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Bogdan C, Apostol A, Ivan VM, Sandu OE, Petre I, Petre I, Marc LE, Maralescu FM, Lighezan DF. Autonomic Dysfunction and Cardiac Performance in Pregnant Women with Hypertensive Disorders: A Comparative Study Using Heart Rate Variability and Global Longitudinal Strain. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:1039. [PMID: 39202781 PMCID: PMC11355154 DOI: 10.3390/life14081039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Pregnancy induces significant physiological adaptations with substantial impacts on the cardiovascular system. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs) are connected to significant risks of maternal and fetal complications, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality across the globe. This study focuses on evaluating autonomic dysfunction by analyzing heart rate variability (HRV) and assessing cardiac performance through global longitudinal strain (GLS) using speckle tracking echocardiography, as well as examining diastolic function in pregnant women with HDP compared to healthy pregnant controls. (2) Methods: A case-control study was conducted involving pregnant women diagnosed with gestational hypertension (GH), preeclampsia (PE), or severe preeclampsia (SPE) as the case group, and healthy pregnant women as the control group. HRV was measured to evaluate autonomic function, GLS was assessed using speckle tracking echocardiography, and diastolic function was evaluated through standard echocardiographic parameters. Data were analyzed to compare cardiac performance and autonomic regulation between the HDP and control group, as well as among the different HDP subgroups. (3) Results: The HDP group exhibited significantly reduced HRV parameters compared to healthy controls, indicating notable autonomic dysfunction. Speckle tracking echocardiography revealed lower GLS among women with HDP, particularly in those with SPE, compared to the control group. Diastolic dysfunction was also present in the HDP group. (4) Conclusions: HRV and GLS are valuable non-invasive tools for detecting autonomic dysfunction and cardiac performance impairments in pregnant women with hypertensive disorders. These findings suggest that autonomic and cardiac dysfunctions are prevalent in HDP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Bogdan
- Department VII, Internal Medicine II, Discipline of Cardiology, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania; (C.B.); (V.M.I.); (O.E.S.)
| | - Adrian Apostol
- Department VII, Internal Medicine II, Discipline of Cardiology, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania; (C.B.); (V.M.I.); (O.E.S.)
| | - Viviana Mihaela Ivan
- Department VII, Internal Medicine II, Discipline of Cardiology, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania; (C.B.); (V.M.I.); (O.E.S.)
- Centre for Molecular Research in Nephrology and Vascular Disease, Faculty of Medicine “Victor Babeş”, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (L.-E.M.); (F.-M.M.)
| | - Oana Elena Sandu
- Department VII, Internal Medicine II, Discipline of Cardiology, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania; (C.B.); (V.M.I.); (O.E.S.)
| | - Ion Petre
- Department of Functional Sciences, Medical Informatics and Biostatistics Discipline, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania;
| | - Izabella Petre
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Luciana-Elena Marc
- Centre for Molecular Research in Nephrology and Vascular Disease, Faculty of Medicine “Victor Babeş”, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (L.-E.M.); (F.-M.M.)
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Discipline of Nephrology, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Felix-Mihai Maralescu
- Centre for Molecular Research in Nephrology and Vascular Disease, Faculty of Medicine “Victor Babeş”, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (L.-E.M.); (F.-M.M.)
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Discipline of Nephrology, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Daniel Florin Lighezan
- Center of Advanced Research in Cardiology and Hemostaseology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babes” Timisoara, E. Murgu Square, Nr. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
- Department V, Internal Medicine I, Discipline of Medical Semiology I, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
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Reilly KM, Watson C, Ruddock M, Watt J, Kurth MJ, Fitzgerald P, Breathnach F, Mone F. Feto-maternal indicators of cardiac dysfunction as a justification for the cardiac origins for pre-eclampsia. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38972011 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
While the pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia has been postulated as being secondary to placental dysfunction, a cardiac origin has more recently been proposed. Although an association between fetal congenital cardiovascular disease and pre-eclampsia has been demonstrated, no precise pathophysiologic mechanism for this association has been described. This review highlights the current biophysical (including echocardiography and Doppler indices) and biochemical (including proteomic, metabolomic and genetic/transcriptomic) markers of cardiac dysfunction that have been investigated in maternal and fetal cardiac disease and their overlap with predictors of pre-eclampsia. Common pathways of inflammatory and anti-angiogenesis imbalance, endothelial damage, and oxidative stress have been demonstrated in both cardiovascular disease and pre-eclampsia and further investigation into these pathways could help to elucidate the common pathophysiologic mechanisms linking these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly M Reilly
- Center for Public Health, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Chris Watson
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Fionnuala Mone
- Center for Public Health, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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3
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Makowska A, Treumann T, Venturini S, Christ M. Pulmonary Embolism in Pregnancy: A Review for Clinical Practitioners. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2863. [PMID: 38792409 PMCID: PMC11121909 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Diagnostic and therapeutic decision-making in pregnancy with suspected pulmonary embolism (PE) is challenging. European and other international professional societies have proposed various recommendations that are ambiguous, probably due to the unavailability of randomized controlled trials. In the following sections, we discuss the supporting diagnostic steps and treatments. We suggest a standardized diagnostic work-up in pregnant patients presenting with symptoms of PE to make evidence-based diagnostic and therapeutic decisions. We strongly recommend that clinical decisions on treatment in pregnant patients with intermediate- or high-risk pulmonary embolism should include a multidisciplinary team approach involving emergency physicians, pulmonologists, angiologist, cardiologists, thoracic and/or cardiovascular surgeons, radiologists, and obstetricians to choose a tailored management option including an interventional treatment. It is important to be aware of the differences among guidelines and to assess each case individually, considering the specific views of the different specialties. This review summarizes key concepts of the diagnostics and acute management of pregnant women with suspected PE that are supportive for the clinician on duty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Makowska
- Emergency Department, Cantonal Hospital Lucerne, 6000 Lucerne, Switzerland; (S.V.); (M.C.)
- Cardiology, Hospital Centre of Biel, 2501 Biel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Treumann
- Radiology, Cantonal Hospital Lucerne, 6000 Lucerne, Switzerland;
| | - Stefan Venturini
- Emergency Department, Cantonal Hospital Lucerne, 6000 Lucerne, Switzerland; (S.V.); (M.C.)
| | - Michael Christ
- Emergency Department, Cantonal Hospital Lucerne, 6000 Lucerne, Switzerland; (S.V.); (M.C.)
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Conti E, Cascio ND, Paluan P, Racca G, Longhitano Y, Savioli G, Tesauro M, Leo R, Racca F, Zanza C. Pregnancy Arrhythmias: Management in the Emergency Department and Critical Care. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1095. [PMID: 38398407 PMCID: PMC10888682 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13041095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is closely associated with an elevated risk of arrhythmias, constituting the predominant cardiovascular complication during this period. Pregnancy may induce the exacerbation of previously controlled arrhythmias and, in some instances, arrhythmias may present for the first time in pregnancy. The most important proarrhythmic mechanisms during pregnancy are the atrial and ventricular stretching, coupled with increased sympathetic activity. Notably, arrhythmias, particularly those originating in the ventricles, heighten the likelihood of syncope, increasing the potential for sudden cardiac death. The effective management of arrhythmias during the peripartum period requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach from the prepartum to the postpartum period. The administration of antiarrhythmic drugs during pregnancy necessitates meticulous attention to potential alterations in pharmacokinetics attributable to maternal physiological changes, as well as the potential for fetal adverse effects. Electric cardioversion is a safe and effective intervention during pregnancy and should be performed immediately in patients with hemodynamic instability. This review discusses the pathophysiology of arrythmias in pregnancy and their management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Conti
- Division of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Ordine Mauriziano, 10128 Turin, Italy; (E.C.); (N.D.C.); (P.P.); (F.R.)
| | - Nunzio Dario Cascio
- Division of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Ordine Mauriziano, 10128 Turin, Italy; (E.C.); (N.D.C.); (P.P.); (F.R.)
| | - Patrizia Paluan
- Division of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Ordine Mauriziano, 10128 Turin, Italy; (E.C.); (N.D.C.); (P.P.); (F.R.)
| | - Giulia Racca
- Division of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Ordine Mauriziano, 10128 Turin, Italy; (E.C.); (N.D.C.); (P.P.); (F.R.)
| | - Yaroslava Longhitano
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine—Emergency Medicine Residency Program, Humanitas University-Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
| | - Gabriele Savioli
- Emergency Medicine and Surgery, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Manfredi Tesauro
- Geriatric Medicine Residency Program, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Leo
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Racca
- Division of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Ordine Mauriziano, 10128 Turin, Italy; (E.C.); (N.D.C.); (P.P.); (F.R.)
| | - Christian Zanza
- Geriatric Medicine Residency Program, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Albakri AA, Alzahrani MM, Alghamdi SH. Medical Imaging in Pregnancy: Safety, Appropriate Utilization, and Alternative Modalities for Imaging Pregnant Patients. Cureus 2024; 16:e54346. [PMID: 38500900 PMCID: PMC10945608 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
This article reviews the existing literature on diagnostic and medical imaging of pregnant women, the risks and safety measures of different medical imaging modalities, and alternative modalities for imaging pregnant patients. Different medical imaging modalities such as MRI, CT scan, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, and X-ray imaging help to evaluate women with recognized or unrecognized pregnancies and identify any underlying complications among pregnant patients. Fetuses are more sensitive to radiation and the effects of medical imaging as compared to adults since they have a rapidly developing cell system. During cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation, fetuses suffer greatly from imaging radiation since they are developing under a dynamic system. To ensure safety, pregnant women should discuss the benefits and risks of medical imaging with their physicians. In addition, radiologists should not perform any medical imaging procedure without the patient's consent, unless the patient cannot make any sound decision. Fetal risks of medical imaging include slow growth and development of the fetus, abortion, malformations, impaired brain function, abnormal childhood growth, and neurological development. Diagnostic imaging procedures are necessary when a condition that needs medical evaluation arises during pregnancy such as appendicitis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Saeed H Alghamdi
- Interventional Radiology, King Fahad General Hospital, Al Baha, SAU
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Peterson AN, Hickerson LC, Pschirrer ER, Friend LB, Taub CC. Management of Friedreich Ataxia-Associated Cardiomyopathy in Pregnancy: A Review of the Literature. Am J Cardiol 2024; 210:118-129. [PMID: 37838071 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2023.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
A major manifestation of Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is cardiomyopathy, caused by mitochondrial proliferation in myocytes. Because the lifespan for patients with FRDA improves with better treatment modalities, more patients are becoming pregnant, meaning that more medical providers must know how to care for this population. This report provides a review of the literature on multidisciplinary management of pregnant patients with FRDA and cardiomyopathy from preconception through lactation. A cardio-obstetrics team, including cardiology, anesthesiology, and obstetrics, should be involved for this entire period. All patients should be counseled on pregnancy risk using elements of existing stratification systems, and contraception should be discussed, highlighting the safety of intrauterine devices. Electrocardiogram should be obtained at baseline and each trimester, looking for atrial arrhythmias and ST-segment changes, as should transthoracic echocardiogram, with a focus on left ventricular ejection fraction-which is typically normal in FRDA cardiomyopathy-and relative wall thickness and global longitudinal strain-which tend to decrease as cardiomyopathy progresses. Brain natriuretic peptide is also a helpful marker to detect adverse events. If heart failure develops, it should be treated like any other etiology of heart failure during pregnancy. Atrial arrhythmias should be treated with β blockers or electrical cardioversion and anticoagulation, as necessary. Most patients with FRDA can deliver vaginally, and neuraxial analgesia is recommended during labor because of the risks associated with general anesthesia. Breastfeeding is encouraged, even for those taking cardiac medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashleigh N Peterson
- Department of Medicine, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Leigh C Hickerson
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - E Rebecca Pschirrer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Lynsy B Friend
- Heart and Vascular Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Cynthia C Taub
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York.
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Ali Al-Allak HM, Noaman Al-Aboodi AH. A Four-Dimensional Volumetric Quantification of the Left Ventricle in Healthy Pregnant Women in the Third Trimester. Cureus 2023; 15:e46342. [PMID: 37920612 PMCID: PMC10618626 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.46342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hemodynamic load and heart structural remodeling rise during pregnancy because these changes are physiologically necessary. Adaptations in the mother's circulatory system may either initiate or aggravate the development of cardiovascular disease in the offspring. If the body is unable to adjust to these changes, it may develop heart conditions like cardiomyopathy. There is a lack of third-trimester echocardiographic data on left ventricular (LV) volume and function in healthy Iraqi women. To understand the cardiac alterations that occur during normal pregnancy, a precise tool that evaluates cardiac function is needed. In that regard, the four-dimensional echocardiography (4DE) technique has markedly improved the quality and accuracy of assessing the size and function of the left ventricle. AIM The present study aimed to assess LV volume and function in the third trimester of a healthy pregnancy using 4DE and to compare the results of LV assessment using 4DE with those of LV assessment using conventional two-dimensional (2D) echocardiography. METHODS The study was conducted on 75 healthy pregnant women (the case group) and 75 non-pregnant women (the control group). The participants attended Al-Fortat Teaching Hospital from April 1, 2022, to May 30, 2023, and had 2D and 4D echocardiographic studies performed on them. RESULTS The LV end-diastolic volume (EDV), end-systolic volume (ESV), and cardiac output (CO) were significantly increased in the case group compared to the control group (90.87 ± 18.03 ml vs. 62.64 ± 14.11 ml, P<0.001; 35.59 ± 6.52 ml vs. 22.42 ± 5.82 ml, P<0.001; and 4.87 ± 1.27 vs. 3.35 ± 0.87 L/m, P<0.001, respectively). In contrast, the LV ejection fraction (LVEF) was significantly decreased in the pregnant group compared to the control group (60.37 ± 5.42 % vs. 64.04 ± 4.99 %, P<0.01). Additionally, the study showed significant differences in EDV, ESV, ejection fraction (EF%), and CO (P<0.001) between 2D and 4D echocardiography, according to the Bland Altman test. CONCLUSION In healthy pregnant women in their third trimester, there is an increase in the indicators of preload (ventricular volume and CO) and a decrease in EF%. The 4DE provides detailed images and information about cardiac volumes and function, allowing for the early detection of any potential problems that may arise during pregnancy and thus improving the health outcomes of both the mother and the developing fetus.
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Pryor K, Tarter L, Economy K, Honigberg MC, Valente AM, Garshick M, Weber B. Pericarditis Management in Individuals Contemplating Pregnancy, Currently Pregnant, or Breastfeeding. Curr Cardiol Rep 2023; 25:1103-1111. [PMID: 37632607 PMCID: PMC10872603 DOI: 10.1007/s11886-023-01930-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Pericarditis complicates pregnancy planning, pregnancy, or the postpartum period, and the management approach requires special considerations. Here, we aim to summarize the latest research, diagnostic, and treatment strategies. RECENT FINDINGS Physiologic cardiovascular (CV) adaptations occurring during pregnancy complicate diagnosis, but for most patients, an electrocardiogram (ECG) and transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) are sufficient to diagnosis pericarditis in the appropriate clinical context. Aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used until 20 weeks gestation as needed. The use of colchicine is encouraged at any time point to reduce the risk of recurrence. Glucocorticoids may be used at the lowest possible dose for the least amount of time throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. For incessant, recurrent, or refractory pericarditis, or when the above therapies are contraindicated, there may be a consideration of the use of IL-1 inhibition during pregnancy, recognizing the limited data in pregnant patients. Finally, we encourage the use of a multidisciplinary team approach including OB-GYN, cardiology, and rheumatology when available. The diagnosis and treatment of pericarditis in female patients of reproductive age require special considerations. Although highly effective treatment options are available, there is a need for greater data and larger international registries to improve treatment recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Pryor
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laura Tarter
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Katherine Economy
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael C Honigberg
- Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anne Marie Valente
- Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael Garshick
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, New York University Langone Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University Langone Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Brittany Weber
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, USA.
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Early Assessment of Cardiac Function by Echocardiography in Patients with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:6565109. [PMID: 36065381 PMCID: PMC9440836 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6565109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective To offer a baseline for clinical diagnosis, echocardiography was performed to evaluate the disparities in heart function comparing pregnant women with diabetes mellitus (GDM) and ordinary pregnant women. Methods A prospective case-control study is being conducted on pregnant women with or without gestational diabetes. The sample size for both the intervention and control groups is the same: no diabetes diagnosis or previous forms, a single pregnancy, and no issues (such as preeclampsia or fetal growth restriction). The females were all subjected to routine echocardiograms to examine the morphology and function of their left and right hearts. Results In the research, 51 women with GDM and 50 healthy controls volunteered. Women with GDM had a significantly higher heartrate (82 ± 9 vs. 74 ± 8), left ventricular (LV) relative wall thickness (0.39 ± 0.06 vs. 0.31 ± 0.07; P < 0.001), LV early diastolic transmitral valve velocity (E) (0.79 ± 0.14 vs. 0.72 ± 0.13 m/s; P = 0.031), and LV late diastolic implementing regulations valve velocity (0.6). Speckle-tracking analysis showed significant decrease in LV right ventricular (RV). A study indicated a reduced pulmonary acceleration time (59 ± 9 vs. 68 ± 12 ms; P = 0.001), RV E/A ratio (1.21 ± 0.19 vs. 1.31 ± 0.31; P = 0.022), and a greater RV myocardial systolic annular velocity (0.17 ± 0.03 vs. 0.12 ± 0.03; P = 0.023). Conclusions Our results revealed that the heart function of diabetic pregnant women differed considerably from that of the control group, such as LV-RWT, LV diastolic transmitral valve speed, and LV late diastolic transmitral valve speed. Given these results, further research into the postpartum cardiovascular healing of pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus is required.
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Eggleton EJ, Bhagra CJ, Patient CJ, Belham M, Pickett J, Aiken CE. Maternal left ventricular function and adverse neonatal outcomes in women with cardiac disease. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 307:1431-1439. [PMID: 35657407 PMCID: PMC10110658 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06635-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
To evaluate the relationship between maternal left ventricular systolic function, utero-placental circulation, and risk of adverse neonatal outcomes in women with cardiac disease.
Methods
119 women managed in the pregnancy heart clinic (2019–2021) were identified. Women were classified by their primary cardiac condition. Adverse neonatal outcomes were: low birth weight (< 2500 g), small-for-gestational-age (< 10th birth-weight centile), pre-term delivery (< 37 weeks’ gestation), and fetal demise (> 20 weeks’ gestation). Parameters of left ventricular systolic function (global longitudinal strain, radial strain, ejection fraction, average S’, and cardiac output) were calculated and pulsatility index was recorded from last growth scan.
Results
Adverse neonatal outcomes occurred in 28 neonates (24%); most frequently in valvular heart disease (n = 8) and cardiomyopathy (n = 7). Small-for-gestational-age neonates were most common in women with cardiomyopathy (p = 0.016). Early pregnancy average S’ (p = 0.03), late pregnancy average S’ (p = 0.02), and late pregnancy cardiac output (p = 0.008) were significantly lower in women with adverse neonatal outcomes than in those with healthy neonates. There was a significant association between neonatal birth-weight centile and global longitudinal strain (p = 0.04) and cardiac output (p = 0.0002) in late pregnancy. Pulsatility index was highest in women with cardiomyopathy (p = 0.007), and correlated with average S’ (p < 0.0001) and global longitudinal strain (p = 0.03) in late pregnancy.
Conclusion
Women with cardiac disease may not tolerate cardiovascular adaptations required during pregnancy to support fetal growth. Adverse neonatal outcomes were associated with reduced left ventricular systolic function and higher pulsatility index. The association between impaired systolic function and reduced fetal growth is supported by insufficient utero-placental circulation.
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O'Kelly AC, Scott N, DeFaria Yeh D. Delivering Coordinated Cardio-Obstetric Care from Preconception through Postpartum. Cardiol Clin 2021; 39:163-173. [PMID: 33222811 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccl.2020.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Coordinated preconception through postpartum cardio-obstetrics care is necessary to optimize both maternal and fetal health. Maternal mortality in the United States is increasing, largely driven by increasing cardiovascular (CV) disease burden during pregnancy and needs to be addressed emergently. Both for women with congenital and acquired heart disease, CV complications during pregnancy are associated with increased future risk of CV disease. Comprehensive cardio-obstetrics care is a powerful way of ensuring that women's CV risks before and during pregnancy are appropriately identified and treated and that they remain engaged in CV care long term to prevent future CV complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C O'Kelly
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Yawkey 5700, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Nandita Scott
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Disease and Pregnancy Program, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Yawkey 5700, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Doreen DeFaria Yeh
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Disease and Pregnancy Program, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Yawkey 5700, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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12
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Afari HA, Davis EF, Sarma AA. Echocardiography for the Pregnant Heart. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE 2021; 23:55. [PMID: 34075291 PMCID: PMC8160078 DOI: 10.1007/s11936-021-00930-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of review Pregnancy is associated with significant hemodynamic changes, making it a potentially high-risk period for women with underlying cardiovascular disease. Echocardiography remains the preferred modality for diagnosis and monitoring of pregnant women with cardiovascular disease as it is widely available and does not require radiation. This paper reviews the role of echocardiography along the continuum of pregnancy in at-risk patients, with a focus on key cardiac disease states in pregnancy. Recent findings In the preconception stage, risk stratification scores such as CARPREG II, ZAHARA and the modified WHO remain central to counseling and planning. As such, echocardiography serves an important role in assessing the severity of pre-existing structural disease. Among women with pre-existing cardiovascular disease who become pregnant-as well as those who develop cardiovascular symptoms during pregnancy-echocardiography is a key imaging tool for assessment of hemodynamic and structural changes and is recommended as the first-line imaging modality when appropriate by both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, routine screening intervals during pregnancy for various cardiac lesions are not well defined, resulting in clinical heterogeneity in care. Summary Echocardiography is the imaging modality of choice for defining, risk stratifying, and monitoring cardiovascular changes throughout pregnancy. Once identified, at-risk patients should receive careful individual counseling and follow-up with a multidisciplinary team. Echocardiography serves as a widely available tool for serial monitoring of pregnant women with cardiovascular disease throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Esther F. Davis
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Amy A. Sarma
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
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Serati L, Carnovale C, Maestroni S, Brenna M, Smeriglia A, Massafra A, Bizzi E, Picchi C, Tombetti E, Brucato A. Management of acute and recurrent pericarditis in pregnancy. Panminerva Med 2021; 63:276-287. [PMID: 33687181 DOI: 10.23736/s0031-0808.21.04198-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
This review summarizes the currently available evidence on the management of acute and recurrent pericarditis during pregnancy, focusing on the safety of diagnostic procedures and treatment options for the mother and foetus. Family planning should be addressed in women with recurrent pericarditis of reproductive age and adjustment of therapy should be considered before a planned pregnancy. The treatment of pericarditis in pregnancy is similar to that for non-pregnant women but considers current knowledge on drug safety during pregnancy and lactation. The largest case series on this topic described 21 pregnancies with idiopathic recurrent pericarditis. Pregnancy should be planned in a phase of disease quiescence. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used at high dosages until the 20th week of gestation (except low-dose aspirin 100 mg/die). Colchicine is allowed until gravindex positivity; after this period, administration of this drug during pregnancy and lactation should be discussed with the mother if its use is important to control recurrent pericarditis. Prednisone is safe if used at low-medium doses (2,5 - 10 mg/die). General outcomes of pregnancy in patients with pericarditis are good when the mothers are followed by a multidisciplinary team with experience in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Serati
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Milan, Italy -
| | - Carla Carnovale
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, Luigi Sacco University Hospital, Università di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Maestroni
- Department of Internal Medicine, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Martino Brenna
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Aurora Smeriglia
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Agnese Massafra
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuele Bizzi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Picchi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Tombetti
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Brucato
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Milan, Italy
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14
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Physiological Changes and Cardiovascular Investigations in Pregnancy. Heart Lung Circ 2020; 30:e6-e15. [PMID: 33158736 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Profound physiological changes in the maternal cardiovascular system occur shortly after conception. These changes may impact upon the investigation of healthy and complicated pregnancies. Additionally, concerns regarding fetal exposure to ionising radiation are important considerations in maternal testing. This manuscript reviews the important physiological changes pertinent to the investigation of maternal cardiovascular disease in pregnancy.
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Oikonomou P, Tsonis O, Paxinos A, Gkrozou F, Korantzopoulos P, Paschopoulos M. Preeclampsia and long-term coronary artery disease: How to minimize the odds? Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 255:253-258. [PMID: 33153771 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.10.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy that can cause detrimental obstetric outcomes if not managed properly. Current evidence demonstrates higher risk for long-term cardiovascular disease in preeclamptic women. Even in uncomplicated pregnancies, the heart work overload often reveals subtle cardiac defects or abnormalities, which otherwise remain undiagnosed in women without a history of pregnancy. Pathophysiologic patterns occurring in PE patients resemble biochemical responses observed in cases of cardiovascular disease. It has been estimated that women with an obstetric history of PE are more likely to develop coronary artery disease in the long run. Currently, additionally to whether any approach could actually contribute to minimizing mortality and morbidity among these affected populations, there is no consensus regarding management for these patients. In this review we summarized the current scientific evidence regarding the correlation between PE and long-term coronary artery disease. Based on this knowledge, we propose postpartum and lifetime management for these high-risk patients in order to minimize morbidity and mortality within this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Oikonomou
- Department of Cardiology, General Hospital of Preveza, Greece
| | - O Tsonis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Greece.
| | - A Paxinos
- Private Urology Clinic, Preveza, Greece
| | - F Gkrozou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals of Birmingham, UK
| | - P Korantzopoulos
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Greece
| | - M Paschopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Greece
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