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Rosano GM, Simon T, Mercuro G, Sans S, Schenck-Gustaffson K, Stevenson JC, Swahn E, Jaillon P. Hormone replacement therapy: where we stand in Europe. Eur Heart J 2001; 22:439-41. [PMID: 11237534 DOI: 10.1053/euhj.2000.2298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Rosano GM, Leonardo F, Dicandia C, Sheiban I, Pagnotta P, Pappone C, Chierchia SL. Acute electrophysiologic effect of estradiol 17beta in menopausal women. Am J Cardiol 2000; 86:1385-7, A5-6. [PMID: 11113421 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9149(00)01251-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Sixteen postmenopausal women underwent electrophysiologic study before and 20 minutes after the administration of sublingual estradiol 17beta or placebo. Estradiol 17beta significantly affected electrophysiologic parameters, thereby suggesting its role in the development of palpitations in women.
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Rosano GM, Webb CM, Chierchia S, Morgani GL, Gabraele M, Sarrel PM, de Ziegler D, Collins P. Natural progesterone, but not medroxyprogesterone acetate, enhances the beneficial effect of estrogen on exercise-induced myocardial ischemia in postmenopausal women. J Am Coll Cardiol 2000; 36:2154-9. [PMID: 11127455 DOI: 10.1016/s0735-1097(00)01007-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We sought to compare the effects of estrogen/transvaginal progesterone gel with estrogen/medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) on exercise-induced myocardial ischemia in postmenopausal women with coronary artery disease or previous myocardial infarction, or both. BACKGROUND Estrogen therapy beneficially affects exercise-induced myocardial ischemia in postmenopausal women; however, women with an intact uterus also take progestin to protect against uterine malignancies. The effects of combination estrogen/progestin therapy on myocardial ischemia are unknown. METHODS Eighteen postmenopausal women (mean +/- SD age 59+/-7 years) were given 17-beta-estradiol in single-blinded manner for four weeks (1 mg/day for three weeks then 2 mg/day for one week). Estradiol (2 mg/day) was then continued, and the patients were randomized (double-blind) for 12 days to either transvaginal progesterone gel (90 mg on alternate days) and oral MPA placebo (10 mg/day), or vice versa. After another two weeks on estradiol alone, the patients crossed over to progestin treatment and repeated the protocol on the opposite treatment. Patients underwent treadmill exercise testing after each estradiol phase and at day 10 of each progestin phase. RESULTS Exercise time to myocardial ischemia increased after the first estrogen phase as compared with baseline (mean difference with 95% confidence interval [CI]: 72 s [34 to 110], p = 0.001), and was increased by combination estradiol/progesterone therapy as compared with estradiol/MPA therapy (92 s [35 to 149], p = 0.001)). Two patients (11%) were withdrawn while taking estradiol/MPA owing to unstable angina. CONCLUSIONS Combination estrogen/transvaginal progesterone gel increases exercise time to myocardial ischemia, as compared with estrogen/MPA. These results imply that the choice of progestin in women at higher cardiovascular risk requires careful consideration.
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Sheiban I, Leonardo F, Rosano GM, Pagnotta P, Marsico F, Montorfano M, Di Mario C, Trevi G, Colombo A. Predictors of long-term clinical outcome in patients undergoing multiple vessel stenting for coronary artery disease. ITALIAN HEART JOURNAL : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ITALIAN FEDERATION OF CARDIOLOGY 2000; 1:480-6. [PMID: 10933331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronary artery stenting reduces the restenosis rate compared to coronary angioplasty alone. With the increased number of procedures completed with stent placement there has been a parallel increase in the number of procedures performed in patients with multivessel disease and therefore a rise in the number of patients receiving multiple stents. The clinical outcome and the predictors of the outcome of patients receiving multiple stents are not known. METHODS To evaluate the clinical outcome of patients with multivessel coronary artery disease undergoing multiple stenting we studied 133 consecutive patients who had received > 1 stent in at least two vessels. A total of 375 coronary stents (2.8 stent per patient) were implanted in elective procedure situations. Clinical follow-up was complete in 100%. RESULTS During follow-up 2 patients (1.5%) died (1 cardiac death), 4 patients (3%) had acute myocardial infarction, 96 patients (72.1%) remained angina-free, and 31 patients (23.3 %) had recurrence of angina. Repeat revascularization procedure was performed in 45 patients (33.8%); 43 patients (32.3%) underwent coronary angioplasty; 2 patients (1.5%) underwent coronary artery bypass grafting. The female gender and the presence of diabetes were significant (p < 0.05) predictors for coronary angioplasty or coronary artery bypass grafting procedures during follow-up. Recurrence of angina was also significantly (p < 0.05) associated with unstable angina at the time of the first procedure as well as diabetes and the female gender. Diabetes, the female gender and unstable angina were highly predictive factors of major adverse cardiac events during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Multiple vessel stenting in patients with multivessel coronary artery disease is associated with an acceptable immediate and long-term clinical outcome and could be considered as an alternative therapeutic option in these patients. Predictors of an adverse long-term outcome are the female gender and the presence of diabetes mellitus.
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Rosano GM, Sarais C, Zoncu S, Mercuro G. The relative effects of progesterone and progestins in hormone replacement therapy. Hum Reprod 2000; 15 Suppl 1:60-73. [PMID: 10928419 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/15.suppl_1.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was initially given to protect women against osteoporosis and alleviate menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, depression, sleep disturbances, and vaginal dryness. In view of the understanding of oestrogen deficiency as a major trigger for the acceleration of cardiovascular risk after menopause, HRT may also be proposed as a substantial beneficial cardioprotective agent. Progestins, which may be added to oestrogen in combined HRT to reduce the risk of uterine malignancy, have a number of potential adverse effects on the cardiovascular system which could even attenuate the benefit of unopposed oestrogen replacement therapy in post-menopausal women.
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Rosano GM, Graziottin A, Fini M. Cardioprotective effects of ovarian hormones and the HERS in perspective. Maturitas 2000; 34 Suppl 2:S3-10. [PMID: 10915917 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-5122(00)00106-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The increased population of women in menopause living in the industrialized countries is associated with an increase of diseases which are dependent or facilitated by a state of estrogen deficiency such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Several studies have shown that estrogen replacement therapy reduces the occurrence of coronary and may be of cerebrovascular disease by nearly 50% in treated women compared to non-users. These findings are supported by the evidence that estrogens have a beneficial effect on cholesterol metabolism and deposition, contributing to the inhibition of atherosclerotic plaque formation in arterial walls as well as a direct effect on the vessel wall. Progestins may, in some cases, counteract the beneficial effect of estrogens upon cardiovascular functions. More androgenic progestins may have a detrimental effect upon vascular reactivity while less androgenic progestins seem not to reduce the beneficial effect of estrogens. Of interest, continuous combined administration of hormone replacement therapy seem to be preferable for women with coronary artery disease or for those with increased cardiovascular risk. Case-control and cohort studies have shown that estrogen progestin therapy is associated with a significant reduction of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. The HERS study has added critical data regarding the cardioprotective effect of hormone replacement therapy in elderly women with proven coronary artery disease. Because of the several methodological and statistical flaws of the HERS study, further studies are warranted to evaluate the effect of hormone replacement therapy on cardiovascular prognosis. Large scale randomized studies will evaluate the effect of estrogen and estrogen-progestin replacement therapy upon cardiovascular events in menopausal women. Until completion of these studies hormone replacement therapy in women with increased cardiovascular risk should be seen with no enthusiasm but also with no fear.
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Mercuro G, Podda A, Pitzalis L, Zoncu S, Mascia M, Melis GB, Rosano GM. Evidence of a role of endogenous estrogen in the modulation of autonomic nervous system. Am J Cardiol 2000; 85:787-9, A9. [PMID: 12000064 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9149(99)00865-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We studied heart rate variability in 14 healthy women before and after oophorectomy compared with 14 matched women who underwent hysterectomy with ovarian conservation. Surgical menopause induced a decline in cardiac vagal modulation with a shift toward sympathetic hyperactivity. Recovery of the baseline condition after 3 months of estrogen replacement therapy in oophorectomized women suggests a role of estrogen in the autonomic nervous control of the cardiovascular system.
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Mercuro G, Zoncu S, Rosano GM. [Clinical and diagnostic features of ischemic cardiopathy in women]. CARDIOLOGIA (ROME, ITALY) 1999; 44 Suppl 1:505-9. [PMID: 12497773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
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Leonardo F, Fragasso G, Rossetti E, Dabrowski P, Pagnotta P, Rosano GM, Chierchia SL. Comparison of trimetazidine with atenolol in patients with syndrome X: effects on diastolic function and exercise tolerance. CARDIOLOGIA (ROME, ITALY) 1999; 44:1065-9. [PMID: 10687257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trimetazidine has been shown to improve anginal symptoms without altering hemodynamic variables in patients with coronary artery disease. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of trimetazidine and atenolol upon symptoms, resting left ventricular filling dynamics and exercise tolerance. METHODS Sixteen patients (3 males, 13 females, mean age 62 +/- 7 years) were randomized to receive trimetazidine for 2 weeks (20 mg 3 times daily) or atenolol (100 mg daily), according to a double-blind, randomized, cross-over, placebo-controlled design. At the end of each treatment period patients underwent symptom-limited exercise testing, an echocardiogram and a Doppler assessment of transmitral flow pattern. Daily life anginal symptoms were annotated on a diary throughout the study. Two patients discontinued trimetazidine because of severe palpitations and only 14 patients completed the study. RESULTS Atenolol significantly reduced the number of anginal episodes as compared to placebo or trimetazidine (0.44 +/- 0.53, 4.8 +/- 4, 2.9 +/- 4.9, p < 0.01). On atenolol, the exercise test was negative in 8 patients, but none of the patients had a negative test while on trimetazidine. Atenolol increased both time to 1 mm ST segment depression (668 +/- 213 vs 838 +/- 81 s, p < 0.05) and Doppler-derived indices of ventricular filling (E/A ratio 0.87 +/- 0.20 vs 1.21 +/- 0.26, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS These results confirm the beneficial effects of atenolol in improving symptoms, exercise performance and diastolic function in syndrome X patients. Trimetazidine did not exert any significant effect on any of the analyzed variables. Since trimetazidine has been previously shown to improve myocardial ischemia in patients with overt coronary artery disease to a similar extent of beta-blockers, it is likely that other mechanisms are responsible for angina in patients with syndrome X.
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Pines A, Averbuch M, Fisman EZ, Rosano GM. The acute effects of sublingual 17beta-estradiol on the cardiovascular system. Maturitas 1999; 33:81-5. [PMID: 10585176 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-5122(99)00036-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The beneficial effects of estrogen in postmenopausal women have been well documented. Cardioprotection by estrogen, which is probably the result of several metabolic alterations, appears after 2 or more years of constant use. However, acute administration of estrogen (intravenous or intracoronary) was found to improve cardiac hemodynamics and function through various non-genomic mechanisms. This article reviews data on the consequences of sublingual administration of estrogen, a non-invasive and simple dosing route which is associated with rapid absorption and prompt cardiovascular reactions. It appears that sublingual estradiol at 1 or 2 mg may improve ischemia and exercise performance in women with coronary artery disease, and augment the aortic and brachial blood flow as a result of vasodilation, whereas larger doses (4 mg) may lead to a decrease in myocardial contractility and aortic blood flow, and a slight drop in blood pressure. More data are needed to evaluate the actual clinical significance of sublingual estradiol in healthy women, in situations when endothelial dysfunction is anticipated (diabetes, hypertension) and in women with diagnosed coronary artery disease.
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Rosano GM, Mercuro G. Controversial aspects of hormone replacement therapy upon cardiovascular mortality and morbidity of women in menopause. GIORNALE ITALIANO DI CARDIOLOGIA 1999; 29:999-1003. [PMID: 10514956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
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Abstract
The incidence of cardiovascular disease in women is negligible before natural or surgically-induced menopause, and increases after menopause. Epidemiological data suggest that estrogen replacement therapy reduces the occurrence of coronary artery, and possibly cerebrovascular, disease by 25 to 50% in treated women compared with non-users. These findings are supported by the evidence that estrogens have a beneficial effect on cholesterol metabolism and deposition, contributing to the inhibition of atherosclerotic plaque formation in arterial walls. Early reports suggested that up to 60% of the protective effect of estrogens on coronary artery disease was attributable to favourable changes in plasma lipids. Reanalysis of the data indicated that the lipid changes probably account for approximately 25% of the cardioprotective effect of estrogens and that other effects are, therefore, likely to be important. The influence of estrogens on carbohydrate metabolism, atheroma formation and cardiovascular haemodynamics may also play an integral role in the overall beneficial effect of the hormones. Animal and human studies have shown that the administration of estrogens leads to a restoration of endothelial function, an increase in cardiac output, an increase in arterial flow velocity, a decrease in vascular resistance, and a decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Recent studies on hormone replacement regimens have shown that estrogens may favourably affect fibrinolysis and reduce plasma fibrinogen to premenopausal levels. Despite these effects of estrogens the recent Heart and Estrogen/Progestin Replacement Study (HERS) failed to show a cardioprotective effect of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in elderly women with coronary artery disease. However, the HERS study has several limitations and stands alone against the large body of evidence that suggest that HRT may reduce cardiovascular mortality and morbidity.
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Rosano GM, Panina G. Oestrogens and the heart. Therapie 1999; 54:381-5. [PMID: 10500455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of cardiovascular disease is lower in women before the menopause compared with men, while menopausal women have an incidence of coronary disease similar to that of men of the same age. This is mainly dependent upon oestrogen deficiency. Large-scale epidemiological studies have demonstrated that oestrogen replacement therapy leads to approximately 50 per cent reduction of cardiovascular disease in women taking hormones, compared with untreated women. Multiple mechanisms have been proposed to explain the cardiovascular risk reduction observed in women on oestrogen therapy. Oestrogens positively affect plasma lipids and exert a beneficial effect upon carbohydrate metabolism and the haemocoagulation profile. Oestrogens may also have anti-atherogenic properties. Recent in vitro studies have demonstrated that oestrogens may positively influence all the steps involved in the formation of the atherosclerotic plaque (accumulation of cholesterol in the arterial wall, arterial smooth muscle cell proliferation, platelet aggregation, collagen and elastin production). Angiographic studies conducted in humans have demonstrated that women on oestrogens have significantly less coronary disease and less severe occlusion scores compared with women not taking hormone replacement therapy. Animal and human studies have shown that oestrogens act as vasodilating substances. Endothelium-dependent mechanisms have been identified and imply that oestrogens act through the endothelial release, mainly, of nitric oxide, a potent vasodilating substance which has been identified with EDRF (endothelium derived relaxing factor). More recently, oestrogens have been shown to affect also the vascular tone in the absence of the endothelium. Therefore, endothelium-independent mechanisms could be involved in the pathogenesis of the oestrogens' vascular effects. There is evidence that oestrogens have calcium antagonistic properties; this mechanism may be responsible for the reduction of peripheral vascular resistance observed in women on hormone replacement therapy and may slow the progression of coronary artery disease. The menopausal age is characterized by an imbalance of the neurohormonal system. Sudden increases of plasma catecholamines are evident when women have hot flushes, a typical clinical sign of the menopausal period. The abnormal release of catecholamines may reduce coronary flow reserve and increase peripheral vascular resistance and, therefore, may be dangerous for the heart. It has been shown, by means of the study of heart rate variability, that oestrogens are effective in modulating the neurohormonal system. The reduction of sympathetic tone has beneficial effects on coronary flow reserve and may be important in explaining the cardioprotective effect of oestrogens. Peripheral and coronary vasodilation observed in women on hormone replacement therapy might be also due to the inhibition of the release of vasoconstrictor factors such as endothelin-1 by oestrogens. Therefore, oestrogens protect the heart against coronary artery disease and they are now regarded as being as important as aspirin and antihypertensive drugs were in the past. Hormone replacement therapy should be considered in every menopausal woman to possibly prevent the occurrence of cardiovascular disease or, if already present, to slow its progression.
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Rosano GM, Leonardo F, Pagnotta P, Pelliccia F, Panina G, Cerquetani E, della Monica PL, Bonfigli B, Volpe M, Chierchia SL. Acute anti-ischemic effect of testosterone in men with coronary artery disease. Circulation 1999; 99:1666-70. [PMID: 10190874 DOI: 10.1161/01.cir.99.13.1666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 233] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of testosterone on the development of coronary artery disease in men is controversial. The evidence that men have a greater incidence of coronary artery disease than women of a similar age suggests a possible causal role of testosterone. Conversely, recent studies have shown that the hormone improves endothelium-dependent relaxation of coronary arteries in men. Accordingly, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of acute administration of testosterone on exercise-induced myocardial ischemia in men. METHODS AND RESULTS After withdrawal of antianginal therapy, 14 men (mean age, 58+/-4 years) with coronary artery disease underwent 3 exercise tests according to the modified Bruce protocol on 3 different days (baseline and either testosterone or placebo given in a random order). The exercise tests were performed 30 minutes after administration of testosterone (2.5 mg IV in 5 minutes) or placebo. All patients showed at least 1-mm ST-segment depression during the baseline exercise test and after placebo, whereas only 10 patients had a positive exercise test after testosterone. Chest pain during exercise was reported by 12 patients during baseline and placebo exercise tests and by 8 patients after testosterone. Compared with placebo, testosterone increased time to 1-mm ST-segment depression (579+/-204 versus 471+/-210 seconds; P<0. 01) and total exercise time (631+/-180 versus 541+/-204 seconds; P<0. 01). Testosterone significantly increased heart rate at the onset of 1-mm ST-segment depression (135+/-12 versus 123+/-14 bpm; P<0.01) and at peak exercise (140+/-12 versus 132+/-12 bpm; P<0.01) and the rate-pressure product at the onset of 1-mm ST-segment depression (24 213+/-3750 versus 21 619+/-3542 mm Hgxbpm; P<0.05) and at peak exercise (26 746+/-3109 versus 22 527+/-5443 mm Hgxbpm; P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Short-term administration of testosterone induces a beneficial effect on exercise-induced myocardial ischemia in men with coronary artery disease. This effect may be related to a direct coronary-relaxing effect.
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Fragasso G, Chierchia SL, Lu C, Dabrowski P, Pagnotta P, Rosano GM. Left ventricular dysfunction during dobutamine stress echocardiography in patients with syndrome X and positive myocardial perfusion scintigraphy. GIORNALE ITALIANO DI CARDIOLOGIA 1999; 29:383-90. [PMID: 10327315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
AIMS A sizeable proportion of patients with angina, angiographically smooth coronary arteries and positive exercise test (syndrome X) have stress/rest myocardial perfusion defects. The aim of the study was to assess whether perfusion defects are dependent upon a reduction in coronary flow reserve causing regional left ventricular dysfunction in syndrome X patients. METHODS AND RESULTS Twenty-two syndrome X patients underwent dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE). All had stress-induced perfusion defects documented by 99m-Tc-MIBI scintigraphy. Resting and peak DSE wall motion score index (WMSI) were evaluated. Six patients exhibited resting wall motion abnormalities in 10 segments (WMSI 1.05 +/- 0.11). DSE was positive in 12 patients (53%), in whom 16 myocardial segments were involved: of these, 12 were normokinetic and 4 hypokinetic at rest. Peak WMSI was 1.17 +/- 0.17 (p < 0.05 vs rest). Of the 12 patients with a positive DSE, 9 also showed diagnostic ECG changes and 6 complained of angina. Of the 10 patients with negative DSE, 5 had angina and 5 (one with angina) showed ECG changes. In 7 patients (7 segments) (32%), the location of dobutamine-induced wall motion abnormalities coincided with the area where exercise-induced hypoperfusion was observed with MIBI. CONCLUSIONS More than a half of syndrome X patients with myocardial perfusion abnormalities also develop regional LV dysfunction during DSE. However, the site of perfusion defects and wall motion abnormalities can be different. Reversible ischemia, defined as a parallel limitation of flow reserve and inducible dysfunction, could be identified as the cause of chest pain in almost one-third of patients.
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Adamopoulos S, Rosano GM, Ponikowski P, Cerquetani E, Piepoli M, Panagiota F, Collins P, Poole-Wilson P, Kremastinos D, Coats AJ. Impaired baroreflex sensitivity and sympathovagal balance in syndrome X. Am J Cardiol 1998; 82:862-8. [PMID: 9781968 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9149(98)00493-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Alterations of autonomic nervous control of cardiac function have been described in syndrome X. The characteristics, however, of the autonomic control of the cardiovascular system in patients with syndrome X have not been adequately studied; thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the role of baroreceptor sensitivity and sympathovagal balance in syndrome X. The study group included 12 patients with syndrome X, 12 age- and sex-matched control patients with coronary artery disease, and 12 age- and sex-matched controls with no evidence of heart disease. Baroreceptor sensitivity was evaluated by calculating the regression line relating phenylephrine-induced increases in systolic blood pressure to the attendant changes in the RR interval. Sympathovagal balance was assessed by using heart rate variability in the time and frequency domain and measuring plasma norepinephrine at rest and during incremental bicycle exercise. Baroreceptor sensitivity was significantly reduced in syndrome X compared with that in control normal subjects (7.4 +/- 1.2 vs 16.8 +/- 2.3 ms/mm Hg; p < 0.02). This was associated with a significantly lower percentage of adjacent normal RR intervals that differ by >50 ms, lower root-mean-square of the difference of adjacent RR intervals, and lower logarithmic value of the high-frequency component in patients with syndrome X compared with normal subjects. A nonsignificant trend toward lower baroreceptor sensitivity was found in patients with syndrome X compared with control ischemic patients (7.4 +/- 2 vs 12.2 +/- 1.3 ms/mm Hg). A nonsignificant trend toward a higher value of the low- to high-frequency ratio was also observed in patients with syndrome X than in both control groups. No difference was detected in norepinephrine levels either at rest or during exercise or in the exercise-induced norepinephrine increase between the 3 groups. No difference was also observed between ischemic patients and normal subjects in either baroreceptor sensitivity or heart rate variability measurements. A significant correlation (r = 0.80, p < 0.01) was found between baroreceptor sensitivity and the high-frequency component in normal controls but not for other measurements of autonomic function in the 3 groups. In conclusion, patients with syndrome X have an altered autonomic control of the cardiovascular system characterized by impaired baroreceptor sensitivity and reduced heart rate variability. Abnormal autonomic regulation of the cardiovascular system may be of pathophysiologic importance in syndrome X.
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Rosano GM, Leonardo F, Ricci S, Serra GB, Chierchia SL. [Prevention of cardiovascular risk in menopause women: role of ovarian hormones]. ANNALI DELL'ISTITUTO SUPERIORE DI SANITA 1998; 33:199-202. [PMID: 9470240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Women receiving estrogen replacement therapy after menopause have a reduced risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular mortality when compared to untreated controls. Estrogens are thought to protect women primarily through an effect on lipid metabolism. However estrogen-induced increase of HDL-cholesterol and decrease of total and LDL-cholesterol appear to account only in part for the protective effect of ovarian hormones. Direct effects of estrogens on the arterial wall appear to contribute to the over-all cardiovascular benefits.
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Rosano GM, Caixeta AM, Chierchia S, Arie S, Lopez-Hidalgo M, Pereira WI, Leonardo F, Webb CM, Pileggi F, Collins P. Short-term anti-ischemic effect of 17beta-estradiol in postmenopausal women with coronary artery disease. Circulation 1997; 96:2837-41. [PMID: 9386146 DOI: 10.1161/01.cir.96.9.2837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Short-term administration of 17beta-estradiol improves effort-induced myocardial ischemia in female patients with coronary artery disease. 17Beta-estradiol also has direct and indirect coronary vascular smooth muscle relaxing properties. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of short-term administration of 17beta-estradiol on pacing-induced myocardial ischemia by means of continuous monitoring of coronary sinus pH in 16 postmenopausal female patients with coronary artery disease. METHODS AND RESULTS Patients underwent incremental atrial pacing starting at a rate of 100 bpm and increments of 20 bpm every 2 minutes up to 160 bpm before and 20 minutes after either 17beta-estradiol (1 mg sublingual, 9 patients) or placebo (sublingual, 7 patients). The time to the onset of myocardial ischemia during pacing was significantly increased by 17beta-estradiol (mean+/-SD, 254+/-36 versus 298+/-23 seconds; P<.02) but not by placebo (262+/-45 versus 256+/-34 seconds; P=NS) The pH shift was significantly reduced by 17beta-estradiol but not by placebo at every step of the pacing protocol. The maximum pH shift at peak pacing was significantly reduced by the administration of 17beta-estradiol by 0.022 pH units (95% CI, 0.001, 0.043; P<.04) but not by sublingual placebo (-0.002 pH units; 95% CI, -0.0073, 0.0021; P=NS). The maximum pH shift at maximum comparable pacing was also reduced by 17beta-estradiol by 0.015 pH units (95% CI, 0.012, 0.017; P<.001) but not by placebo (-0.0022 pH units; 95% CI, -0.006, 0.0015; P=NS). CONCLUSIONS 17Beta-estradiol reduces the degree of pacing-induced myocardial ischemia in postmenopausal patients with coronary artery disease. The reduction of pacing-induced coronary sinus pH shift is consistent with an anti-ischemic effect of the hormone and is not due to preconditioning, as evidenced by the absence of improvement after placebo.
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Rosano GM, Patrizi R, Leonardo F, Ponikowski P, Collins P, Sarrel PM, Chierchia SL. Effect of estrogen replacement therapy on heart rate variability and heart rate in healthy postmenopausal women. Am J Cardiol 1997; 80:815-7. [PMID: 9315602 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9149(97)00528-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Increased sympathetic drive in symptomatic menopausal women was reduced after estrogen replacement therapy for 4 months, which has a potentially beneficial effect on cardiovascular functions.
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Leonardo F, Fragasso G, Rosano GM, Pagnotta P, Chierchia SL. Effect of atenolol on QT interval and dispersion in patients with syndrome X. Am J Cardiol 1997; 80:789-90. [PMID: 9315593 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9149(97)00519-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Atenolol reduces QT dispersion and corrected QT interval in patients with syndrome X. This suggests that symptomatic improvement induced by atenolol in syndrome X patients may be partly related to reduction in abnormally augmented sympathetic tone.
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Leonardo F, Medeirus C, Rosano GM, Pereira WI, Sheiban I, Gebara O, Bellotti G, Pileggi F, Chierchia SL. Effect of acute administration of estradiol 17 beta on aortic blood flow in menopausal women. Am J Cardiol 1997; 80:791-3. [PMID: 9315594 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9149(97)00520-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Acute administration of estradiol 17beta increases aortic blood flow velocity in menopausal women. This suggests that the effect of the ovarian hormone on cardiac dynamics is mainly dependent on a reduction in peripheral vascular resistances.
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Rosano GM, Rillo M, Leonardo F, Pappone C, Chierchia SL. Palpitations: what is the mechanism, and when should we treat them? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY AND WOMEN'S MEDICINE 1997; 42:94-100. [PMID: 9160219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Palpitation is an unpleasant awareness of an abnormal beating of the heart. This symptom may be brought on by a variety of cardiac disorders, such as cardiomyopathy, valvular heart disease, and coronary artery disease, but the most common cause is primary cardiac arrhythmias. Several noncardiac disorders may also cause palpitations, and in this case are an effect of the disease upon cardiac rhythm. Palpitations occur frequently in women at all ages, especially during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, during pregnancy, and during the perimenopausal period. Palpitations occurring at young age and associated with fast heart rate are frequently due to Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome or other forms of re-entrant tachycardia, and may require catheter ablation. A correlation between ovarian hormones and occurrence of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia has recently been reported in female patients with normal menstrual cycles; palpitations are frequently reported in cases of mitral valve prolapse, whereas episodes of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia reported during pregnancy may be due to mechanical stimuli or to a suggested arrhythmogenic effect of pregnancy. Palpitations during the perimenopausal period are usually benign and seem to be related to the increased sympathetic activity caused by the menopause. Although the vast majority of palpitations are benign and need not be treated, an electrophysiological study is indicated for those patients who have a documented episode of palpitation associated with syncope or with a pulse that is inappropriately rapid during symptoms. The treatment of palpitations due to cardiac arrhythmias is dependent upon the kind of arrhythmia detected during either invasive or noninvasive electrophysiological studies.
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Rosano GM, Peters NS, Lefroy D, Lindsay DC, Sarrel PM, Collins P, Poole-Wilson PA. 17-beta-Estradiol therapy lessens angina in postmenopausal women with syndrome X. J Am Coll Cardiol 1996; 28:1500-5. [PMID: 8917264 DOI: 10.1016/s0735-1097(96)00348-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We sought to investigate the hypothesis that estrogen replacement therapy ameliorates symptoms in postmenopausal women with syndrome X. BACKGROUND Syndrome X (angina pectoris, positive findings on exercise electrocardiography and normal results on coronary angiography) frequently occurs in menopausal women. This observation, in conjunction with the known vasoactive properties of estrogens, suggests that estrogen depletion may contribute to the pathogenesis of syndrome X in some women. METHODS Twenty-five postmenopausal patients with syndrome X completed a double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the effect of 17-beta-estradiol cutaneous patches (100 micrograms/24 h) on the frequency of chest pain and on exercise tolerance. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either placebo or 17-beta-estradiol patches for 8 weeks and were then crossed over to the other treatment. RESULTS During the placebo phase, patients had a mean of 7.3 episodes of chest pain/10 days. A reduction to 3.7 episodes/10 days was observed during the 17-beta-estradiol phase (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the effects of 17-beta-estradiol and placebo on exercise duration or the results of other cardiologic investigations. CONCLUSIONS Estrogen replacement reduces the frequency of chest pain and may be a useful new therapeutic option for treating postmenopausal women with syndrome X.
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