Predicting outcomes in acute coronary syndrome using biochemical markers

Objectives

To assess risk prediction in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) during the hospital stay, at 6 weeks and at 6 months period using high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), serum creatinine, cardiac troponin I, creatine kinase total, and MB levels.

Methods

It was a prospective observational study. The primary outcome was taken as all-cause mortality. Patients with ACS were enrolled and followed up at 6 weeks and 6 months duration from the index event. Mortality and cause of death were recorded. The hs-CRP was estimated on admission, at 6 weeks, and at 6 months. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the abbreviated modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) formula at admission, at 6 weeks, and 6 months.

Results

There were a total of 108 cases of ACS in the duration of 6 months who completed the follow-up. The hs-CRP level of >5 mg/dl was highly significant for predicting mortality during hospital stay and at 6 weeks (p < 0.001). There was 11% of in-hospital mortality (p < 0.001). At 6 months, the overall mortality was 28% (p < 0.001). There was a statistical significance with low eGFR (median eGFR 45 ml/min/1.73 m²) levels during the admission.

Conclusion

hs-CRP levels above 5 mg/dl and the eGFR levels ≤30 ml/min/1.73 m² were significant in predicting mortality of the patients with ACS. This may provide simple assessment tools for predicting outcome in ACS in resource-poor settings if validated further.     

Relook at lipoprotein (A): Independent risk factor of coronary artery disease in North Indian population

Aims

Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] levels have shown wide ethnic variations. Sparse data on mean Lp(a) levels, its link with clinical variables and severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) in North Indian population needed further studies.

Methods

150 patients, each of single vessel disease (SVD), double vessel disease (DVD) and triple vessel disease (TVD) with 150 healthy controls were drawn for the study. Serum Lp(a) estimation was performed by immunoturbidimetric method.

Results

Lp(a) had a skewed distribution. Median Lp(a) level was significantly raised in cases as compared to controls (median 30.30 vs. 20 mg/dl, p < 0.001). Cases with acute coronary syndrome (ACS, 55.8%) had significantly higher median Lp(a) levels as compared to those with chronic stable angina (35.4 mg/dl vs. 23 mg/dl, p < 0.001). Significant difference in median Lp(a) levels were observed in patients with DVD or TVD versus control (30, 39.05 vs 20 mg/dl, p < 0.008). Lp(a) level was found to be an independent risk factor for CAD (AOR{adjusted odds ratio} 1.018, 95% CI 1.010–1.027; p < 0.001). Analysis using Lp(a) as categorical variable showed that progressive increase in Lp(a) concentration was associated with increased risk of CAD [AOR from lowest to highest quartile (1, 1.04, 1.43 and 2.65, p value for trend = 0.00026)]. Multivariably AOR of CAD for subjects with Lp(a) in the highest quartile (above 40 mg/dl) compared to those with Lp(a) ≤40 mg/dl was 2.308 (95% CI 1.465–3.636, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Lp(a) above 40 mg/dl (corresponding to 75th percentile)assessed by an isoform insensitive assay is an independent risk factor for CAD. Raised Lp(a) level is also associated with increased risk of ACS and multivessel CAD.     

Gender-related differences in the presentation,management, and outcomes among patients with acute coronary syndrome from Oman

Objective

To assess gender-related differences in the presentation, management, and in-hospital outcomes among acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients from Oman.

Methods

Data were analyzed from 1579 consecutive ACS patients from Oman during May 8, 2006 to June 6, 2006 and January 29, 2007 to June 29, 2007, as part of Gulf RACE (Registry of Acute Coronary Events). Analyses were conducted using univariate and multivariate statistical techniques.

Results

In this study, 608 (39%) patients were women with mean age 62 ± 12 vs. 57 ± 13 years (p < 0.001). More women were seen in the older age groups (age <55 years: 25% vs. 43%, 55–74 years: 60% vs. 49% and >75 years: 15% vs. 8%; p < 0.001). Women had higher frequencies of diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, obesity, angina, and aspirin use, but less history of smoking. Women were significantly less likely to have ischemic chest pain, ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-STEMI and were more likely to have dyspnea, unstable angina, ST depression and left bundle branch block. Both groups received ACS medications and cardiac catheterization equally; however, women received anticoagulants (88% vs. 79%; p < 0.001), angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) (70% vs. 65%; p = 0.050) more and clopidogrel less (20% vs. 29%; p < 0.001). Women experienced more recurrent ischemia and heart failure but with similar in-hospital mortality (4.6% vs. 4.3%) even after adjusting for age (p = 0.500).

Conclusions

Women admitted with ACS were older than men, had more risk factors, presented differently with no difference in hospital mortality. This is similar to Gulf RACE study except for mortality. Women received anticoagulants/ACEIs /ARBs more but were under-treated with clopidogrel.     

Association of aortic stiffness to brain natriuretic peptide in children before and after device closure of patent ductus arteriosus

Objectives

We evaluated the influence of device closure for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) on the aortic stiffness index (ASI) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and their association with cardiac function.

Patients and methods

ASI and echocardiography assessment before and after treatment (16 ± 9 months) in 48 children with PDA (mean age 10 ± 4.5) and 52 control children (mean age 9.7 ± 4.6). BNP level was measured pre-closure for all children, and was measured six months after closure only for children with PDA.

Results

ASI was higher in PDA patients than in controls (P < 0.001). ASI correlated with age (P < 0.05), LVEF% (P < 0.01), E/E′ (<0.03), pulmonary artery pressure (P < 0.001), and BNP (P < 0.001). ASI and BNP significantly decreased after closure (P < 0.001). ASI and BNP were independent predictors for post-closure systolic dysfunction (P < 0.001and <0.005, respectively). Receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis showed that ASI ⩾ 13.5, BNP level ⩾75 pg/ml and basal mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) ⩾ 23 were powerful predictors for post-closure systolic function.

Conclusion

ASI is significantly associated with BNP and basal PAP in children with PDA. After device closure, aortic distensibility improved significantly and was associated with significant improvement in both systolic and diastolic functions. ASI can be used for monitoring the course of patients with PDA, and may give opportunities for early intervention.     

N-terminal-pro-brain natriuretic peptide,a surrogate biomarker of combined clinical and hemodynamic outcomes following percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy

Aim

To examine the relationship between plasma levels of N-terminal-proB type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and various echocardiographic and hemodynamic parameters in patients with mitral stenosis undergoing percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy (PTMC).

Materials and methods

The study population consisted of 100 patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis who underwent PTMC. NT-proBNP levels in these patients were measured before PTMC and 48 hours after PTMC. These levels were then correlated with various echocardiographic and hemodynamic parameters measured before and after PTMC.

Results

Eighty-one percent of the study population were women, and the most common presenting symptom was dyspnea which was present in 94% of the patients. Dyspnea New York Heart Association class correlated significantly with baseline NT-proBNP levels (r = 0.63; p < 0.01). The plasma NT-proBNP levels in these patients increased as echocardiogram signs of left atrial enlargement and right ventricular hypertrophy developed (r = 0.59, p < 0.01). Patients in atrial fibrillation had significantly higher NT-proBNP levels than patients in sinus rhythm. Baseline NT-proBNP levels correlated significantly with left atrial volume (r = 0.38; p < 0.01), left atrial volume index (r = 0.45; p < 0.01), systolic pulmonary artery pressures (r = 0.42; p < 0.01), and mean pulmonary artery pressures (r = 0.41; p < 0.01). All patients who underwent successful PTMC showed a significant decrease in NT-proBNP (decreased from a mean 763.8 pg/mL to 348.6 pg/mL) along with a significant improvement in all echocardiographic and hemodynamic parameters (p < 0.01). The percent change in NT-proBNP correlated significantly with the percent improvement noted with left atrial volume (r = 0.39; p < 0.01), left atrial volume index (r = 0.41; p < 0.01), systolic (r = 0.32, p < 0.01), and mean pulmonary artery pressures (r = 0.31, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The decrease in NT-proBNP levels following PTMC reflects an improvement in clinical and hemodynamic status; hence, it is reasonable to suggest that NT-proBNP is helpful in evaluating the response to PTMC.     

Correlation between transient ischemic dilatation (TID) and coronary artery disease in Saudi male patients

Objective

A high transient ischemic dilatation ratio (TID) for the left ventricle (LV) from a gated myocardial perfusion imaging (G-MPI) study is widely believed to be associated with significant coronary artery disease (CAD). We have investigated the relationship between TID and CAD for our male Saudi Arabian patient population.

Methods

In this retrospective study, all male Saudi Arabian patients who underwent a two-day G-MPI study using Tc99m MIBI during the year 2011 having a TID ⩾ 1.20 were included. Quantitative perfusion and gated parameters were obtained using Cedar Sinai’s AutoQuant software version 3.0, 2003, Means of summed stress scores, summed rest scores and summed difference scores (SSS, SRS, SDS, respectively), stress and rest ejection fraction (EF) were calculated. Visual interpretation was performed to classify the perfusion as normal, fixed, mixed (fixed and reversible defects), single reversible or multiple reversible defects. Coronary angiograms were assessed as normal with no CAD, single vessel, two-vessel or three-vessel disease. Correlations between the TID and other parameters were studied using analysis of variance (ANOVA) with IBM-SPSS version 20.

Results

A total of 52 male patients had a high TID of ⩾1.20 (mean 1.30 ± 0.13). Ten patients had a SSS of 0–3 and 16 were classified as normal by visual assessment. Stress EF (mean 50.4 ± 12%) was lower than the rest EF (mean 56.6 ± 12.8%) with the difference being statistically significant (Students paired t-test, p = 0.001).Angiography results were available in 44 patients, 3 having a normal angiogram, 24 having three vessel disease, 7 having two vessel disease and 10 having one vessel disease. Five patients with normal perfusion and SSS = 0–3 had CAD as seen on a coronary angiography. CAD on coronary angiography showed a significant correlation with perfusion abnormalities as assessed by visual interpretation (p = 0.002). TID showed a significantly correlation with both perfusion abnormalities (p = 0.009), as assessed by visual interpretation, and with Summed difference scores, SDS (p = 0.000).

Conclusion

A high TID on G-MPI was a very sensitive indicator of significant CAD. In patients with normal perfusion and high TID further workup is warranted.     

NT pro B type natriuretic peptide levels in constrictive pericarditis and restrictive cardiomyopathy

Background

The differentiation of constrictive pericarditis (CP) from restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) may be clinically difficult and may require multiple investigations. Even though brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is shown to be higher in patients with RCM as compared to CP, the clinical utility is not fully established especially in Indian patients known to have advanced CP and myocardial involvement.

Methods and results

We measured NT-pro-BNP levels in 49 patients suspected of having either CP or RCM, diagnosed on the basis of echocardiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, endomyocardial biopsy and cardiac catheterization data as needed. Twenty nine patients (Mean age – 26 yrs, 24 males) had CP and 20 patients (Mean age – 39 yrs, 14 males) had RCM. The median plasma NT-pro-BNP levels were significantly higher in RCM as compared to CP [1775 (208–7500) pg/ml vs 124 (68–718) pg/ml, respectively; p = 0.001]. A cut off value of 459 pg/ml had sensitivity, specificity and overall accuracy of 90%, 86% and 88% respectively, for differentiating CP from RCM.

Conclusions

The NT-pro-BNP levels are significantly elevated in RCM as compared to CP.     

Sudden cardiac death early after ST elevation myocardial infarction with and without severe left ventricular dysfunction

Introduction

There is high incidence of SCD in the early period following STEMI. We compared the temporal patterns and predictors of SCD amongst patients with LVEF ≤35% and LVEF >35%.

Methods

Data from STEMI patients was prospectively collected. SCD cases formed the study cohort and were categorized into 2 groups based on their LV function.

Results

There were 929 patients (mean age 55 ± 17 years) with a follow up of 41 ± 16 months. 154 pts (16.6%) had LVEF ≤35% (Group A, LVEF-29.9% ± 6%) and 775 pts had LVEF >35% (Group B, LVEF – 49% ± 14%). The two groups were similar with respect to sex distribution, age, prevalence of hypertension, and mean period of presentation. They differed in incidence of anterior wall MI (77.2% vs 55%), reperfusion (69% vs. 75%), prevalence of diabetes (50.6% vs 42%), and medication non-compliance (34% vs. 13%). The total SCD was 78 [Gp A, 25 (16.2%); Gp B, 53 (6.8%); p < 0.001]. The temporal cumulative SCD related mortality in the 2 groups was 1st month (8% vs. 4% p = 0.075), 3 months (14% vs. 5%, p < 0.001), 6 months (17% vs. 5%, p < 0.001), 1 year (18% vs. 6%, p < 0.001), at end of follow up (27% vs. 8%, p < 0.001). Multivariate predictors of SCD were medication compliance in the first month, and severe LV dysfunction with medication compliance beyond 1st month.

Conclusion

The incidence of SCD is high in first month after STEMI, irrespective of LV function. The number of SCD is higher in Group B patients. Algorithms to assess risk of SCD in early post STEMI period are urgently needed.     

Serum Thrombopoietin Levels and Its Relationship With Thrombocytopenia in Patients With Cirrhosis

Background:

Patients with cirrhosis usually have thrombocytopenia in discrete levels. The mechanism of thrombocytopenia is thought as splenic sequestration and destruction of platelets, impaired bone marrow generation and diminished hepatic thrombopoietin synthesis.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to evaluate serum thrombopoietin levels and its relationship with thrombocytopenia at patients with cirrhosis.

Patients and Methods:

Ninety–two cirrhotic patients and 45 healthy controls without history or findings of pathologies that can effect thrombopoietin levels were enrolled by simple random sampling to patient and control groups of this case control study performed at Eskisehir-Turkey. Thrombopoietin was measured in serum samples with a solid phase enzyme-linked immune absorbent assay. Additionally, spleen size and volume index were determined.

Results:

Platelet counts were lower in patients with cirrhosis (97000 ± 8000/mm³) than in healthy subjects (240000 ± 51000/mm³, P < 0.001). Significant difference was determined for platelet counts among child A, B and C stages (Child A vs. Child B P < 0.05 Child A vs. Child C P < 0.001–Child B vs. Child C P < 0.05). Serum TPO concentration was higher (69 ± 12 pg/mL) in cirrhotic group than healthy controls (49 ± 9 pg/ml) (P < 0.05). No significant difference in TPO levels were found among the Child A, B and C stages (64 ± 11 pg/mL, 75 ± 13 pg/mL and 68 ± 10 pg/mL, respectively). Spleen size and SVI was significantly higher in the cirrhotic patients than healthy controls (148 ± 14 mm vs. 98 ± 11 mm, P < 0.001-9167 ± 287 cm² vs. 4118 ± 123 cm²). Significant difference was determined for spleen size and spleen index among child A, B and C stages (Child A vs. Child B P < 0.05 Child A vs. Child C P < 0.001–Child B vs. Child C P < 0.05). TPO levels were significantly different between cirrhotic patients with platelet levels below 50.000/mm³ (n = 16, plt-count: 41000 ± 8300/mm³, TPO levels: 73 ± 7 pg/mL) and above 50.000/mm³ (n = 76, plt-count: 105000 ± 9500/mm³, TPO levels: 65 ± 10 pg/mL) (P < 0.01). In correlation analysis, there was a strong negative correlation between platelet count-spleen size (P < 0.001, r = -0.74) and platelet count–serum TPO levels (P < 0.001, r = -0.71).

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that liver cirrhosis does not cause impaired thrombopoietin production even in the late stage of disease. Thrombopoietin has no contribution for the occurrence of thrombocytopenia in cirrhosis; splenic sequestration seems to be the main factor.     

Cardiovascular haemodynamics in pre-eclampsia using brain naturetic peptide and tissue Doppler studies

Aim

To determine early haemodynamic changes in pre-eclampsia (PE) using tissue Doppler echocardiography and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and to relate these changes to obstetric outcomes.

Methods

Consenting primigravidae patients in the third trimester of pregnancy were included in the study, which was carried out in a large regional hospital in Durban, South Africa; 115 primigravidae (52 pre-eclamptics and 63 normotensive pregnant patients) attending the maternity unit including the antenatal clinics at the study site were studied. The patients, matched for maternal and gestational age, were examined during pregnancy and within the puerperium. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), tissue Doppler imaging (TDI), umbilical artery Doppler and laboratory investigations were performed.

Results

BNP levels were significantly increased in the antepartum period [23.8 (2–184.1) vs 6.0 (0.5–45.2) pmol/l; p < 0.0001] and during labour [15.0 (1.8–206.4) vs 8.7 (1.9–24.8) pmol/l; p < 0.01] in the pre-eclamptic group compared to the normotensive controls. In the postpartum period, mean BNP levels were 4.2 (1.7–51.4) and 5.95 (2.2–38.7) pmol/l in the pre-eclamptic and normotensive groups, respectively (p > 0.05). Tissue Doppler Em/Ea ratios were elevated in the pre-eclamptic compared to the normotensive group (11.02 ± 5.6 vs 9.16 ± 2.6; p < 0.05). Mean left atrial size was larger (38 mm) in the pre-eclamptic group than in the normotensive group (35 mm) but this difference was not significant (p > 0.05).The umbilical artery resistance index was significantly higher in the pre-eclamptic group compared to the normotensive group (0.68 ± 0.06 vs 0.63 ± 0.05; p < 0.001). There was an increased rate of Caesarean sections performed in the pre-eclamptic group (n = 24) compared to the normotensive group (n = 18; p < 0.001). There were two stillbirths in the pre-eclamptic group and none in the normotensive group. As expected, birth weight (2.6 ± 0.8 kg vs 3.14 ± 0.42 kg; p < 0.0001) was lower in the pre-eclamptic group compared to the normotensive group.

Conclusion

In pregnancies complicated by pre-eclampsia, BNP levels were increased in comparison to normotensive pregnancies and this was accompanied by early changes in left ventricular diastolic function as determined by the tissue Doppler E_m/E_a ratios. These changes reverted to baseline values, as indicated by return of BNP levels in the pre-eclamptic group to levels seen in the normotensive group. These changes were associated with an increased Caesarean section rate and lower birth weights in pre-eclamptic mothers.     

Comparative study of galectin-3 and B-type natriuretic peptide as biomarkers for the diagnosis of heart failure

Background Heart failure （HF） is a common disease with complex pathophysiological causes. The diagnosis of HF commonly relies on comprehensive analyses of medical history and symptoms, and results from echocardiography and biochemical tests. Galectin-3, a rela-tively new biomarker in HF, was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2010 as a marker in the stratification of risk for HF. We assessed galectin-3 as a biomarker for HF diagnosis in patients with preserved ejection fraction （pEF） and compared its performance with that of B-type natriuretic peptide （BNP）. Methods Thirty-five pEF patients with HF （HFpEF group） and 43 pEF patients without HF （control group） were enrolled. Plasma levels of galectin-3 and BNP in HFpEF and control subjects were determined. Sensitivity, specificity, pre dictive values, and accuracy of galectin-3 and BNP as markers for HF diagnosis were calculated and compared. Results Levels of galec- tin-3 and BNP were 23.09 ±6.97 ng/mL and 270.46 ± 330.41 pg/mL in the HFpEF group, and 16.74 ± 2.75 ng/mL and 59.94 ± 29.93 pg/mL in the control group, respectively. Differences in levels of galectin-3 and BNP between the two groups were significant （P 〈 0.01）. As a bio- marker for HF diagnosis in study subjects, galectin-3 showed sensitivity and specificity of 94.3% and 65.1%, respectively, at a cutoff value of 17.8 ug/mL. BNP showed sensitivity and specificity of 77.1% and 90.7%, respectively, at a cutoff value of 100 pg/mL. Galectin-3 was a significantly more sensitive （P 〈 0.05） but less specific （P 〈 0.01） biomarker compared with BNP. Differences in positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy between galectin-3 and BNP markers were not significant （P 〉 0.05）. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve （95% confidence interval） were 0.891 （0.808-0.974） and 0.896 （0.809-0.984） for galectin-3 and BNP, respec- tively, with no significant difference between the two values （P 〉 0.05）. Conclusions The level of galectin-3 is significantly elevated in patients with HF. Galectin-3 and BNP are useful biomarkers for the diagnosis of HF in patients with pEF.     

Periprocedural plasma fibrinogen levels and coronary stent outcome

Aim

Percutaneous intervention is one of the treatment option for coronary artery disease. Reinfarction and restenosis is one of the complication of the procedure. So this study was conducted to assess plasma fibrinogen levels pre- and post coronary stenting and its relation with outcome.

Methods

After obtaining informed consent, venous blood samples were collected at three timed points in relation to stenting – 24 h before, 24 h after and 72 h after stenting to assess fibrinogen levels. Patients were followed up for six months. Repeat revascularization, myocardial infarction and symptomatic angina were considered as major adverse clinical events.

Results

57 patients who underwent successful stenting and followed up for six months up were included in the study. Mean age was 53 years and 87.7% were males and 29.8% were diabetics. Baseline plasma fibrinogen level was significantly high in patients who developed repeat angina and myocardial infarction after the stenting [288.64 ± 59.43 vs 393.75 ± 32.97 mg/dL, p = 0.003] and it remained high during serial assessment [322.74 ± 63.92 vs 422.00 ± 55.28 mg/dL, 326.23 ± 65.81 vs 419.50 ± 45.82 mg/dL, 0.008, 0.012 respectively]. Patients who developed adverse events denied any drug default.

Conclusion

We conclude that plasma fibrinogen plays a significant role in the development of adverse events following stenting shown by high level of plasma fibrinogen in patients who developed adverse events.     

Gender differences in the surgical management and early clinical outcome of coronary artery disease: Single centre experience

Objective

To investigate the gender disparity in the distribution of patient-related risk factors and their effect on the surgical management and clinical outcome of coronary artery disease in Saudi population.

Materials and methods

We carried out a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of 971 patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) at our institution between January 2005 and December 2008. Seven hundred and eighty seven patients (81%) were males and 184 patients (19%) were females. We analyzed gender-based difference in clinical presentation and patient-related pre-operative risk factors and studied their impact on surgical management and clinical outcome.

Results

The mean age was 59.5 years in males and 63.4 years in females (p = <0.0001). Associated co-morbidities were higher in females. Prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 61.2% in males and 78.8% in females (p-value = <0.0001); hypertension 61.9% in males and 79.9% in females (p-value <0.0001); hyperlipidemia 66.7% in males and 77.7% in females (p-value 0.0035); morbid obesity 24.7% in males and 45.1% in females (p-value <0.0001); and Hypothyroidism 2.5% in males and 13.6% in females (p-value <0.0001). Smoking was the only risk factor with higher prevalence in males compared to females (44.2% v/s 2.2%; p-value <0.0001). The mean logistic euroSCORE was 3.94 in males and 5.51 in females (p < 0.0003). On-pump and off-pump CABG was carried out in equal numbers in two groups. Females required urgent surgery and less than 3 grafts more frequently while males underwent elective surgery and more than 3 grafts in greater numbers. No significant difference was present between the two gender groups in aortic occlusion times and bypass times. Univariant analysis revealed females gender as an independent risk factor for higher in-hospital mortality (1.1% versus 4.9% p = 0.0026) and higher incidence of post-operative complications like surgical wound infection, need for prolonged ventilation, low cardiac output state and multi-organ failure (p-values 0.01 or less).

Conclusion

Female gender is an independent predictor of adverse outcome after isolated CABG due to significantly higher co-morbidities and acute presentation and independent of their peri-operative management. Therefore, major socioeconomic education and preventive measures are needed to reduce the burden of major co-morbidities in females and to seek early cardiac advice and care.     

Study of clinical,radiological and echocardiographic features and correlation of Qanadli CT index with RV dysfunction and outcomes in pulmonary embolism

Background

There are no Indian studies correlating the CT pulmonary embolism index (Qanadli) with right ventricular function and outcome. In the present study we aimed to study the clinical manifestations of patients presenting with acute pulmonary thromboembolism and correlate the radiographic features with echocardiographic features and outcome.

Methods

Thirty five patients presenting with symptomatic acute pulmonary thromboembolism in between 2011 and 2013 were studied for clinical, radiological and echocardiographic features and outcome (in-hospital & 1 month follow up).

Results

The mean duration of presentation after onset of symptoms was 5.7 ± 3.7 days. Right ventricular dysfunction was observed in 11 (31.4%) patients. Out of 35 patients in whom CT pulmonary angiogram performed, 14 patients had Qanadli PE index >60% of whom 11 (78.6%) patients had right ventricular dysfunction. None had right ventricular dysfunction when PE index was <60% (p < 0.001). There was significant correlation between pulmonary vascular obstruction index and right ventricular dysfunction (p < 0.0001). Nine (25.7%) patients were thrombolysed with Streptokinase. Total mortality including in-hospital and 1 month follow up was 11.4% (4 patients). The mortality in patients with PE index >60% was 21.4% and was nil with <60% (p = 0.02). The mortality in patients with right ventricular dysfunction was 27.2% and was nil without right ventricular dysfunction (p = 0.0075).

Conclusion

A PE index which was shown to be a strong independent predictor of right ventricular dysfunction in PE, correlating linearly with different variables associated with higher morbidity and mortality, enabling accurate risk stratification and selection of patients for more aggressive treatment.     

Homocysteine and markers of inflammation in acute coronary syndrome

BACKGROUND:

An elevated level of homocysteine (Hcy) has been shown to be a cardiovascular risk factor in the majority of research studies. Recently, it was found to be associated with new risk factors such as inflammatory markers.

OBJECTIVES:

To investigate the distribution of plasma total Hcy (tHcy) and the levels of inflammatory markers in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and to evaluate the association between these parameters and the severity of the disease.

METHODS:

A total of 122 patients with ACS and 80 control subjects were recruited from the cardiac intensive care unit of the Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunisia. Lipid profile and the levels of tHcy, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (HsCRP), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-1β and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) were determined for all participants. The distribution of these parameters were compared between groups and according to the number of diseased vessels in patients with ACS.

RESULTS:

ACS patients had significantly elevated levels of tHcy (P<0.01), HsCRP (P<0.001), IL-6 (P<0.001), TNFα (P<0.001), folates (P<0.05) and vitamin B₁₂ (P<0.001), but lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P<0.05) levels. The analysis of the association between these parameters and the number of diseased vessels showed significant differences in tHcy, HsCRP, IL-6 and TNFα, with positive correlations. Significantly negative correlations were found between the number of diseased vessels and folate (r=−0.34; P<0.01), and vitamin B₁₂ (r=−0.22; P<0.01).

CONCLUSION:

Elevated levels of tHcy, IL-6, TNFα and HsCRP appear to be associated with a greater number of diseased arteries and, consequently, the severity of coronary artery disease.     

Evaluation of pulmonary artery pressure and resistance by pulsed Doppler echocardiography in patients with end-stage renal disease on dialysis therapy

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is one of the most important comorbidities in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). The goal of the present work is to determine the possible etiologic factors for its occurrence.

Methods

The prevalence of PH was estimated by Doppler echocardiography in a cohort of 100 patients aged 49.3 ± 13.9 years on regular HD. Mean pulmonary artery pressure was estimated from pulmonary acceleration time by Mahan’s regression equation. Pulmonary vascular resistance and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure were calculated. We focused on the effect of HD on left and right ventricle diastolic and systolic function. Right ventricle systolic function was assessed by tricuspid annular systolic excursion and pulsed Doppler myocardial performance index. Since impaired endothelial function was postulated as an underlying cause of PH, we studied the effects of HD on brachial artery endothelial function.

Results

The current study found that pulmonary hypertension was prevalent in 70% of patients on dialysis. Left atrium diameter, left ventricle mass indexed to body surface area, and mitral E/E′ were increased in the dialysis group (4.4 ± 0.2 cm, 126.5 ± 24.6 g/m², and 16.9 ± 4.4, respectively, p < 0.001 for all). Pulmonary artery systolic pressure was positively correlated to duration of dialysis and negatively correlated to glomerular filtration rate (p < 0.001 and r = −0.991). Pulmonary vascular resistance was significantly increased in dialysis patients (1.9 ± 0.2 Wood units vs. 1.2 Wood units in controls, p < 0.001). Endothelial dysfunction, defined as brachial artery flow mediated dilatation <6%, was found in 46% of dialysis group.

Conclusion

Increased pulmonary artery systolic pressure in the HD population could be attributed to left atrium dilatation and left ventricle diastolic dysfunction. Pulmonary vascular resistance was significantly increased in dialysis group. This might be explained by impaired endothelial nitric oxide synthesis that not only caused systemic vasoconstriction but also affected the pulmonary vasculature.     

Comparison of cardiac magnetic resonance with gated SPECT for evaluation of left ventricular function and volumes in patients with severe and multiple myocardial perfusion defects

Objectives

Gated SPECT is an accurate technique for assessment of myocardial perfusion (MP), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), end-diastolic volume (EDV) and end-systolic volume (ESV). However recent studies have concluded that there are large discrepancies in assessment of LVEF and volumes by gated SPECT in patients with multiple severe myocardial perfusion defects. We sought to investigate the correlation between LVEF and volumes calculated by gated SPECT and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in patients with severe multiple perfusion defects who are referred for CMR.

Methods

Twenty-nine patients (20 male and 9 female, mean age: 63 years ± 11) with multiple severe fixed perfusion defects (mean 5 ± 3 segments) were referred to undergo CMR. The average time between CMR and SPECT was 4 weeks. LVEF, EDV, and ESV were derived automatically from gated SPECT. In the CMR studies, the endocardial and epicardial borders were delineated manually in the short axis planes to calculate the LVEF and volumes.

Results

The different parameters were compared using linear regression, and correlation coefficients were calculated. Substantial correlation was found between CMR and gated SPECT for EDV: r = 0.7, p < 0.001. Moderate correlation between CMR and gated SPECT for LVEF: r = 0.5, p < 0.007 and ESV r =0 .53, p < 0.003.

Conclusion

Our data showed that the gated SPECT correlates substantially with MRI for measurement of EDV and moderately for ESV and LVEF in patients with multiple and severe perfusion defects. Thus, when accurate measurement is required, cardiac MRI is recommended.     

Patient profile and results of percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy in mitral restenosis following prior percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy vs surgical commissurotomy

Background

Patients with mitral restenosis who have undergone prior PTMC or surgical commissurotomy have increased. Predictors of outcome of repeat PTMC in either subgroup of patients may be different.

Aims and objectives

Aim was to assess and compare the immediate results of PTMC in patients who had undergone a prior PTMC or surgical commissurotomy.

Methods and results

This is a single center, prospective, open label study. Of 70 patients in study, 44 (62.85%) patients had prior history of PTMC and 26 (37.15%) had prior surgical commissurotomy (closed/open). Average time from the initial procedure was 8.88 ± 5.36 years overall, 6.75 ± 3.38 for patients with prior PTMC and 16.73 ± 3.67 for patients with prior surgical commissurotomy. Prior PTMC group had 75% female, patients with prior surgical commissurotomy were older (44 ± 7 vs 33.57 ± 9.1 years, p = 0.001), had higher NYHA class (III/IV in100% vs 86.36%, p = 0.006.), higher atrial fibrillation (73.1% vs 25% p < 0.0001) and higher Wilkins'' score (>8 in 88.46% vs 68.18%, p = 0.05). Successful PTMC was lower (65.4% vs 84.1%) in patients with prior surgical commissurotomy, though statistically not significant (p = 0.07). After PTMC, mitral valve area, PA systolic pressure, LA mean pressure and trans-mitral gradient were similar. Post procedure complications were not different in both the groups.

Conclusion

PTMC for mitral restenosis in patients with prior surgical valvotomy is as effective as in patients with prior PTMC despite older age, higher NYHA class, higher Wilkins score and atrial fibrillation and can be considered in all patients with restenosis irrespective of the type of past procedures done.     

Temporal Trajectory of B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in Patients with CKD Stages 3 and 4, Dialysis,and Kidney Transplant

Background and objectives

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) concentration predicts outcome in patients undergoing dialysis. Because survival and cardiovascular risk change across the CKD continuum, serial changes in BNP were compared in patients at different CKD stages and after kidney transplantation.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Patients with CKD stages 3 and 4 (CKD 3–4), dialysis patients, and kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) from one center had two measurements of BNP taken a median of 161 days apart in 2003–2004 and were followed until July 2012. Both BNP-32 (Triage BNP; Biosite Diagnostics) and NT-BNP-76 (proBNP; Roche Diagnostics) were assayed. The interaction between change in log-transformed BNP concentration over time and patient group was tested by fitting regression models on panel data with random effects. Survival after the second measurement was compared by tertile of change in BNP.

Results

Patients with CKD 3–4 (n=48), dialysis patients (n=102), and KTRs (n=73) were followed for a median of 5.7, 4.8, and 5.9 years, respectively. The interaction between patient group and BNP measurements over time was significant for NT-BNP-76 (P<0.001) and BNP-32 (P<0.01). Median NT-BNP-76 increased in dialysis patients and those with CKD 3–4 from 3850 pg/ml (interquartile range [IQR], 1776–12,323 pg/ml) to 18,830 pg/ml (IQR, 6114–61,009 pg/ml; P<0.001) and from 698 pg/ml (IQR, 283–2922 pg/ml) to 2529 pg/ml (IQR, 347–9277 pg/ml; P=0.002), respectively. Change was not significant for KTRs or comparisons made with BNP-32. Survival rate was significantly lower for patients with the highest tertile of change in NT-BNP-76 among patients with CKD 3–4 (P=0.02), but not in the dialysis or KTR groups. In 11 patients who received a kidney transplant during the study, median NT-BNP-76 decreased from 9607 pg/ml (IQR, 2292–31,282 pg/ml) to 457 pg/ml (IQR, 203–863 pg/ml) after transplant (P<0.01).

Conclusions

The temporal trajectory of BNP differs between dialysis patients and those with CKD 3–4 and KTRs. This has important implications for the development of BNP-guided management strategies in CKD.     

Right ventricular echocardiographic parameters for prediction of proximal right coronary artery lesion in patients with inferior wall myocardial infarction

Background

Classifying the location of an occlusion in the culprit artery during ST-elevation myocardial infarction is important for risk stratification to optimize treatment.

Objectives

To compare the validity of echocardiographic parameters assessing right ventricular (RV) function for the prediction of proximal right coronary artery (RCA) lesion in patients with inferior wall myocardial infarction.

Methods

The study included 76 patients after their first episode of acute inferior myocardial infarction with significant RCA lesion (43 patients with proximal RCA stenosis and 33 patients with distal RCA stenosis). Full echocardiographic examination was done before revascularization, including RV dimension, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, and tissue Doppler imaging of RV free wall at the level of the tricuspid annulus and recording the following variables: peak systolic velocity (Sm), peak early diastolic velocity, peak late diastolic velocity, ejection time (ET), isovolumetric relaxation time (IVRT), isovolumetric contraction time (IVCT), and myocardial performance index (MPI), which was calculated as (MPI = IVRT + IVCT/ET).

Results

Patients with proximal RCA showed significantly lower Sm (10.44 ± 2.61 cm/s vs. 12.11 ± 2.94 cm/s, p = 0.013) and shorter ET (224.18 ± 49.96 ms vs. 280.90 ± 46.12 ms, p = 0.001). While IVRT, IVCT, and MPI were significantly higher (95.25 ± 19.22 ms vs. 68.48 ± 12.77 ms, p = 0.001; 81.62 ± 23.59 ms vs. 60.90 ± 17.38 ms, p = 0.001; and 0.82 ± 0.222 vs. 0.47 ± 0.10, p = 0.001, respectively) when compared with patients with distal RCA stenosis. Multiple regression analysis including (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, Sm, and MPI) showed that the most independent predictors for proximal RCA lesions were MPI (p = 0.0001). The receiver operator characteristic curve for MPI showed areas under the curve of 97% and a confidence interval of 93%. A cut-off value of 0.58 for MPI had a sensitivity of 95% and specificity of 97% for the diagnosis proximal RCA.

Conclusions

The most independent predictors for proximal RCA lesion is MPI.