bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P175 PARADOXICAL RESPONSE DURING DOBUTAMINE STRESS ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Cariello F , Bencardino G , Sacra C , Romano A , Trigiani G , Ienco V , Macrì L , Gioia M , Deietti G , Ventura G 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Background
Dobutamine Stress Echo (DSE) is a test widely used in the diagnosis of ischemic heart disease. The purpose of the following work is to describe a clinical case with uncommon behaviour. Case Description: 63–year–old female with dyspnoea on mild exertion, and history of NSTEMI–ACS 5 years prior with Coronary Angiography (CA) finding of 3–vessel coronary artery disease, treated with PCI + stent (DES) of right coronary artery (CDX), untreated disease sub–occlusion of the first marginal obtuse (OM1), and chronic occlusion of the anterior interventricular artery (IVA). We decide for DSE. During 20 mcg/kg/min infusion, the patient reported dyspnoea and paradoxical bradycardia (BP) was documented on the ECG, in the absence of ST changes, with the appearance of akinesia of the basal and mid posterolateral segments and worsening of the inferior hypokinesia, present in basal conditions on Echocardiograms (EC). The BP and the alterations of the ventricular motion (VCA) did not respond to the administration of Atropine (1+1 mg) while the administration of 240 mg of Aminophylline (AM) restored the HR and the VCA to baseline values. The CA demonstrated patency of the CDX with the presence of collateral circulation for IVA and occluded OM1.

Discussion
This case is characterized by the presence of a double paradox: the BP and the Atropine–Resistance (AR). BP during DEB, as demonstrated in previous studies, occurred in 8% of cases, with signs of significant coronary artery disease in 57% of cases. The BP is an expression of ischemia only in just over half of the patients, in the rest of the cases it appeared referable to the Bezold–Jarish reflex, a vagal reflex determined by the stimulation of the intracardiac mechanoreceptors. In our case, the presence of AR seems to exclude the possibility that bradycardia is due to this reflex. The appearance of paradoxical bradycardia during DSE is a rare complication and can lead to premature termination of the test with inconclusive results. In our case, the BP and the AR confirm the positivity of the test also in consideration of the response to the AM antagonist of Adenosine, which accumulates during ischemia.

Conclusions
This uncommon response to DSE, where AR and AM response in addition to BP could identify patients with severe coronary artery disease in whom the ischemic response is driven by adenosine accumulation, rather than a vagal reflex responding to atropine administration.
P177 COR TRIATRIATUM DEXTER: THE ROLE OF TRANSTHORACIC ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY
Authors: Basile P , Carella M , Monitillo F , Santoro D , Argentiero A , Ciccone M , Guaricci A 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Introduction
Cor triatriatum dexter (CTD) is an extremely rare congenital cardiac abnormality and its prompt recognition by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is essential for a correct diagnosis. Case presentation An 82–years–old woman was admitted to our cardiologic ward for worsening dyspnoea. The physical examination revealed a bilateral lower extremity oedema with elevated jugular venous pressure and hepatomegaly. The ECG showed atrial fibrillation with a heart rate of 70 bpm already treated with beta–blockers and direct–acting oral anticoagulant. TTE revealed a left ventricle with normal dimensions and function, a dilated right ventricle with a mild systolic dysfunction and increased wall thickness, a marked dilation of the right atrium and a tricuspid severe regurgitation. A deeper analysis of the right atrium revealed the presence of membrane partitioning the chamber into two compartments (Figure 1). The separation was incomplete as demonstrated by the flow across the membrane with Color–Doppler technique (Figure 2). The patient was treated using high doses of diuretics with a subsequent clinical improvement. A percutaneous intervention on the tricuspid valve was planned by the Heart Time.

Discussion
CTD derives from the persistence of the right valve of the sinus venosus resulting in a complete or incomplete fibromuscular band which separates the right atrium into two cavities. The spectrum of clinical manifestations is broad, based upon the degree of separation. In older patients CTD is often asymptomatic and incidentally found during diagnostic imaging examinations. TTE plays a key role in the identification of CTD, as a first–line diagnostic imaging tool. It, also, allows a differential diagnosis with a prominent eustachian valve, chiari network, and thebesian valve. However, in difficult cases a multiparametric approach is required including transoesophageal echocardiogram or cardiac magnetic resonance. Echocardiography has a pivotal role in the prompt recognition of other cardiac abnormalities associated with CTD such as atrial septal defect or patent foramen ovale, right ventricular hypoplasia and Ebstein’s anomaly. In our case, none of these were documented. Atrial fibrillation should be investigated due to severe atrial chamber dilation. A multiplane evaluation of the right atrium and the Color–Doppler technique are helpful to visualize the configuration of the membrane and evaluate the absence of flow disturbances.
P203 PLASMA TRANSTHYRETIN FORMS IN PATIENTS WITH WILD–TYPE TRANSTHYRETIN CARDIAC AMYLOIDOSIS: INFLUENCED OF TAFAMIDIS TREATMENT
Authors: Sanguinetti C , Vergaro G , Aimo A , Castiglione V , Caponi L , Paolicchi A , Emdin M , Franzini M 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Introduction
Transthyretin (TTR) is a plasma protein that transports thyroxin and retinol complexed to retinol–binding protein (RBP). TTR misfolding and aggregation can lead to the extracellular deposition of amyloid in the myocardium, causing TTR cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR–CA). Aim of this study is to develop a native electrophoretic method to characterize circulating TTR forms in plasma samples of ATTR–CA patients, before and after administration of tafamidis, a TTR stabilizer. Material &

Methods
Plasma samples from patients affected by wild–type ATTR amyloidosis (ATTRwt, n=10) were collected before (T0) and during tafamidis treatment at 14, 30 and 90 days. Plasma samples of sex– and age–matched healthy controls (n=6) were also collected. All samples were separated on a native 4–20% Tris–Gly polyacrylamide gel. Western blot analysis was performed with anti–TTR or anti–RBP antibodies. Proteins were detected by Clarity ECL substrate. ImageLab software was used for image acquisition and densitometric analysis of the blots. Total TTR (mg/dl) and RBP (mg/dl) were quantified by nephelometry.

Results
In both groups, the most represented forms were: TTR dimers or trimers (37–50kDa), TTR tetramers complexed with RBP protein in 1:1 (75kDa,) or 1:2 ratio (100kDa), and high molecular weight aggregates (&gt;150kDa). RBP protein was detectable in association with TTR tetramers and some of the TTR aggregates (250kDa, 480kDa). Based on TTR electrophoretic pattern at T0, patients could be divided in 2 groups: ATTR–1, characterised by the presence of TTR tetramers (55kDa), and ATTR–2, characterised by its absence. The ATTR–1 group showed also higher levels of total TTR in comparison with ATTR–2 (mean±SD 25.5±3.8, 16.6±4.2 respectively, p=0.004), while plasma RBP levels were similar (5.1±0.7, 5.1±1.4 respectively). The electrophoretic patterns of ATTR–1 at T0, as well as TTR and RBP levels were comparable to those of controls (TTR 22.6±3.8, RBP 4.4±0.9). Tafamidis treatment was associated with a progressive increase of total TTR levels both in ATTR–1 and –2 (T90 31.4±5.8, 28.7±6.8) but the 2 groups continued to be distinguishable by the electrophoretic pattern.

Conclusions
The native electrophoresis allowed us to detect diverse circulating TTR forms and to classify patients in 2 groups according to their electrophoretic pattern. TTR quali/quantitative evaluation by electrophoresis could represent a valid tool to assess the individual pharmacological response to tafamidis.
P230 A RARE CASE OF INFECTIVE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION
Authors: Condello C , Gasparetto N , Stievano A , Carrer A , Favero L , De Mattia L , Betta D , Balducci E , Cernetti C 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Background
Prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE) occurs in 1–6% of patients with valve prostheses. The most common agent of late PVE are S. aureus and Streptococci. Spondylodiscitis may precede the onset of endocarditis or may be the first clinical manifestation. Coronary embolization is a rare but possible complication of endocarditis. Case report: A 61 years–old man was admitted to the Emergency Department for low back pain, fever and chest pain. Four years before he underwent mitral valve bioprosthesis implantation and hybrid myocardial revascularization (percutaneous on right coronary artery). During observation cardiac arrest from ventricular fibrillation occurred, treated with single shock and evidence of anterolateral myocardial infarction at ECG. An urgent coronarography revealed chronic occlusion of CABG on LAD and acute occlusion, of possible embolic origin, involving LAD mid tract, first diagonal branch and intermediate branch. Thromboaspiration and subsequent PTCA was performed. For hemodynamic instability inotropic and vasopressor supports were started. A transthoracic echocardiogram showed severe left ventricular dysfunction (EF 25%) and 3.5x1mm endocardial vegetation on the mitral bioprosthesis without significant bioprosthesis dysfunction (confirmed by transesophageal echocardiogram). Blood cultures resulted positive for Streptococcus gordonii and antibiotic therapy based on the antibiogram was begun. Cardiac surgery was ruled out due to prohibitive surgical risk despite high probability of embolization. Because of the history of back pain spinal MRI was performed with evidence of cervial and lumbosacral spondylodiscitis. Neurosurgical indications were ruled out. Levosimendan infusion allowed weaning of vasopressor and inotropic therapy, however without improvement of left ventricular ejection fraction. Daily echocardiographic follow–up showed disappearance of the vegetation. Antibiotic targeted therapy was continued for 5 months, given the persistence of spondylodiscitis, in anticipation of intracardiac defibrillator (ICD) implantation in primary prevention.

Conclusion
PVE is a severe clinical condition associated with high morbidity and mortality. Antibiotic therapy is recommended for at least 6 weeks in PVE, in this case prolonged up to 5 months given the need to implant an ICD. Regarding the treatment of embolic infarction thromboaspiration is recommended as the initial strategy and, if successful, may be the only interventional option.
P241 SACUBITRIL/VALSARTAN IN HEART FAILURE WITH REDUCED EJECTION FRACTION: REAL–WORLD EXPERIENCE FROM ITALY (THE REAL.IT STUDY)
Authors: Di Lenarda A , Di Gesaro G , Sarullo F , Miani D , Driussi M , Correale M , Bilato C , Passantino A , Carluccio E , Villani A , Degli Esposti L , D‘Agostino C , Peruzzi E , Monopoli S , Iacoviello M 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Background
Sacubitril/valsartan reduced heart failure (HF)–related hospitalizations and cardiovascular mortality in PARADIGM–HF and has become a foundational treatment for HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). However, data of its routine real–world use is limited, and evidence from Italian settings is lacking. Aim of the study. The REAL.IT study aimed to characterize the demographics, pharmacotherapy, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of sacubitril/valsartan–treated Italian patients with HFrEF.

Methods
Electronic medical records of patients initiating sacubitril/valsartan from October 2016 to June 2019 at nine specialized hospital outpatient HF Centers across Italy were reviewed.

Results
Overall, 924 adults (mean age 64.5 years, 84.6% male) were included. Clinical characteristics are shown in Table 1. At baseline, 38.7% had an ischemic HF etiology, 45.9% hypertension, 23.2% atrial fibrillation, 25.4% diabetes mellitus, 26.1% an implantable cardioverter–defibrillator, 31.9% coronary artery bypass grafting. There were no clear patterns of patient selection over time. As shown in Table 1, during follow–up NYHA class improved in 37.5% after a mean of 5.3 ± 3.8 months; 36.1% and 16.7% of patients were in NYHA class III during characterization and after one year of follow–up, respectively. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) improved ≥5% in 56.3% of patients at one year; 39.7% had ≥30% reduction of N–terminal pro–B–type natriuretic peptide; 2.2% had hyperkalemia during characterization and 2.6% during follow–up; 3.8% had hypotension during characterization and 12% during follow–up. A total of 50 (5.8%) of patients had device implantation (ICD/CRT) during follow–up. HF–related hospitalization was recorded in 19.6% of patients during follow–up; 3.8% of patients died, approximately 1.3% from cardiovascular causes.

Conclusions
Our real–world data confirm the favorable effectiveness and tolerability of sacubitril/valsartan observed in pivotal randomized controlled trials.
P243 EXTRACORPOREAL CONTINUOUS VENO–VENOUS ULTRAFILTRATION IN PATIENTS WITH ACUTE HEART FAILURE REFRACTORY TO DIURETIC THERAPY: A SINGLE–CENTER PILOT EXPERIENCE
Authors: Somaschini A , Buscemi M , Cornara S , Astuti M , Cordone S , Botta M , Pentimalli F , Bellone P 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Introduction
Congestive Acute Heart Failure (C–AHF) is characterized by extracellular fluid overload. Extensive use of loop diuretics may induce worsening renal function, electrolyte imbalance, symptomatic hypotension and diuretic resistance. Extracorporeal veno–venous ultrafiltration (UF) may represent a useful adjunctive therapy. Despite a few randomized clinical trials have been carried out, the results are controversial; aim of this study is to describe our pilot experience using UF.

Methods
We enrolled consecutive patients with C–AHF refractory to diuretic therapy treated with UF from January to December 2022; patients affected by concomitant acute coronary syndrome were excluded. UF was delivered using a modern device specifically designed for fluid removal in C–AHF patients through slow continuous UF (Fig.1). According to our protocol, the initial UF rate was based on baseline systolic arterial pressure (250cc/h if&gt;120mmHg, 100–120cc/h if 100–120mmHg and &lt;100cc/h if&lt;100mmHg; contra–indicated if&lt;90mmHg). Laboratories values, urinary output and fluid balance were monitored at baseline, after 6 hours (T6) and when UF was stopped (T0). Variables are expressed as medians with 25p–75p.

Results
Seven patients were enrolled in the study (5M;2F); in each a femoral central venous catheter (20cm/14G) was placed to perform UF. A standard anticoagulation regimen based on UFH bolus + infusion was adopted aiming to an ACT of 180–220. Median age and LVEF were respectively 40[20–50] and 79[73–85]; 3 patients were diabetics, 2 smokers and 4 hypertensive. Median rate of hospitalization in the previous 12 months was 1 [0–2]; domiciliary dosage of furosemide was 75mg [50–125]. Baseline, T6h and T0 creatinine values were respectively 1.2 [1.1–2], 1.3 [1.1–1.8] and 1.4 [1.1–1.9]. Heart rate and blood pressure were stable during the treatment. UF parameters in the patients of the study are summarized in Tab.1; congestion was resolved or improved in 6/7 patients, no severe complication (bleeding, AKI, death) occurred while 1 premature filter clot is reported.

Conclusions
Our initial experience with UF is promising. Modern heart failure specific devices appear safe, easy to use and require only minimal training. Compared to extensive i.v. diuretic use, predictable fluid removal through UF may be beneficial as it is characterized by higher excretion of sodium, limited neuro–hormonal activation, enhanced spontaneous diuresis and restoration of diuretic response.
P269 AORTA–RIGHT ATRIAL TUNNEL POST TRICUSPID ANNULOPLASTY
Authors: Chiarello G , Donateo M , Garzya M , Marazia S , Cucurachi M , Colonna G 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Background
Aorta–right atrial tunnel is a rare entity characterized by a iatrogenic vascular fistula, which connects aortic root and right atrium. It is frequently associated with congestive heart failure (HF).

Case
A 54 y female with an history of atrial septal defect (ASD) type ostium secundum closure and a recent mitral and tricuspid annuloplasty surgery, presents to the hospital with significant decrease in exercise tolerance and progressive shortness of breath. At the presentation, physical examination was significant for tachycardia, continuous murmur over precordium and lower extremity edema. ECG showed right ventricular pressure overload with repolarization abnormality. TTE showed moderate systolic flattening of the septum and dilated right sections. Non coronary cusp of aortic valve demonstrated a perforation extending to the right atrium (RA). ETE confirmed the connection between non–coronary aortic cusp and RA, furthermore revealed unkown sinus venosus type ASD. TC angiography showed a marked dilation of the pulmonary artery trunk (egg and banana sign) and a connection between aorta and RA. She was treated with surgical closure of aorta– right atrial tunnel and ASD through detached and pledget stitch closure. Follow–up reveals significant functional recovery of shortness of breath and exercise tolerance.

Discussion
Aorta– right atrial tunnel is a rare entity characterized by a vascular fistula, which connects one of the sinuses of Valsalva and the RA. It is a rare complication of tricuspid plastic surgery. It is classified according to its relation to the aorta to anterior or posterior. The clinical presentation ranges from asymptomatic continuous murmur to the symptoms of right sided HF. In our case, the presence of ASD accelereted and worsened the manifestations of right HF. It is usually diagnosed by TTE or ETE, TC angiography and aortography. The treatment of this condition is important even in asymptomatic cases due to the risk of aortic valve dysfunction, likely regurgitation, congestive right sided HF followed by left sided HF, calcification, infective endocarditis, aneurysmal dilatation and pulmonary hypertension.

Conclusion
The possibility of complications of aorta–right atrium fistula necessitates early therapy, even in asymptomatic patients or those with a hemodynamically insignificant shunt. Available treatment is surgical closure. It has a high mortality rate if it is not diagnosed adequately and surgically treated without delay.
P272 ROLE OF 3D TRANSESOPHAGEAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY IN DIANOSIS OF DYSFUNCTION OF MECHANICAL PROSTHESES
Authors: Scollo V , Fede G , Abate G , Belluardo P , Guccione N , Sulsenti G , Ficili S 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Infections with endocardial vegetation or the exuberant growth of neoendothelialization tissue (cloth –tissue overgrowth) in heart valve prostheses lead, among other complications, to the malfunction of the prostheses themselves due to obstruction. Among the diagnostic methods available to us, to achieve the diagnosis of prosthetic dysfunction, in recent years three–dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D TTE) has become increasingly imposed. We present two clinical cases of patients admitted to our Cardiology department Case 1: Patient of 62 years old, hospitalized for established congestive heart failure. In 2006 he underwent ascending aorta replacement with Dacron 28 prosthesis and aortic valve replacement with mechanical prosthesis (Sorin 25) for aortic bicuspid and ascending aortic aneurysm. During the last follow–up was observed a slight increase in the value of intraprosthetic gradients, as well as a variability in INR values. Physical examination showed signs of heart failure (NT–ProBNP &gt;1000 pg/ml); normal inflammation indices (PCR &lt;2.9 mg/l); ECG: sinus rhythm at 85 bpm with left ventricular overload; trans–thoracic echocardiography showed severe intraprosthetic aortic gradient (Gmax 132mmHg–Gmed 72mmHg), doubtful for cloth adhered to prosthetic discs; 3D TTE shoved hyperechoreflective image adhered to the posterior mobile element (5x9mm) which was fixed in semi–closure. Subsequently, the patient underwent prosthetic replacement surgery with biological prosthesis. Case 2: Patient of 67 years old, heavy smoker, hypertensive, with aortic mechanical prosthesis, a few weeks before hospitalized for Corynebacterium Jeikeium infection. Hospitalized again for fever with increased inflammation indices (CRP 202mg/l). A first TTE concluded for suspected endocarditis of the prosthesis; this doubt was also dissolved by 3D TTE which showed a soft protruding image of the posterior mobile element, preventing the opening and determining severe stenosis (Gmax 160mmHg–Gmed of 80 mmHg), so this patients was transferred to the cardiac surgery department.

Conclusions
3D TTE is a method of rapid and safe execution that can be exploited not only pre– or intraoperatively but also to settle diagnostic suspicions not clarified by traditional 2d methods, even managing to distinguish cloth deposits from vegetation / abscesses.
P288 TREATMENT OF HEART FAILURE IN CLINICAL PRACTICE: NON–INTERVENTIONAL OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON PATIENTS WITH HEART FAILURE TREATED WITH DAPAGLIFLOZIN (EVOLUTION–HF ITALY)
Authors: Orso F , Ameri P , Carugo S , Di Lenarda A , Iacoviello M , Indolfi C , Mortara A , Perrone Filardi P , Ungar A , Volpe M , Volterrani M , Granelli V , Mastromauro F , Pluchinotta F , Gnesi M , Rosano G 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Background
Heart Failure (HF) is a relevant issue for public health issue: it affects more than 64 million people worldwide1, and its burden is anticipated to increase as the population ages. Dapagliflozin is an inhibitor of the sodium–glucose cotransporter–2 (SGLT2i). In the DAPA–HF trial, dapagliflozin reduced the risk of hospitalisation for HF and death in patients with HFrEF (with or without Type 2 Diabetes) compared to placebo2,3,4. Currently, there is a lack of data on characteristics, treatment profiles, and patient reported outcomes (PROs) of patients initiated on dapagliflozin for HFrEF in clinical practice: the EVOLUTION–HF programme is aimed at answering those questions by collecting real–world data in 13 European Countries, including Italy. The primary objective is to characterise patients initiated on dapagliflozin for the treatment of HFrEF and to estimate occurrence of treatment discontinuations. Secondary objectives include an assessment of Health–related Quality of Life (HR–QoL) by means of the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ), patient–reported adherence to prescriptions of pharmacological treatments for HF (Medication Adherence Report Scale – 5 Item), performance on 6–Minutes Walking Test.

Methods
The study has an observational, longitudinal, descriptive design. To be enrolled, patients must be 18 years old or older and have initiated treatment with dapagliflozin according to the approved HFrEF label. Patients with a diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes or previously treated with any SGLT2i are excluded from the study. Follow–up lasts one year from start of treatment. Sample size has been estimated in 250 patients, that will be enrolled in 11 centres.

Results
The study is currently ongoing, and it will generate evidences on the use and tolerability of dapagliflozin, as well as on treatment patterns of other pharmacological therapies for HF and diabetes. Also, the study will generate data from PROs regarding change of KCCQ across time, adherence to HF therapies in clinical practice, and 6–Minutes Walking Tesst. Multivariate analyses will evaluate association between patients’ characteristics and interruption of treatment, adherence and HR–QoL. The interim analysis will be available in the first months of 2023.

Conclusions
The EVOLUTION–HF Italy study Il programma di studio EVOLUTION–HF supporterà la pratica clinica con dati originali sull‘uso nel mondo reale delle nuove terapie farmacologiche per l‘HFrEF.