Depression and anxiety in adult congenital heart disease: Predictors and prevalence

Emerging Research Directions in Adult Congenital Heart Disease: A Report From an NHLBI/ACHA Working Group

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect, affecting about 0.8% of live births. Advances in recent decades have allowed >85% of children with CHD to survive to adulthood, creating a growing population of adults with CHD. Little information exists regarding survival, demographics, late outcomes, and comorbidities in this emerging group, and multiple barriers impede research in adult CHD. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and the Adult Congenital Heart Association convened a multidisciplinary working group to identify high-impact research questions in adult CHD. This report summarizes the meeting discussions in the broad areas of CHD-related heart failure, vascular disease, and multisystem complications. High-priority subtopics identified included heart failure in tetralogy of Fallot, mechanical circulatory support/transplantation, sudden cardiac death, vascular outcomes in coarctation of the aorta, late outcomes in single-ventricle disease, cognitive and psychiatric issues, and pregnancy.

Development and persistence of depressive symptoms in adolescents with CHD

Patients with CHD are vulnerable to psychiatric disorders. The present study compared baseline depressive symptoms between adolescents with CHD and community adolescents, and also assessed the development and persistence of depressive symptoms in patients. We examined the implications of persistent depressive symptoms towards quality of life and patient-reported health. In total, 296 adolescents with CHD participated in a four-wave longitudinal study, with 9-month intervals, and completed measures of depressive symptoms - Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) - at time points one to four and of quality of life - linear analogue scale (LAS) - and patient-reported health - LAS and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory - at T (time) 4. Information about diagnosis, disease complexity, and previous heart surgery was collected from medical records. At T1, 278 patients were matched 1:1 with community adolescents, based on sex and age. The findings of this study indicate that patients scored significantly lower on depressive symptoms compared with community adolescents. Depressive symptoms in the total patient sample were stable over time and were unrelated to disease complexity. Based on conventional cut-off scores of the CES-D, substantial individual differences existed in the extent to which depressive symptoms persisted over time: 12.2% of the patients reported elevated depressive symptoms at minimally three out of the four time points. Especially physical functioning, cardiac symptoms, and patient-reported health at T4 were predicted by persistent depressive symptoms, even when controlling for the level of depressive symptoms at T4. Our findings indicate that those involved in the care of adolescents with CHD should remain vigilant to persistent depressive symptoms and arrange timely referral to mental healthcare services.

Prevalence and Correlates of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with adverse outcomes and increased mortality in cardiac patients. No studies have examined PTSD in the adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) population. The objectives of this study were to assess the prevalence of self-reported symptoms of PTSD in patients with ACHD and explore potential associated factors. Patients were enrolled from an outpatient ACHD clinic and completed several validated measures including the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Clinical data were abstracted through medical data review. A total of 134 participants (mean age 34.6 ± 10.6; 46% men) were enrolled. Of the 127 participants who completed the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, 14 (11%) met criteria for elevated PTSD symptoms specifically related to their congenital heart disease or treatment. Of the 134 patients who completed PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version, 27 (21%) met criteria for global PTSD symptoms. In univariate analyses, patients with congenital heart disease-specific PTSD had their most recent cardiac surgery at an earlier year (p = 0.008), were less likely to have attended college (p = 0.04), had higher rates of stroke or transient ischemic attack (p = 0.03), and reported greater depressive symptoms on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (7 vs 2, p <0.001). In multivariable analysis, the 2 factors most strongly associated with PTSD were depressive symptoms (p <0.001) and year of most recent cardiac surgery (p <0.03). In conclusion, PTSD is present in 11% to 21% of subjects seen at a tertiary referral center for ACHD. The high prevalence of PTSD in this complex group of patients has important implications for the medical and psychosocial management of this growing population.

Assessment of Quality of Life in Young Patients with Single Ventricle after the Fontan Operation

OBJECTIVES

To assess self-reported quality of life (QOL) in a large multicenter cohort of adolescent and young adults surviving Fontan.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) was administered to 408 survivors of Fontan ages 13-25 years enrolled in the Pediatric Heart Network Fontan Follow-up Study. Subjects also completed either the Child Health Questionnaire (age <19 years) or Short Form Health Survey (age ≥ 19 years). PedsQL data were compared with matched controls without a chronic health condition. Correlations between the measures were examined.

RESULTS

Mean PedsQL scores for subjects receiving Fontan were significantly lower than those for the control group for physical and psychosocial QOL (P < .001). Overall, 45% of subjects receiving Fontan had scores in the clinically significant impaired range for physical QOL with 30% in the impaired range for psychosocial QOL. For each 1 year increase in age, the physical functioning score decreased by an average of 0.76 points (P = .004) and the emotional functioning score decreased by an average of 0.64 points (P = .03). Among subjects ≥19 years of age, the physical functioning score decreased by an average of 2 points for each year increase in age (P = .02). PedsQL scale scores were significantly correlated with conceptually related Child Health Questionnaire (P < .001) and Short Form Health Survey scores (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Survivors of Fontan are at risk for significantly impaired QOL which may decline with advancing age. Routine assessment of QOL is essential to inform interventions to improve health outcomes. The PedsQL allowed QOL assessment from pediatrics to young adulthood.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00132782.

Predictors of Memory Deficits in Adolescents and Young Adults with Congenital Heart Disease Compared to Healthy Controls

INTRODUCTION

Adolescents and young adults with congenital heart disease (CHD) show a range of memory deficits, which can dramatically impact their clinical outcomes and quality of life. However, few studies have identified predictors of these memory changes. The purpose of this investigation was to identify predictors of memory deficits in adolescents and young adults with CHD after surgical palliation compared to healthy controls.

METHOD

One hundred fifty-six adolescents and young adults (80 CHD and 76 controls; age 14-21 years) were recruited and administered an instrument to assess memory [Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning Second Edition - general memory index (GMI) score] and completed questionnaires that measure anxiety, depression, sleepiness, health status, and self-efficacy. Descriptive and non-parametric statistics were used to assess group differences, and logistic regression to identify predictors of memory deficits.

RESULTS

CHD subjects consisted of 58% males, median age 17 years, 43% Hispanic, and medians of 2 previous heart surgeries and 14 years since last surgery. Memory deficits (GMI ≤ 85) were identified in 50% CHD compared to 4% healthy controls (median GMI 85 vs. 104, p < 0.001). Of GMI subscale medians, CHD subjects had significantly worse memory performance vs. healthy controls (verbal 88 vs. 105, p < 0.001; attention 88 vs. 109, p < 0.001; working memory 86 vs. 108, p < 0.001). No significant differences appeared between groups for visual memory. Multiple clinical and psychosocial factors were identified which were statistically different on bivariate analyses between the subjects with and without memory deficits. By multivariate analysis, male gender, number of surgeries, anxiety, and self-efficacy emerged as independent predictors of memory deficits.

CONCLUSION

Adolescents and young adults with CHD, more than a decade since their last surgery, show significant verbal, attention, and working memory deficits over controls. To enhance patient memory/self-care, clinicians should explore ways to reduce anxiety, improve self-efficacy, and increase use of visual patient education material, especially in CHD males.

The impact of illness perceptions and disease severity on quality of life in congenital heart disease

BACKGROUND

Despite an increasing prevalence of adults living with a CHD, little is known about the psychosocial impact of CHD. We sought to investigate the relative impact of disease severity and patients' perceptions about their condition on depression, anxiety, and quality of life over a period of a year.

METHODS

A total of 110 patients aged over 16 years completed an initial questionnaire containing measures for anxiety, depression, quality of life, and illness perceptions when they attended the Adult Congenital Heart Disease Clinic. Cardiologists rated the patients' disease severity and illness course. A year later, patients were invited to complete the same measures. Regression analyses were performed to determine the relative impact of illness perceptions and disease severity on psychological outcomes a year later.

RESULTS

At baseline, 23% of the study population had depressive symptoms and 30% had elevated trait anxiety. After controlling for associations with disease-related variables, illness perceptions explained 28% of the variance in depression, 40% anxiety, and 27% overall quality of life at baseline. Baseline illness perceptions bivariately predicted quality of life, cardiac anxiety, and depression 1 year later, and regression analyses controlling for other factors showed that they were significant predictors of outcomes 1 year later.

CONCLUSION

Symptoms of depression and anxiety are common among adults with CHD. Patients' illness perceptions are related to psychological outcomes, especially cross-sectionally. Future research could investigate whether an intervention to discuss patients' perceptions about their CHD can improve mental health and quality of life.

Adult Congenital Heart Disease-Coping And REsilience (ACHD-CARE): Rationale and methodology of a pilot randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

One-third of North American adults with congenital heart disease (CHD) have diagnosable mood or anxiety disorders and most do not receive mental health treatment. There are no published interventions targeting the psychosocial needs of patients with CHD of any age. We describe the development of a group psychosocial intervention aimed at improving the psychosocial functioning, quality of life, and resilience of adults with CHD and the design of a study protocol to determine the feasibility of a potential full-scale randomized controlled trial (RCT).

METHODS/DESIGN

Drawing upon our quantitative and qualitative research, we developed the Adult CHD-Coping And REsilience (ACHD-CARE) intervention and designed a feasibility study that included a 2-parallel arm non-blinded pilot RCT. Eligible participants (CHD, age ≥ 18 years, no planned surgery, symptoms suggestive of a mood and/or anxiety disorder) were randomized to the ACHD-CARE intervention or Usual Care (1:1 allocation ratio). The group intervention was delivered during eight 90-minute weekly sessions. Feasibility will be assessed in the following domains: (i) process (e.g. recruitment and retention), (ii) resources, (iii) management, (iv) scientific outcomes, and (v) intervention acceptability.

DISCUSSION

This study underscores the importance of carefully developing and testing the feasibility of psychosocial interventions in medical populations before moving to full-scale clinical trials. At study conclusion, we will be poised to make one of three determinations for a full-scale RCT: (1) feasible, (2) feasible with modifications, or (3) not feasible. This study will guide the future evaluation and provision of psychosocial treatment for adults with CHD.

Cardiac Denial and Psychological Predictors of Cardiac Care Adherence in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease

The current study examined cardiac denial and psychological predictors (i.e., depression, anxiety) of health outcomes including medical nonadherence and physical health in a sample of 80 adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD). Results indicated that denial of impact was elevated in this patient group compared with reference groups, and denial was negatively associated with depression and anxiety at ps < .01. Results indicated that depression, anxiety, and denial predicted unique variance in medical nonadherence, and gender moderated the relationships between these psychological factors and nonadherence. For depression, men and women showed similar relationships between depression and nonadherence at high levels of depression; however, at low levels of depression (i.e., a more normal mood state), men were less adherent compared with women. For anxiety, men and women did not differ in adherence at low levels of anxiety; however, men experiencing high anxiety were less adherent compared with women experiencing high anxiety. Implications of this study are discussed including the role of gender and denial and the impact of denial functioning to reduce negative affect. Depression was the only significant predictor of physical functioning. Results of this study suggest that psychological interventions aimed at depression and anxiety may function differently across gender to improve patient medical adherence and improve physical functioning in ACHD.

Heart Failure in Adult Congenital Heart Disease: Nonpharmacologic Treatment Strategies

In early stages, heart failure (HF) in adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) remains an elusive diagnosis. Many ACHD patients seem well-compensated owing to chronic physical and psychological adaptations. HF biomarkers and cardiopulmonary exercise tests are often markedly abnormal, although patients report stable health and good quality of life. Treatment differs from acquired HF. Evidence for effective drug therapy in ACHD-related HF is lacking. Residual ventricular, valvular, and vascular abnormalities contribute to HF pathophysiology, leading to an emphasis on nonpharmacologic treatment strategies. This article reviews emerging perspectives on nonpharmacologic treatment strategies, including catheter-based interventions, surgical correction, and palliative care.

Transition to Adult Congenital Heart Disease Care: A Review

The population of adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) has grown due to recent advances in surgical procedures. The survival rate to adulthood is now more than 95%. This review identifies current recommendations and status of ACHD management and treatment in the United States by examining comprehensive guidelines for management and transition and comparing them to the current state of the science. Successful transition from pediatric to adult care begins during the adolescent years, and prepares patients for management at an ACHD regional center utilizing multidisciplinary teams of ACHD specialists. Advocacy and research needs for the ACHD population persist.

Depression requiring anti-depressant drug therapy in adult congenital heart disease: prevalence, risk factors, and prognostic value

BACKGROUND

Depression is prevalent in adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD), but limited data on the frequency of anti-depressant drug (ADD) therapy and its impact on outcome are available.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We identified all ACHD patients treated with ADDs between 2000 and 2011 at our centre. Of 6162 patients under follow-up, 204 (3.3%) patients were on ADD therapy. The majority of patients were treated with selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (67.4%), while only 17.0% of patients received tricyclic anti-depressants. Twice as many female patients used ADDs compared with males (4.4 vs. 2.2%, P < 0.0001). The percentage of patients on ADDs increased with disease complexity (P < 0.0001) and patient age (P < 0.0001). Over a median follow-up of 11.1 years, 507 (8.2%) patients died. After propensity score matching, ADD use was found to be significantly associated with worse outcome in male ACHD patients [hazard ratio 1.44 (95% confidence interval 1.17-1.84)]. There was no evidence that this excess mortality was directly related to ADD therapy, QT-prolongation, or malignant arrhythmias. However, males taking ADDs were also more likely to miss scheduled follow-up appointments compared with untreated counterparts, while no such difference in clinic attendance was seen in females.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of ADD therapy in ACHD relates to gender, age, and disease complexity. Although, twice as many female patients were on ADDs, it were their male counterparts, who were at increased mortality risk on therapy. Furthermore, males on ADDs had worse adherence to scheduled appointments suggesting the need for special medical attention and possibly psychosocial intervention for this group of patients.

Clinical Profile and Quality of Life of Adult Patients After the Fontan Procedure

Increasingly, more patients with univentricular heart reach adulthood. Therefore, long-term psychological features are an important concern. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and psychological profile of post-Fontan adult patients and to identify the most significant determinants of quality of life. In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we reviewed the surgical and medical history of post-Fontan adult patients. Patients underwent a 24-h electrocardiogram, echocardiography and exercise testing. Self-report questionnaires were used to assess the Work Ability Index, quality of life (Satisfaction with Life Scale), perceived health status (SF-36 questionnaire), coping strategies (Brief Cope questionnaire) and presence of mood disorders (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). Thirty-nine patients aged between 18 and 48 years (mean 27.5 years) were enrolled. The mean follow-up was 21.5 years. Most patients were unmarried (82.9 %), had a high school diploma (62.9 %) and were employed (62.9 %). Twenty-nine patients (82.3 %) had at least one long-term complication. The median single ventricle ejection fraction was 57 %, and the median maximal oxygen consumption was 26.8 ml/min/kg. This population tended to be anxious and to use adaptive coping strategies. Quality of life was perceived as excellent or good in 57.2 % of cases and was not related to either cardiac function or exercise capacity. Both quality of life and SF-36 domains were related to the Work Ability Index. This cohort of post-Fontan adult patients enjoyed a good quality of life irrespective of disease severity.

From adolescents to adults with congenital heart disease: the role of transition

Improved surgical care during the last decades, together with advances in medical management, led to a remarkable increase in survival of patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). However, aging of the CHD population brings new challenges, and loss of follow-up of adolescents and adults with CHD is a major concern. It is crucial to optimize the transfer of patients with CHD from paediatric to adult health care services to prevent loss to follow-up. The transition process plays a central role in the future health and follow-up of the patient. The aim of this review is to explain and discuss the clinical impact of the transition process in adolescents with CHD. We will also discuss specific CHD adolescents' problems.

CONCLUSION

Adolescence is a crucial phase for the formation of the personality. Understanding and acceptance of the responsibility for health at this stage through a transition process with a multidisciplinary team will determine the quality of future medical follow-up and probably limit psychosocial issues in their adult life.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Aging of the congenital heart disease population brings new challenges to the organisation of care. • Loss of follow-up is a major concern for patients with congenital heart disease. What is new: • The quality of a formal transition process during adolescence will determine future outcomes in patients with congenital heart disease.

Associations among Depression Symptoms with Alcohol and Smoking Tobacco Use in Adult Patients with Congenital Heart Disease

BACKGROUND

Adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) patients have high rates of untreated depression and anxiety disorders. We evaluated associations among self-reported depression symptoms and alcohol/smoking tobacco use.

METHODS

From 2009 to 2013, 202 ACHD patients (45% male) completed questionnaires on depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and substance use as part of routine clinical care. Data were collected by retrospective chart review.

RESULTS

Mean age was 31 ± 10 years, 21% reported often feeling depressed and 33% reported feeling nervous or anxious. Sixty-one percent of patients reported some alcohol intake; 25% reported current or previous smoking tobacco use. Patients with depressive symptoms were 3× as likely to report drinking alcohol (OR 2.89; 95% CI 1.29-6.5) and 5× more likely to report smoking tobacco use (OR 5.17; 95% CI 1.49-17.87). Fourteen percent of patients were prescribed antidepressant/antianxiety medications; 43% of patients on medication reported depressive symptoms. In patients reporting symptoms, those who consumed alcohol were less likely to be on antidepressant/antianxiety medications (21%) than those who did not consume alcohol (56%).

CONCLUSION

Self-reported depressive symptoms are associated with increased alcohol and smoking tobacco use by ACHD patients. Alcohol use may be a means of self-medicating for untreated depression, but further investigation is needed. Risk factors, including depressive symptoms and substance use, should be routinely assessed and addressed in ACHD patients.

Style of coping and its determinants in adults with congenital heart disease in a developing country

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to compare coping strategies between adults with and without congenital heart disease and to scrutinize the associations between different available resources (e.g., social support) and adoption of certain coping strategies.

DESIGN

The study has a cross-sectional case-control design.

SETTING

The study was conducted in two university-affiliated heart hospitals in Tehran, Iran.

PATIENTS

The participants comprised 347 persons (18-64 years) with and 353 individuals without congenital heart disease, matched by gender and age.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Coping strategies, assessed with the Utrecht Coping List-short form, were compared between both groups. Block-wise multiple regression analyses were conducted to scrutinize the associations between different independent variables (e.g., demographic/socioeconomic statuses) and adoption of certain styles of coping (dependent variables) among all participants and separately for each group.

RESULTS

The styles of coping in the patients were comparable with those of the control group. Multivariate analyses revealed that congenital heart disease per se was not associated with style of coping except for palliative reaction pattern. The active problem-solving coping style was associated with never married marital status, parenthood, unemployment, higher level of anxiety/somatic symptoms, lower level of depressive symptoms, and better social support. The avoidance behavior style was associated with having a low income, whereas the expression of emotion style was associated with higher anxiety symptoms, experience of financial strain, and income. None of the adopted coping strategies was related to the heart disease variables.

CONCLUSIONS

The adults with congenital heart disease coped as well as adults without congenital heart disease. Marital status, parenthood, annual income, financial strain, psychological adjustment, and perceived social support were important explanatory factors in adopting a certain style of coping among adults with congenital heart disease. However, longitudinal studies with repeated measures are warranted.

A retrospective study of judicial encounters of young adults with congenital heart disease

Young people with congenital heart disease are often marginalised and may compensate for restricted physical and social abilities by substance abuse or risk-taking behaviour. We report on the judicial encounters of patients in an Adult Congenital Heart unit. Fifteen patients had court appearances and all were male. Seven served jail sentences, including four indigenous adolescents. All had multiple interventions for their cardiac conditions and four are now deceased. The majority of patients had mental health issues and substance misuse. These patients need psychological and medical support, and help with judicial authorities. Recommendations for ongoing care are provided.

Advances in the Care of Adults With Congenital Heart Disease

The significant decline in mortality among children and adolescents with congenital heart disease (CHD) is associated with an increasing prevalence of CHD in adults, particularly those with moderate to severe defects. As a significant percentage of adolescents and young adults are lost to follow-up in the transition from pediatric to adult care, they may present for elective procedures with substantial CHD-associated morbidity. In addition to the specific cardiac defect, the procedures performed, and the current pathophysiological status, several factors should be considered when managing the adult with CHD. These include the type of setting (adult vs pediatric institution); surgeon (pediatric vs adult cardiac surgeon); coexisting diseases associated with CHD, such as coronary artery disease, hepatic dysfunction, renal dysfunction, cerebrovascular accidents, myopathy, and coagulation disorders; acquired diseases of aging; pregnancy; and psychosocial functioning. The current status of the management of common and important congenital cardiac defects is also described.

Assessment of Patterns of Patient-Reported Outcomes in Adults with Congenital Heart disease - International Study (APPROACH-IS): rationale, design, and methods

BACKGROUND

Data on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in adults with congenital heart disease (CHD) are inconsistent and vary across the world. Better understanding of PROs and their differences across cultural and geographic barriers can best be accomplished via international studies using uniform research methods. The APPROACH-IS consortium (Assessment of Patterns of Patient-Reported Outcomes in Adults with Congenital Heart disease - International Study) was created for this purpose and investigates PROs in adults with CHD worldwide. This paper outlines the project rationale, design, and methods.

METHODS/DESIGN

APPROACH-IS is a cross-sectional study. The goal is to recruit 3500-4000 adults with CHD from 15 countries in five major regions of the world (Asia, Australia, Europe, North and South America). Self-report questionnaires are administered to capture information on PRO domains: (i) perceived health status (12-item Short-form Health Survey & EuroQOL-5D); (ii) psychological functioning (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale); (iii) health behaviors (Health-Behavior Scale-Congenital Heart Disease); and (iv) quality of life (Linear Analog Scale & Satisfaction With Life Scale). Additionally, potential explanatory variables are assessed: (i) socio-demographic variables; (ii) medical history (chart review); (iii) sense of coherence (Orientation to Life Questionnaire); and (iv) illness perceptions (Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire). Descriptive analyses and multilevel models will examine differences in PROs and investigate potential explanatory variables.

DISCUSSION

APPROACH-IS represents a global effort to increase research understanding and capacity in the field of CHD, and will have major implications for patient care. Results will generate valuable information for developing interventions to optimize patients' health and well-being.

REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02150603.

Living with CHD: quality of life (QOL) in early adult life

AIMS

The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life, psychiatric morbidity, and the psychosocial adjustment of adolescents and young adults with CHD, and determine which variables play a role in buffering stress and promoting resilience and which ones have a detrimental effect; and to investigate the situation on school performance and failures, social and family support, physical limitations, and body image of these patients.

METHODS

The study enrolled 137 CHD patients (79 male), with age ranging from 12 to 26 years old (M=17.60±3.450 years). The patients were interviewed regarding social support, family educational style, self-image, demographic information, and physical limitations. They responded to questions in a standardised psychiatric interview (SADS-L) and completed self-reported questionnaires for the assessment of quality of life (WHOQOL-BREF) and psychosocial adjustment (YSR/ASR).

RESULTS

We found a 19.7% lifetime prevalence of psychopathology in our patients (27.6% in female and 13.9% in male). Of them, 48% had retentions in school (M=1.61 year±0.82). The perception of quality of life in CHD patients is better compared with the Portuguese population in the social relationships and environmental dimensions. However, it is worse in complex forms of CHD than in moderate-to-mild ones, in cyanotic versus acyanotic patients, in moderate-to-severe versus mild residual lesions, in patients submitted versus those not submitted to surgery, in patients with versus without physical limitations, and patients who have need for medication versus those who do not. Social support is very important in improving quality of life of patients in all dimensions as well as academic performance.

CONCLUSIONS

Female patients and patients with poor academic performance and poor social support have worse psychosocial adjustment and perception of quality of life.

Long-term psychosocial outcome of adults with tetralogy of Fallot and transposition of the great arteries: a historical comparison

OBJECTIVE

To make a historical comparison on the long-term psychosocial outcome of cardiothoracic surgery during childhood.

METHODS

Adult patients operated for tetralogy of Fallot or transposition of the great arteries between 1980 and 1990 (recent sample) were compared with patients who underwent surgery and were investigated 10 years earlier (historical sample). In addition, atrial switch and arterial switch patients within the recent sample were compared. Psychosocial functioning was measured using standardised, validated psychological questionnaires.

RESULTS

Although the recent sample of patients overall shows a favourable quality of life, impairments were found in income, living conditions, relationships, offspring, and occupational level. Compared with the historical sample, the recent sample showed no significant improvements on psychosocial functioning, except for a better educational level. The amount of educational problems, such as learning difficulties, was still high compared with normative data. Recently operated patients with transposition of the great arteries (arterial switch) scored significantly better on the Short Form-36 vitality scale (p = 0.02) compared with historical patients with transposition of the great arteries (atrial switch).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite improvements in medical treatment over the past few decades, hardly any change was found in the psychosocial outcome of the recent patient sample compared with the historical patient sample. In particular, the percentage of patients needing special education and showing learning problems remained high, whereas income was low compared with normative data.

Psychosocial adjustment and quality of life of adolescents and adults with congenital heart disease

The incidence of people living with congenital heart disease (CHD) has been increasing every year owing to remarkable advances in surgical and catheter intervention techniques and devices, and improved knowledge of critical care for patients with CHD. However, these patients continue to face physical, psychosocial, and environmental challenges, and a number of studies have shown higher rates of depression and anxiety disorders than the general population. To improve psychosocial functioning and quality of life for adults with CHD, health care providers are recommended to inform CHD patients of an accurate diagnosis, and overall treatment process, beginning in adolescence to facilitate a smooth transition from adolescence to adulthood. Active cooperation with psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, chaplains, and family members is highly recommended to help CHD patients feel normal and optimistic and to promote good social interactions, close family relationships, and a strong sense of coherence.

The impact of actual and perceived disease severity on pre-operative psychological well-being and illness behaviour in adult congenital heart disease patients

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the objective medical parameters related to congenital heart disease and patients' ratings of cardiac disease severity were related to psychological well-being and illness behaviour during the pre-operative period.

METHODS

A total of 143 patients (63 male patients; 16-73 years old) with congenital heart disease evaluated the severity of their cardiac condition using a numerical rating scale ranging from 0, indicating the least severe condition, to 100, indicating the most severe condition. Psychological well-being was assessed using the Psychological General Well-Being Index (total score ≤ 60 indicating severe distress) and illness behaviour using the Illness Behavior Questionnaire.

RESULTS

Pre-operative psychological well-being was not related to the objective medical parameters reflecting cardiac disease severity. In contrast, total psychological well-being scores correlated significantly with patients' subjective ratings of disease severity (p < 0.001). When compared with the reference values from the Italian population, the mean scores of the patients on psychological well-being were similar. As regards the Illness Behavior Questionnaire, the scores on denial were higher and those on hypochondria were lower compared with other hospitalised patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that the perception of cardiac disease severity, and not the medical parameters in congenital heart disease, is related to the patients' pre-operative psychological state. Thus, more importance needs to be given to assessing the patients' pre-operative perception and psychological state independently of cardiac severity. Targeted interventions with regard to the cardiac condition are recommended.

Contribution of congenital heart disease to neuropsychiatric outcome in school-age children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome

Children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) present with congenital heart disease (CHD) and high prevalence of psychiatric disorders and neurocognitive deficits. Although CHD has been implicated in neurodevelopment, its role in the neuropsychiatric outcome in 22q11DS is poorly understood. We investigated whether CHD contributes to the high prevalence of psychiatric disorders and neurocognitive impairments in 22q11DS. Fifty-four children ages 8-14 years with 22q11DS and 16 age-matched non-deleted children with CHD participated. They were assessed using semi-structured interviews and a Computerized Neurocognitive Battery. CHD status was assessed using available medical records. Prevalence of psychiatric disorders and cognitive profiles were compared among the groups. There were no significant differences between the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in the 22q11DS with and without CHD. In 22q11DS with CHD, the prevalence rates were 41% anxiety disorders, 37% ADHD and 71% psychosis spectrum. In 22q11DS without CHD, the rates were 33% anxiety disorders, 41% ADHD and 64% psychosis spectrum. In comparison, the non-deleted CHD group had lower rates of psychopathology (25% anxiety disorders, 6% ADHD, and 13% psychosis spectrum). Similarly, the 22q11DS groups, regardless of CHD status, had significantly greater neurocognitive deficits across multiple domains, compared to the CHD-only group. We conclude that CHD in this sample of children with 22q11.2DS does not have a major impact on the prevalence of psychiatric disorders and is not associated with increased neurocognitive deficits. These findings suggest that the 22q11.2 deletion status itself may confer significant neuropsychiatric vulnerability in this population.

Caring for a teen with congenital heart disease

Adolescents with congenital heart disease (CHD) are a rapidly growing population with complex medical needs and psychosocial challenges. Identity formation is an important developmental task accomplished during the teenage years. This article reviews different aspects of ongoing care that pertain to teenagers with CHD, with a particular focus on primary care issues and a summary of recommendations from various scientific societies. A successful smooth transition to the adult health care setting should achieve 2 important goals: to prevent loss of follow-up and to foster and encourage self-care behaviors.

Psychological interventions for depression in adolescent and adult congenital heart disease

BACKGROUND

Adult and adolescent congenital heart disease is increasing in prevalence as better medical care means more children are surviving to adulthood. People with chronic disease often also experience depression. There are several non-pharmacological treatments that might be effective in treating depression and improving quality of life for adults and young adults with congenital heart disease. The aim of this review was to assess the effects of treatments such as psychotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapies and talking therapies for treating depression in this population.

OBJECTIVES

To update the previous review on the effects (both harms and benefits) of psychological interventions for treating depression in young adults and adults with congenital heart disease. Psychological interventions include cognitive behavioural therapy, psychotherapy, or 'talking/counselling' therapy for depression.

SEARCH METHODS

We updated the searches of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) on The Cochrane Library (Issue 1, 2013), MEDLINE (OVID, 1946 to January week 4 2013), EMBASE (OVID, 1980 to 2013 week 05), PsycINFO (OVID, 1806 to January week 5 2013), the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effectiveness (DARE) on The Cochrane Library (Issue 1, 2013), BIOSIS (Thomson Reuters, 1969 to 21 February 2013), and CINAHL (January 1980 to February 2013) on 5 February 2013. We did not search abstracts from national and international cardiology and psychology conferences and dissertation abstracts for this update. No language restrictions were applied.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials comparing psychological interventions with no intervention for people over 15 years with depression who have congenital heart disease.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened titles and abstracts of studies that were potentially relevant to the review. We rejected studies that were clearly ineligible. Two review authors independently assessed the abstracts or full papers for inclusion criteria. We sought further information from the authors where papers contained insufficient information to make a decision about eligibility.

MAIN RESULTS

We did not identify any randomised controlled trials that met the inclusion criteria.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Depression is common in people with congenital heart disease and can exacerbate the physical consequences of the illness. There are effective pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for depression, but we have not been able to identify any trials showing the effectiveness of non-pharmacological treatments. A well-designed randomised controlled trial is needed to assess the effects of psychological interventions for depression in congenital heart disease.

The mental health and quality of life of adult patients with congenital heart disease

BACKGROUND

The quality of life (QoL) of adults with congenital heart disease (CHD) has gained significant interest. In addition to medical problems, many patients with CHD face psychosocial, educational, and behavioral challenges. However, few studies have examined the relationship between disease severity and QoL in adults with CHD.

METHODS

Eighty-five patients (50 men, 35 women) aged 20-52 years (median, 26.5 years) were enrolled. Patients underwent a QoL, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) survey. The scores were compared with those of age- and gender-matched population data according to the degree of underlying CHD. Disease severity was classified in relation to initial diagnosis, illness course, and current functional status (New York Heart Association [NYHA] class, ability index, CHD functional index, ventricular ejection fraction, and peak VO2).

RESULTS

There was no significant correlation between disease severity and current functional status assessed by BDI and BAI. Patients who stated that they were religious had better scores for resilience (p=0.031), physical QoL (p=0.008), and environmental QoL (p=0.025). Environmental QoL scores were higher in patients who fully understood their disease (p=0.004). Current NYHA functional class was associated with scores for psychological resilience.

CONCLUSIONS

CHD severity had a detrimental impact on resilience only when measured in terms of poor functional status. The initial diagnosis and course of the illness influence QoL and perceived health. Good psychosocial adaptation could be the result of close family relationships and involvement, making mental adjustment easier.

Trajectories of loneliness in adolescents with congenital heart disease: associations with depressive symptoms and perceived health

PURPOSE

Acquiring close peer relationships is an important developmental task in adolescence. This task may be particularly demanding for adolescents with congenital heart disease (CHD), who face disease-specific challenges putting them at risk for social isolation and loneliness. This study compared cross-sectional levels of loneliness in adolescents with and without CHD; examined the longitudinal course of loneliness and identified different developmental trajectory classes in adolescents with CHD; and investigated to what extent these trajectory classes are accompanied by differences in depressive symptoms and perceived health.

METHODS

A total of 429 adolescents with simple to complex CHD participated in the present longitudinal study consisting of three measurement waves with 9-month intervals (M(age) = 15.75 years at T1; 53.4% boys). The control sample at time 1 (T1) consisted of 403 adolescents who were matched in terms of age and sex.

RESULTS

Patients and controls did not differ in loneliness levels at T1. In adolescents with CHD, latent class growth analysis identified five trajectory classes (i.e., chronically high, high decreasing, moderate stable, low increasing, and stable low), which were meaningfully distinguished on depressive symptoms and several domains of perceived health. In general, adolescents in the chronically high loneliness trajectory reported the most depressive symptoms and the poorest perceived health, whereas adolescents in the low stable trajectory reported the opposite pattern.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings demonstrate that chronic feelings of loneliness are associated with worsened perceived health in adolescents with CHD. Intervention programs targeting patients' adjustment should be sensitive to the presence of such feelings.

Shall we treat congenital heart lesions, their suffering patients or also their families, and surrounding societal ambience?

Results with the treatment of congenital heart defects (CHD) have improved markedly. However these patients, in their teens and adulthood ages, suffer from psychological dysfunctions of different natures, even psychiatric diseases, that must by thought and be properly managed. Not only these dysfunctions are related to clinical history profiles, but they are clearly related to social support, with impacts on the way quality of life (QOL) is perceived. This new vision creates a window of opportunities to act, now, on the aspect of their social modelling and psychological support, to improve QOL and psychological adaptation for these patients, already living longer, in order to make them living better.

Long term psychosocial outcomes of congenital heart disease (CHD) in adolescents and young adults

BACKGROUND

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a chronic illness with a high frequency in the worldwide population, and is normally diagnosed at birth or in uterus. Because of better conditions in diagnosis and early medical and surgical treatment, patients have survival rates of 90% and go further and further in life, facing different challenges in life cycle. In this study, we tested the effects of different demographic, clinical and psychosocial variables on the perception of quality of life (QOL), on psychosocial adjustment (PSA) and psychiatric morbidity (PM) of adolescents and young adults with CHD.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to evaluate QOL, PM and PSA of adolescents and young adults with CHD and to determine which variables (demographic, clinical, and psychosocial) play a role in buffering stress and promoting resilience and which ones have a detrimental effect.

METHODS

The study enrolled 150 CHD patients (87 males and 63 females), 12 to 26 years (M: 17.45±3.373 years). The participants were interviewed regarding social support, family educational style, self-image, demographic information and physical limitations. They responded to questions in a standardized psychiatric interview (SADS-L) and completed self-reports questionnaires for assessment of QOL (WHOQOL-BREF) and PSA (YSR/ASR).

RESULTS

We found an 18.7% lifetime prevalence of psychopathology in our participants (25.4% in females and 13.8% in males). 57.1% had retentions in school (M: 1.53±0.804 year). The perception of QOL of CHD patients is better compared to the Portuguese population in the Social Relationships, Environmental, Physical and General Dimensions. However, it is worse in complex forms of CHD, in cyanotic patients, in moderate-to-severe residual lesions, in patients submitted to surgery and in patients with physical limitations. All of these variables, except presence of cyanosis, are also associated to a worse PSA. Social Support is very important in improving QOL of patients in all dimensions as well as academic performance.

CONCLUSIONS

Female patients and patients with poor academic performance and poor social support refer worse PSA and QOL.

Extracardiac complications in adults with congenital heart disease

With the increasing number of adults living with repaired, or unrepaired, congenital heart disease, there is a growing incidence of extracardiac comorbidities. These comorbidities can affect various organ systems in complex ways, and may have a significant impact on a patient's quality of life and survival. Many of these potential complications may go undiagnosed until there is already a significant bearing on the patient's life. Therefore, it is important for physicians who care for the adult congenital patient to be mindful of these potential extracardiac complications, and actively assess for these complications in their adult congenital practice. Continued research to identify modifiable risk factors is needed so that both preventative and therapeutic management options for these extracardiac complications may be developed.