Lack of correlation between left ventricular mass and diameter of left coronary artery main trunk in hypertensive patients

The study was designed to evaluate whether the increase in left ventricular (LV) mass in essential hypertensives (H) is associated with a proportional increase in diameter of the left coronary artery (LCA) trunk. Twenty-six hypertensives, 14 with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) (left ventricular mass index [LVMI] ≥>134 g/m² in men and ≥110 g/m² in women) and 12 without LVH, and 10 normotensive controls (C) underwent clinical laboratory and echocardiographic transthoracic examination. LV dimensions were measured according to the Penn convention and LV mass calculated by the formula of Devereux. The LCA main trunk was visualized by two-dimension short axis view at the level of the great vessels section, and the diameter measured as intima–intima distance at end-diastole. Hypertensives with and without LVH and C had similar age, sex, and body surface area distribution. LVMI was, by definition, significantly higher in H with LVH than in H without LVH and in C (144 ± 21, 113 ± 13, and 98 ± 10 g/m², P < .01), whereas the diameter of the LCA trunk was similar in all groups (0.48 ± 0.1, 0.48, and 0.46 cm, respectively). There was no significant correlation between LVMI and LCA diameter in H (r = 0.21, P = not significant). The diameter of LCA trunk was significantly correlated only with BSA (r = 0.5, P < .01), LV end-systolic and end-diastolic diameters (r = 0.5 and r = 0.4, P < .05). Our data suggest that in H the increase in LVM is not associated with a concomitant increase of epicardial coronary artery diameter, and this finding may account in part for the impairment of coronary blood flow reserve in LVH.     

Electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy has low diagnostic accuracy in middle-aged subjects

Objective. To evaluate the usefulness of electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy (ECG LVH) as a marker of LVH in middle-aged subjects. Methods. LVH was determined by cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 188 apparently healthy middle-aged [97 men (45±7 years) and 91 women (47±6 years)]. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, test sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for identifying LVH at different ECG criteria were calculated. Results. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were 142±13 mmHg and 90±8 mmHg in men and 139±10 mmHg and 90±8 mmHg in women, respectively. LVMI was 78±17 g/m² in men and 67±12 g/m² in women, and 14% of men and 22% of women had LVH in cardiac MRI. Only Sokolow-Lyon and Sokolow-Lyon product had the area under the ROC curve over 0.70. Sokolow-Lyon product had the highest sensitivity (47%). All ECG criteria had high negative predictive values, but the positive predictive values were below 46%. Conclusions. Commonly used ECG criteria of LVH have low discrimination ability in middle-aged subjects. ECG LVH alone should not be used as a marker of target organ damage in middle-aged, never treated and apparently healthy hypertensives.     

Left Ventricular Thickness Is Increased in Nonhypertensive Turner's Syndrome

Background: Turner's syndrome (TS), the most frequent congenital anomaly in newborn girls, is associated with various cardiovascular abnormalities, predominantly bicuspid aortic valves and aortic coarctation. The causes of the left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and ECG findings associated with TS are unknown. We used echocardiography to assess cardiac structure and function in normotensive patients with TS. Method: Thirty-one patients with TS and 30 healthy women were enrolled in this comparative study. Twelve-lead ECG, 24-hour-ambulatory ECG recording, and echocardiography were performed. Results: With 24-hour-ambulatory ECG recording, the mean heart rate (HR) of TS women was higher than non-TS women. With echocardiographic examination, the interventricular septum diastolic thickness, left ventricle posterior wall diastolic thickness (LVPW), the LV mass index (LVMI), and left atrial diameter index (LADi) were significantly higher in TS women compared with controls. Mitral flow A velocity was significantly higher and the ratio of early to late diastolic filling was significantly lower in TS patients. Conclusion: HR, LV wall thicknesses, LVMI and the LADi are significantly increased in normohypertensive TS women. There is also subclinical diastolic dysfunction in these patients.     

Effects of partial left ventriculectomy on left ventricular performance in patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy

Objectives. This study sought to assess the effects of partial left ventriculectomy (PLV) on left ventricular (LV) performance in a series of consecutive patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy.

Background. Reduction of LV systolic function in patients with heart failure is associated with an increase of LV volume and alteration of its shape. Recently, PLV, a novel surgical procedure, was proposed as a treatment option to alter this process in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.

Methods. We studied 19 patients with severely symptomatic nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy, before and 13 ± 3 days after surgery, and 12 controls. Single-plane left ventriculography with simultaneous measurements of femoral artery pressure was performed during right heart pacing.

Results. The LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volume indexes decreased after PLV (from 169 to 102 ml/m², and from 127 to 60 ml/m², respectively, p < 0.0001 for both). Despite a decrease in LV mass index (from 162 to 137 g/m², p < 0.0001), there was a significant decrease in LV circumferential end-systolic and end-diastolic stresses (from 277 to 159 g/cm², p < 0.0001 and from 79 to 39 g/cm², p = 0.0014, respectively). Ejection fraction improved (from 24% to 41%, p < 0.0001); the stroke work index remained unchanged.

Conclusions. The PLV improves LV performance by a dramatic reduction of ventricular end-systolic and end-diastolic stresses. Further studies are needed to assess whether this effect is sustained during long-term follow-up and to define the role of PLV in the treatment of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.     

Normal left ventricular systolic function in adults with atrial septal defect and left heart failure

Systolic left ventricular contractile function has not been extensively evaluated in patients with atrial septal defect who have symptoms of left-sided congestive heart failure. This study examined left ventricular systolic function hemodynamically and angiographically in 6 such adult patients (Group A), 12 adult patients with atrial septal defect without heart failure (Group B) and 20 normal subjects. The mean (± standard error of the mean) left ventricular end-diastolic pressure was higher in patients in Group A (17 ± 0.8 mm Hg) than in patients in group B (6.9 ± 0.6 mm Hg) (p < 0.001). Both right atrial pressure (11 ± 1.3 versus 4.9 ± 0.5 mm Hg) (p < 0.001) and mean pulmonary arterial pressure (30 ± 1.8 versus 15 ± 1 mm Hg) were also higher in Group A than in Group B. Left ventricular cardiac index and stroke work index did not differ in the two groups.

Variables of left ventricular systolic function were similar in both groups of patients and in normal subjects: Ejection fraction was 0.71 ± 0.05 in Group A, 0.74 ± 0.02 in Group B and 0.74 ± 0.01 in normal subjects. Velocity of circumferential shortening was 1.38 ± 0.14 circumferences/s in Group A, 1.38 ± 0.07 circumferences/s in Group B and 1.27 ± 0.04 circumferences/s in normal subjects. There was no difference in left ventricular contractile function as indicated by the ratio of end-systolic wall stress to end-systolic volume index among the three groups: normal subjects, average 5.6 ± 0.19 versus 6.1 ± 0.5 in Group B and 6.0 ± 0.6 dynes × 10³/cm²/(ml/m²) in Group A.

This study of patients with atrial septal defect and left heart failure indicates that abnormal left ventricular systolic contractile function is probably not the cause of the symptoms and elevated left heart filling pressures observed in this group. An abnormality in left ventricular diastolic filling, perhaps related to the volume loaded right ventricle, may explain these changes.     

Results of percutaneous double-balloon mitral commissurotomy in one medical center in Tunisia

Percutaneous balloon mitral commissurotomy was attempted in Tunisia, where rheumatic fever is still endemic, in 463 consecutive patients with severe rheumatic mitral valve stenosis. Their mean age ±SD was 33 ± 12 years (range 8 to 68), 324 patients (70%) were women, and 327 (71%) were in sinus rhythm. Valvotomy was technically successful in 454 patients (98%). The mean mitral valve gradient decreased from 20 ± 7 to 6 ± 4 mm Hg, mean left atrial pressure decreased from 27 ± 8 to 15 ± 6 mm Hg, cardiac index increased from 3.0 ± 0.7 to 3.6 ± 0.8 L/min/m², and Gorlin mitral valve area, from 0.97 ± 0.19 to 2.2 ± 0.4 cm² (all p < 0.001). Two-dimensional echocardiographic mitral valve area increased from 1.03 ±0.18 to 2.15 ± 0.36 cm² (p < 0.00001). A final valve area of ≥1.5 cm² was achieved in 98% of patients. Multivariate analysis identified a pre-mitral valve area <0.8 cm² and an echocardiographic score (echo score) ≥12 as the strongest predictors of residual stenosis (final mitral valve area <1.5 cm²). Major procedural complications included mortality (0.4%), tamponade (0.7%), thromboembolism (2.0%), severe mitral regurgitation (4.6%), significant (pulmonary to systemic flow ratio ≥1.5) interatrial shunt (4.8%). Four hundred thirty patients were followed up between 6 and 82 months (mean 37 ± 22): 95% were in functional class I to II without reintervention, and 7 patients died (1.6%); restenosis (echocardiographic mitral valve area <1.5 cm²) occurred in 10.4% of patients. The 3-year Kaplan-Meier freedom from restenosis was 92%, and from reintervention 93%. Because fluoroscopic calcium and postprocedure mitral valve area <-1.8 cm² were the independent predictors of restenosis, patients with calcified valves should be selected for this procedure on a case-to-case basis.     

Cardiac function in sickle cell anemia

Although ventricular dysfunction is suspected to underlie congestive heart failure in sickle cell anemia (SCA), ejection indexes of left ventricular (LV) pump performance have been found to be normal. The increased preload and decreased afterload of SCA increases the ejection phase indexes and might obscure true LV dysfunction. Therefore, the preload and afterload independent end-systolic stress-volume index was compared in 11 patients with SCA and in 11 normal volunteers. End-systolic pressure and echocardiographic LV dimensions were determined during rest, leg raise, hand-grip and amyl nitrite inhalation. Systemic vascular resistance (afterload) was decreased to 1,033 ± 314 dynes s cm⁻⁵ (mean ± standard deviation) in SCA from 1,701 ± 314 dynes s cm⁻⁵ in normal subjects. End-diastolic volume index (preload) was increased to 102 ± 24 ml/m² in SCA from 66 ± 10 ml/m² in normal subjects. Cardiac index was increased to 4.7 ± 1.1 liters/min/m² in SCA from 2.8 ± 0.8 liters/ min/m² in normal subjects. Ejection fractions were similar: 0.59 ± 0.09 in SCA versus 0.62 ± 0.07 in normal subjects. However, in patients with SCA, the ratio of resting end-systolic stress-volume index was decreased (1.5 ± 0.5 in SCA versus 2.8 ± 0.6 in normal subjects) and the slope of the end-systolic stress versus end-systolic volume index relation was decreased (2.7 ± 1.3 in SCA versus 4.4 ± 1.8 in normal subjects), suggesting LV dysfunction in those patients. Thus, LV muscle contractile performance is depressed in SCA. Increased preload and decreased afterload compensate for the LV dysfunction and maintain a normal ejection fraction and high cardiac output.     

Regression of left ventricular hypertrophy by AT1 receptor blockade in renal transplant recipients

AT₁ receptor antagonists control blood pressure (BP) effectively and reduce left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with essential hypertension. Because left ventricular hypertrophy is very common in renal transplant recipients, we examined the cardiovascular effects and the safety profile of the AT₁ receptor antagonist losartan in hypertensive renal transplant recipients. In 20 renal transplant recipients with stable renal graft function 50 mg of losartan was added to the preexisting antihypertensive treatment (no angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors) at least 6 months after renal transplantation. Twenty-four–hour ambulatory BP, two-dimensional-guided M-mode echocardiography, and duplex sonography, as well as renal function, red blood cell count, cyclosporine A and FK 506 levels, erythropoetin, and angiotensin II concentration were determined at baseline and after 6 months of therapy. With 24-h ambulatory BP measurement, systolic blood pressure (SBP) was reduced by 7.5 ± 2.4 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) by 4.5 ± 1.8 mm Hg (P < .01 and P < .05, respectively). Posterior, septal, and relative wall thickness decreased by 0.95 ± 0.2 mm, 0.91 ± 0.2 mm and 0.04 ± 0.01 mm, respectively (all P < .001). Left ventricular mass index decreased by 18.1 ± 4.7 g/m² (P < .01). Ejection fraction and midwall fractional fiber shortening as systolic parameters and the relation of passive-to-active diastolic filling of the left ventricle were unaltered. Serum creatinine and cyclosporine A concentration remained stable in all patients. Hemoglobin and hematocrit decreased by 1.0 ± 0.3 g/dL and 3.6% ± 0.9%, respectively (P < .002 and P < .001) without a change in serum erythropoetin level. In renal transplant recipients the AT₁ receptor antagonist losartan reduces left ventricular hypertrophy without altering systolic or diastolic function. It is safe with regard to renal function and immunosuppression, but slightly decreases hemoglobin level.     

Computer analysis of left ventricular dynamic geometry in man

Analysis of left ventricular performance in 20 normal patients was undertaken using biplane cineangiography and a semiautomatic computer image processing system. The analysis included evaluation of volumes, ejection fraction, regional shortening, patterns of ejection and filling and, when simultaneous left ventricular pressure was recorded, stroke work, stroke power, wall stress and internal myocardial work. All of these data were calculated from digitized images stored permanently on digital magnetic tape, and can be reproduced without reanalysis of the cine film. Normal left ventricular function is described by an end-diastolic volume index of 82 ± 3 ml, an ejection fraction of 60 ± 2 percent, left ventricular mass index of 97 ± 6 g/m², peak first derivative of volume (dV/dt) of 485 ± 28 ml/sec, anterior shortening of 48 ± 2.3 percent, inferior shortening of 33 ± 1.7 percent, lateral shortening of 29 ± 1.5 percent, anterior mean shortening velocity (Vcf, in percent of end-diastolic length [L]/sec) of 1.5 ± 0.1 L/sec, inferior Vcf of 1.1 ± 0.06 L/sec and lateral Vcf of 0.94 ± 0.2 L/sec, stroke work of 1.33 ± 0.21 joules, mean stroke power of 3.7 ± 0.62 joules/sec, integrated left ventricular pressure (tension-time index) of 2,866 ± 340 mm Hg-sec, and integrated stress (stress-time index) of 7,260 ± 765 (× 10³) dynes sec/cm². Internal myocardial work was calculated from the strain energy. More Internal work was expended in circumferential than longitudinal shortening (circumferential, 0.69 ± 0.1 joules; longitudinal, 0.41 ± 0.08, P < 0.01), because hoop stress was greater than meridian stress (hoop, 201 ± 20 dynes/cm³ × 10³; meridian, 126 ± 13, P < 0.001). This analysis of left ventricular performance provides a reliable means for identifying abnormal ventricular function and may be more sensitive than any one measurement alone. The use of digital image processing makes this complex functional analysis of left ventricular performance feasible.     

Acute and short-term effects of partial left ventriculectomy in dilated cardiomyopathy: assessment by pressure-volume loops

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term effects of partial left ventriculectomy (PLV) on left ventricular (LV) pressure-volume (P-V) loops, wall stress, and the synchrony of LV segmental volume motions in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.

BACKGROUND

Surgical LV volume reduction is under investigation as an alternative for, or bridge to, heart transplantation for patients with end-stage dilated cardiomyopathy.

METHODS

We measured P-V loops in eight patients with dilated cardiomyopathy before, during and two to five days after PLV. The conductance catheter technique was used to measure LV volume instantaneously.

RESULTS

The PLV reduced end-diastolic volume (EDV) acutely from 141 ± 27 to 68 ± 16 ml/m² (p < 0.001) and to 65 ± 6 ml/m² (p < 0.001) at two to five days postoperation (post-op). Cardiac index (CI) increased from 1.5 ± 0.5 to 2.6 ± 0.6 l/min/m² (p < 0.002) and was 1.8 ± 0.3 l/min/m² (NS) at two to five days post-op. The LV ejection fraction (EF) increased from 15 ± 8% to 35 ± 6% (p < 0.001) and to 26 ± 3% (p < 0.003) at two to five days post-op. Tau decreased from 54 ± 8 to 38 ± 6 ms (p < 0.05) and was 38 ± 5 ms (NS) at two to five days post-op. Peak wall stress decreased from 254 ± 85 to 157 ± 49 mm Hg (p < 0.001) and to 184 ± 40 mm Hg (p < 0.003) two to five days post-op. The synchrony of LV segmental volume changes increased from 68 ± 6% before PLV to 80 ± 7% after surgery (p < 0.01) and was 73 ± 4% (NS) at two to five days post-op. The LV synchrony index and CI showed a significant (p < 0.0001) correlation.

CONCLUSIONS

The acute decrease in LV volume in heart-failure patients following PLV resulted at short-term in unchanged SV, increases in LVEF, and decreases in peak wall stress. The increase in LV synchrony with PLV suggests that the transition to a more uniform LV contraction and relaxation pattern might be a rationale of the working mechanism of PLV.     

Sex differences in subclinical cardiac disease in overweight and obesity (the FATCOR study)

Background and aims

Subclinical cardiac disease, like abnormal left ventricular (LV) geometry or left atrial (LA) dilatation, is common in obesity. Less is known about sex differences in the prevalence and type of subclinical cardiac disease in obesity.

Results of partial left ventriculectomy for dilated cardiomyopathy: hemodynamic, clinical and echocardiographic observations

OBJECTIVES

The study was done to prospectively measure the echocardiographic, hemodynamic and clinical outcomes after partial left ventriculectomy (PLV).

BACKGROUND

Although PLV can improve symptoms of advanced heart failure, immediate postoperative echocardiographic findings remain abnormal.

METHODS

Fifty-nine patients with cardiomyopathy and advanced heart failure underwent PLV and concomitant mitral valve surgery between May 1996 and December 1997. Thirty-nine percent were on inotropic therapy. All were New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class III or IV. Mechanical circulatory support (LVAD) and transplant were provided for rescue therapy when hemodynamic compromise occurred. Patients were followed for a mean of 405 ± 168 days, and clinical, echocardiographic and hemodynamic measures were obtained preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at 3 and 12 months prospectively.

RESULTS

Comparing preoperative and 12-month postoperative values in event-free survivors, we found: NYHA functional class improved from 3.6 to 2.1, p < 0.0001; peak oxygen consumption increased from 10.8 to 16.0 ml/kg/min, p < 0.0001; LV ejection fraction increased from 13 ± 6.0% to 24 ± 6.9%, p < 0.0001; LV end diastolic diameter decreased from 8.2 ± 1.03 to 6.2 ± 0.64 cm, p < 0.0001, and volume was reduced from 167 ± 60 to 105 ± 38 ml/m², P = 0.02. Central hemodynamics did not normalize after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Partial left ventriculectomy can provide structural remodeling of the heart that may result in temporary improvement in clinical compensation. However, perioperative failures and the return of heart failure limit the propriety of this procedure.     

Left ventricular diastolic function in weight lifters

Concentric left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy and asymmetric septal hypertrophy have both been described in weight lifters, but diastolic filling, which is abnormal in pathologically hypertrophied ventricles, has not been investigated in such subjects. Accordingly, pulsed Doppler examination of LV inflow, M-mode and 2-dimensional echocardiography were performed in 16 competitive weight lifters and 10 age-matched male control subjects. Peak and mean filling rates were determined in milliliters per second as the product of the cross-sectional area of the mitral anulus and the Doppler-derived peak early and mean transmitral inflow velocities, respectively. Rapid filling index was defined as peak filling rate divided by mean filling rate. Flow velocity integrals of the early and atrial diastolic filling phases were also measured. LV end-diastolic volume and ejection fraction were measured using 2-dimensional echocardiography. Weight lifters had significantly higher LV end-diastolic volume (181 ± 50 vs 136 ± 40 ml, p < 0.05) and dimension (5.6 ± 0.6 vs 5.1 ± 0.5 cm, p < 0.05), and posterior wall thickness (0.9 ± 0.2 vs 0.8 ± 0.1, p < 0.05); however, after correction for body surface area there was no significant difference in these values. Weight lifters had significantly higher LV mass (241 ± 70 vs 165 ± 29, p < 0.02) and LV mass index (114 ± 29 vs 87 ± 15 g/m², p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the weight lifters and control subjects in rapid filling index, early to late integral ratio or ejection fraction. Five of the weight lifters competed nationally and took steroids heavily; in this group diastolic function was abnormal. Thus, weight lifters have concentric LV hypertrophy but normal diastolic function, consistent with physiologic hypertrophy.     

扩张型心肌病左心腔大小及其临床意义

目的探讨扩张型心肌病(DCM)的临床特征、左心腔增大程度及其临床意义。方法回顾性分析1994年1月～1999年1月连续收住入院的DCM患者102例。结果102例中,心功能Ⅲ～Ⅳ级者76例,Ⅲ级以下者26例。伴发各种心律失常者93例(91．2％)中,室上性心律失常34例,室性心律失常70例,缓慢心律失常42例。左室舒张末期内径(LVED)平均为(69．4±8．3)mm,伴中、重度二尖瓣反流者(69例)LVED较其他者大(P<0．01)。心功能Ⅲ～Ⅳ级者较其他患者的LVED大、射血分数(FF)低(均P<0．01)。19例伴持续性心房颤动(房颤)者较无房颤者的左心房内径、LVED大,心功能分级较差(均P<0．05)。老年患者占1／4,其病情演进时间[(16±6)个月]较年轻患者短[(30±5)个月](P<0．05)。住院死亡4例,1例死于心力衰竭,3例猝死。另有3例猝死获救。结论DCM患者确诊时大多已呈中、重度心力衰竭,其心功能分级及复杂心律失常的发生、发展均与左室、左房内径大小有关。     

慢加急性肝衰竭患者第三腰椎骨骼肌指数与临床指标的关系*

目的 观察慢加急性肝衰竭(ACLF)患者第三腰椎骨骼肌指数(L3-SMI)及其与临床指标的关系。方法 2015年1月～2019年6月我院收治的126例住院期间完善了腹部CT或MRI检查的ACLF患者,计算L3-SMI,比较不同L3-SMI水平患者的临床特点。结果 入组患者男性113例,女性13例;男性患者L3-SMI为(40.3±7.4)cm²/m²,显著大于女性患者[(33.9±4.5)cm²/m²,P＜0.05];在男性患者中,有肝硬化基础者L3-SMI为(38.1±5.9)cm²/m²,显著低于无肝硬化基础者[(42.0±7.9)cm²/m², P＜0.05];酒精性肝病患者L3-SMI为(34.8±6.8)cm²/m²,显著低于非酒精性肝病患者[(41.5±7.0)cm²/m², P＜0.05];90 d生存组患者L3-SMI为(40.7±7.7)cm²/m²,与90 d死亡患者[(38.8±6.3)cm²/m², P＞0.05]比,差异无统计学意义;将男性患者分为低L3-SMI组(≤40 cm²/m²)61例和高L3-SMI组(＞40 cm²/m²)52例,结果低L3-SMI组和高L3-SMI组患者肝性脑病发生率分别为19.7%和13.5% (P＞0.05),低L3-SMI组90 d生存率为68.9%,与高L3-SMI组的76.9%(P＞0.05)比,差异无统计学意义;高L3-SMI组患者体质指数为(24.5±3.9)kg/m²,显著高于低L3-SMI组[(20.5±2.9)cm²/m², P＜0.05];高L3-SMI组患者血红蛋白为(126.4±23.2)g/L,显著高于低L3-SMI组[(114.7±21.3)g/L, P＜0.05];高L3-SMI组患者血钠为(136.6±4.1)g/L,显著高于低L3-SMI组[(133.5±4.5)g/L, P＜0.05];低L3-SMI组和高L3-SMI组患者血清总胆红素分别为[(437.1±198.3)μmol/L和(317.4±173.0)μmol/L,P＜0.05],差异显著。结论 女性患者、低体质量患者、肝硬化患者、酒精性肝病患者L3-SMI水平更低,ACLF患者L3-SMI水平与病情严重程度呈负相关,与疾病转归存在一定的相关性,但需进一步扩大样本进行验证。     

Is 'diastolic heart failure' a diagnosis of exclusion? Echocardiographic parameters of diastolic dysfunction in patients with heart failure and normal systolic function

Background: Diastolic heart failure (DHF) is reported to account for 30–50% of heart failure presentations, but its prevalence in the absence of overt coronary disease is unclear. Diastolic heart failure is usually defined by exclusion (heart failure with normal left ventricular (LV) systolic function), and few studies have sought a specific diagnosis of diastolic dysfunction. The objective of the present study was to determine the prevalence of isolated DHF and characterise LV diastolic function in patients without clinical evidence of coronary disease, who were referred for LV function assessment.

Methods: Among 938 consecutive patients referred for assessment of LV function, diastolic dysfunction was sought in patients with clinical heart failure, normal systolic function, and no valvular or coronary disease. The evaluation was based on measurement of early (E) and late (A) transmitral velocities and E wave deceleration time (DT). Pulmonary vein systolic, diastolic and atrial reversal velocities were used to differentiate pseudonormal filling in patients with normal E/A and DT.

Results: Normal LV systolic function was present in 331 patients (35%), of whom 53 (6%) met criteria for a clinical diagnosis of DHF. Diastolic dysfunction was confirmed by echocardiography in 38 patients (72% of clinical DHF patients), of whom 27 had impaired LV relaxation, 10 had pseudonormal filling, and one had restrictive filling. Diastolic function was normal in 13 and indeterminate in two patients. Pseudonormal or restrictive LV filling were more prevalent in patients with acute heart failure (7/20, P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Carefully defined, isolated DHF is uncommon, but most of these patients demonstrate echocardiographic evidence of diastolic dysfunction.     

Hyperthyroidism-induced left ventricular diastolic dysfunction: implication in hyperthyroidism-related heart failure

Background Heart failure occurs in 6% of hyperthyroid patients. Nonetheless, only half of those with hyperthyroidism‐related heart failure have impaired left ventricular (LV) systolic function. Thus, diastolic dysfunction may play an important role in the pathogenesis. Methods and results We performed serial echocardiographic examinations in 70 consecutive patients with hyperthyroidism (39 ± 2 years, 47 women) to determine their diastolic function and repeated the examinations 6 months after achieving a euthyroid state. All patients had normal LV systolic function, but diastolic dysfunction was detected in 22 cases (mild: 3, moderate: 15 and severe: 4). The prevalence of diastolic dysfunction increased with age from 17·9% in patients <40 years to 100% in those >60 years. Increasing age was the only independent predictor for diastolic dysfunction in hyperthyroid patients. After achievement of a euthyroid state, most patients (16/22, 72%) had completely normalized diastolic function: 100% of patients <40 years, 33·3% of those ≥60 years. Further analyses revealed significant age‐related differences in the cardiovascular response to hyperthyroidism. Among patients <40 years, hyperthyroidism resulted in a marked reduction in total peripheral vascular resistance, increased cardiac output and enhanced diastolic function as determined by E’. No such significant change in total peripheral vascular resistance or cardiac output was observed in hyperthyroid patients ≥40 years. In addition, hyperthyroidism was associated with reduced E’, signifying diastolic dysfunction in older hyperthyroid patients. Conclusion Hyperthyroidism is associated with diastolic dysfunction, particularly in older patients. It is partly reversible following achievement of a euthyroid state.     

Cardiovascular manifestations of hyperthyroidism before and after antithyroid therapy: a matched case-control study.

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to prospectively evaluate the prevalence of cardiovascular abnormalities in patients with overt hyperthyroidism before and after antithyroid therapy. BACKGROUND: Overt hyperthyroidism is associated with recognized cardiovascular effects believed to be reversed by antithyroid therapy; however, increasing data suggest significant long-term cardiovascular mortality. METHODS: A total of 393 (312 women, 81 men) consecutive unselected patients with overt hyperthyroidism were recruited and compared with 393 age- and gender-matched euthyroid control subjects. Hyperthyroid patients were re-evaluated after antithyroid therapy. Findings in patients and matched control subjects were compared at presentation, after treatment when patients had subclinical hyperthyroidism biochemically, and when patients were rendered biochemically euthyroid. All had a structured cardiovascular history and examination, including measurements of blood pressure (BP) and pulse rate. All had resting 12-lead electrocardiogram and 24-h digital Holter monitoring of cardiac rhythm. RESULTS: A higher prevalence of cardiovascular symptoms and signs, as well as abnormal hemodynamic parameters, was noted among hyperthyroid patients at recruitment compared with control subjects. Cardiac dysrhythmias, especially supraventricular, were more prevalent among patients than among control subjects. Palpitation and dyspnea, postural decrease in systolic pressure, and atrial fibrillation (AF) remained more prevalent in treated hyperthyroid subjects with subclinical hyperthyroidism compared with control subjects, and remained more prevalent after restoration of euthyroidism. Predictors for successful reversion to sinus rhythm in those with AF associated with hyperthyroidism were lower BP measurements at recruitment and an initial hypothyroid state induced by antithyroid therapy. Mortality was higher in hyperthyroid subjects than in control subjects after a mean period of follow-up of 66.6 months. CONCLUSIONS: Cardiovascular abnormalities are common in patients with overt hyperthyroidism at presentation, but some persist despite effective antithyroid therapy.     

Echocardiographic evaluation of left ventricular diastolic and systolic function in Saudi patients with sickle cell disease

Background and objectivesSickle cell disease (SCD) is a chronic, inherited haemoglobin disorder, associated with recurrent vaso-occlusive and haemolytic crises and chronic tissue ischemia which may adversely affect any organ system. Our objectives were to evaluate the left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic functions in Saudi patients with SCD originally from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.Design and settingProspective hospital based echocardiography study on adolescent and adult patients with SCD.MethodsForty-five patients with SCD were recruited for echocardiographic study while 45 patients, matched for age and sex, served as controls. Left and right ventricular dimensions and LV wall thicknesses, LV mass index (LVMI) and LV contractility variables were obtained. Left atrial dimension and volume and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) were also estimated. We also evaluated parameters of LV diastolic function, including early and late mitral flow velocities (E and A wave respectively), E/A ratio, deceleration time (MVDT), A wave duration (MVA D), LV isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT), and tissue Doppler velocities, such as lateral annular e‘ wave, a‘ wave, e‘/a‘ ratio and E/e‘ ratio.ResultsThere were increases in the LV dimensions, LV volumes, stroke volume, and LVMI of the SCD patients. The preload was increased (LV diastolic volume) and afterload was decreased (low diastolic blood pressure). The LVEF was equivalent, though there was evidence of LV diastolic dysfunction in 24%, and pulmonary hypertension (PH) in 40% of the SCD patients. The mean left atrial volume (LAV) was also increased in the SCD patients.ConclusionLV diastolic dysfunction (heart failure with preserved ejection fraction) and PH may complicate cases of the Arab-Indian haplotype of SCD.     

Hydrochlorothiazide Is Superior to Isradipine for Reduction of Left Ventricular Mass: Results of a Multicenter Trial

Objectives. We sought to determine the efficacy of isradipine in reducing left ventricular (LV) mass and wall thickness in hypertensive patients.

Background. LV hypertrophy on the echocardiogram is a strong predictor of cardiovascular events. Reduction of LV mass may be a desirable goal of drug therapy for hypertension. However, although thiazide diuretic drugs have been advocated as first-line therapy for hypertension, their efficacy in reducing LV mass has been questioned.

Methods. Patients with mild to moderate diastolic hypertension and LV mass in excess of 1 SD of normal values were randomized to isradipine (n = 89) or hydrochlorothiazide therapy (n = 45). Evaluations were obtained at baseline, after 3 and 6 months of treatment and 2 weeks after treatment was stopped.

Results. At 6 months, LV mass decreased by 43 ± 45 g (mean ± SD) with hydrochlorothiazide (p < 0.001) but only by 11 ± 48 g with isradipine (p = NS; between-group comparison, p < 0.001). Two weeks after drug therapy was stopped, LV mass remained 24 ± 41 g lower than that at baseline in the hydrochlorothiazide group (p = 0.003) but only 7 ± 50 g lower in the isradipine group (p = NS). Septal and posterior wall thicknesses were significantly and equally reduced with both isradipine and hydrochlorothiazide. Greater LV mass reduction with hydrochlorothiazide was related to a 2.8 ± 3.3-mm reduction of LV cavity size with hydrochlorothiazide but no reduction with isradipine. At 6 months of treatment, diastolic blood pressure (BP) by design was equally reduced in both treatment groups. At 3 months, systolic BP was reduced by 17 ± 15 mm Hg with isradipine and by 26 ± 15 and 25 ± 17 mm Hg at 3 and 6 months, respectively, with hydrochlorothiazide (p = 0.003, between-group comparison). However, on stepwise multivariable regression analysis, treatment selection (partial r² = 0.082, p = 0.001), change in average 24-h systolic BP (partial r² = 0.032, p = 0.029) and change in average sitting systolic BP (partial r² = 0.017, p = 0.096) were predictive of LV mass reduction.

Conclusions. Despite an equivalent reduction of diastolic BP, 6 months of therapy with hydrochlorothiazide is associated with a substantial reduction of LV mass, greater than that with isradipine. The superior efficacy of hydrochlorothiazide for LV mass reduction is associated with a greater reduction of systolic BP as well as drug selection itself. These data may have important therapeutic implications.