Valve replacement for aortic stenosis normalizes subendocardial function in patients with normal ejection fraction

AIMS

Long-standing aortic stenosis (AS) causes various degrees of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, which may improve after valve replacement. The aim of this study was to assess the nature of LV subendocardial abnormalities in AS and their response to valve replacement (AVR).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We studied 41 consecutive symptomatic patients (age 64 +/- 13 years) with severe AS, normal LV ejection fraction (EF), but no obstructive coronary artery disease before, a week after AVR, and 6 months after AVR. LV subendocardial function was studied from recordings of long-axis M-mode (amplitude), tissue-Doppler (myocardial velocities) and speckle tracking (myocardial strain) echocardiographic techniques. Results were compared with those from 20 age- and gender-matched controls. In patients, LV dimensions and markers of asynchrony, total isovolumic time (t-IVT), and Tei index were not different from controls before AVR and remained unchanged afterwards. LV lateral long-axis amplitude, as well as lateral and septal systolic velocities and strain, were reduced (P < 0.001 for all) and E/E' was modestly raised. Lateral long-axis amplitude, systolic and diastolic velocities normalized within a week of AVR but strain lagged behind until 6 months later. The reduced septal long-axis amplitude remained permanently unchanged (NS) despite the early normalization of its systolic velocities (P < 0.001) and strain (P < 0.001). LV mass normalized at 6 months after AVR (P < 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with severe AS and maintained LV ejection fraction, subendocardial function is globally abnormal showing reduced amplitude of motion, velocities, and strain. The different response of its components suggests an evidence for differential reverse remodelling, irrespective of myocardial mass regression.

Plasma matrix metalloproteinase-9 better predicts outcome than N-terminal protype-B natriuretic peptide in patients with systolic heart failure and a high prevalence of coronary artery disease

Metalloproteinases have been proposed as biochemical markers of left ventricular (LV) remodeling in systolic heart failure (HF). However, their role in the prognostic stratification of these patients remains controversial. In the present study, we aimed at investigating the value of plasma metalloproteinases-3 and -9 in comparison with N-terminal protype-B natriuretic peptide in patients with systolic HF. One hundred and 27 consecutive patients hospitalized for systolic HF (LV ejection fraction < 45%) were enrolled. Coronary artery disease (CAD) was the aetiology in 67% of the study patients. Plasma metalloproteinases-3 and -9 and N-terminal protype-B natriuretic peptide levels were assessed. A complete echocardiographic and Doppler examination was also performed. Follow-up period was 24-15 months. On univariate analysis, a number of measurements predicted cardiac events in the following order of power: NYHA class >2, LV ejection fraction < 25%, metalloproteinases-9 > 238 ng/ml, mitral E wave deceleration time < 150 ms, N-terminal protype-B natriuretic peptide > 1586 pg/ml and metalloproteinases-3 > 15 ng/ml. However, on multivariate analysis the only independent variables of cardiac events were NYHA class (OR=2.26, p=0.059) and plasma metalloproteinases-9 (OR=2.00, p=0.029). On Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, patients with elevated levels of metalloproteinases-9 exhibited a significantly worse event free-survival at 45 months than those without (21% vs. 54%, log-rank: 13.93, p=0.0002). A worse survival was also observed in patients with elevated N-terminal protype-B natriuretic peptide levels with respect to those without (18% vs. 46%, log-rank: 9.11, p=0.025). Our results demonstrated the value of plasma metalloproteinases-9 levels for prognostication of patients with systolic HF and a high prevalence of CAD.

Management and comorbidities of atrial fibrillation in patients admitted in cardiology service in Kosovo-a single-center study

OBJECTIVE

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most important risk factor for ischemic stroke. Anticoagulation therapy can substantially decrease the risk of stroke in patients with AF. The aim of our study was to investigate the patient's comorbidities and management of patients with AF on the discharge.

METHODS

From 5382 consecutive patients admitted in our institution between January 2005 and March 2008, 525 (mean age 66.4+/- 11.4 years, 53.3% male) had AF upon discharge, who were included in this retrospective study. Patients were divided in two groups according to prescription of anticoagulation therapy at discharge. Continuous data were compared between groups using a two-tailed unpaired Student t test. Discrete variables were compared using Chi-square test or Fisher's exact probability test as appropriate. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent clinical and echocardiographic predictors of prescribing oral anticoagulation therapy.

RESULTS

Associated comorbidities of AF in our patients were: ischemic heart disease (21.4%), hypertensive heart disease (27.44%), valvular heart disease (17.4%), congestive heart failure (47%), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (6.7%), and diabetes 14.3%). Of 525 patients 76% were discharged on beta-blockers, 67% on angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, 23% on digoxin, 16% on calcium antagonists, 67% on diuretics, 72% on aspirin, and 27% on oral anticoagulant (OAC) therapy, 11% were with both antithrombotics. Multivariate analysis showed that the under-prescription of OAC therapy in patients with AF was independently associated with elder age (OR=0.916, 95%CI 0.891-0.942, p<0.001), non-enlarged left atrium (OR=1.148, 95%CI 1.100-1.198, p<0.001) and good left ventricular ejection fraction (OR=0.970, 95%CI 0.948-0.993, p=0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with atrial fibrillation were mainly with ischemic, hypertensive heart disease and congestive heart failure. Our study, suggests underuse of anticoagulation therapy. The independent predictors of under prescription of anticoagulants in patients with atrial fibrillation were elder age, non-enlarged left atrium, and good left ventricular ejection fraction. Medical treatment with other groups of drugs for atrial fibrillation and comorbidities seems to be according to current guidelines.

Persistent ventricular asynchrony after coronary artery bypass surgery predicts cardiac events

AIM

The aim of this study was to identify echocardiographic LV systolic and diastolic measurements that predict clinical events post-coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

METHODS

We collected data from 27 patients (age 70 +/- 7 years) who underwent elective CABG, before and within 6 weeks after surgery. LV systolic function was assessed by conventional echocardiographic parameters. A number of LV filling measurements were also made, which included total isovolumic time (t-IVT), Tei index, and restrictive filling pattern. Postoperative cardiac events were death or hospitalization for chest pain, breathlessness, or arrhythmia.

RESULTS

Patient's follow-up period was 17 +/- 10 months. Of the 27 patients (age 70 +/- 7 years, 22 male), 10 had postoperative cardiac events. LV ejection fraction (EF) and fractional shortening (FS) were lower (P = 0.01, and P = 0.007, respectively), t-IVT longer (P < 0.001), and Tei index was higher (P < 0.001) preoperatively in patients with events compared to those without. The same differences between groups remained after surgery; EF (P = 0.002), FS (P = 0.002), t-IVT (P < 0.001), and Tei index (P < 0.001). T-IVT was the only preoperative predictor of events (P = 0.038) but its postoperative value as well as that of FS predicted events (P = 0.034, and P = 0.042, respectively). T-IVT of 12.2 s/min and FS of 26% were 80% sensitive and 88% specific for predicting postoperative events.

CONCLUSION

Despite successful surgical revascularization residual impairment of LV systolic function and persistent asynchrony in the form of prolonged t-IVT are associated with postoperative events. Since these abnormalities remained despite full medical therapy, they may thus suggest a need for electrical resynchronization therapy.

Predictors of increased left ventricular filling pressure in dialysis patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction

AIM

To study the left and right ventricular function and to assess the predictors of increased left ventricular (LV) filling pressure in dialysis patients with preserved LV ejection fraction.

METHODS

This study included 63 consecutive patients (age 57+/-14 years, 57% women) with end-stage renal failure. Echocardiography, including tissue Doppler measurements, was performed in all patients. Based on the median value of the ratio of transmitral early diastolic velocity to early myocardial velocity (E/E' ratio), patients were divided into 2 groups: the group with high filling pressure (E/E'>10.16) and the group with low filling pressure (E/E'< or =10.16).

RESULTS

Compared with patients with low filling pressure, the group of patients with high filling pressure included a higher proportion of diabetic patients (41% vs 13%, P=0.022) and had greater LV mass index (211+/-77 vs 172+/-71 g/m3, P=0.04), lower LV lateral long axis amplitude (1.4+/-0.3 vs 1.6+/-0.3 cm, P=0.01), lower E wave (84+/-19 vs 64+/-18cm/s, P<0.001), higher systolic myocardial velocity (S': 8.6+/-1. 5 vs 7.0+/-1.3 cm/s, P<0.001), and lower diastolic myocardial velocities (E': 6.3+/-1.9 vs 9.5+/-2.9 cm/s, P<0.001; A': 8.4+/-1.9 vs 9.7+/-2.5 cm/s, P=0.018). Multivariate analysis identified LV systolic myocardial velocity - S' wave (adjusted odds ratio, 1.909; 95% confidence interval, 1.060-3.439; P=0.031) and age (1.053; 1.001-1.108; P=0.048) as the only independent predictors of high LV filling pressure in dialysis patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In dialysis patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction, reduced systolic myocardial velocity and elderly age are independent predictors of increased left ventricular filling pressure.

Late detection of noncompaction of the myocardium in an adult with complete interventricular septal defect

Noncompaction of the ventricular myocardium (NVM) is a morphogenetic anomaly that leads to the development of cardiomyopathy. It is often associated with other congenital cardiac malformations. Common clinical presentations of NVM involve heart failure symptoms, ventricular tachyarrhythmias, and thromboembolic events. Although the peculiar echocardiographic picture is characteristic for this entity, it may often be misdiagnosed. In this case report, we describe a 27-year-old man who had been followed-up since childhood, with the diagnosis of interventricular septal defect or enlarged "single ventricle" with a very small rudiment of the apical part of the interventricular septum. On his last echocardiographic examination, NVM was detected with heavy trabeculations and intertrabecular recesses. This case suggests that physicians should be more patient to detect other congenital abnormalities including NVM, which may influence the clinical and prognostic outcome of these patients.

Predictors of mortality in medically treated patients with congestive heart failure of nonrheumatic etiology and reduced systolic function

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the prognostic value of various parameters on the mortality of patients with nonrheumatic chronic heart failure and left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction.

METHODS

This study included 132 consecutive patients with congestive heart failure and reduced LV systolic function without rheumatic valve disease. The primary outcome was mortality. Mean follow-up was 38+/-6 months.

RESULTS

During the follow-up period there were 47 deaths (35.6%). The age (64.1+/-13.5 vs. 58.7+/-11.8 years, P=0.019), left bundle branch block (44.7% vs. 18.8%, P=0.002), urea concentration (11.4+/-5.3 vs. 8.9+/-4.6 mmol/L, P=0.006), LV end-diastolic and end-systolic dimensions (6.7+/-0.8 vs. 6.4+/-0.8 cm, P=0.025 and 5.5+/-0.8 vs. 4.9+/-0.8 cm, P<0.001, respectively), grade 3-4 mitral regurgitation (40.4 vs. 22.4%, P<0.001), fractional shortening (16.7+/-5.3% vs. 19.8+/-5.7%, P=0.002) and LV ejection fraction (32.9+/-8.5% vs. 38.7+/-11.3%, P=0.003) were different between non-survivors and survivors. Multivariate analysis identified severity of mitral regurgitation (OR=1.99, 95% CI 1.18-3.34; P=0.009), age (OR=1.07, 95% CI 1.02-1.12; P=0.01) and LV end-systolic dimension (OR=1.09, 95% CI 1.02-1.16; P=0.014) as independent correlates of mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

In medically treated patients with nonrheumatic chronic heart failure and left ventricular systolic dysfunction, severity of mitral regurgitation, age and enlarged LV end-systolic dimension were independently associated with increased risk of death.

The quality of arterial hypertension treatment in cardiology service in Kosovo--a single center study

OBJECTIVE

The epidemiological data have shown that the goal blood pressure (BP) control is achieved in only a small percentage of the hypertensive patients. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of the management of arterial hypertension (AH) in patients hospitalized in Service of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosovo, in Prishtina, and to determine the predictors of uncontrolled AH.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 938 consecutive hypertensive patients (63.1+/- 11.3 years, 55.1% females), admitted to our institution between January 2003 and June 2006. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, blood analyses, drug prescription and echocardiographic findings were analyzed in all study patients. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify the independent associates of poor BP control.

RESULTS

Overall, 83%f of patients were discharged on angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (A), 71% - on beta-blockers (B), 26% - on calcium channel blockers (C) and 60% - on diuretics (D). The most frequent drug combination used was ABD (30.5%), followed by AB (18%) and AD (8%). The goal systolic and diastolic BP was achieved in 50% of patients. Multivariate analysis identified diabetes, (OR=0.479, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.339-0.677, <0.001), creatinine level (OR=0.997, 95% CI 0.996-0.999, p=0.001], and ABCD combination therapy (OR=0.445, 95% CI 0.253-0.774, p=0.046)], as independent correlates of in-hospital poor BP control.

CONCLUSIONS

Half of hypertensive patients hospitalized in the Service of Cardiology had achieved the goal blood pressure. The diabetes, level of creatinine and a combination of 4 antihypertensive drugs were independent predictors of poor hypertension control.

Echocardiography and 6-minute walk test in left ventricular systolic dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Chronic heart failure is a major cardiovascular disorder.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to prospectively examine whether a 6-min walk test (6-MWT) result correlates with echocardiographic variables in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and stable chronic heart failure.

METHODS

We prospectively studied 52 patients (65% male; mean age 60+/-11 years) who had chronic heart failure secondary to ischemic heart disease or idiopathic cardiomyopathy. All patients had left ventricular systolic dysfunction (ejection fraction <or= 0.45), and were in stable NYHA class II or III heart failure. An echo-Doppler study and a 6-MWT were performed on the same day.

RESULTS

6-MWT had moderate, but statistically significant correlation with end-systolic diameter (ESD) (r=-0.46; p=0.0006), with shortening fraction-SF (r=0.52; p=0.0001), and with ejection fraction-EF (r=0.5; p=0.0001), whereas it had poor, but statistically significant correlation with myocardial performance index-MPI (r=-0.39; p=0.0046), E/A(tricuspid) ratio (r=-0.333; p=0.016), pulmonary acceleration time (r=0.328; p=0.018), and lateral long axis amplitude (r=0.283; p=0.04). Linear regression model demonstrated that age (chi2=-0.59, p=<0.001), restrictive transmitral filling pattern (chi2=-0.44, p=0.004) and left ventricular end-systolic dimension (chi2=-0.34, p=0.012) were independent factors that influenced the 6-MWT.

CONCLUSION

In patients with heart failure due to left ventricular systolic dysfunction, the 6-MWT as a clinical assessment tool of the functional capacity has a significant correlation with the most important global LV systolic function parameters, as well as with LV MPI. In patients with LV systolic dysfunction, age, restrictive transmitral filling pattern, and left ventricular systolic dimension, were independently associated with the 6-MWT.

MRSA endocarditis of bovine Contegra valved conduit: a case report

BACKGROUND

Different techniques are used for the right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction, including homo- or porcine xenografts, which have several limitations. Contegra, a bovine jugular vein graft, is an interesting alternative to overcome these limitations. It consists of a bovine jugular vein with a naturally integrated valve in it. Isolated pulmonary valve endocarditis is extremely rare.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report the case of a 20 years old male patient with acute endocarditis of bovine Contegra valved conduit, four years after right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction and atrial septal defect correction, associated with acute glomerulonephritis, renal failure and severe anemia, secondary to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection (MRSA).

CONCLUSION

We present a complex patient with acute endocarditis of bovine Contegra valved conduit. We believe that the presentation of this case should encourage the researchers for the discussing of the implantation of this conduit and the prevention of endocarditis in these patients.

Cor triatriatum sinister--three case reports

Cor triatriatum is a rare congenital heart disease (0.1% of all congenital cardiac defects), but a higher incidence, up to 0.4% has been reported in autopsies of pts with CHD (1, 2, 7). There are two types: left and right. Cor triatriatum sinister is more common that dexter. Cor triatriatum dextrum is extremely rare. Fewer than 300 cases of cor triatriatum have been reported. It can occur as an isolated defect (classic) or in association with other congenital cardiac anomalies (atypical). It's a surgically correctable CHD and can occur as an isolated defect (classic) or in association with other congenital cardiac anomalies (atypical).

METHODS

A retrospective review of three patients with Cor triatriatum, diagnosed at University Children's Hospital, during a eight year period (2000-2007). Among 1671 patients with CHD, the diagnosis of cor triatriatum has been established in three patients (0.18%). There were two boys and one girl, aged two years, 6 months and nine years, respectively. All of them had cor triatriatum sinister, with a communication between the right atrium and either the proximal or distal chamber. The first patient had a classic form of cor triatriatum, with a small hole in the diaphragm between atria, which imitated mitral stenosis, while the third patient had also mitral valve prolapse, but the hole between atria was unrestrictive. The second patient manifested atypical form, with many, additional defects: except large, unrestrictive ASD with a very small hole in the diaphragm between two atria, he had also total anomalous pulmonary venous return, draining in coronary sinus, large perimembranous VSD, hypoplastic aorta with coarctation, and high pulmonary vascular resistance. In the second patient, the diagnosis has been performed at 6 months of age, but due to lack of cardio-surgery and poor possibilities for going abroad for operation--finally he had been operated seven months later, but he died a week after surgery. The first patient has been successfully operated, immediately after the diagnosis was performed, while the last patient was diagnosed incidentally at the age of nine. She was symptoms free up to now, but recently she was developing symptoms and was successfully operated.

CONCLUSION

Cor triatriatum is more prevalent than is thought before echocardiography era. Echocardiography was method of choice in the diagnosis of typical forms, while in a atypical form cardiac catheterization was also performed. Two patients with classic form of CT were successfully operated, while the patient with atypical form and many additional cardiac anomalies died after cardio surgery. The main predictors for prognosis are: the size of the hole in the diaphragm between two chambers of atrium, additional cardiac malformations, and time of surgery.

In-hospital mortality following acute myocardial infarction in Kosovo: a single center study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Randomized trials have demonstrated that primary angioplasty is more effective than intravenous thrombolysis in reducing mortality and morbidity in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The aim of this study was to assess the in-hospital mortality of patients with AMI admitted to the only tertiary care center in Kosovo, where coronary percutaneous intervention procedures are unavailable. We also assessed the impact of age and gender on in-hospital mortality.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Consecutive patients with the diagnosis of AMI, admitted in our institution between 1999 and 2007, were included in this retrospective study.

RESULTS

Of 2848 patients (mean age 61+/-11.3 years, 73.4% males) admitted with AMI, 292 (10.25%) patients died during in-hospital stay. The overall in-hospital mortality was 12.3% for women and 9.5% for men (P<.05). Women were significantly older than men (64.2+/-11 years vs 59.7+/-11.8 years, P<.05). Mean length of stay was 12.0+/-94 for women and 10.7+/-7.6 for men. From 1999 to 2007 there was an increase in the age of patients with AMI but the mortality rate remained stable.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to developed countries, patients with AMI in Kosovo present at an earlier age but have a higher mortality rate. Women with AMI had a significantly higher in-hospital mortality rate than men. The lack of percutaneous coronary intervention procedures in AMI patients may have contributed to the high in-hospital mortality in our population.

Prolonged total isovolumic time predicts cardiac events following coronary artery bypass surgery

AIMS

Left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction may be associated with compromised stroke volume, which may be caused by asynchrony, reflected on the prolongation of isovolumic time (t-IVT). To assess the prognostic role of Doppler echocardiographic measurements in predicting cardiac events after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

METHODS AND RESULTS

The study included 74 patients undergoing routine CABG. A pre-CABG Doppler echocardiographic assessment of LV dimensions, filling and ejection was performed and t-IVT was determined as [60 - (total ejection time + total filling time)]. Follow-up period was 18 +/- 12 months. Of the 74 patients (age 65 +/- 16 years, 59 males), 29 underwent hospital admission for a cardiac event or died. There were no differences in age, gender, incidence of previous infarct or mitral regurgitation, LV-EDD (left ventricular end-diastolic dimension), left atrial or right ventricular size in patients with cardiac events compared with those without events. Left ventricular end-systolic dimension (LV-ESD) was greater (4.5 +/- 0.9 vs. 3.9 +/- 0.9 cm, P = 0.003), fractional shortening (FS) was lower (21 +/- 4 vs. 32 +/- 8%), E:A ratio and Tei index were higher (2.1 +/- 0.8 vs. 1.0 +/- 0.6 and 0.9 +/- 0.3 vs. 0.6 +/- 0.3, all P < 0.001), and t-IVT was longer (16 +/- 5 vs.10 +/- 4 s/min, P < 0.001) in patients with events. Multivariate predictors of post-CABG events (odds ratio 95% confidence interval) were low FS [0.66 (0.50-0.87), P < 0.001], high E:A ratio [l4.13 (1.17-14.60), P = 0.028], large LV-ESD [0.19 (0.05-0.84), P = 0.029], and long t-IVT [1.37 (1.02-1.84), P = 0.035].

CONCLUSION

Despite satisfactory surgical revascularization, long t-IVT and systolic dysfunction suggest persistent ventricular dyssynchrony that contributes to post-CABG cardiac events. Early assessment of such patients for potential benefit from electrical resynchronization may optimize their cardiac performance and hence clinical outcome.

Hemorrhagic fever with acute renal failure: a report from Kosova

Acute renal failure (ARF) is a well-known complication of hemorrhagic fever (HF). We studied patients with HF and ARF who were treated in our department for two years between March 2005 and the end of December 2006. The age of the patients ranged from 17 to 71 years. The incidence of complications in the study patients was acceptable and similar to that reported in the literature of Balkan region. Our study shows that the efficacy of the overall results in the treatment of these patients in our center is comparable to the published data in the country from the Balkan region.

Mitral valve prolapse, atrial flutter, and syncope in a young female patient

BACKGROUND

The syndrome of mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is the most common form of valvular heart disease.

CASE REPORT

The case of a 16-year-old girl with mitral valve prolapse, atrial flutter and syncope is presented. The patient was admitted to the clinic complaining of atypical chest pain, palpitations, breathlessness at physical efforts, fatigue, and a feeling of fogginess. Electrocardiogram showed the presence of the common-type atrial flutter with 3:1 ventricular responses. Echocardiography showed mitral valve prolapse with mild mitral regurgitation. The patient reported to have had these symptoms for about nine months. She was not aware of heart disease before.

CONCLUSIONS

A young female patient with combined mitral valve prolapse, atrial flutter, and syncope is presented.

Giant left atrial myxoma in an elderly patient: natural history over a 7-year period

We present the case of a 71-year-old woman with a 7-year history of a giant left atrial myxoma. The myxoma was attached to the atrial septum and occupied almost the entire left atrial cavity. The patient was hospitalized 4 times because of dyspnea on exertion, palpitations, fatigue, general asthenia, and weight loss. During prior hospitalizations, the patient had refused cardiac surgery. She developed several complications, including atrial fibrillation, mitral and tricuspid regurgitation, mesenteric embolism, pulmonary edema, and thrombotic stroke. We herein describe the natural history of left atrial myxoma in an elderly patient over a 7-year period.

Relationship between insulin resistance and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with impaired glucose tolerance and type 2 diabetes

AIM

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between insulin resistance (IR) and the left ventricular diastolic function in patients with type 2 diabetes and subjects with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT).

METHODS

The study included 119 subjects who underwent oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). IR was assessed using Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) and Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (QUICKI). Left ventricular diastolic function was assessed using trans-thoracic Doppler echocardiography.

RESULTS

Based on the OGTT results, 29 subjects had normal glucose tolerance (NGT), 20 subjects had impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and 70 patients had type 2 diabetes. There were significant differences among the patients in groups with NGT, IGT and diabetes regarding HOMA-IR (4.20 +/- 1.20 vs. 6.45 +/- 3.83 vs. 8.70 +/- 6.26; P < 0.001) and QUICKI (0.54 +/- 0.11 vs. 0.49 +/- 0.08 vs. 0.47 +/- 0.08; P < 0.001). In subjects with NGT, IGT and patients with diabetes, the pulsed Doppler transmitral variables were: E-wave (0.72 +/- 0.16 cm/s vs. 0.62 +/- 0.13 cm/s vs. 0.58 +/- 0.17 cm/s; P < 0.001), A-wave (0.61 +/- 0.13 cm/s vs. 0.62 +/- 0.11 cm/s vs. 0.71+/- 0.14 cm/s; P = 0.006) and E/A ratio (1.22 +/- 0.33 vs. 1.02 +/- 0.24 vs. 0.85 +/- 0.26; p < 0.001). The proportion of subjects with an E/A ratio <1 was 27.6% in the group with NGT, 55% in the group with IGT and 75.7% in the group with diabetes (P < 0.001). The E/A ratio correlated with HOMA-IR (r = -0.30, p = 0.001) and QUICKI (r = 0.37, p < 0.0001). Multiple linear regression model showed that IR (assessed by QUICKI) was an independent correlate of diastolic dysfunction (P = 0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

In subjects with impaired glucose tolerance and patients with type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance is associated with impaired diastolic function of the left ventricle.

Left and right ventricular diastolic functions in patients with rheumatoid arthritis without clinically evident cardiovascular disease

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of diastolic dysfunction of the left ventricle (LV) and of the right ventricle in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) without clinically evident cardiovascular manifestations and to estimate whether there is a correlation between the duration of RA and the degree of LV diastolic dysfunction. The study included 81 patients (61 females and 20 males) with RA without clinically evident heart disease (group 1) and 40 healthy subjects (29 females and 11 males) who served as a control group (group 2). Both groups were matched for age and sex. Echocardiographic and Doppler studies were conducted in all patients with RA and control subjects. There were significant differences between patients with RA vs. control group with regard to early diastolic flow velocity (E), atrial flow velocity (A) and the E/A ratio (0.68 +/- 0.19 m/s vs. 0.84 +/- 0.14 m/s, p < 0.001; 0.73 +/- 0.15 m/s vs. 0.66 +/- 0.13 cm/s, p = 0.01; and 0.97 +/- 0.3 vs. 1.32 +/- 0.37, p < 0.001, respectively). There was significant difference between groups regarding the right ventricular early diastolic (Er)/atrial (Ar) flow velocities (Er/Ar ratio) (1.07 +/- 0.3 vs. 1.26 +/- 0.3, p = 0.002). There was a weak correlation between transmitral E/A ratio and the duration of RA (r = - 0.22, p = 0.001). Myocardial performance index (MPI) appeared to differ little in patients with RA as compared with control group (0.51 +/- 0.1 vs. 0.52 +/- 0.2, p = NS). In patients with RA without clinically evident cardiovascular disease, the left ventricular diastolic function and the right ventricular diastolic function are reduced. Left ventricular wall thickness, dimensions, systolic function and MPI were found to be normal. LV diastolic function had a weak correlation with the duration of RA.

Acute myocardial infarction in a patient with severe unrecognized mitral stenosis

BACKGROUND

Acute myocardial infarction is a rare complication of mitral stenosis. Acute myocardial infarction in the setting of severe unrecognized mitral stenosis has not been described.

CASE REPORT

A 47-year-old-woman was admitted to our department for chest pain typical of myocardial infarction. Electrocardiogram showed ST segment elevation in leads II, III, and aVF and atrial fibrillation. Creatine kinase level was elevated to 268 U/L. The diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction of the inferior wall was established. The patient reported breathlessness after physical exertion over the last 2 years; however, she had not sought medical help and was unaware of her heart disease. Transthoracic echocardiography showed severe mitral stenosis (surface mitral valve area <1 cm2) and inferior wall akinesia.

CONCLUSIONS

We present a case of acute myocardial infarction in a patient with unrecognized severe mitral stenosis and atrial fibrillation. Our suggestion is that acute myocardial infarction in this patient with no risk factors for coronary atherosclerosis was of thromboembolic origin, from left atrial thrombi.

Non-insulin dependent diabetes as an independent predictor of asymptomatic left ventricular diastolic dysfunction

AIM

To assess the prevalence of diastolic dysfunction of the left ventricle in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and its relation to patients' age and duration of diabetes.

METHODS

This case-control study included 228 subjects. The group of cases consisted of 114 patients with NIDDM. The group of controls included 114 subjects without diabetes, enrolled in the study at the same time as the group of cases. Diastolic function of the left ventricle was assessed by pulsed Doppler echocardiography. The ratio between the maximal early filling velocity (E wave) and the maximal late (atrial) filling velocity (A wave) less than 1 (E/A ratio<1) was considered as a criterion for left ventricle diastolic dysfunction.

RESULTS

The E/A ratio<1 was found in 75 patients (65.8%) in the group with diabetes, and in 38 subjects (33.3%) in the control group (P=0.001). Multiple logistic regression model showed that diabetes was the strongest independent correlate of left ventricle diastolic dysfunction (odds ratio 8.92, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.20 to 18.52, P<0.001). In the group with diabetes, the multivariate analysis showed that age (P=0.001), level of triglycerides (P=0.006), history of smoking (P=0.011), and the duration of diabetes (P=0.019) were independently associated with left ventricle diastolic dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-insulin dependent diabetes is an independent predictor of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients without clinical evidence of structural heart disease. In patients with NIDDM, the age, history of smoking, plasma level of triglycerides, and the duration of diabetes were independently associated with the diastolic dysfunction of the left ventricle.

Remission of high-output heart failure after surgical repair of 30-month arteriovenous femoral fistula: case report

We present a 15-year-old male patient who was admitted to our hospital because of breathlessness and palpitations at minimal physical effort (New York Heart Association class II). The patient had a history of an abdominal and left thigh firearm wound that was surgically treated 30 months earlier. Auscultation over the left femoral groin region revealed a systolodiastolic murmur. X-ray examination of the chest demonstrated significant cardiomegaly. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed an enlargement of 4 cardiac chambers, as well as significant mitral and tricuspid regurgitation. Vascular ultrasound of the femoral artery and vein confirmed the diagnosis of a traumatic arteriovenous fistula. The patient underwent surgical correction of the fistula, after which the symptoms subsided rapidly. Follow-up echocardiography performed 2 months after surgical repair showed a substantial reduction of cardiac size and a nearly complete absence of valvular regurgitations. This case highlights the importance of the recognition of arteriovenous fistulas as a cause of unexpected heart failure and demonstrates that the condition may improve substantially and rapidly after fistula correction.

Reduced left ventricular diastolic function in asymptomatic patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus

AIMS

This prospective study was performed to assess the provalence of diastolic dysfunction of the lelt ventricle (LV) in patients with noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), and the effect of patients' age and the duration of diabetes in the appearance of this dysfunction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We studied 103 patients with NIDDM (group I) and 103 subjects without diabetes (group 2). SF and EF were lower in patients with NIDDM as compared with the control group (32.7+/-5.5%, vs. 34.2+/-5.2%, p=0.04 and 61+/-8.7% vs. 64.4+/-8.1, p<0.01, respectively). The EA ratio <1 is found in 71 (68.9%) patients with NIDDM, and in 36 (34.9%) subjects of the control group (p<0.01). The age of patients had significant correlation with E/A ratio of transmitral Doppler flow (r = -0.38, p<0.01). The duration of diabetes had significant correlation with EF (r = -0.26, p<0.01) and with E/A ratio (r= -0.295, p<0.01). Body mass index and waist/hip ratio did not have significant correlation with EF and with E/A ratio.

CONCLUSIONS

In asymptomatic NDDM patients there was a more frequent reduction of systolic and diastolic function of the LV, as compared with healthy subjects. The presence of diastolic dysfunction of the LV in NDDM patients is dependent on the age of the patients and duration of diabetes.

Transmitral pulsed-Doppler echocardiography is a more accurate technique compared with two-dimensional echocardiography using dobutamine, in patients with one vessel coronary artery disease

To examine the effects of dobutamine on pulsed-Doppler left ventricular filling indices and its utility for evaluation of CAD we studied 14 patients with normal coronary arteries (Group 1) and 39 patients with significant CAD (>70% diameter stenosis). Patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) were divided into two groups: patients with one-vessel coronary disease (Group 2); and those with multivessel CAD (Group 3). After stopping cardioactive treatment, patients underwent incremental dobutamine stress (5, 10, 20, 30 and 40 microg/kg/min) during pulsed-Doppler interrogation of diastolic filling with simultaneous heart rate and blood pressure measurements. The following transmitral Doppler variables were measured at baseline and at peak-dose of dobutamine: peak early (E) and peak atrial (A) velocity; E/A ratio; acceleration time (AT) and deceleration time (DT) of E wave; isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT); and time-velocity integral (TVI). Two-dimensional echocardiography was performed to detect regional asinergy and analyzed using a 16 segment model.

RESULTS

Normals and CAD patients showed comparable changes in heart rate and blood pressure (P=NS between groups). Intergroup analysis of the changes of transmitral flow showed the significant changes for these indices (P<0.001): E velocity (-2.78+/-10.04, 12.4+/-9.4 and 16.47+/-10.65 cm/s); AT of E wave (1.66+/-2.47, -5.2+/-1.38 and -4.66+/-2.39 m/s(2)); DT of E wave (-0.23+/-0.18, 0.2+/-0.2 and 0.2+/-0.28 m/s(2)); and TVI of transmitral flow (-1.26+/-0.7, 3.5+/-1.75 and 4.1+/-1.66 cm), respectively for Groups 1, 2 and 3. All other transmitral Doppler variables showed insignificant changes (P=NS) to dobutamine between groups. It is important that the significance of these changes were the same for patients with one-vessel and those with multivessel coronary disease. In conclusion, during dobutamine stress testing, patients with CAD, had an abnormal response of these transmitral Doppler indices: E wave; AT of E wave; DT of E wave; and the TVI of transmitral flow. The abnormal responses of these Doppler indices of left ventricular filling are more accurate markers of significant single vessel CAD than new wall motion abnormalities during conventional DSE.