelica , Cimino Giuliana , Pancaldi Edoardo , Pascariello Greta , D’Aloia Antonio , Farina Davide , Gavazzi Emanuele , Metra Marco
Published: December 2021

Aims

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is well described as being responsible for multi-organ involvement and SARS-CoV-2 cardiac involvement was observed since the beginning of the spread of the infection. However, there are no descriptions of acute myopericarditis in patient with previous myocarditis.

Methods and results

Cardiac involvement was assessed with electrocardiographic and echocardiographic changes and with increased levels of cardiac high-sensitivity troponin T (hs-cTnT). Diagnosis was confirmed with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) and coronary artery disease (CAD) was excluded with coronary angiography. A 53-years-old woman with hypokinetic cardiomyopathy due to a previous myocarditis and recent COVID-19 pneumonia reached the Emergency Department with chest pain and tachycardia in December 2020. Twelve-lead ECG was not conclusive and after detection of significative increase of hs-cTnT she was admitted to the Cardiology Department. Transthoracic echocardiography showed reduction of left ventricle ejection fraction, subendocardial bright appearance and mild pericardial effusion. Coronary angiography excluded obstructive CAD and CMR confirmed diagnosis of recent myocarditis and worsening of left and right ventricular ejection fraction compared to a previous CMR. Patient was treated with evidence-based therapy for heart failure, prednisone, intravenous immunoglobulins, ibuprofen, and colchicine. Cardiac biomarkers reduced within the normal range, symptoms improved, and the patient was discharged asymptomatic and haemodynamically stable.

Conclusions

SARS-CoV-2, as already described in literature, can be associated with inflammatory cardiac involvement. This is the first report of SARS-CoV-2 associated myopericarditis in a patient with previous history of myocarditis and recent SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. In our experience the patient was successfully treated with evidence-based therapy for heart failure and immunomodulation therapy.
254 Impact of sacubitril/valsartan on implantable defibrillator eligibility in heart failure: a real-world experience
Authors: Monzo Luca , Ferrari Ilaria , Gaudio Carlo , Cicogna Francesco , Tota Claudia , Petronilli Valentina , Mennuni Silvia , Ruvo Ermenegildo De , Calò Leonardo
Published: December 2021

Aims

Current guidelines recommend an implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) in patients with symptomatic heart failure and reduced ejection fraction [HFrEF; left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤35%] despite ≥3 months of optimal medical therapy. Recent observations demonstrated that sacubitril/valsartan induces beneficial reverse cardiac remodelling in eligible HFrEF patients. Given the pivotal role of LVEF in the selection of ICD candidates, we sought to assess the impact of sacubitril/valsartan on ICD eligibility and its predictors in HFrEF patients.

Methods and results

We retrospectively evaluated 48 chronic HFrEF patients receiving sacubitril/valsartan and previously implanted with an ICD in primary prevention. We assumed that ICD was no longer necessary if LVEF improved >35% (or > 30% in asymptomatics) at follow-up. Over a median follow-up of 11 months, sacubitril/valsartan induced a significant drop in LV end-systolic volume (−16.7 ml/m2, P = 0.023) and diameter (−6.8 mm, P = 0.022), resulting in a significant increase in LVEF (+3.9%, P < 0.001). As a consequence, 40% of previously implanted patients resulted no more eligible for ICD at follow-up. NYHA class improved in the 50% of population. A dose-dependent effect was noted, with higher doses associated to more reverse remodelling. Among patients deemed no more eligible for ICD, lower NYHA class [odds ratio (OR): 3.73 (95% CI: 1.05–13.24), P = 0.041], better LVEF [OR: 1.23 (95% CI: 1.01–1.48), P = 0.032], and the treatment with the intermediate or high dose of sacubitril/valsartan [OR: 5.60 (1.15–27.1), P = 0.032] were the most important predictors of status change.

Conclusions

In symptomatic HFrEF patients, sacubitril/valsartan induced beneficial cardiac reverse remodelling and improved NYHA class. These effects resulted in a significant reduction of patients deemed eligible for ICD in primary prevention.
41 Circulating levels and prognostic cut-offs of sST2, high-sensitivity troponin T, and NT-proBNP in women vs. men with chronic heart failure
Authors: Gentile Francesco , Aimo Alberto , Jannuzzi James Lj , Richards Mark , Lam Carolyn Sp , Boer Rudolf A. De , Meems Laura Mg , Latini Roberto , Staszewsky Lidia , Anand Inder S. , Cohn Jay N. , Ueland Thor , Guellestad Lars , Aukrust Pal , Rocca Hans-peter Brunner-la , Bayes-genis Antoni , Lupon Josep , Yoshihisa Akiomi , Egstrup Michael , Gustafsson Ida , Gaggin Hanna K. , Eggers Kai M. , Huber Kurt , Gamble Greg D. , Ling Lieng H. , Leong Kui Toh Gerard , Yeo Poh Shuah Daniel , Ong Hean Yee , Jaufeerally Fazlur , Ng Tze P. , Troughton Richard , Doughty Robert N. , Devlin Gerry , Lund Mayanna , Giannoni Alberto , Passino Claudio , Emdin Michele , Vergaro Giuseppe
Published: December 2021

Aims

Limited evidence exists on sex-related differences in clinical value of biomarkers in chronic heart failure (HF). We aimed to define plasma levels, determinants, and optimal prognostic cut-offs of soluble suppression of tumourigenesis-2 (sST2), high-sensitivity troponin T (hs-TnT), and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in female and male chronic HF patients.

Methods and results

Individual data of patients from the BIOS (Biomarkers In Heart Failure Outpatient Study) Consortium with sST2, hs-TnT, and NT-proBNP measured were analysed. The primary endpoint was a composite of 1-year cardiovascular death and HF hospitalization. The secondary endpoints were 5-year cardiovascular and all-cause death. The cohort included 4540 patients (age: 67 ± 12 years, LVEF 33 ± 13%, 1111 women, 25%). Women showed lower sST2 (24 vs. 27 ng/ml, P < 0.001) and hs-TnT level (15 vs. 20 ng/l, P < 0.001), and similar concentrations of NT-proBNP (1540 vs. 1505 ng/l, P = 0.408). Although the three biomarkers were confirmed as independent predictors of outcome in both sexes, the optimal prognostic cut-off was lower in women for sST2 (28 vs. 31 ng/ml) and hs-TnT (22 vs. 25 ng/l), while NT-proBNP cut-off was higher in women (2339 ng/l vs. 2145 ng/l). The use of sex-specific cut-offs improved risk prediction compared to the use of previously standardized prognostic cut-offs (Figure).

Conclusions

In patients with chronic HF, levels of sST2 and hs-TnT, but not of NT-proBNP are lower in women. Lower sST2 and hs-TnT and higher NT-proBNP cut-offs for risk stratification could be used in women.
572 Different renal function patterns in acute heart failure patients
Authors: Ruocco Gaetano , Feola Mauro , Luschi Lorenzo , Brazzi Angelica , Ghionzoli Nicolo , Rossi Arianna , Pagliaro Antonio , Crescenzi Federico , Palazzuoli Alberto
Published: December 2021

Aims

The role of worsening renal function during acute heart failure (AHF) hospitalization is still debated. Very few studies have extensively evaluated the renal function (RF) trend during hospitalization by repetitive measurements. The aim of this study is to investigate the prognostic relevance of different RF trajectories together with the congestion status in hospitalized patients.

Methods and results

This is a post hoc analysis of a multi-centres study including 467 patients admitted with AHF who were screened for the Diur-AHF Trial. We recognized five main RF trajectories based on serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) behaviour: according to the RF curve our sample was divided into 1-stable (S), 2-transient improvement (TI), 3-permanent improvement (PI), 4-transient worsening (TW), and 5-persistent worsening (PW). The primary outcome was the combined endpoint of 180 days including all causes of mortality and re-hospitalization.

We recruited 467 subjects with a mean congestion score of 3.5 ± 1.08 and a median creatinine value of 1.28 (1.00–1.70) mg/dl, eGFR 50 (37–65) ml/min/m2, and NTpro BNP 7000 (4200–11 700) pg/ml. A univariate analysis of the RF pattern demonstrated that TI and PW patterns were significantly related to poor prognosis [HR: 2.71 (1.81–4.05); P < 0.001; HR: 1.68 (1.15–2.45); P = 0.007, respectively]. Conversely, the TW pattern showed a significantly protective effect on outcome [HR: 0.34 (0.19–0.60); P < 0.001]. Persistence of congestion and BNP reduction ≥ 30% were significantly related to clinical outcome at univariate analysis [HR: 2.41 (1.81–3.21); P < 0.001 and HR: 0.47 (0.35–0.67); P < 0.001]. A multivariable analysis confirmed the independently prognostic role of TI, PW patterns, persistence of congestion and reduced BNP decrease at discharge.

Conclusions

Various RF patterns during AHF hospitalization are associated with different risk(s). PW and TI appear to be the two trajectories related to worse outcome. Current findings confirm the importance of RF evaluation during and after hospitalization.
29 Comparison between pure tachycardiomyopathy and acute heart failure and structural heart disease
Authors: Stronati Giulia , Urbinati Alessia , Ciliberti Giuseppe , Barbarossa Alessandro , Falanga Umberto , Silenzi Marco , Principi Samuele , Manfredi Roberto , Compagnucci Paolo , Casella Michela , Russo Antonio Dello , Guerra Federico
Published: December 2021

Aims

Tachycardiomyopathy (TCM) is a reversible cause of left ventricular dysfunction, secondary to rapid and/or asynchronous, irregular myocardial contraction. The disease can be divided in two main subgroups: arrhythmia-induced TCM also known as pure TCM, where the arrhythmia is the sole reason for the dysfunction, and impure TCM also known as arrhythmia mediated TCM, where the arrhythmia can exacerbate or worsen heart failure (HF) or an underlying heart disease. Pure TCM has already been described as affecting almost 1 out of 10 patients admitted for de novo acute HF. The aim of our study was to compare pure TCM and de novo acute HF and structural heart disease patients in terms of mortality and cardiovascular (CV)-related hospitalizations.

Methods and results

Prospective, observational study enrolling all consecutive patients with a confirmed diagnosis of TCM and all patients admitted for de novo acute HF. The TCM diagnosis was suspected in all patients admitted for HF-related symptoms, an ejection fraction <50% with concomitant persistent atrial or ventricular arrhythmia, and confirmed after clinical and echocardiographic recovery. Acute HF diagnosis was made in all patients with an ejection fraction <50%, new HF-like symptoms, diagnosis of structural heart disease and no evidence of clinical or echocardiographic recovery. For each patient, all-cause death and CV-related hospitalizations were recorded. One-hundred-and-ten patients with TCM (61.8% males, 68 ± 13 years old) were propensity matched with a control population of patients with HF and structural heart disease (76.6% males, 71 ± 15 years old, 75% ischaemic heart disease). After a median follow-up of 5.1 years (1st–3rd quartile 2.6–7.0 years) TCM patients showed an overall higher estimate of survival when compared to HF patients (78% vs. 58%; P = 0.031; Figure 1A) but a lower estimate of time free from CV-related hospitalization (31% vs. 57%, P = 0.014; Figure 1B). TCM patients got most often readmitted for AF-related elective procedures (60.8% of all hospitalizations) such ablation procedures or elective cardioversion, TCM recurrence (13.7%), and elective coronary angiography (5.9%). On the other hand, HF patients got readmitted for HF worsening (40.9%), cardiac or vascular surgery (22.7%), and elective coronary angiography (9.1%). Propensity-score matched analysis confirmed the results for all-cause death (81% vs. 49%; P = 0.006) and CV-related hospitalizations (29% vs. 54%; P = 0.007).

Conclusions

TCM is associated with higher rate of survival when compared to de novo acute HF, even after propensity score adjustment. On the other hand, patients with TCM got readmitted more frequently, requiring more often elective procedures in order to control the triggering arrhythmia.
191 Prognostic value of amyloid beta (1–40) in patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Gagno Giulia , Janjusevic Milijana , Fluca Alessandra Lucia , Beltrami Antonio Paolo , Sinagra Gianfranco , Aleksova Aneta
Published: December 2021

Aims

Patients who have survived acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are at higher risk of developing several cardiovascular complications during follow-up and, unfortunately, appropriate risk stratification remains a major challenge. Amyloid-β 1–40 [Aβ (1–40)] has already emerged as a prognostic biomarker of cardiovascular mortality among patients with stable coronary heart disease due to its pathophysiological vascular inflammation properties.

Methods and results

The relationship between plasma Aβ (1–40) concentrations and follow-up outcome was examined in a large prospective cohort of patients hospitalized for AMI (NSTEMI or STEMI). Total RNA was extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) to assess the expression levels of BACE1 and BACE1-AS. A total of 894 subjects (607 patients with STEMI and 287 patients with NSTEMI) were included in this study. The median plasma Aβ (1–40) concentration at admission was 96.59 (60.94–134.5) pg/ml. During the 83 month follow-up, 123 patients died and 78 patients developed HF. Higher Aβ (1–40) concentrations were able to predict an increased mortality risk during follow-up. In addition, in the cohort of patients older than 67 years, the plasma concentration of Aβ (1–40) strongly correlated with an unfavourable outcome, whereas in the cohort younger than 67 years did not.

Conclusions

This is the largest single centre study investigating the role of plasma Aβ (1–40) concentration in predicting patient outcomes after AMI both STEMI and NSTEMI. Our data show a strong correlation between plasma Aβ (1–40) levels and mortality risk during follow-up. In addition, we confirmed a correlation between age and plasma Aβ (1–40) concentration, noting that Aβ (1–40) values are an incremental risk factor in relation to age for adverse outcomes.
686 Coronary lesion distribution in young patient presenting with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Franzino Marco , Pistelli Lorenzo , Parisi Francesca , De Santis Giulia Azzurra , Nicolò Claudio , Andò Giuseppe , Virga Vittorio , Vizzari Giampiero , Saporito Francesco , Carerj Scipione , Di Bella Gianluca , Micari Antonio , Costa Francesco
Published: December 2021

Aims

The distribution of coronary lesions in young patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is not known.

Methods and results

We included 82 consecutive young patients (≤45 years at presentation) with ACS and obstructive coronary artery disease referred from October 2013 until March 2021 to our clinic. Significant coronary lesions (>50%) at each segment during coronary angiography were evaluated. A total of 158 lesions have been evaluated. Multivessel disease was observed in 37% of patients. Lesions at proximal and mid left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery were the most common observation (Figure A). Roughly one in three lesions affected a proximal coronary segment (i.e. segment 1, 5, 6, or 11), and 45.1% of patients presented at least one lesion in these segments. Within each segment, lesions affected the ostium in 15.8%, proximal third in 26.8%, mid-third in 32.9%, and distal-third in 15.9% of cases. Among those presenting with ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction, culprit lesion distribution is presented in Figure B. Proximal segments were affected in 33.9%, while culprit lesion of the LAD, left circumflex, and right coronary artery was observed in 51.8%, 16.1%, and 32.1% respectively.

Conclusions

In conclusion, coronary artery disease in patients presenting with ACS occur more often in the LAD and in proximal coronary segments. A significant lesion in a proximal coronary segment affected roughly half of young patients presenting with ACS.
634 Long term prognostic effect of lipoprotein in patients with and without diabetes mellitus after myocardial infarction
Authors: Tedeschi Michele , Cancro Francesco Paolo , Busiello Marco Maria , Butrico Valentina , Torre Marco , Cristiano Mario , Sabatino Mariano , Romei Stefano , Settembre Emanuela , Alfano Antonia , Vecchione Carmine , Galasso Gennaro
Published: December 2021

Aims

The aim is to describe the baseline clinical, laboratory, and angiographic characteristics of patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) according to the presence or not of diabetes mellitus (DM), and to evaluate if DM may influence the effect of lipoproteina [Lpa] serum level on long-term outcome in this very high-risk population.

Methods and results

This was a retrospective, single-centre, study including consecutive patients admitted with MI diagnosis between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2020. The availability of data on baseline Lpa serum level was considered as an inclusion criterion. The study population was divided into two groups according to the presence or not of DM. The Lpa value of 50 mg/dl was used to test the hypothesis of a different effect of Lpa on the clinical outcome of patients with or without DM. The primary study outcome was all-cause death at 3-year follow-up. The study population included 997 patients (mean age 63.7 ± 13.5 years; 75.7% were males). Diabetes was reported in 280 (28.1%) patients. DM patients were older than those without DM (67.8 ± 12.1 vs. 62.0 ± 13.7 years, P < 0.001) and showed a significantly higher prevalence of dyslipidaemia, hypertension, obesity, prior MI, and prior coronary revascularization (P < 0.001). DM patients showed higher SYNTAX score value (19.8 vs. 15.1, P < 0.001) and a higher prevalence of left main involvement (6.3 vs. 3.1, P = 0.023). At Kaplan–Meier analysis, in the group without DM, patients with Lpa ≥ 50 mg/dl showed a significantly lower long-term survival compared with those with Lpa < 50 mg/dl (Log-Rank = 0.004). In DM patients, conversely, no survival difference was found between patients with Lpa ≥ 50 mg/dl vs. those with Lpa < 50 mg/dl. At multivariable Cox regression analysis, in patients without DM, Lpa serum level (HR: 2.68, 95% CI: 1.23–5.83; P = 0.013) and age (HR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.04–1.09; P < 0.001) were independent predictors of mortality at 3-year follow-up. Among DM patients, only age was independently associated with 3-year mortality (HR: 1.07, 95% CI: 1.03–1.10; P < 0.001) (Table).

Conclusions

In this MI population, Lpa was independently associated with long-term mortality in patients without DM, but not in patients with DM. Whether DM can modify the effect of Lpa on clinical outcome after MI requires confirmation by larger prospective studies.
189 Long-term outcomes of early-onset myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary artery disease
Authors: Magnani Giulia , Bricoli Serena , Ardissino Maddalena , Maglietta Giuseppe , Nelson Adam , Tagliazzuccchi Guidoantonio Malagoli , Disisto Caterina , Celli Patrizia , Ferrario Maurizio , Canosi Umberto , Cernetti Carlo , Negri Francesco , Merlini Piera Angelica , Tubaro Marco , Berzuini Carlo , Manzalini Chiara , Ignone Giancarlo , Campana Carlo , Moschini Luigi , Ponte Elisabetta , Pozzi Roberto , Fetiveau Raffaella , Buratti Silvia , Paraboschi Elvezia , Asselta Rosanna , Botti Andrea , Tuttolomondo Domenico , Barocelli Federico , Biagi Andrea , Bonura Rosario , Moccetti Tiziano , Crocamo Antonio , Benatti Giorgio , Paoli Giorgia , Solinas Emilia , Notarangelo Maria Francesca , Moscarella Elisabetta , Calabrò Paolo , Duga Stefano , Niccoli Giampoalo , Ardissino Diego
Published: December 2021

Aims

Data regarding long-term prognosis of MINOCA are very limited and conflicting.

Methods and results

The Italian Genetic Study on early-onset MI enrolled 2000 patients who had a first MI before they were 45. The median follow-up was 19.9 years, the equivalent of 39 535 person-years. The composite primary endpoint was cardiovascular (CV) death, non-fatal MI, and non-fatal stroke (MACE); the secondary endpoint was rehospitalization for coronary revascularization. MINOCA was experienced by 317 patients (15.9%). The risk of MACE was not significantly different between MINOCA patients and those with obstructive coronary artery disease (MICAD, 27.8% vs. 37.5%; adj. HR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.57–1.09; P = 0.15, Figure 1). There was no between-group difference in the rate of non-fatal MI (17.3% vs. 25.4%; adj. HR: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.52–1.13; P = 0.18), non-fatal ischaemic stroke (9.5% vs. 3.7%; adj. HR: 1.79, 95% CI: 0.87–3.70; P = 0.12), or all-cause mortality (14.1% vs. 20.7%; adj. HR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.43–1.25; P = 0.26), but the rates of CV death (6.2% vs. 8.4%; adj. HR: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.08–0.86; P = 0.03) and coronary revascularization (6.7% vs. 27.7%; HR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.15–0.47; P < 0.001) were lower in the MINOCA group.

Conclusions

MINOCA is frequent in early-onset MI patients and is not benign with a long-term risk of MACE and overall mortality not significantly different from that of the MICAD patients.

189 Figure 1 Composite primary endpoint of CV death, non-fatal MI, and non-fatal stroke
232 A multidisciplinary case of multiple myeloma with cardiac and renal involvement: a look beyond amyloidosis
Authors: Bacchi Beatrice , Cappelli Francesco , Perfetto Federico , Allinovi Marco , Innocenti Samantha , Antonioli Elisabetta , Marchionni Niccolò , Di Mario Carlo , Stefano Pier Luigi
Published: December 2021

Aims

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant neoplasm with a frequent cardiac involvement characterized by restrictive cardiomyopathy. Kidney and thromboembolic complications are also described.

Methods and results

A 52-year-old woman with a history of kidney disease was admitted to nephrology department due to worsening of renal function and refractory hypertension. A bone marrow biopsy revealed the diagnosis of MM. A renal and fat pad biopsy with Congo red staining was performed but amyloid deposition was not observed. Increased cardiac enzymes suggested a cardiac involvement. Indeed, two intracardiac right-sided masses and massive pulmonary embolism were detected. Surgical cardiac intervention was promptly performed and a chemotherapy regimen was started. Meantime, a kidney biopsy revealed a light-chain deposition disease.

Conclusions

This case highlights that multiple organ involvement in patients with MM may result from a combination of paraprotein-dependent and -independent factors. Moreover, in patients with not acute massive pulmonary embolism and intracardiac right masses, surgical pulmonary embolectomy should be promptly performed to preserve RV function and to avoid prevent pulmonary hypertension development.
274 Cerebrovascular events in takotsubo syndrome: short- and long-term outcome. Results from a multicentre-prospective registry
Authors: Leopizzi Alessandra , Santoro Francesco , Mallardi Adriana , Vitale Enrica , Brunetti Natale Daniele
Published: December 2021

Aims

Several studies have shown that Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) secondary to neurological disorders is associated with higher rate of in-hospital complications. Imaging brain studies found that atrophy or damage of some regions and their altered connectivity with other brain regions are typical features of TTS patients. The aim of the study is to evaluate rates of in hospital and long-term Follow-up events in TTS patients with history or acute cerebrovascular events (CVE).

Methods and results

395 consecutive patients were enrolled in a multicentre prospective registry. History, clinical data, echocardiographic parameters and in-hospital and long-term follow-up events of all patients were evaluated. Prevalence of cerebrovascular events among TTS patients was 9.4% (num = 37). Compared to the control group, these patients were older (80 ± 7 vs. 71 ± 12, P = 0.01) and predominantly men (24% vs. 9%, P = 0.01). No differences in term of cardiovascular risk factors and left ventricular ejection fraction at admission and discharge were found among the two groups. The prevalence of physical stressor was higher in the CVE group (67% vs. 44% P = 0.01). The incidence of in-hospital adverse events was higher in the CVE than in the control one (70% vs. 29%), mainly driven by higher rate of Cardiogenic shock (19 vs. 8% P = 0.01) and in-hospital death (19 vs. 4%, P = 0.01). At long-term follow-up, patients in CVE group hat higher mortality rate (38% vs. 20% P = 0.01)). Patients presenting with acute CVE, 10 out of 37 patients (27%) when compared with chronic CVE had higher in-hospital mortality (40% vs. 11% P = 0.01).

Conclusions

TTS patients with history or acute cerebrovascular events had higher rate of in-hospital events and death at long-term follow-up. Acute cerebrovascular events in the setting of TTS are featured with worst prognosis.
516 Prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome in patients with transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Trimarchi Giancarlo , Perna Alessia , Zampieri Mattia , Argirò Alessia , Runinski Robert , Cappelli Francesco , Di Bella Gianluca
Published: December 2021

Aims

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) represents an important red flag for transthyretin (ATTR) cardiac amyloidosis (CA). However, no large studies have investigated the prevalence of CTS in wild type ATTR (wtATTR) and hereditary ATTR (hATTR). To investigate the prevalence of CTS in patients with ATTR-CA, both wild type and hereditary, differentiating between monolateral and bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome.

Methods and results

381 patients, 308 male and 73 female, with a definite diagnosis of ATTR CA have been evaluated. Among these, 230 patients with diagnosis of wild-type ATTR (wtATTR) and 151 patients with hereditary ATTR (hATTR) were identified. Patients with diagnosis of hATTR are sorted according to phenotype in cardiologic (43 patients) and mixed when both cardiologic and neurologic phenotype are observed (108 patients). Patients with neurological phenotype without CA were excluded. Overall, CTS is present in 57.6% of ATTR patients; A higher prevalence (P < 0.05) of CTS was observed in wtATTR (61.6%) respect to hATTR (51.7%). Monolateral isolated CTS is significantly frequent (P < 0.05) in patients with hATTR (35.1%) than in wtATTR (12.7%), on the contrary bilateral CTS is significantly more frequent (P < 0.05) in patients with wtATTR (48.5%) than in hATTR (16.6%). Among patients with hATTR, of the 43 patients with cardiologic phenotype, 18 patients (41.9%) have diagnosis of CTS, subdivided in 28% with monolateral CTS and 72% with bilateral CTS. Among hATTR patients with mixed phenotype, 55.6% have diagnosis of CTS, subdivided in 80% with monolateral isolated CTS and 20% with bilateral CTS. Among 151 patients with hATTR, monolateral isolated CTS is significantly more present in patients with mixed phenotype (80% vs. 27%, P < 0.001) while bilateral CTS is significantly more frequent in patients with cardiologic phenotype (72.2% vs. 20%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

CTS particularly with bilateral involvement is a common finding in wtATTR patients than in hATTR patients. On the contrary, monolateral isolated CTS is significantly more frequent in patients with hATTR than in wtATTR. Among patients with hATTR, bilateral CTS is significantly more frequent in patients with cardiologic phenotype than mixed phenotype while monolateral isolated CTS is significantly more present in patients with mixed phenotype.
280 Role of the electrocardiogram in differentiating genotype positive dilated cardiomyopathy from cardiac remodelling in athletes
Authors: Zaffalon Denise , Papatheodorou Efstathios , Merghani Ahmed , Dhutia Harshil , Moccia Eleonora , Malhotra Aneil , Miles Christopher J. , Attard Virginia , Homfray Tessa , Sharma Rajan , Gigli Marta , Dal Ferro Matteo , Merlo Marco , Papadakis Michael , Sinagra Gianfranco , Sharma Sanjay , Finocchiaro Gherardo
Published: December 2021

Aims

Physiological cardiac remodelling in highly trained athletes may overlap with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the ECG in differentiating between physiological and pathological remodelling.

Methods and results

The study population consisted of 30 patients with DCM who revealed a pathogenic variant at genetic testing and 30 elite athletes with significant cardiac remodelling defined by a left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic diameter > 62 mm and/or LV ejection fraction between 45% and 50%. The ECG was abnormal in 22 (73%) patients with DCM. The most common abnormalities were low voltages (n = 14, 47%), lateral TWI (n = 6, 20%), ventricular ectopic beats (n = 5, 17%) and anterior TWI (n = 4, 13). Two athletes revealed an abnormal ECG: complete left bundle branch block (LBBB) in one case and atrial flutter in the other. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the ECG in differentiating DCM from physiological adaptation to exercise in athletes was 73% [confidence interval (CI: 54–88%), 93% (CI: 78–99%), and 0.83 (CI: 0.71–0.92), respectively.

Conclusions

While the ECG is usually normal in athletes exhibiting significant LV dilatation and/or systolic dysfunction, this test is often abnormal in patients with DCM harbouring a pathogenic variant. Low voltages in the limb leads and lateral TWI are the most common abnormalities.
342 Cardiorespiratory fitness and systemic vascular resistance: oxygen pressure as a novel marker of peripheral vascular response during cardiopulmonary exercise testing
Authors: Centorbi Claudio Stefano , Lazzeroni Davide , Moderato Luca , Bini Matteo , Brambilla Lorenzo , Brambilla Valerio , Camaiora Umberto , Geroldi Simone , Meloni Luigi , Coruzzi Paolo , Piepoli Massimo , Ardissino Diego , Niccoli Giampaolo
Published: December 2021

Aims

The key role of systemic vascular resistance (SVR) in cardiovascular performance during exercise has been invasively demonstrated, however no data have been non-invasively obtained by analysing SVR response using cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). To investigate the relationship between SVR at peak, maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 peak), and its determinants using CPET.

Methods and results

1130 consecutive subjects were enrolled; according to physiology, SVR was determined as the ratio between mean arterial pressure (MAP) and cardiac output (CO). A novel parameter, named oxygen pressure (MAP peak/VO2 peak) was also created. Mean age was 61 ± 12 years and male gender was prevalent (61%); 66% of patients had arterial hypertension, 74% dyslipidaemia, 19% diabetes, 20% had smoking habit, and 26% previous history of cardiovascular (CV) disease. Significant inverse correlations between SVR peak and VO2/kg peak (P < 0.001), oxygen pulse (P < 0.001), CV efficiency (P < 0.001), chronotropic response (P < 0.001), and oxygen uptake exaction slope (P < 0.001) were found. Moreover, positive correlation between SVR peak and VE/VCO2 slope (P < 0.001) was observed. After multivariate analysis, the inverse correlation between peak SVR and peak VO2 remained significant (P < 0.001). Similar results were found considering oxygen pressure.

Conclusions

Low values of SVR at peak exercise, non-invasively evaluated with CPET, are associated with high levels of cardiorespiratory fitness. Oxygen pressure may represent a novel and simple CPET marker of peripheral vascular response to exercise, thereby representing a promising field of research in exercise medicine.
5 Early diagnosis of coronary artery disease in postmenopausal women by arterial stiffness assessment
Authors: Maiello Maria , Zito Annapaola , Ciccone Marco Matteo , Palmiero Pasquale
Published: December 2021

Aims

Arterial stiffness is a marker of cardiovascular disease useful to identify, at an early stage, subjects with increased risk of cardiovascular artery diseases (CADs). Nevertheless, studies on gender-specific interactions of PWV and CAD are lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate, in a population of postmenopausal women, the role of PWV in relation to CAD. The goal of our study was to assess the prevalence of CAD, among postmenopausal women affected by increased arterial stiffness, assessed by global pulse wave velocity (gPWV), and with diabetes and/or hypertension on target, distinguishing the different phenotypes.

Methods and results

We enrolled 632 consecutive women with an increased gPWV, 300 consecutive postmenopausal women with normal gPWV were included as control group (CG). We assessed arterial stiffness by gPWV, performed by pulsed Doppler (3.5 MHz probe) using two-dimensional guidance and ECG trigger. Philips Epiq 7 was used which is an echo-Doppler system equipped with a multifrequency transducer. The gPWV was assessed as normal for a velocity equal or lower than 7.1 m/s. CAD diagnosis was accepted when confirmed by exercise or nuclear stress test, cardiac catheterization, and angiogram or cardiac CT scan. All women were on therapy, with blood pressure < 130/80 mmHg and HbA1c < 7%. 55 (8.8%) women were affected by CAD among 632 with increased gPMW, and 15 (5%) among 300 women of CG, P < 0.04. There was no difference for mean age between the two groups: 58 ± 11 and 56 ± 8, respectively, P = 0.2. 29 (4.5%) women were affected by CAD and hypertensive cardiomyopathy among 632 with increased gPMW, and 6 (2%) among 300 women of CG, P < 0.05. 16 (2.6%) women were affected by CAD and metabolic cardiomyopathy among 632 with increased gPMW, and 2 (0.7%) among 300 women of CG, P < 0.05. Seventeen (2.7%) women were affected by CAD alone among 632 with increased gPMW, and 2 (0.7%) among 300 women of CG, P < 0.04.

Conclusions

We found a higher prevalence of CAD among postmenopausal women with increased gPWV when affected by hypertension and/or diabetes, also if on target therapy; the statistically significant correlation is confirmed also when women are affected by hypertensive or metabolic cardiomyopathy. We conclude that early detection increased gPWV may identify women with higher risk to develop CAD also before they become symptomatic.
146 Prognostic significance of unexplained left ventricular hypertrophy in patients undergoing carpal tunnel surgery
Authors: Porcari Aldostefano , Pagura Linda , Longo Francesca , Sfriso Enrico , Barbati Giulia , Murena Luigi , Longo Emiliano , Ramella Vittorio , Arnez Zoran Marij , Rapezzi Claudio , Merlo Marco , Sinagra Gianfranco
Published: December 2021

Aims

Carpal tunnel (CT) syndrome is a recognized red-flag of cardiac amyloidosis (CA) and increased cardiovascular (CV) morbidity. We designed this study to characterize the CV profile of patients with CT syndrome at the time of first surgery and to identify high-risk presentations.

Methods and results

We retrospectively reviewed 643 patients who underwent CT surgery between 2007 and 2019. Of them, 130 patients (77 years, 45% males, LVEF 62%) with available CV characterization within ±12 months from CT surgery were included. Abnormal loading conditions causing cardiac hypertrophy (LVH) were investigated to distinguish explained LVH (Ex-LVH) from unexplained LVH (Un-LVH). The primary outcome of the study was all-cause mortality. The secondary outcome measures were the occurrence of (i) new-onset heart failure (HF) or worsening HF requiring hospitalization (HHF) or (ii) pacemaker implantation. New-onset HF was defined as the development of HF signs and symptoms requiring an unplanned cardiologic examination or hospitalization. Median follow-up was 63 months [interquartile range (IQR): 30–95]. LVH was found in 65 (50%) patients, 33% of them presented Un-LVH. Compared to the others, Un-LVH patients were older (77, 75 vs. 70 years in Un-LVH, Ex-LVH, and non-LVH, respectively; P = 0.002), had higher rates of ECG-echo discrepancy (70%, 14.3% and 1.6%, respectively; P < 0.001) and of echocardiographic findings of CA (24%, 7%, and 0%, P < 0.001). Among Un-LVH patients, 9 (43%) experienced death and 7 (33%) developed HF at 3.8 and 2.4 years from CT surgery, respectively. Compared to the others, death and HF development rates were higher in Un-LVH patients both at unadjusted (P = 0.01 and P = 0.02, respectively) and adjusted analysis for age, gender, and renal insufficiency (P = 0.00038 and P = 0.050, respectively).

Conclusions

At the time of CT surgery, Un-LVH was found in more than 30% of patients with LVH and 24% of them showed echocardiographic features suggesting an underdiagnosed CA. Un-LVH was associated with higher all-cause mortality and HF development.
255 Tricuspid regurgitation in the community by routine echocardiography
Authors: Leonardi Denis , Siviero Valentina , Setti Martina , Maffeis Caterina , Fanti Diego , Springhetti Paolo , Cicoira Mariantonietta , Rossi Andrea , Ribichini Flavio , Benfari Giovanni
Published: December 2021

Aims

Tricuspid Regurgitation (TR) is quite frequent in the community and often overlooked in routine clinical practice. This study aims to convey the TR rate of diagnosis and impact on survival in a geographically defined population of an Italian referral centre, considering five different clinical contexts.

Methods

The study included consecutive outpatients with comprehensive echocardiography and complete clinical evaluation over 7 years of practice. Outpatients with TR greater than moderate were included, and the different clinical contexts evaluated: patients with concomitant significant mitral regurgitation (MR-TR), heart failure (HF-TR), previous open-heart surgery (postop-TR), pulmonary hypertension (PHTN-TR) and isolated TR (isolated-TR).

Results

Among all consecutive echocardiograms performed in routine practice (N=6797) in a geographically defined community, moderate or severe TR was found in 4.8% (N = 327; mean age 76±10, 56% female). Median follow-up was 6.1 [2.2–8.9] years. TR severity was an independent determinant of survival: risk ratio for mortality of severe TR vs. moderate was 1.72 [95% CI 1.06–2.77; P = 0.03] univariate and 1.76 [95% CI 1.02–3.01; P = 0.04] after adjusted for age, sex, MR, PHTN and EF. Only 2.8% of patients underwent tricuspid valve surgery during follow-up. Outpatients with MR-TR or HF-TR held the worst prognosis (Figure). As compared to isolated-TR, the mortality risk was 2.67 [95% CI 1.05–6.78; P = 0.04] for HF-TR and 2.04 [95% CI 1.00–4.14; P = 0.05] for MR-TR. Risk ratios for mortality vs. postop-TR were 3.66 [95% CI 1.19–11.26; P= 0.02] for HF-TR and 2.79 [95% CI 1.08–7.21; P = 0.03] for MR-TR. There was no interaction between the TR clinical context and the survival impact of TR (P=0.09).

Conclusions

Significant TR is frequent in our community, comparable to key epidemiological studies. TR severity independently impacts survival in all clinical settings, and it is associated with an absolute high event-rate when present with concomitant MR or HF. These results give importance to early diagnosis with grading to be performed through accurate echocardiography and renew the interest in new and safe, less invasive percutaneous intervention to improve patients' survival.
508 Incidence and determinants of prosthesis-patient mismatch after transcatheter aortic valve replacement using predicted indexed effective orifice area
Authors: Cacia Michele Antonio , Sorrentino Sabato , Leo Isabella , Polimeni Alberto , Sabatino Jolanda , Salerno Nadia , Boccuto Fabiola , Carabetta Nicole , Bellantoni Antonio , Panuccio Giuseppe , Augusto Florinda Maria , Varano Ylenia , De Rosa Salvatore , Mongiardo Annalisa , Spaccarotella Carmen AnnaMaria , Indolfi Ciro
Published: December 2021

Aims

A small effective orifice area (EOA) by body surface area (BSA), defined as prosthesis–patient mismatch (PPM), is associated with elevated transprosthetic pressure gradients, less ventricular remodelling, and a worse prognosis. Calculating PPM by dividing the normal reference value of EOA for the model and size of the prosthetic valve (predicted PPM), instead of using the continuity equation has been recently confirmed as more accurate after trans catheter aortic valve intervention (TAVI), providing a stronger association with post-procedural haemodynamic outcomes. However, current evidence using this new definition is still limited, thus impairing generalizability. Accordingly, this analysis aims to extend such evidence providing incidence, and determinants of predicted PPM (PPMp) in an all-comers population undergoing TAVR with a high prevalence of self-expandable devices.

Methods

395 patients who underwent TAVI at our Institution from September 2008 to November 2020 were included in this analysis. PPMp was then classified as moderate if ≤ 0.85 cm2/m2 and severe if ≤ 0.65 cm2/m2 as well as moderate if ≤ 0.70 cm2/m2 and severe if ≤ 0.55 cm2/m2 for patients with a body mass index > 30, as recommended by the Valve Academic Research Consortium-3 definition. The independent association between baseline clinical and procedural variables and the presence of moderate or severe PPMp was investigated with cross-sectional logistic regression analysis.

Results

11 patients (2.78%) had severe and 33 (8.35%) moderate PPMp. Patients with moderate or severe PPMp (m/s PPMp) were younger, female, with a higher prevalence of hypercholesterolaemia, prior aortic valve implantation and balloon expandable device and lower prevalence of chronic obstructive disease (COPD). Post-procedural mean gradient was higher in patients with m/s PPMp. The independent clinical and procedural correlates associated with higher likelihood of m/s PPMp were valve in valve procedure (ViV) and the use of a balloon-expandable device.

Conclusions

Moderate or severe PPMp was observed only in a small part of patients underwent TAVI, leading, however, a higher post-procedural mean gradient compared to those without PPMp. Balloon expandable devices and ViV were the strongest determinant of moderate or severe PPM.
531 Neuroimaging assessment of unilateral asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis: preliminary results of the carotid artery multi-modality imaging prognostic (camp) study
Authors: Masini Gabriele , Gargani Luna , Napoli Vinicio , Cosottini Mirco , Chiappino Dante , Orlandi Giovanni , D'Amelio Claudio , Totaro Porzia , Galeotti Giangiacomo , Palombo Carlo , De Caterina Raffaele
Published: December 2021

Aims

Doppler ultrasound (DUS), CT angiography (CTA), and contrast-enhanced MR angiography (CEMRA) are all recommended techniques to evaluate the significance of carotid artery stenosis, although they may give discordant results. Plaque ulcerations may be present, but their role is still controversial. We aimed at assessing the concordance and level of agreement, as well as the prevalence of characteristics related to plaque ulceration and association to patients’ characteristics among different imaging diagnostic techniques.

Methods and results

Sixty-one patients with unilateral asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis (40–60% detected by DUS), enrolled in the ongoing CAMP study were prospectively evaluated with CEMRA and CTA. The level of agreement was calculated by the weighed kappa test. Plaque ulceration was defined as an intimal defect larger than 1 mm in width or 2 mm in depth, detected by CTA and/or CEMRA. Concordance rate was 71% for DUS–CTA, 51% for DUS–CEMRA, and 66% for CTA–CEMRA. Concordance among all noninvasive techniques was only 45%. Compared with DUS, the stenosis was downgraded by CTA in 17% and by CEMRA in 32% of cases. There was a moderate agreement between DUS–CTA {weighed kappa 0.49 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.31–0.67]}, while agreement between DUS–CEMRA and CTA–CEMRA was fair [weighed kappa 0.15 (95% CI: −0.01–0.31) and 0.38 (95% CI: 0.14–0.62), respectively]. An ulcerated plaque was present in 39% of patients at CTA and/or CEMRA; compared with patients with non-ulcerated plaques, those with an ulcerated plaque had higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), and a trend to higher levels of high sensitivity cardiac troponin (cTn) T (Table), whereas the degree of stenosis was similar.

Conclusions

CTA and CEMRA tend to report a lower degree of stenosis compared with DUS. Concordance and level of agreement was higher for DUS and CTA. Plaque ulceration is common and is associated with a significant higher level of systemic inflammation, as detected by CRP and, possibly, cTn.