Prevalence and impact of diabetes in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

BackgroundDiabetes is a cardiometabolic comorbidity that may predispose COVID‐19 patients to worse clinical outcomes. This study sought to determine the prevalence of diabetes in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients and investigate the association of diabetes severe COVID‐19, rate of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), mortality, and need for mechanical ventilation by performing a systematic review and meta‐analysis.MethodsIndividual studies were selected using a defined search strategy, including results up until July 2021 from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. A random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed to estimate the proportions and level of association of diabetes with clinical outcomes in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients. Forest plots were generated to retrieve the odds ratios (OR), and the quality and risk assessment was performed for all studies included in the meta‐analysis.ResultsThe total number of patients included in this study was 10 648, of whom 3112 had diabetes (29.23%). The overall pooled estimate of prevalence of diabetes in the meta‐analysis cohort was 31% (95% CI, 0.25‐0.38; z = 16.09, P < .0001). Diabetes significantly increased the odds of severe COVID‐19 (OR 3.39; 95% CI, 2.14‐5.37; P < .0001), ARDS (OR 2.55; 95% CI, 1.74‐3.75; P = <.0001), in‐hospital mortality (OR 2.44; 95% CI, 1.93‐3.09; P < .0001), and mechanical ventilation (OR 3.03; 95% CI, 2.17‐4.22; P < .0001).ConclusionsOur meta‐analysis demonstrates that diabetes is significantly associated with increased odds of severe COVID‐19, increased ARDS rate, mortality, and need for mechanical ventilation in hospitalized patients. We also estimated an overall pooled prevalence of diabetes of 31% in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients.     

Non‐HIV‐infected patients with Pneumocystis pneumonia in the intensive care unit: A bicentric,retrospective study focused on predictive factors of in‐hospital mortality

BackgroundThe incidence of Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) among patients without human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection continues to increase. Here, we identified potential risk factors for in‐hospital mortality among HIV‐negative patients with PCP admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed medical records of 154 non‐HIV‐infected PCP patients admitted to the ICU at Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) and China‐Japan Friendship Hospital (CJFH) from October 2012 to July 2020. Clinical characteristics were examined, and factors related to in‐hospital mortality were analyzed.ResultsA total of 154 patients were enrolled in our study. Overall, the in‐hospital mortality rate was 65.6%. The univariate analysis indicated that nonsurvivors were older (58 vs. 52 years, P = 0.021), were more likely to use high‐dose steroids (≥1 mg/kg/day prednisone equivalent, 39.62% vs. 55.34%, P = 0.047), receive caspofungin during hospitalization (44.6% vs. 28.3%, P = 0.049), require invasive ventilation (83.2% vs. 47.2%, P < 0.001), develop shock during hospitalization (61.4% vs. 20.8%, P < 0.001), and develop pneumomediastinum (21.8% vs. 47.2%, P = 0.001) and had higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II scores on ICU admission (20.32 vs. 17.39, P = 0.003), lower lymphocyte counts (430 vs. 570 cells/μl, P = 0.014), and lower PaO2/FiO2 values (mmHg) on admission (108 vs. 147, P = 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that age (odds ratio [OR] 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–1.06; P = 0.024), use of high‐dose steroids (≥1 mg/kg/day prednisone equivalent) during hospitalization (OR 2.29; 95% CI 1.07–4.90; P = 0.034), and a low oxygenation index on admission (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.99–1.00; P = 0.014) were associated with in‐hospital mortality.ConclusionsThe mortality rate of non‐HIV‐infected patients with PCP was high, and predictive factors of a poor prognosis were advanced age, use of high‐dose steroids (≥1 mg/kg/day prednisone equivalent) during hospitalization, and a low oxygenation index on admission. The use of caspofungin during hospitalization might have no contribution to the prognosis of non‐HIV‐infected patients with PCP in the ICU.     

Clinical characteristics of non‐small cell lung cancer patients with EGFR mutations and ALK&ROS1 fusions

ObjectiveTo study the relationship between clinical characteristics and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusions, c‐ros oncogene 1, receptor tyrosine kinase (ROS1) gene fusions, and epidermic growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients to distinguish these different types.MethodsBoth ALK, ROS1 gene rearrangements and EGFR mutations testing were performed. The clinical characteristics and associated pulmonary abnormalities were investigated.ResultsFour hundred fifty‐three NSCLC patients were included for analysis. One hundred seventy (37.5%), 32 (7.1%), and 9 cases (2.0%) with EGFR mutations, ALK gene fusions, and ROS1 gene fusions were identified, respectively. The EGFR‐positive and ALK&ROS1‐positive were more common in female (χ ² = 61.934, P < 0.001 and χ ² = 28.152, P < 0.001), non‐smoking (χ ² = 59.315, P < 0.001 and χ ² = 11.080, P = 0.001), and adenocarcinoma (χ ² = 44.864, P < 0.001 and χ ² = 12.318, P = 0.002) patients; proportion of patients with emphysema was lower (χ ² = 35.494, P < 0.001 and χ ² = 15.770, P < 0.001) than the wild‐type patients. The results of logistic regression analysis indicated that female (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.834, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.069–3.144, P = 0.028), non‐smoking (adjusted OR 2.504, 95% CI 1.456–4.306, P = 0.001), lung adenocarcinoma (adjusted OR 4.512, 95% CI 2.465–8.260, P < 0.001), stage III–IV (adjusted OR 2.232, 95% CI 1.066–4.676, P = 0.033), and no symptoms of emphysema (adjusted OR 2.139, 95% CI 1.221–3.747, P = 0.008) were independent variables associated with EGFR mutations. Young (adjusted OR 3.947, 95% CI 1.873–8.314, P < 0.001) and lung adenocarcinoma (adjusted OR 2.950, 95% CI 0.998–8.719, P = 0.050) were associated with ALK/ROS1 fusions.Conclusions EGFR mutations were more likely to occur in non‐smoking, stage III–IV, and female patients with lung adenocarcinoma, whereas ALK&ROS1 gene fusions were more likely to occur in young patients with lung adenocarcinoma. Emphysema was less common in patients with EGFR mutations.     

Diabetes and atrial fibrillation in hospitalized patients in the United States

BackgroundData on the burden of atrial fibrillation (AF) associated with diabetes among hospitalized patients are scarce. We assessed the AF‐related hospitalizations trends in patients with diabetes, and compared AF outcomes in patients with diabetes to those without diabetes.HypothesisAF‐related health outcomes differ between patient with diabetes and without diabetes.MethodsUsing the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) 2004–2014, we studied trends in AF hospitalization rate among diabetic patients, and compared in‐hospital case fatality rate, length of stay (LOS), cost and utilization of rhythm control therapies, and 30‐day readmission rate between patients with and without diabetes. Logistic or Cox regression models were used to assess the differences in AF outcomes by diabetes status.ResultsOver the study period, there were 4 325 522 AF‐related hospitalizations, of which 1 075 770 (24.9%) had a diagnosis of diabetes. There was a temporal increase in AF hospitalization rate among diabetic patients (10.4 to 14.4 per 1000 hospitalizations among patients with diabetes; +4.4% yearly change, p‐trend < .0001). Among AF patients, those with diabetes had a lower in‐hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.65–0.72) and LOS (aOR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.94–0.96), but no difference in costs (aOR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.94–0.96) and a higher 30‐day rate of readmissions compared with no diabetes (aHR 1.05; 95% CI: 1.01–1.08), compared to individuals without diabetes.ConclusionAF and diabetes coexist among hospitalized patients, with rising trends over the last decade. Diabetes is associated with lower rates in‐hospital adverse AF outcomes, but a higher 30‐day readmission risk.     

HbA1c level may be a risk factor for oxygen therapy requirement in patients with coronavirus disease 2019

IntroductionMany clinical studies have identified significant predictors or risk factors for the severity or mortality of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) cases. However, there are very limited reports on the risk factors for requiring oxygen therapy during hospitalization. In particular, we sought to investigate whether plasma glucose and HbA1c levels could be risk factors for oxygen therapy requirement.Materials and MethodsA single‐center, retrospective study was conducted of 131 COVID‐19 patients hospitalized at Saitama Medical University Hospital between March 2020 and November 2020. To identify the risk factors for oxygen therapy requirement during hospitalization, a stepwise multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was performed using several clinical parameters commonly obtained on admission, including plasma glucose and HbA1c levels.ResultsOf the 131 patients with COVID‐19, 33.6% (44/131) received oxygen therapy during hospitalization. According to the logistic regression analysis, male sex (odds ratio [OR]: 8.76, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.65–46.5, P < 0.05), age (OR: 1.07, 95% CI: 1.02–1.12, P < 0.01), HbA1c levels (OR: 1.94, 95% CI: 1.09–3.44, P < 0.05), and serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels (OR: 2.22, 95% CI: 1.54–3.20, P < 0.01) emerged as independent variables associated with oxygen therapy requirement during hospitalization.ConclusionsIn addition to male sex, age, and serum CRP levels, HbA1c levels on admission may serve as a risk factor for oxygen therapy requirement during the clinical course of COVID‐19, irrespective of diabetes history and status. This may contribute to the efficient delegation of limited numbers of hospital beds to patients at risk for oxygen therapy requirement.     

Impact of diabetes and Krebs von den Lungen‐6 on coronavirus disease 2019 severity: A single‐center study from Japan

Aims/IntroductionDiabetes mellitus is reported as a risk factor for increased coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) severity and mortality, but there have been few reports from Japan. Associations between diabetes mellitus and COVID‐19 severity and mortality were investigated in a single Japanese hospital.Materials and MethodsPatients aged ≥20 years admitted to Osaka City General Hospital for COVID‐19 treatment between April 2020 and March 2021 were included in this retrospective, observational study. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was carried out to examine whether diabetes mellitus contributes to COVID‐19‐related death and severity.ResultsOf the 262 patients included, 108 (41.2%) required invasive ventilation, and 34 (13.0%) died in hospital. The diabetes group (n = 92) was significantly older, more obese, had longer hospital stays, more severe illness and higher mortality than the non‐diabetes group (n = 170). On multivariable logistic regression analysis, age (odds ratio [OR] 1.054, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.023–1.086), body mass index (OR 1.111, 95% CI 1.028–1.201), history of diabetes mellitus (OR 2.429, 95% CI 1.152–5.123), neutrophil count (OR 1.222, 95% CI 1.077–1.385), C‐reactive protein (OR 1.096, 95% CI 1.030–1.166) and Krebs von den Lungen‐6 (OR 1.002, 95% CI 1.000–1.003) were predictors for COVID‐19 severity (R ²= 0.468). Meanwhile, age (OR 1.104, 95% CI 1.037–1.175) and Krebs von den Lungen‐6 (OR 1.003, 95% CI 1.001–1.005) were predictors for COVID‐19‐related death (R ²= 0.475).ConclusionsDiabetes mellitus was a definite risk factor for COVID‐19 severity in a single Japanese hospital treating moderately‐to‐severely ill patients.     

What are the factors affecting the recovery rate of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid?

BackgroundBronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a useful examination for the evaluation of interstitial lung disease. A high BAL fluid (BALF) recovery rate is desirable because low recovery rates lead to inaccurate diagnoses and increased adverse events. Few studies have explored whether BALF recovery rates are influenced by clinical factors.ObjectivesThis study aimed to identify the clinical parameters affecting the recovery rates of BALF and the extent of their effects.MethodData from patients who underwent BAL at the Chiba University Hospital between 2013 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. BAL was performed with three aliquots of 50‐ml physiological saline. The potential association of the BALF recovery rate with clinical parameters such as age, sex, smoking status, underlying disease, bronchus used for the procedure and pulmonary function, was analysed.ResultsEight hundred twenty‐six patients had undergone BAL. The average recovery rate was 52.4%. Factors affecting BALF recovery rates included male sex (odds ratio [OR]: 0.32, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.20–0.53, p < 0.001); age ≥ 65 years (OR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.33–0.76, p < 0.001); use of the left bronchus (OR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.30–0.71, p = 0.001) and bronchi other than the middle lobe bronchus or lingula (OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.25–0.65, p < 0.001); and forced expiratory volume in 1 s divided by forced vital capacity <80% (OR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.40–1.00, p < 0.001).ConclusionSex, age, bronchus used for the procedure and pulmonary function may be useful as pre‐procedural predictors of BALF recovery rates.     

Prognostic implications of ST‐segment elevation in lead aVR in patients with acute coronary syndrome: A meta‐analysis

BackgroundST‐segment elevation (STE) in lead aVR is a useful tool in recognizing patients with left main or left anterior descending coronary obstruction during acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The prognostic implication of STE in lead aVR on outcomes has not been established.MethodsWe performed a systematic search for clinical studies about STE in lead aVR in four databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Primary outcome was in‐hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included in‐hospital (re)infarction, in‐hospital heart failure, and 90‐day mortality.ResultsWe included 7 studies with a total of 7,700 patients. The all‐cause in‐hospital mortality of patients with STE in lead aVR during ACS was significantly higher than that of patients without STE (OR: 4.37, 95% CI 1.63 to 11.68, p = .003). Patients with greater STE (>0.1 mV) in lead aVR had a higher in‐hospital mortality when compared to lower STE (0.05–0.1 mV) (OR: 2.00, 95% CI 1.11–3.60, p = .02), However, STE in aVR was not independently associated with in‐hospital mortality in ACS patients (OR: 2.72, 95% CI 0.85–8.63, p = .09). The incidence of in‐hospital myocardial (re)infarction (OR: 2.77, 95% CI 1.30–5.94, p = .009), in‐hospital heart failure (OR: 2.62, 95% CI 1.06–6.50, p = .04), and 90‐day mortality (OR: 10.19, 95% CI 5.27–19.71, p < .00001) was also noted to be higher in patients STE in lead aVR.ConclusionsThis contemporary meta‐analysis shows STE in lead aVR is a poor prognostic marker in patients with ACS with higher in‐hospital mortality, reinfarction, heart failure and 90‐day mortality. Greater magnitude of STE portends worse prognosis. Further studies are needed to establish an independent predictive role of STE in aVR for these adverse outcomes.     

Association between insurance status and in‐hospital outcomes in patients with out‐of‐hospital ventricular fibrillation arrest

BackgroundLack of health insurance is associated with adverse clinical outcomes; however, the association between health insurance status and in‐hospital outcomes after out‐of‐hospital ventricular fibrillation (OHVFA) arrest is unclear.HypothesisLack of health insurance is associated with worse in‐hospital outcomes after out‐of‐hospital ventricular fibrillation arrest.MethodsFrom January 2003 to December 2014, hospitalizations with a primary diagnosis of OHVFA in patients ≥18 years of age were extracted from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Patients were categorized into insured and uninsured groups based on their documented health insurance status. Study outcome measures were in‐hospital mortality, utilization of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), and cost of hospitalization. Inverse probability weighting adjusted binary logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of in‐hospital mortality and ICD utilization and linear regression was performed to identify independent predictors of cost of hospitalization.ResultsOf 188 946 patients included in the final analyses, 178 005 (94.2%) patients were insured and 10 941 (5.8%) patients were uninsured. Unadjusted in‐hospital mortality was higher (61.7% vs. 54.7%, p < .001) and ICD utilization was lower (15.3% vs. 18.3%, p < .001) in the uninsured patients. Lack of health insurance was independently associated with higher in‐hospital mortality (O.R = 1.53, 95% C.I. [1.46–1.61]; p < .001) and lower utilization of ICD (O.R = 0.84, 95% C.I [0.79–0.90], p < .001). Cost of hospitalization was significantly higher in uninsured patients (median [interquartile range], p‐value) ($) (39 650 [18 034‐93 399] vs. 35 965 [14 568.50‐96 163], p < .001).ConclusionLack of health insurance is associated with higher in‐hospital mortality, lower utilization of ICD and higher cost of hospitalization after OHVFA.     

Impact of regionalizing ST‐elevation myocardial infarction care on sex differences in reperfusion times and clinical outcomes

BackgroundWomen with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention historically experience worse in‐hospital outcomes compared to men.HypothesisImplementation of a regional STEMI system will reduce care gaps in reperfusion times and in‐hospital outcomes between women and men.Methods1928 patients (413 women, 21.4%) presented with an acute STEMI between June 2007 and March 2016. The population was divided into an early cohort (n = 728 patients, 2007‐May 2011), and a late cohort (n = 1200 patients, June 2011–2016). The primary endpoints evaluated were reperfusion times and in‐hospital outcomes.ResultsCompared to men, women experienced significant delays in first medical contact (FMC) to arrival at the emergency room (26.0 vs. 22.0 min, p < 0.001) and FMC‐to‐device (109 vs. 101 min p = 0.001). Women had higher incidences of post‐PCI heart failure and death compared to men (p < 0.05). Following multivariable adjustment, no mortality difference was observed for women versus men (adjusted OR; 0.82; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.51–1.34; p = 0.433) or for early versus late cohorts (adjusted OR; 1.04; 95% CI, 0.68–1.60; p = 0.856).ConclusionFollowing STEMI regionalization, women continued to experience significantly longer reperfusion times, although there was no difference in adjusted mortality. These results highlight the ongoing disparity of STEMI care between women and men, and suggest that regionalization alone is insufficient to close sex‐based care gaps.     

Percutaneous coronary intervention and 30‐day unplanned readmission with chest pain in the United States (Nationwide Readmissions Database)

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) improves anginal chest pain in most, but not all, treated patients. PCI is associated with unplanned readmission for angina and non‐specific chest pain within 30‐days of index PCI. Patients with an index hospitalization for PCI between January–November in each of the years 2010–2014 were included from the United States Nationwide Readmissions Database. Of 2 723 455 included patients, the 30‐day unplanned readmission rate was 7.2% (n = 196 581, 42.3% female). This included 9.8% (n = 19 183) with angina and 11.1% (n = 21 714) with non‐specific chest pain. The unplanned readmission group were younger (62.2 vs 65.1 years; P < 0.001), more likely to be females (41.0% vs 34.2%; P < 0.001), from the lowest quartile of household income (32.9% vs 31.2%; P < 0.001), have higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors or have index PCI performed for non‐acute coronary syndromes (ACS) (OR:3.46, 95%CI 3.39–3.54). Factors associated with angina readmissions included female sex (OR:1.28, 95%CI 1.25–1.32), history of ischemic heart disease (IHD) (OR:3.28, 95%CI 2.95–3.66), coronary artery bypass grafts (OR:1.79, 95%CI 1.72–2.86), anaemia (OR:1.16, 95%CI 1.11–1.21), hypertension (OR:1.13, 95%CI 1.09, 1.17), and dyslipidemia (OR:1.10, 95%CI 1.06–1.14). Non‐specific chest pain compared with angina readmissions were younger (mean difference 1.25 years, 95% CI 0.99, 1.50), more likely to be females (RR:1.13, 95%CI 1.10, 1.15) and have undergone PCI for non‐ACS (RR:2.17, 95%CI 2.13, 2.21). Indications for PCI other than ACS have a greater likelihood of readmission with angina or non‐specific chest pain at 30‐days. Readmissions are more common in patients with modifiable risk factors, previous history of IHD and anaemia.     

Sex differences in treatment and outcomes of patients with in‐hospital ST‐elevation myocardial infarction

Background and HypothesisTwo cohorts face high mortality after ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI): females and patients with in‐hospital STEMI. The aim of this study was to evaluate sex differences in ischemic times and outcomes of in‐hospital STEMI patients.MethodsConsecutive STEMI patients treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were prospectively recruited from 30 hospitals into the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry (2013−2018). Sex discrepancies within in‐hospital STEMIs were compared with out‐of‐hospital STEMIs. The primary endpoint was 12‐month all‐cause mortality. Secondary endpoints included symptom‐to‐device (STD) time and 30‐day major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). To investigate the relationship between sex and 12‐month mortality for in‐hospital versus out‐of‐hospital STEMIs, an interaction analysis was included in the multivariable models.ResultsA total of 7493 STEMI patients underwent PCI of which 494 (6.6%) occurred in‐hospital. In‐hospital versus out‐of‐hospital STEMIs comprised 31.9% and 19.9% females, respectively. Female in‐hospital STEMIs were older (69.5 vs. 65.9 years, p = .003) with longer adjusted geometric mean STD times (104.6 vs. 94.3 min, p < .001) than men. Female versus male in‐hospital STEMIs had no difference in 12‐month mortality (27.1% vs. 20.3%, p = .92) and MACE (22.8% vs. 19.3%, p = .87). Female sex was not independently associated with 12‐month mortality for in‐hospital STEMIs which was consistent across the STEMI cohort (OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 0.94–1.70, p = .13).ConclusionsIn‐hospital STEMIs are more frequent in females relative to out‐of‐hospital STEMIs. Despite already being under medical care, females with in‐hospital STEMIs experienced a 10‐min mean excess in STD time compared with males, after adjustment for confounders. Adjusted 12‐month mortality and MACE were similar to males.     

Atrial fibrillation catheter ablation complications in obese and diabetic patients: Insights from the US Nationwide Inpatient Sample 2005–2013

BackgroundObesity and diabetes are risk factors for atrial fibrillation (AF) incidence and recurrence after catheter ablation. However, their impact on post‐ablation complications in real‐world practice is unknown.ObjectivesWe examine annual trends in AF ablations and procedural outcomes in obese and diabetic patients in the US and whether obesity and diabetes are independently associated with adverse outcomes.MethodsUsing the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (2005–2013), we identified obese and diabetic patients admitted for AF ablation. Common complications were identified using ICD‐9‐CM codes. The primary outcome included the composite of any in‐hospital complication or death. Annual trends of the primary outcome, length‐of‐stay (LOS) and total‐inflation adjusted hospital charges were examined. Multivariate analyses studied the association of obesity and diabetes with outcomes.ResultsAn estimated 106 462 AF ablations were performed in the US from 2005 to 2013. Annual trends revealed a gradual increase in ablations performed in obese and diabetic patients and in complication rates. The overall rate of the primary outcome in obese was 11.7% versus 8.2% in non‐obese and 10.7% in diabetic versus 8.2% in non‐diabetic patients (p < .001).ConclusionsObesity was independently associated with increased complications (adjusted OR, 95% CI:1.39, 1.20–1.62), longer LOS (1.36, 1.23–1.49), and higher charges (1.16, 1.12–1.19). Diabetes was only associated with longer LOS (1.27, 1.16–1.38). Obesity, but not diabetes, in patients undergoing AF ablation is an independent risk factor for immediate post‐ablation complications and higher costs. Future studies should investigate whether weight loss prior to ablation reduces complications and costs.     

Utilization and in‐hospital complications of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation in patients with obesity and morbid obesity

BackgroundReal‐world data on atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation outcomes in obese populations have remained scarce, especially the relationship between obesity and in‐hospital AF ablation outcome.HypothesisObesity is associated with higher complication rates and higher admission trend for AF ablation.MethodsWe drew data from the US National Inpatient Sample to identify patients who underwent AF ablation between 2005 and 2018. Sociodemographic and patients'' characteristics data were collected, and the trend, incidence of catheter ablation complications and mortality were analyzed, and further stratified by obesity classification.ResultsA total of 153 429 patients who were hospitalized for AF ablation were estimated. Among these, 11 876 obese patients (95% confidence interval [CI]: 11 422–12 330) and 10 635 morbid obese patients (95% CI: 10 200–11 069) were observed. There was a substantial uptrend admission, up to fivefold, for AF ablation in all obese patients from 2005 to 2018 (p < .001). Morbidly obese patients were statistically younger, while coexisting comorbidities were substantially higher than both obese and nonobese patients (p < .01) Both obesity and morbid obesity were significantly associated with an increased risk of total bleeding, and vascular complications (p < .05). Only morbid obesity was significantly associated with an increased risk of ablation‐related complications, total infection, and pulmonary complications (p < .01). No difference in‐hospital mortality was observed among obese, morbidly obese, and nonobese patients.ConclusionOur study observed an uptrend in the admission of obese patients undergoing AF ablation from 2005 through 2018. Obesity was associated with higher ablation‐related complications, particularly those who were morbidly obese.     

Metabolic syndrome and concomitant diabetes mellitus are associated with higher risk of cardiovascular comorbidity in patients with primary glomerular diseases: A retrospective observational study

BackgroundMetabolic syndrome (MS) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases in general population. However, there was a paucity of studies investigating their impact in primary glomerular diseases (PGD).HypothesisMS and concomitant DM are associated with higher risk of cardiovascular comorbidity in PGD.MethodsIn a retrospective observational design, we analyzed 3622 hospitalized adult PGD patients and compared the prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidity in non‐MS, MS with and without DM. Risk factors for cardiovascular comorbidity were identified using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.ResultsAmong 3622 PGD patients, 308 (8.5%) cases accompanied with MS, including 180 (5.0%) patients with DM and 128 (3.5%) without DM. One hundred and sixty four (4.5%) cases coexisted with cardiovascular comorbidity. Patients with MS and concomitant DM exhibited a higher prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidity than those without MS stratified by estimated glomerular filtration rate and pathological types. Logistic regression showed that MS and concomitant DM (OR: 2.496, 95% CI: 1.600‐3.894, P < .001), older age (OR: 1.060, 95% CI: 1.047‐1.074, P < .001), male (OR: 1.536, 95% CI: 1.072‐2.200, P = .019), higher level of serum ti (OR: 1.002, 95% CI: 1.001‐1.003, P < .001), hyperuricemia (OR: 1.901, 95% CI: 1.327‐2.725, P < .001), idiopathic membranous nephropathy (OR: 2.874, 95% CI: 1.244‐6.640, P < .001) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (OR: 2.906, 95% CI: 1.147‐7.358, P < .001) were independently associated with a higher risk for cardiovascular comorbidity.ConclusionsIn PGD patients, MS and concomitant DM are associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular comorbidity. More evidence for the causal link between MS/DM and cardiovascular outcomes is needed to be clarified.     

Cardiology clinic visit increases likelihood of evidence‐based cholesterol prescribing in severe hypercholesterolemia

BackgroundPatients with phenotypic severe hypercholesterolemia (SH), low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (LDL‐c) ≥ 190 mg/dl, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or adults 40–75 years with diabetes with risk factors or 10‐year ASCVD risk ≥20% benefit from maximally tolerated statin therapy. Rural patients have decreased access to specialty care, potentially limiting appropriate treatment.HypothesisPrior visit with cardiology will improve treatment of severe hypercholesterolemia.MethodsWe used an electronic medical record‐based SH registry defined as ever having an LDL‐c ≥ 190 mg/dl since January 1, 2000 (n = 18 072). We excluded 3205 (17.7%) patients not alive or age 20–75 years. Patients defined as not seen by cardiology if they had no visit within the past 3 years (2017–2019).ResultsWe included 14 867 patients (82.3%; mean age 59.7 ± 10.3 years; 58.7% female). Most patients were not seen by cardiology (n = 13 072; 72.3%). After adjusting for age, sex, CVD, hypertension, diabetes and obesity, patients seen by cardiology were more likely to have any lipid‐lowering medication (OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.29–1.65), high‐intensity statin (OR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.61–2.03), or proprotein convertase subtilisin‐kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor (OR = 5.96, 95% CI: 3.34–10.65) compared to those not seen by cardiology. Mean recent LDL‐c was lower in patients seen by cardiology (126.8 ± 51.6 mg/dl vs. 152.4 ± 50.2 mg/dl, respectively; p < .001).ConclusionIn our predominantly rural population, a visit with cardiology improved the likelihood to be prescribed any statin, a high‐intensity statin, or PCSK9 inhibitor. This more appropriately addressed their high life‐time risk of ASCVD. Access to specialty care could improve SH patient''s outcomes.     

Impact of varying wave periods of COVID‐19 on in‐hospital mortality and length of stay for admission through emergency department: A territory‐wide observational cohort study

BackgroundThe COVID‐19 pandemic has been associated with excess mortality and reduced emergency department attendance. However, the effect of varying wave periods of COVID‐19 on in‐hospital mortality and length of stay (LOS) for non‐COVID disease for non‐COVID diseases remains unexplored.MethodsWe examined a territory‐wide observational cohort of 563,680 emergency admissions between January 1 and November 30, 2020, and 709,583 emergency admissions during the same 2019 period in Hong Kong, China. Differences in 28‐day in‐hospital mortality risk and LOS due to COVID‐19 were evaluated.ResultsThe cumulative incidence of 28‐day in‐hospital mortality increased overall from 2.9% in 2019 to 3.6% in 2020 (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.22, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.25). The aHR was higher among patients with lower respiratory tract infection (aHR: 1.30 95% CI 1.26 to 1.34), airway disease (aHR: 1.35 95% CI 1.22 to 1.49), and mental disorders (aHR: 1.26 95% CI 1.15 to 1.37). Mortality risk in the first‐ and third‐wave periods was significantly greater than that in the inter‐wave period (p‐interaction < 0.001). The overall average LOS in the pandemic year was significantly shorter than that in 2019 (Mean difference = −0.40 days; 95% CI −0.43 to −0.36). Patients with mental disorders and cerebrovascular disease in 2020 had a 3.91‐day and 2.78‐day shorter LOS than those in 2019, respectively.ConclusionsIncreased risk of in‐hospital deaths was observed overall and by all major subgroups of disease during the pandemic period. Together with significantly reduced LOS for patients with mental disorders and cerebrovascular disease, this study shows the spillover effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic.     

Association of early repolarization pattern and ventricular fibrillation in patients with vasospastic angina: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

BackgroundAn early repolarization (ER) pattern is a risk factor for ventricular fibrillation (VF) in patients with vasospastic angina (VSA) caused by a coronary artery spasm. However, its detailed characteristics and prognostic value for VF remain unclear. Thus, we investigated the relationship between ER and VF in patients with VSA.HypothesisThe ER pattern is associated with VF in patients with VSA.MethodsIn this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases for eligible studies published between January 2011 and December 2020; 8 studies with 1761 patients were included in the final analysis.ResultsThe ER pattern significantly predicted adverse cardiovascular events (ACEs) and VF (odds ratio [OR] = 5.13, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 3.16–8.35, p < .00001 and OR = 5.20, 95% CI: 3.05–8.87, p < .00001). The presence of ER in the inferior leads increased the VF risk (OR = 7.80, 95% CI: 4.04–15.05, p < .00001), regardless of the J‐point morphology or type of ST‐segment elevation in the ER pattern. A horizontal/descending ST‐segment elevation was significantly associated with VF in patients with or without an ER pattern during a coronary spasm (OR = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.07–4.88, p = .03). However, obstructive coronary artery disease was unrelated to the ER pattern (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.27–2.53, p = .73).ConclusionsAn ER pattern is significantly associated with an increased risk of ACE in patients with VSA. An inferior ER pattern with horizontal/descending ST‐segment elevation confers the highest risk for VF during VSA onset. Nevertheless, the ER pattern is not associated with obstructive coronary artery disease.     

Heart rate‐corrected QT interval: A novel diagnostic biomarker for diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Aims/IntroductionTo explore the relationship between heart rate‐corrected QT (QTc) interval and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), and whether QTc interval has diagnostic utility for DPN beyond nerve conduction velocity.Materials and MethodsA total of 965 patients with diabetes, including 473 patients with DPN and 492 patients without DPN, underwent standard 12‐lead electrocardiography and detailed assessments of peripheral neuropathy.ResultsPatients with DPN had longer QTc intervals than those without. Among participants, from the first to fourth quartile of QTc interval, the proportion of patients with DPN appreciably increased and the nerve conduction velocity obviously decreased (P for trend <0.001). The univariate and multivariate analyses showed that prolonged QTc interval was closely associated with increased risk of DPN (univariable odds ratio 1.112, 95% confidence interval 1.097–1.127, P < 0.001; multivariable odds ratio 1.118, 95% confidence interval 1.099–1.137, P < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic analysis for the diagnosis of DPN showed a greater area under the curve for QTc interval of 0.894 than the median nerve motor conduction velocity of 0.691, median nerve sensory conduction velocity of 0.664 and peroneal nerve motor conduction velocity of 0.692. The optimal cut‐off point of QTc interval for DPN was 428.5 ms with sensitivity of 0.715 and specificity of 0.920 (P < 0.001). The combination of QTc interval and nerve conduction testing increased the area under the curve for the diagnosis of DPN (from 0.736 to 0.916; P < 0.001).ConclusionsQTc interval with 428.5 ms has more reliable diagnostic utility for DPN than nerve conduction velocity, and prolonged QTc interval is closely associated with an increased risk of DPN.     

The severity of nutrition and pneumonia predicts survival in patients with aspiration pneumonia: A retrospective observational study

IntroductionAspiration pneumonia is a common problem among older adults; it has a high mortality rate and the prevalence is increasing. Reports on the risk factors for mortality in patients with aspiration pneumonia are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors for 90‐day survival in patients with aspiration pneumonia.MethodsThis retrospective observational study was conducted at Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital between 1 April 2015 and 31 March 2016. Patients with aspiration pneumonia who had dysphagia or aspiration confirmed by modified water swallow test or VideoEndoscopic examination of swallowing were included. The primary endpoint was 90‐day survival. We performed univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses with survival and non‐survival at 90 days as the independent variables.ResultsA total of 276 patients were recruited for this study. The A‐DROP score (odds ratio [OR] = 2.440; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.400–4.270; p < 0.01), Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index score (OR = 0.383; 95% CI, 0.178–0.824; p < 0.05) and sex (OR = 0.365; 95% CI, 0.153–0.869; p < 0.05) were independent early predictors of mortality.ConclusionThe results suggest that nutritional status and the severity of pneumonia are important factors that predict life expectancy in patients with aspiration pneumonia.