Edoxaban versus warfarin in patients with atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Edoxaban is a direct oral factor Xa inhibitor with proven antithrombotic effects. The long-term efficacy and safety of edoxaban as compared with warfarin in patients with atrial fibrillation is not known.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy trial comparing two once-daily regimens of edoxaban with warfarin in 21,105 patients with moderate-to-high-risk atrial fibrillation (median follow-up, 2.8 years). The primary efficacy end point was stroke or systemic embolism. Each edoxaban regimen was tested for noninferiority to warfarin during the treatment period. The principal safety end point was major bleeding.

RESULTS

The annualized rate of the primary end point during treatment was 1.50% with warfarin (median time in the therapeutic range, 68.4%), as compared with 1.18% with high-dose edoxaban (hazard ratio, 0.79; 97.5% confidence interval [CI], 0.63 to 0.99; P<0.001 for noninferiority) and 1.61% with low-dose edoxaban (hazard ratio, 1.07; 97.5% CI, 0.87 to 1.31; P=0.005 for noninferiority). In the intention-to-treat analysis, there was a trend favoring high-dose edoxaban versus warfarin (hazard ratio, 0.87; 97.5% CI, 0.73 to 1.04; P=0.08) and an unfavorable trend with low-dose edoxaban versus warfarin (hazard ratio, 1.13; 97.5% CI, 0.96 to 1.34; P=0.10). The annualized rate of major bleeding was 3.43% with warfarin versus 2.75% with high-dose edoxaban (hazard ratio, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.71 to 0.91; P<0.001) and 1.61% with low-dose edoxaban (hazard ratio, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.41 to 0.55; P<0.001). The corresponding annualized rates of death from cardiovascular causes were 3.17% versus 2.74% (hazard ratio, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.77 to 0.97; P=0.01), and 2.71% (hazard ratio, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.76 to 0.96; P=0.008), and the corresponding rates of the key secondary end point (a composite of stroke, systemic embolism, or death from cardiovascular causes) were 4.43% versus 3.85% (hazard ratio, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.78 to 0.96; P=0.005), and 4.23% (hazard ratio, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.86 to 1.05; P=0.32).

CONCLUSIONS

Both once-daily regimens of edoxaban were noninferior to warfarin with respect to the prevention of stroke or systemic embolism and were associated with significantly lower rates of bleeding and death from cardiovascular causes. (Funded by Daiichi Sankyo Pharma Development; ENGAGE AF-TIMI 48 ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00781391.).

Evidence of Pulmonary Hypertension after SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Subjects without Previous Significant Cardiovascular Pathology

BACKGROUND

Coronavirus (Covid-19) infection represents a serious medical condition, often associated with cardiovascular complications, pulmonary hypertension (PH), and right ventricle dysfunction (RVD). The aim of this study is to show, by means of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), the presence of an increased estimated systolic pressure in the pulmonary artery (esPAP) and altered right ventricular global longitudinal strain (RV-GLS) in patients without history of PH.

METHODS

In a group of 91 patients, aged under 55 years, hospitalized for a moderate Covid-19 infection, a thorough cardiologic and TTE examination were performed two months after discharge. Their initial thorax computer-tomography (TCT) images and laboratory data were accessed from the electronic data base of the hospital.

RESULTS

We observed an increased prevalence of PH (7.69%) and RVD (10.28%), significantly correlated with the initial levels of the TCT score and inflammatory factors (p ˂ 0.001), but borderline changes were observed in more patients. Multivariate regression analysis showed that these factors and RV-GLS explain 89.5% of elevated esPAP.

CONCLUSIONS

In COVID-19 infection, PH and RVD are common complications, being encountered after the recovery even in moderate cases. It appears to be a connection between their severity and the extent of the initial pulmonary injury and of the inflammatory response.

Alterations of Left Ventricular Function Persisting during Post-Acute COVID-19 in Subjects without Previously Diagnosed Cardiovascular Pathology

(1) Background: Coronavirus infection (Covid-19) has emerged as a severe medical condition, associated with high pulmonary morbidity and often with cardiovascular (CV) complications. This study aims to evidence the persistence of left ventricular (LV) systolic function (LV-SF) alterations and diastolic dysfunction (DD) in COVID-19 patients without history of cardiovascular (CV) diseases by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). (2) Methods: 125 patients, aged under 55 years, hospitalized during the first outbreak of Covid-19 for moderate pneumonia, underwent a comprehensive cardiologic examination and TTE at 6-10 weeks after discharge. Their initial in-hospital laboratory data and thorax computer tomography (TCT) were accessed from the electronic database of the hospital. (3) Results: with TTE, we documented alterations of LV-SF and DD in 8.8% of patients and in 16.8% only patterns of DD, statistically correlated with the initial levels of creatin-kinase (CK-MB) and inflammatory factors. Multivariate regression analysis evidenced that CK-MB levels, age, and body mass index (BMI) are responsible for 65% of LV-SF decrease. (4) Conclusions: Alterations of LV-SF and DD are frequent in post-acute COVID-19 infection and are responsible for the persistence of symptoms. Elevated myocardial necrosis markers during the acute phase seem to predict subsequent alteration of cardiac performance.

Cardiovascular Abnormalities and Mental Health Difficulties Result in a Reduced Quality of Life in the Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

(1) Background: Post-acute COVID-19 syndrome, characterized by persisting symptoms up to 12 weeks after the acute illness, impairs numerous people's physical and mental health. (2) Methods: 64 inpatients and 79 outpatients, aged under 55 years, with post-acute COVID-19, were evaluated by a transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), mental health examination, Quality of Life (QoL) questionnaire, post-COVID-19 functional status scale (PCFS) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). (3) Results: all inpatients had mild/moderate pulmonary injury during acute COVID-19, in contrast to 37.97% of outpatients. Inpatients who reported an average of 5 persisting symptoms, had, predominantly, level 3 PCFS and a median QoL of 62, compared to outpatients, who reported an average of 3 symptoms, level 1 PCFS and a median QoL score of 70. Increased pulmonary artery pressure was detected in 28.11% of inpatients, compared to 17.72% of outpatients, while diastolic dysfunction was diagnosed in 28.12% of inpatients, in comparison with 20.25% of outpatients (p = 0.02). Abnormal systolic function was assessed in 9.37% of inpatients, and 7.58% of outpatients. According to the HADS depression subscale, 46.87% of inpatients and 27.84% of outpatients had clinical depression. Concomitantly, anxiety was detected in 34.37% of inpatients and 40.5% of outpatients (4) Conclusions: cardiovascular and mental health difficulties were frequently detected in patients with post-acute symptoms of COVID-19, which correlated with the number and intensity of persisting symptoms and reduced QoL scores.

Associations between the Severity of the Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome and Echocardiographic Abnormalities in Previously Healthy Outpatients Following Infection with SARS-CoV-2

The COVID-19 pandemic affected over 130 million individuals during more than one year. Due to the overload of health-care services, a great number of people were treated as outpatients, many of them subsequently developing post-acute COVID-19 syndrome. Our study was conducted on 150 subjects without a history of cardiovascular diseases, treated as outpatients for a mild/moderate form of COVID-19 4 to 12 weeks prior to study inclusion, and who were diagnosed with post-acute COVID-19 and attended a cardiology evaluation with transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) for persisting symptoms. We detected various cardiac abnormalities in 38 subjects (25.33%), including pulmonary hypertension (9.33%), impaired left ventricular performance (8.66%), diastolic dysfunction (14%) and/or evidence of pericarditis (10%). We highlighted statistically significant correlations between the intensity of symptoms and quality of life scores with the severity of initial pulmonary injury, the number of weeks since COVID-19 and with TTE parameters characterizing the systolic and diastolic performance and pulmonary hypertension (p < 0.001). (Post-acute COVID-19 is a complex syndrome characterized by various symptoms, the intensity of which seem to be related to the severity and the time elapsed since the acute infection, and with persisting cardiac abnormalities.

Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum, Pneumothorax, Pneumopericardium and Subcutaneous Emphysema-Not So Uncommon Complications in Patients with COVID-19 Pulmonary Infection-A Series of Cases

(1) Background: Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (PM), pneumothorax (PT), and pneumopericardium (PP) were recently reported as rare complications in patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia, and our study aims to follow the evolution of these involvements in 11 cases. The presumed pathophysiological mechanism is air leak due to extensive diffuse alveolar damage followed by alveolar rupture. (2) Methods: We followed the occurrence of PM, PN, PP, and subcutaneous emphysema (SE) in 1648 patients hospitalized during the second outbreak of COVID-19 (October 2020-January 2021) in the main hospital of infectious diseases of our county and recorded their demographic data, laboratory investigations and clinical evolution. (3) Results: Eleven patients (0.66%) developed PM, with eight of them having associated PT, one PP, and seven SE, in the absence of mechanical ventilation. Eight patients (72.72%) died and only three (27.27%) survived. All subjects were nonsmokers, without known pulmonary pathology or risk factors for such complications. (4) Conclusions: pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax, and pneumopericardium are not so uncommon complications of SARS-CoV2 pneumonia, being observed mostly in male patients with severe forms and associated with prolonged hospitalization and poor prognosis. In some cases, with mild forms and reduced pulmonary injury, the outcome is favorable, not requiring surgical procedures, mechanical ventilation, or intensive care stay.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Evaluate the Presence of Hepatic and Cardiac Abnormalities in Patients with Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome-A Pilot Study

(1) Background: Patients suffering from the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) disease could experience several extra-pulmonary involvements, including cardiovascular complications and liver injury. This study aims to evaluate the presence of cardiac and liver alterations in patients with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome using transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and liver elastography (LE). (2) Methods: A total of 97 subjects recovering from COVID-19, attending the hospital's specialized outpatient clinic for persisting symptoms at 3 to 11 weeks after the acute illness, were included in this study. They all had a basal COVID-19 assessment, and subsequently, a clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, TTE, and LE. (3) Results: considering the presence of pulmonary injury during COVID-19, patients were divided into two groups. Although none of them had altered systolic function, we evidenced pulmonary hypertension, diastolic dysfunction, increased liver stiffness, viscosity, and steatosis in around one-third of the patients, with significantly higher values in subjects with pulmonary injury compared to those without. (4) Conclusion: persisting symptoms characterizing the post-acute COVID-19 syndrome could be explained by residual cardiac and hepatic lesions, which were worse in more severe COVID-19 forms. These patients may be at risk of developing liver fibrosis and cardiac alterations and should be investigated in the first 12 weeks after the onset of the infection.

Evolution of Echocardiographic Abnormalities Identified in Previously Healthy Individuals Recovering from COVID-19

(1) Background: Although the infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus affects primarily the lungs, it is well known that associated cardiovascular (CV) complications are important contributors to the increased morbidity and mortality of COVID-19. Thus, in some situations, their diagnosis is overlooked, and during recovery, some patients continue to have symptoms enclosed now in the post-acute COVID-19 syndrome. (2) Methods: In 102 patients, under 55 years old, and without a history of CV diseases, all diagnosed with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome, we assessed by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) four patterns of abnormalities frequently overlapping each other. Their evolution was followed at 3 and 6 months. (3) Results: In 35 subjects, we assessed impaired left ventricular function (LVF), in 51 increased systolic pulmonary artery pressure, in 66 diastolic dysfunction (DD) with normal LVF, and in 23 pericardial effusion/thickening. All TTE alterations alleviated during the follow-up, the best evolution being observed in patients with pericarditis, and a considerably worse one in those with DD, thus with a reduction in severity (4) Conclusions: In patients with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome, several cardiac abnormalities may be assessed by TTE, most of them alleviating in time. Some of them, especially DD, may persist, raising the presumption of chronic alterations.

Evolution of Heart Rate Variability and Heart Rate Turbulence in Patients with Depressive Illness Treated with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

Background and objectives: Major depressive disorder (MDD) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) represent serious and prevalent medical conditions. Autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunctions, expressed by parameters of heart rate variability (HRV) and heart rate turbulence (HRT), have been repeatedly associated with depression. The aim of our study was to identify potential HRV and HRT alterations in patients with MDD, before and after selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) therapy, and to observe any correlations between these parameters and the severity of depressive symptoms. Another aim was to evidence if there was a normalization or improvement of HRV and HRT parameters that paralleled the reduction of the intensity of depressive symptoms. Materials and Methods: We studied heart rate variability (HRV) and heart rate turbulence (HRT) in a sample of 78 patients, aged under 51 years, who were referred to our outpatient clinic between June 2017 and December 2019, for complaints in the context of a new onset major depressive disorder (MDD), before and after therapy with SSRIs. Results: By using 24 h Holter ECG monitoring, we evidenced alterations of HRV and HRT parameters, significantly correlated with the severity of depressive symptoms (p < 0.001), as assessed by the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Our results indicated that these parameters improved following one and six months of SSRI therapy, when a partial or total remission of depressive symptoms was achieved (p < 0.001). Changes in HRV parameters were correlated with the reduction of the severity of depression. Conclusions: In our study group, we highlighted, through 24 h ECG Holter monitoring, frequent and clear HRV and HRT abnormalities that were statistically correlated with the severity of depressive symptoms. Furthermore, we were able to document a progressive improvement of these parameters, which corresponded with the improvement of depressive symptoms under SSRI therapy, when compared to the values measured before the commencement of antidepressant pharmacotherapy.

Increased Susceptibility for Thromboembolic Events versus High Bleeding Risk Associated with COVID-19

The infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus is associated with numerous systemic involvements. Besides the severe respiratory injuries and cardiovascular complications, it became obvious early on that this disease carries an increased risk of thromboembolic events, but a higher propensity for bleedings as well. We researched the medical literature over significant PubMed published articles debating on the prevalence, category of patients, the moment of occurrence, and evolution of venous thromboembolism (VTE), but also of venous and arterial "in situ" thrombosis (AT), and hemorrhagic events as well. Most researchers agree on an increased prevalence of thromboembolic events, ranging between 25 and 31% for VTE, depending on the analyzed population. For AT and hemorrhagic complications lower rates were reported, namely, about 2-3%, respectively, between 4.8 and 8%, occurring mostly in older patients, suffering from moderate/severe forms of COVID-19, with associated comorbidities. It is important to mention that patients suffering from hemorrhages frequently received thromboprophylaxis with anticoagulant drugs. As a consequence of thromboembolic and hemorrhagic complications which are both important negative prognostic factors, the evolution of patients infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus is aggravated, determining an augmented morbidity and mortality of this population.

High-risk pulmonary embolism in a patient with acute dissecting aortic aneurysm

In the last decades, an increased incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE) and acute dissection (AD) of aortic aneurysms has been registered mostly due to increased availability of advanced imaging techniques. They seldom occur concomitantly in the same patient. In this paper, we present the clinical challenges and controversies of diagnosis and therapy in a 70-year-old male patient with an atypical presentation of high-risk PE occurring concomitantly with a silent AD of a thoracic aortic aneurysm.

Aspects of diastolic dysfunction in patients with new and recurrent depression

OBJECTIVE

The main objective of this study was to evidence the potential impact of the intensity, duration and recurrence of depression on the development of arterial stiffness (AS) leading to left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and diastolic dysfunction (DD) in patients with new onset depression (NOD) and recurrent depression (RD) in comparison to 33 control subjects without depression. Another aim was to identify potential predictive factors regarding the occurrence of diastolic dysfunction (DD).

METHODS

Our study group included 58 patients diagnosed with NOD and 128 diagnosed with RD, without any previously diagnosed significant heart diseases. The intensity of depression was evaluated by means of the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Assessment of pulse wave velocity (PWV), left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and echocardiographic parameters characterizing DD were performed for each patient.

RESULTS

The cardiology evaluations suggested an increased prevalence of AS in all patients, of significantly higher rate than in controls (p<0.001), which was statistically correlated with the severity and duration of depression. Another significant finding was an increased prevalence of DD (29.31% and 63.28%, respectively; p<0.001) correlated with the MADRS score, total duration and number of recurrences/relapses. The multivariate logistic regression analysis identified PWV, the intensity and duration of depression as significant predictive factors for the occurrence of DD.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, diastolic dysfunction was a common finding among patients with RD, but it was also noted, to a lesser extent, in those suffering with NOD. DD was associated with altered AS, and strongly correlated with the intensity and the duration of depressive symptoms. The two latter factors, together with an increased PWV, were strong predictors for the occurrence of DD.

Particularities of endothelial dysfunction in hypothyroid patients

BACKGROUND

It is well known that hypothyroidism promotes the premature onset of subclinical atherosclerosis. This condition is defined by endothelial dysfunction (ED) and increased arterial stiffness (AS) and leads to augmentation of peripheral vascular resistance.

AIM

To assess the presence and severity of ED and to follow its evolution under therapy in three groups of hypothyroid patients, we used three different noninvasive methods: carotidian intima-media thickness (IMT), flow mediated vasodilatation (FMD), and AS.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 56 young, hypothyroid women without associated cardiovascular pathology or risk factors for atherosclerosis. We selected our patients in order to have normal IMT (< 0.9 mm) and assessed the basal diameter of the brachial artery and the alterations of FMD and of AS parameters: pulse wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index (AIx).

RESULTS

We found, in all patients, a reduced basal diameter of brachial artery, pathological patterns of FMD, and increased values of PWV and AIx, compared to controls, in relation with the severity of thyroid dysfunction. We documented an improvement of ED after therapy with L-thyroxin.

CONCLUSIONS

ED, documented in hypothyroid patients by means of three noninvasively methods, was strongly related to the severity of thyroid disease. We detected, in all three subgroups, significant alterations of FMD and AS, even in the absence of structural changes, documented by a normal IMT. ED improved consistently after restoring the euthyroid state.

Pulmonary hypertension in patients with end stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a serious cardiovascular complication in patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis (HD) via arterio-venous fistulas (AVF).

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), AVF flow volume (AVF-FV) and cardiac output (CO) and to highlight the impact of their augmentation, as well as of the duration of HD, on the occurrence of PH in patients with ESRD.

METHODS

Our study group consisted of 51 dialyzed patients, with ESRD, without history of PH. We determined by ultrasonography the systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (PAPs), the left ventricular ejection fraction (EF), the cardiac output (CO), PVR and AVF-FV.

RESULTS

We documented PH in 27 (52.94%) patients. All had elevated PVR, higher AVF-FV and CO comparing to patients without PH. They were undergoing HD for a longer period and had lower EF than those without PH. For all patients, we documented strong correlations between PAPs and PVR (r = 0.933, P < 0.001) and the duration of HD (r = 0.702, P < 0.001), but moderate ones with AVF-FV (r = 0.583, P < 0.001) and CO (r = 0.519, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In patients with ESRD undergoing HD, PH was a common finding being associated with increased PVR, a longer duration of HD and chronic glomerulonephritis as etiology for ESRD. The majority of patients with PH had altered left ventricular systolic function, predisposing them to an increased risk to develop heart failure.

Predictors for Estimating Scars' Internalization in Victims with Post-Traumatic Scars versus Patients with Postsurgical Scars

(1) Background: Scars are the consequence of physiological inherent healing processes of post-traumatic and surgical lesions with a psychological impact. Post-traumatic scarring may induce emotional and behavioral changes through social stigma. In this study we analyze the internalization of scars and their impact on hopelessness, depression, or the perception of social support in subjects with post-traumatic scars compared to people with surgical scars. (2) Methods: to research this suggested model, we analyzed data collected from 110 participants 61 women and 49 men, aged between 18 and 64 years; 55 participants had post-traumatically and 55 surgically acquired scars. They all were examined to assess the characteristics of scars, were asked to complete four psycho-social scales, and the results were compared. (3) Results: our results indicate that people with post-traumatic scars are oriented toward the internalization of scars, depending on their shape and size. We argue that hopelessness, appreciation of scars, age, and how scars are produced are important predictors of internalization. (4) Conclusions: the patient's attitude toward the appearance of a scar is an indicator of how he/she will react in the future and it could predict the vulnerability to hopelessness. Finally, we nuance the impact of objective bodily harm on the psychological and moral suffering.

Factors Influencing the Evolution of Pulmonary Hypertension in Previously Healthy Subjects Recovering from a SARS-CoV-2 Infection

(1) Background: While the COVID-19 pandemic has been persisting for almost 2 years, more and more people are diagnosed with residual complications such as pulmonary hypertension (PH) and right ventricular dysfunction (RVD). This study aims to evaluate the course of PH and borderline PH (BPH) at 3 and 6 months after the acute COVID-19 infection and investigate if there are differences regarding its evolution between the patients from the first three waves of this disease. (2) Methods: We analyzed, by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), the 3 and 6 months' evolution of the echocardiographically estimated systolic pulmonary artery pressures (esPAP) in 116 patients already diagnosed with PH or BPH due to COVID-19 during the first three subsequent waves of COVID-19. (3) Results: We documented a gradual, statistically significant reduction in esPAP values, but also an improvement of the parameters characterizing RVD after 3 and 6 months (p < 0.001). This evolution was somewhat different between subjects infected with different viral strains and was related to the initial severity of the pulmonary injury and PH (adjusted R2 = 0.722, p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: PH and RVD alleviate gradually during the recovery after COVID-19, but in some cases, they persist, suggesting the activation of pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the self-propagation of PH.

Mekeres' Psychosocial Internalization Scale: A Scale for the Evaluation of Aesthetic Prejudice in Victims of Accidents and Violence

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

One important forensic activity is the assessment of aesthetic injuries where expert criteria and analysis are insufficiently outlined due to the subjective elements related to the traumatized victim. Unaesthetic morphological changes may occur due to various circumstances committed under the Penal Code, resulting in permanent unaesthetic morphological scarring. Considering that most of the existing scales for the assessment of aesthetic prejudices refer only to morphometric changes, our aim was to create a modern method for the evaluation of aesthetic damage that also considers its social and psychological consequences.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, we developed the Mekereș Psychosocial Internalization Scale (MPIS), which proposes a clear boundary between the presence or absence of aesthetic damage. The traumatized person is evaluated after a minimum of six months (in the case of an average scar, necessary for defining the character of the scar) to assess changes in the physiognomy or even alterations in the victim's aesthetic perception of their own body. Our study was conducted on 103 patients with scars, and the results were compared to 101 controls (subjects without scars).

RESULTS

Individuals with scars have a distorted perception (compared to controls) of the support provided by significant people [t (202) = 2.473; p = 0.01]. Hypothetically, they will most likely exhibit a nuanced socio-cognitive and psycho-emotional vulnerability that may be the source of future dysfunctions. The fidelity of the MPIS scale was estimated by employing Cronbach's alpha coefficient, resulting in a value of 0.934 (15 items). The exploratory factorial analysis with Varimax rotation mode sustains a single dominant factor, indicating a good internal consistency. The results of this study provide evidence regarding the psychosocial or psychometric worthiness of MPIS.

CONCLUSIONS

MPIS can be used for research and as an instrument to assess aesthetic damage or disfigurement by forensic physicians and lawyers.

The Impact of Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity on the Evolution of Diastolic Dysfunction in Apparently Healthy Patients Suffering from Post-COVID-19 Syndrome

(1) Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has a worse prognosis in individuals with obesity and metabolic syndrome (MS), who often develop cardiovascular complications that last throughout recovery. (2) Methods: This study aimed to analyze the evolution of diastolic dysfunction (DD), assessed by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), in 203 individuals with and without obesity and/or MS diagnosed with post-COVID-19 syndrome. (3) Results: DD was frequently diagnosed in patients with MS and obesity, but also in those without obesity (62.71% and 56.6%, respectively), in comparison to 21.97% of subjects without MS (p ˂ 0.001). Almost half of the patients with obesity and MS had more severe DD (types 2 and 3). As for evolution, the prevalence and severity of DD, particularly types 1 and 2, decreased gradually, in parallel with the improvement of symptoms, progress being more evident in subjects without MS. DD of type 3 did not show a significant reduction (p = 0.47), suggesting irreversible myocardial damages. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that the number of MS factors, the severity of initial pulmonary injury, and protein C levels could explain DD evolution. (4) Conclusions: DD was commonly diagnosed in individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome, particularly in those with MS and obesity. After 6 months, DD evolution, excepting that of type 3, showed a significant improvement, mostly in patients without MS.

Connections between Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolic Syndrome and the Outcome of Cardiac Dysfunctions Diagnosed during the Recovery from COVID-19 in Patients without a Previous History of Cardiovascular Diseases

(1) Background: Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, it became obvious that individuals suffering with obesity, diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and metabolic syndrome (MS) frequently developed persisting cardiovascular complications, which were partially able to explain the onset of the long-COVID-19 syndrome. (2) Methods: Our aim was to document, by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), the presence of cardiac alterations in 112 patients suffering from post-acute COVID-19 syndrome and T2DM, MS, and/or obesity, in comparison to 91 individuals without metabolic dysfunctions (MD); (3) Results: in patients with MD, TTE borderline/abnormal left (LVF) and/or right ventricular function (RVF), alongside diastolic dysfunction (DD), were more frequently evidenced, when compared to controls (p ˂ 0.001). Statistically significant associations between TTE parameters and the number of factors defining MS, the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, the severity of the SARS-CoV-2 infection, and the number of persisting symptoms (p ˂ 0.001) were noted. Significant predictive values for the initial C-reactive protein and TyG index levels, both for the initial and the 6-month follow-up levels of these TTE abnormalities (p ˂ 0.001), were highlighted by means of a multivariate regression analysis. (4) Conclusions: in diabetic patients with MS and/or obesity with comorbid post-acute COVID-19 syndrome, a comprehensive TTE delineates various cardiovascular alterations, when compared with controls. After 6 months, LVF and RVF appeared to normalize, however, the DD-although somewhat improved-did persist in approximately a quarter of patients with MD, possibly due to chronic myocardial changes.

Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Implantation of Intra-Cardiac Devices in Diabetic and Non-Diabetic Patients in the Western of Romania

Background and Objectives: COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted public health services worldwide, determining a significant decrease of elective cardiovascular (CV) procedures, especially in patients with associated chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus (DM). Materials and Methods: This study was first started in 2019 in the western of Romania, to analyze the differences regarding the implantations of intra-cardiac devices such as permanent pacemakers (PPM), cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICD) in 351 patients with and without DM and the situation was reanalyzed at the end of 2020. Results: of the first 351 patients with and without DM. 28.20% of these patients had type 2 DM (p = 0.022), exceeding more than twice the prevalence of DM in the general population (11%). Patients with DM were younger (p = 0.022) and required twice as often CRT (p = 0.002) as non-diabetic patients. The state of these procedures was reanalyzed at the end of 2020, a dramatic decrease of all new device implantations being observed, both in non-diabetic and in patients with type 2 DM (79.37%, respectively 81.82%). Conclusions: COVID-19 pandemic determined a drastic decrease, with around 75% reduction of all procedures of new intra-cardiac devices implantation, both in non-diabetics, this activity being reserved mostly for emergencies.

Echocardiographic Parameters as Predictors for the Efficiency of Resynchronization Therapy in Patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy and HFrEF

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) represents an increasingly recommended solution to alleviate symptomatology and improve the quality of life in individuals with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) who remain symptomatic despite optimal medical therapy (OMT). However, this therapy does have the desired results all cases, in that sometimes low sensing and high voltage stimulation are needed to obtain some degree of resynchronization, even in the case of perfectly placed cardiac pacing leads. Our study aims to identify whether there is a relationship between several transthoracic echocardiographic (TTE) parameters characterizing left ventricular (LV) performance, especially strain results, and sensing and pacing parameters. Between 2020-2021, CRT was performed to treat persistent symptoms in 48 patients with a mean age of 64 (53.25-70) years, who were diagnosed with DCM and HFrEF, and who were still symptomatic despite OMT. We documented statistically significant correlations between global longitudinal strain, posterolateral strain, and ejection fraction and LV sensing (r = 0.65, 0.469, and 0.534, respectively, p < 0.001) and LV pacing parameters (r = -0.567, -0.555, and -0.363, respectively, p < 0.001). Modern imaging techniques, such as TTE with cardiac strain, are contributing to the evaluation of patients with HFrEF, increasing the chances of CRT success, and allowing physicians to anticipate and plan for case management.

Echocardiographic evolution of pulmonary hypertension in female patients with hyperthyroidism

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to highlight the impact of increased cardiac output (CO) and/or pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) on the occurrence and evolution of pulmonary hypertension (PH) in hyperthyroidism and to follow their evolution in patients under therapy.

METHODS

Our study group consisted of 142 women with hyperthyroidism of different severities and etiologies. We divided our patients into three groups: groups A (overt hyperthyroidism), B (recurrent disease), and C (subclinical forms). We performed echocardiography to determine echocardiographically estimated systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (eePAP), CO, and PVR before and at 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment with thyroid suppression therapy and beta-blockers.

RESULTS

In our study group we documented PH of various severities in 73 patients (51.4%). Increased CO, induced mostly by hyperthyroidismspecific tachycardia, was frequently detected in overt hyperthyroidism and also augmented PVR, as documented in 43.66% of patients with severe and recurrent forms. For all patients with PH, we emphasized a strong correlation between eePAP and PVR level (r=0.854, p<0.0001) and a moderate one with CO (r=0.437, p<0.0001) and with hyperthyroidism duration (r=0.545, p<0.0001). Under therapy, CO rapidly normalized and PVR significantly decreased in groups A and C. In group B, the reduction was modest and statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

The pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the occurrence of PH are elevated CO and PVR. While increased CO is rapidly alleviated under therapy, elevated eePAP and PVR persist in recurrent cases and are responsible for the perpetuation of PH.

Correspondence between Aortic and Arterial Stiffness, and Diastolic Dysfunction in Apparently Healthy Female Patients with Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

(1) Background: Abnormally increased arterial and aortic stiffness (AS and AoS), which are often associated with diastolic dysfunction (DD), represent common alterations in COVID-19. In this study, we aimed to assess, by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and pulse-wave velocity (PWV), the frequency of these dysfunctions in patients with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome and to highlight potential correlations between their severity and multiple clinical and laboratory parameters. (2) Methods: In total, 121 women were included in our study, all of whom were younger than 55 and had been diagnosed with post-COVID-19 syndrome. Of those women, 67 also had metabolic syndrome (MS) (group A), whereas the other 54 did not (group B); 40 age-matched healthy subjects were used as controls (group C). (3) Results: Patients in group A had worse values of indexes characterizing AS and AoS and had more frequent DD compared to those from group B and group C (p < 0.0001). The statistical analysis evidenced significant associations between these indexes and the time that had elapsed since COVID-19 diagnosis, the factors that characterize the severity of the acute disease and those that specify MS. Multivariate regression analysis identified the following as the main independent predictors for DD: values of the AoS index, the C-reactive protein, and the triglyceride-glucose index. (4) Conclusions: Altered AS, AoS, and DD are common in patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome, especially with concurrent MS, and these parameters are apparently associated not only with the severity and time elapsed since COVID-19 diagnosis but also with MS.

Alterations of heart rate variability and turbulence in female patients with hyperthyroidism of various severities

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the this study is to document the existence of statistically significant differences between parameters of heart rate variability (HRV) and heart rate turbulence (HRT), determined in women with overt hyperthyroidism (hT), compared to controls and to highlight their correlations with the level of thyroid hormones and the incidence of arrhythmias.

METHODS

We studied the HRV in time and frequency domain, and the HRT in a group of 113 women with overt hT, without other cardiovascular risk factors or comorbidities, admitted to the endocrinology clinic of our hospital, between 2012 and 2016. Depending on the severity and duration of hT and levels of thyroid hormones, the patients were assigned to three groups: mild and moderate forms, severe hT with thyrotoxicosis and persistent cases with a relapse of hT. We performed 24 h Holter monitoring in all patients.

RESULTS

HRV parameters in time domain (TD) were significantly depressed in patients comparing to controls. All patients had abnormal, positive values of turbulence onset (TO) with significant statistically differences (P < 0.0001) comparing to controls. Although positive, the values of turbulence slope (TS) decreased according to the severity of hT.

CONCLUSION

Patients with hT had depressed values of HRV parameters in TD, correlated with the severity of the thyroid disease and with the incidence of arrhythmias. All patients presented pathological values of TO. TS values were positive, but lower compared to controls.

Aspects of Heart Failure in Patients with Ischemic Heart Disease after Percutaneous Coronary Revascularization with Polymer-coated Drug-Eluting Stents versus Bare-Metal Stents

Percutaneous coronary revascularization (PCR) with polymer-coated drug-eluting stents (DES) or bare-metal stents (BMS) is considered the standard therapy in advanced ischemic heart disease (IHD). Despite revascularisation, many of these patients subsequently develop heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). We analysed 51 patients with IHD, treated by PCR and insertion of DES and/or BMS who later developed HFrEF. Patients with DES where more likely women, of younger age and a higher incidence of diabetes mellitus compared to patients with BMS who were generally men, of older age and had more frequently acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) as indication for PCR. Although patients with DES had more severe IHD, their EF was higher, possibly due to the benefits offered by the DES.