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Brown PF, Di Marco A, Tsoumani Z, Reid A, Bradley J, Nucifora G, Anguera I, Miller C, Schmitt M. Predictive value of a comprehensive atrial assessment with cardiac magnetic resonance in non-ischemic cardiomyopathy: keep it simple. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR IMAGING 2024; 40:557-567. [PMID: 38064141 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-023-03024-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) can provide a multi-parametric evaluation of left atrial (LA) size and function. A complete CMR-based LA assessment might improve the risk stratification of patients with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). We performed a comprehensive CMR-based evaluation of LA size and function, in order to assess the prognostic impact of specific LA parameters in DCM. Secondary analysis of a prospective registry (UHSM-CMR study, NCT02326324) including 648 consecutive patients with DCM and CMR evaluation of LA area and LA length. Of these, 456 had complete LA assessment covering reservoir, conduit and booster pump function and including LA reservoir strain evaluated with feature tracking. The heart failure (HF) endpoint included HF hospitalizations, HF death and heart transplant. The arrhythmic endpoint included ventricular arrhythmias (VA) (sustained or treated by implantable defibrillator) and sudden death (SD). At median follow-up of 23 months, 34 patients reached the HF endpoint; in a multivariable model including NYHA class and LVEF, LA length had incremental predictive value. LA length ≥ 69 mm was the best cut-off to predict HF events (adjusted HR 2.3, p = 0.03). Among the 456 patients with comprehensive LA assessment, only LA length was independently associated with the HF endpoint after adjusting for LVEF and NYHA class. By contrast, no LA parameter independently predicted the arrhythmic risk. In DCM patients, LA length is an independent predictor of HF events, showing stronger association than other more complex parameters of LA function. No atrial parameter predicts the risk of VA and SD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Frances Brown
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK.
- Cardiac Imaging Department, North West Heart Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Southmoor Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester, M23 9LT, UK.
| | - Andrea Di Marco
- Cardiac Imaging Department, North West Heart Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Southmoor Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester, M23 9LT, UK.
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
- Bio Heart Cardiovascular Diseases Research Group, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
- Cardiology department, Bellvitge University Hospital, carrer feixa llarga sin número, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, 08907, Spain.
| | - Zoi Tsoumani
- Cardiac Imaging Department, North West Heart Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Southmoor Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester, M23 9LT, UK
| | - Anna Reid
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
- Cardiac Imaging Department, North West Heart Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Southmoor Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester, M23 9LT, UK
| | - Joshua Bradley
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
- Cardiac Imaging Department, North West Heart Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Southmoor Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester, M23 9LT, UK
| | - Gaetano Nucifora
- Cardiac Imaging Department, North West Heart Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Southmoor Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester, M23 9LT, UK
| | - Ignasi Anguera
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Bio Heart Cardiovascular Diseases Research Group, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christopher Miller
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
- Cardiac Imaging Department, North West Heart Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Southmoor Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester, M23 9LT, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell-Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Matthias Schmitt
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
- Cardiac Imaging Department, North West Heart Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Southmoor Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester, M23 9LT, UK
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Pawar SG, Saravanan PB, Gulati S, Pati S, Joshi M, Salam A, Khan N. Study the relationship between left atrial (LA) volume and left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction and LV hypertrophy: Correlate LA volume with cardiovascular risk factors. Dis Mon 2024; 70:101675. [PMID: 38262769 DOI: 10.1016/j.disamonth.2024.101675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) with normal ejection fraction - the isolated diastolic heart failure, depicts increasing prevalence and health care burden in recent times. Having less mortality rate compared to systolic heart failure but high morbidity, it is evolving as a major cardiac concern. With increasing clinical use of Left atrial volume (LAV) quantitation in clinical settings, LAV has emerged as an important independent predictor of cardiovascular outcome in HF with normal ejection fraction. This article is intended to review the diastolic and systolic heart failure, their association with left atrial volume, in depth study of Left atrial function dynamics with determinants of various functional and structural changes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Muskan Joshi
- Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Ajal Salam
- Government Medical College, Kottayam, Kerala, India
| | - Nida Khan
- Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
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Zapolski T, Furmaga J, Wysokiński AP, Wysocka A, Rudzki S, Jaroszyński A. The atrial uremic cardiomyopathy regression in patients after kidney transplantation - the prospective echocardiographic study. BMC Nephrol 2019; 20:152. [PMID: 31046698 PMCID: PMC6498637 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-019-1333-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD), left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy with impaired LV function, which is called uremic cardiomyopathy (UC) is often observed. The UC historically has been considered a contraindication for kidney transplantation (KTx). Currently, moderate LV dysfunction does not exclude the possibility of KTx. The amelioration of uremia after KTx improved cardiac function in patients with LV dysfunction. There is a little information on the function of the left atrium (LA) after the KTx procedure. There are no studies evaluating (LA) changes in patients with UC after KTx and determining the possibility of inhibiting the occurrence of LA unfavourable changes (remodelling) and even a possible LA recovery process (reverse remodelling) as a result of a successful KTx. The aim of the study was to assess the LA reverse remodelling in patients with ESRD undergoing KTx. METHODS The study group consisted of 42 patients, aged 43.3 ± 12.6 followed for 36 months after a deceased donor KTx. The patients were studied at five time points: 1, 3, 6, 12 and 36 months after KTx. In all patients transthoracic echocardiography was performed in order to assess the following LA planimetric parameters: LAmax, LAmin, LAwaveP. LAshortmax, LAshortmin, LAshortwaveP, LAlongmax, LAlongmin, LAlongwaveP, LAcircmax and LAareamax, volumentric parameters: LA volume (LAV), LA volume index (LAVI), and hemodynamic indices: LA ejection fraction (LAEF), LA active emptying fraction (LAAE), LA passive emptying fraction (LAPE), LA index of expansion (LAIE) and LA fractional shortening (LAFS). RESULTS The LAVI values were 34.63 ± 10.34 ml/m2, 32.24 ± 9.59 ml/m2 (p < 0,001), 31.36 ± 9.20 ml/m2 (p < 0,001), 28.29 ± 8.32 ml/m2 (p < 0,001) and 27.57 ± 8.40 ml/m2 (p < 0,001), after: 1, 3, 6, 12 and 36 months after KTx, respectively. The reduction of the LA size was accompanied by gradual LA contractility improvement, which was manifested as an increase of the LA hemodynamic indices such as LAEF, LAAE, LAIE, LAFS and a decrease of LAPE. CONCLUSIONS LA remodelling secondary to atrial uraemic cardiomyopathy is an example of complex cardiomyopathy with elements characteristic of both congestive and infiltrative cardiomyopathy. Early LAVI reduction post KTx mostly depends on changed haemodynamic conditions, whereas the main reason for further decrease of LAVI values is related to resolution of uraemic toxaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Zapolski
- Chair and Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Jacek Furmaga
- Department of General and Transplant Surgery and Nutritional Treatment, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | | | - Anna Wysocka
- Chair and Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
- Internal Medicine in Nursing Department, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Sławomir Rudzki
- Department of General and Transplant Surgery and Nutritional Treatment, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Andrzej Jaroszyński
- Department of Nephrology, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, Kielce, Poland
- Department of Family Medicine and Geriatrics, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, Kielce, Poland
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Purga SL, Karas MG, Horn EM, Torosoff MT. Contribution of the left atrial remodeling to the elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure in patients with WHO Group II pulmonary hypertension. J Echocardiogr 2018; 17:187-196. [PMID: 30474820 DOI: 10.1007/s12574-018-0410-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The contribution of progressive left atrial (LA) enlargement to elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) in patients with WHO Group II pulmonary hypertension (PH) has not been well studied. We hypothesized that progressive LA enlargement is associated with increased PCWP. METHODS A cross-sectional retrospective cohort consisted of 166 patients with HF and WHO Group II PH, confirmed by right heart catheterization (RHC). LA anteroposterior dimension and volume were measured on TTE. PCWP and other hemodynamic parameters were measured by RHC. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used for analysis. RESULTS LA enlargement was associated with advanced age, increased BMI, and LV ejection fraction < 40%. PCWP was progressively increased in patients with dilated LA: 16.9 ± 7.4 mmHg in normal LA, 17.6 ± 7.2 mmHg in mildly dilated LA, 22.6 ± 6.3 mmHg in moderately and 22 ± 7.6 in severely dilated LA (p < 0.001). In multiple logistic regression, after adjustment for echocardiographic and clinical variables, severe LA enlargement was independently predictive of elevated PCWP (OR 3.468; 95% CI 1.046-11.504; p = 0.042). After excluding significant mitral regurgitation, progressive LA dilatation was associated with higher PCWP V-wave amplitude: from 21.3 ± 10.4 mmHg in patients with normal LA size, to 30.9 ± 11.7 mmHg in moderately dilated and 31.0 ± 11.6 mmHg in severely dilated LA (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In patients with HF and WHO Group II PH, progressive LA enlargement was independently associated with elevated PCWP. After excluding significant mitral regurgitation, LA enlargement was also associated with increased V-wave amplitude, indicative of decreased atrial compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott L Purga
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Ave., A-2 Cardiology, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Maria G Karas
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Evelyn M Horn
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mikhail T Torosoff
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Ave., A-2 Cardiology, Albany, NY, 12208, USA.
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Prognostic Value of Left Atrial Functional Measures in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction. J Card Fail 2018; 25:87-96. [PMID: 30472280 DOI: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2018.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 10/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prognostic value of LA functional measures in heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the prognostic value of left atrial (LA) functional measures such as the left atrial emptying fraction (LAEF) and the minimal LA volume compared with left atrial volume index (LAVI) in HFrEF patients. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 818 HFrEF patients with left ventricular ejection fractions <45% underwent echocardiography. LA volumes were determined by the area-length method from the apical 2-chamber and apical 4-chamber views. LAEF, minimal LA volume indexed to body surface area (MinLAVI), and LAVI were calculated. The end point was all-cause mortality. During a median follow-up of 3.3 years (interquartile range 1.8-4.6 years), 121 patients died (14.8%). Follow-up was 100%. In a final multivariable model adjusting for clinical and echocardiographic parameters, LAEF, but not MinLAVI or LAVI, was an independent predictor of all-cause mortality in HFrEF patients: LAEF: hazard ratio (HR) 1.11 (P = .033) per 5% decrease; MinLAVI: HR 1.03 (P = .57) per 5 mL/m2 increase; LAVI: HR 1.06 (P = .16) per 5 mL/m2 increase. CONCLUSIONS LAEF is an independent predictor of all-cause mortality in HFrEF patients after multivariable adjustment. LAEF provides incremental prognostic value over LAVI in risk stratification of HFrEF patients.
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Claessen G, Schnell F, Bogaert J, Claeys M, Pattyn N, De Buck F, Dymarkowski S, Claus P, Carré F, Van Cleemput J, La Gerche A, Heidbuchel H. Exercise cardiac magnetic resonance to differentiate athlete’s heart from structural heart disease. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2018; 19:1062-1070. [DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jey050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Guido Claessen
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
- University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frédéric Schnell
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Physiology, Rennes 1 University, Rennes, France
| | - Jan Bogaert
- University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Imaging & Pathology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mathias Claeys
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
- University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nele Pattyn
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frederik De Buck
- University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Steven Dymarkowski
- University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Imaging & Pathology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Piet Claus
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Francois Carré
- Department of Physiology, Rennes 1 University, Rennes, France
| | - Johan Van Cleemput
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
- University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Andre La Gerche
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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Zoppini G, Bonapace S, Bergamini C, Rossi A, Trombetta M, Lanzoni L, Bertolini L, Zenari L, Bonora E, Targher G. Evidence of left atrial remodeling and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus with preserved systolic function. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2016; 26:1026-1032. [PMID: 27352987 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Revised: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Prognosis of type 2 diabetes is associated with the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases. Left atrial (LA) size is a predictor of outcome in several diseases, including diabetes. Long duration of diabetes is an established risk factor of poor prognosis. No data are available on the relationship between LA size and duration of diabetes. The present study was aimed to investigate the relationship between LA volume index (LAVI) and the duration of diabetes to test the hypothesis that LA volume will increase as a function of diabetes duration. METHODS AND RESULTS Forty-four male patients with newly diagnosed and 172 male patients with established type 2 diabetes were recruited for this cross-sectional study. All patients were evaluated with a transthoracic echocardiographic Doppler. About 28.2% of patients had increased LAVI. Indices of both diastolic and systolic function were significantly lower in patients with larger left atrium. The values of LAVI increased across classes of duration of diabetes. In multivariable analysis, longer duration was a predictor of LAVI ≥34 ml/m2 (odds ratio 1.65, 95% CI 1.11-2.46, p = 0.014) after adjusting for age, hemoglobin A1c, hypertension, microvascular complication status, and relevant echocardiographic parameters of systolic and diastolic function. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that duration of diabetes is strongly and positively associated with larger LAVI in type 2 diabetic men with preserved systolic function. Future studies are needed to better elucidate the biological mechanisms underlying linking type 2 diabetes with abnormally increased LAVI in subjects with type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Zoppini
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - S Bonapace
- Division of Cardiology, "Sacro Cuore" Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - C Bergamini
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - A Rossi
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - M Trombetta
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - L Lanzoni
- Division of Cardiology, "Sacro Cuore" Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - L Bertolini
- Division of General Medicine and Diabetes Unit "Sacro Cuore" Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - L Zenari
- Division of General Medicine and Diabetes Unit "Sacro Cuore" Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - E Bonora
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - G Targher
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Cao S, Zhou Q, Chen JL, Hu B, Guo RQ. The differences in left atrial function between ischemic and idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy patients: A two-dimensional speckle tracking imaging study. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2016; 44:437-445. [PMID: 26990443 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.22352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate left atrial (LA) function in patients with ischemic (ICM) or idiopathic dilated (DCM) cardiomyopathy via two-dimensional speckle-tracking imaging. METHODS We measured the LA maximum volume, minimum volume, and volume before the atrial systole, and calculated total emptying volume, expansion index, active emptying volume, and fraction. We measured strain and strain rate during systole and late diastole using two-dimensional speckle-tracking imaging, and analyzed correlations between variables. RESULTS We found no significant differences in LA size, left ventricle (LV) end-diastole diameter, LV ejection fraction (EF), E/A, E/e', deceleration time of the E wave, and effective mitral regurgitant orifice area between the DCM and the ICM group. However, the LA expansion index, active EF, systolic and late diastolic strain, and strain rate were lower in the ICM group (p < 0.05). The expansion index and active EF were positively correlated with the systolic strain rate and the absolute value of the late diastolic strain rate, respectively. CONCLUSIONS LA basic echocardiographic variables did not reflect the differences between ICM and DCM patients, but the systolic and late diastolic strain, as well as the strain rate, were lower in DCM patients. Two-dimensional speckle-tracking imaging is a promising method to differentiate these patients. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 44:437-445, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Cao
- Department of Ultrasonography, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Qing Zhou
- Department of Ultrasonography, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Jin-Ling Chen
- Department of Ultrasonography, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Bo Hu
- Department of Ultrasonography, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Rui-Qiang Guo
- Department of Ultrasonography, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
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Bonapace S, Rossi A, Lipari P, Bertolini L, Zenari L, Lanzoni L, Canali G, Molon G, Mantovani A, Zoppini G, Bonora E, Barbieri E, Targher G. Relationship between increased left atrial volume and microvascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes. J Diabetes Complications 2015; 29:822-8. [PMID: 26050564 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdiacomp.2015.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2015] [Revised: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
AIMS We assessed whether left atrial volume index (LAVI) was associated with the presence of microvascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes, and whether this association was independent of hemodynamic and non-hemodynamic factors. METHODS We studied 157 consecutive outpatients with type 2 diabetes with no previous history of ischemic heart disease, chronic heart failure and valvular diseases. A transthoracic echocardiography and myocardial perfusion scintigraphy were performed in all participants. Presence of microvascular complications was also recorded. RESULTS Overall, 51 patients had decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate and/or abnormal albuminuria, 24 had diabetic retinopathy, 22 had lower-extremity sensory neuropathy, and 67 (42.7%) patients had one or more of these microvascular complications (i.e., combined endpoint). After stratifying patients by LAVI, those with LAVI ≥32 ml/m(2) had a greater prevalence of microvascular complication, lower left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, higher LV mass index and higher E/e' ratio than those with LAVI <32 ml/m(2). Logistic regression analyses revealed that microvascular complications (singly or in combination) were associated with increased LAVI, independently of age, sex, diabetes duration, hemoglobin A1c, hypertension, LV-ejection fraction, LV mass index and the E/e' ratio. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that microvascular diabetic complications are associated with increased LAVI in well-controlled type 2 diabetic patients with preserved systolic function and free from ischemic heart disease, independently of multiple potential confounders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Bonapace
- Division of Cardiology, "Sacro Cuore" Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - Andrea Rossi
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Paola Lipari
- Division of Cardiology, "Sacro Cuore" Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - Lorenzo Bertolini
- Division of General Medicine and Diabetes Unit "Sacro Cuore" Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - Luciano Zenari
- Division of General Medicine and Diabetes Unit "Sacro Cuore" Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - Laura Lanzoni
- Division of Cardiology, "Sacro Cuore" Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - Guido Canali
- Division of Cardiology, "Sacro Cuore" Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - Giulio Molon
- Division of Cardiology, "Sacro Cuore" Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - Alessandro Mantovani
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giacomo Zoppini
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Enzo Bonora
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Enrico Barbieri
- Division of Cardiology, "Sacro Cuore" Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - Giovanni Targher
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Left atrial structural and functional changes in heart failure are relatively ignored parts of cardiac assessment. This review illustrates the pathophysiological and functional changes in left atrium in heart failure as well as their prognostic value. RECENT FINDINGS Heart failure can be divided into those with systolic dysfunction and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF). Left atrial enlargement and dysfunction commonly occur in systolic heart failure, in particular, in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy. Atrial enlargement and dysfunction also carry important prognostic value in systolic heart failure, independently of known parameters such as left ventricular ejection fraction. In HFPEF, there is evidence of left atrial enlargement, impaired atrial compliance, and reduction of atrial pump function. This occurs not only at rest but also during exercise, indicating significant impairment of atrial contractile reserve. Furthermore, atrial dyssynchrony is common in HFPEF. These factors further contribute to the development of new onset or progression of atrial arrhythmias, in particular, atrial fibrillation. SUMMARY Left atrial function is an integral part of cardiac function and its structural and functional changes in heart failure are common. As changes of left atrial structure and function have different clinical implications in systolic heart failure and HFPEF, routine assessment is warranted.
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Boudoulas KD, Paraskevaidis IA, Boudoulas H, Triposkiadis FK. The Left Atrium: From the Research Laboratory to the Clinic. Cardiology 2014; 129:1-17. [DOI: 10.1159/000360935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 02/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Tenekecioglu E, Agca FV, Ozluk OA, Karaagac K, Demir S, Peker T, Kuzeytemiz M, Senturk M, Yilmaz M. Disturbed Left Atrial Function is Associated with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation in Hypertension. Arq Bras Cardiol 2014; 102:253-62. [PMID: 24676227 PMCID: PMC3987319 DOI: 10.5935/abc.20140009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertension is the most prevalent and modifiable risk factor for atrial fibrillation. The pressure overload in the left atrium induces pathophysiological changes leading to alterations in contractile function and electrical properties. OBJECTIVE In this study our aim was to assess left atrial function in hypertensive patients to determine the association between left atrial function with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). METHOD We studied 57 hypertensive patients (age: 53 ± 4 years; left ventricular ejection fraction: 76 ± 6.7%), including 30 consecutive patients with PAF and 30 age-matched control subjects. Left atrial (LA) volumes were measured using the modified Simpson's biplane method. Three types of LA volume were determined: maximal LA(LAVmax), preatrial contraction LA(LAVpreA) and minimal LA volume(LAVmin). LA emptying functions were calculated. LA total emptying volume = LAVmax-LAVmin and the LA total EF = (LAVmax-LAVmin )/LAVmax, LA passive emptying volume = LAVmax- LAVpreA and the LA passive EF = (LAVmax-LAVpreA)/LAVmax, LA active emptying volume = LAVpreA-LAVmin and LA active EF = (LAVpreA-LAVmin )/LAVpreA. RESULTS The hypertensive period is longer in hypertensive group with PAF. LAVmax significantly increased in hypertensive group with PAF when compared to hypertensive group without PAF (p=0.010). LAAEF was significantly decreased in hypertensive group with PAF as compared to hypertensive group without PAF (p=0.020). A' was decreased in the hypertensive group with PAF when compared to those without PAF (p = 0.044). CONCLUSION Increased LA volume and impaired LA active emptying function was associated with PAF in untreated hypertensive patients. Longer hypertensive period is associated with PAF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erhan Tenekecioglu
- Department of Cardiology, Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Education and Resarch Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Fahriye Vatansever Agca
- Department of Cardiology, Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Education and Resarch Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Arican Ozluk
- Department of Cardiology, Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Education and Resarch Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Kemal Karaagac
- Department of Cardiology, Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Education and Resarch Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | | | - Tezcan Peker
- Department of Cardiology, Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Education and Resarch Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Kuzeytemiz
- Department of Cardiology, Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Education and Resarch Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Muhammed Senturk
- Department of Cardiology, Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Education and Resarch Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Yilmaz
- Department of Cardiology, Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Education and Resarch Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
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13
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Left atrial deformation and nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. Herz 2013; 39:251-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s00059-013-3817-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2013] [Revised: 03/17/2013] [Accepted: 03/19/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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14
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Left atrial dilatation and ST-T changes predict cardiovascular outcome in chronic hemodialysis patients. Heart Vessels 2011; 27:610-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s00380-011-0189-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2010] [Accepted: 08/26/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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15
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Blume GG, Mcleod CJ, Barnes ME, Seward JB, Pellikka PA, Bastiansen PM, Tsang TSM. Left atrial function: physiology, assessment, and clinical implications. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY 2011; 12:421-30. [PMID: 21565866 DOI: 10.1093/ejechocard/jeq175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 331] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The interest in the left atrium (LA) has resurged over the recent years. In the early 1980s, multiple studies were conducted to determine the normal values of LA size. Over the past decade, LA size as an imaging biomarker has been consistently shown to be a powerful predictor of outcomes, including major public health problems such as atrial fibrillation, heart failure, stroke, and death. More recently, functional assessment of the LA has been shown to be, at least as, if not more robust, a marker of cardiovascular outcomes. Current available data suggest that the combined evaluation of LA size and LA function will augment prognostication. The aim of this review is to provide a critical appraisal of current echocardiographic techniques for the assessment of LA function and the implications of such assessment for prediction and disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo G Blume
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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16
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Mancuso FJN, Almeida DR, Moisés VA, Oliveira WA, Mello ES, Poyares D, Tufik S, Carvalho ACC, Campos O. Left atrial dysfunction in chagas cardiomyopathy is more severe than in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy: a study with real-time three-dimensional echocardiography. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2011; 24:526-32. [PMID: 21353762 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2011.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although there is anatomopathologic evidence of atrial involvement in Chagas cardiomyopathy (CCM), the impact in left atrial (LA) function is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate LA function in patients with CCM with real-time three-dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE) and to compare it with patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). METHODS A total of 30 patients with CCM, 30 patients with DCM, and 20 normal subjects used as the control group were studied. With the use of RT3DE, we measured LA maximum (maxLAV), minimum, and pre-atrial contraction volumes and calculated total and active LA emptying fractions. RESULTS Left ventricular ejection fraction and mitral regurgitation were similar in both groups. MaxLAV/m(2) was larger in the CCM group than in the DCM group (76.9 ± 21.9 mL vs. 59.1 ± 26.0 mL; P < .01), and both were significantly larger than in the control group (P < .01). Total LA emptying fraction was lower in the CCM group than in the DCM group (0.30 ± 0.10 vs. 0.40 ± 0.12; P < .01), and both were lower than in the control group (P = .01). Active LA emptying fraction was also lower in the CCM group than in the DCM group (0.22 ± 0.09 vs. 0.28 ± 0.11; P < .01), and both were lower than in the control group (P = .01). The E/e' ratio was higher in the CCM group than in the DCM group (21 ± 10 vs. 15 ± 6; P < .01), and both were greater than in the control group (P < .01). In a multiple regression model, the E/e' ratio was the only independent predictor of a worsening active LA emptying fraction. CONCLUSION LA function is more compromised in patients with CCM than in patients with DCM. This finding indicates a more diffuse and severe myocardial impairment in Chagas disease that is probably related to increased left ventricular filling pressures and atrial myopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederico J N Mancuso
- Discipline of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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17
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Chang JH, Yoon SJ, Han SH, Shin SK, Jeon DW, Yang JY, Kang EW. The impact of dialysis modality on arterial stiffness in patients with end-stage renal disease. Ren Fail 2011; 32:947-53. [PMID: 20722562 DOI: 10.3109/0886022x.2010.502607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arterial stiffness determined by brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) has been established as a powerful predictor of cardiovascular mortality in hemodialysis (HD) patients. There are, however, few studies regarding the comparative impact of different renal replacement therapies (RRTs) on PWV. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional study to compare arterial wall properties and cardiac function between patients treated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) and those with HD who were matched for age, dialysis duration, and blood pressure. METHODS baPWV and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) were performed in HD patients (n = 23) after 1 h of midweek dialysis session and CAPD patients (n = 26) with empty abdomen after drainage of dialysate. The baseline data were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS baPWV was significantly higher in HD patients than in CAPD patients (18.1 +/- 2.8 vs. 16.1 +/- 2.7 m/s, p = 0.015). TTE revealed significantly increased E/E', left atrial volume index (LAVI), and inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter index in HD patients compared with CAPD patients (p < 0.05). In a multivariate regression analysis adjusted for dialysis modality, age, systolic BP, residual glomerular filtration rate, diabetes, and echocardiographic parameters, HD was independently associated with increased baPWV. CONCLUSION This study showed that HD patients had significantly increased arterial stiffness and severe diastolic dysfunction compared with CAPD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Hyun Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Incheon, Korea
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18
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Palecek T, Lubanda JC, Trckova R, Linhart A. Left atrial flow propagation velocity: a new approach for assessment of left atrial reservoir function. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2010; 27:75-82. [PMID: 20571873 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-010-9660-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2010] [Accepted: 06/11/2010] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
To assess the feasibility of left atrial flow propagation velocity (LAFPV) measurement and to evaluate the influence of preload alterations on this new parameter of left atrial (LA) reservoir function as compared to conventional echocardiographic indices. 30 healthy volunteers (26 ± 5 years, 20 males) underwent echocardiographic examination at rest, during passive leg lifting and after sublingual administration of nitroglycerine with subsequent Valsalva maneuver. LA reservoir function was assessed by conventional indices including LA expansion index, peak velocity and velocity-time integral of pulmonary venous systolic flow. As well, LAFPV was measured by color M-mode in an apical 4-chamber view as the slope of the transatrial flow wave during LA reservoir phase. LAFPV measurement was feasible in 25 subjects (83%). All conventional parameters of LA reservoir function were significantly altered from resting values by both load-modifying conditions. However, LAPFV was not significantly altered by such maneuvers (228 ± 28 cm s⁻¹ at rest vs. 238 ± 3 cm s⁻¹ during leg lifting, P = NS, vs. 218 ± 38 cm s(-1) after nitroglycerin with Valsalva maneuver, P = NS vs. rest, P < 0.01 vs. leg lifting). LAFPV can be measured in a majority of subjects and represents a new, less load-dependent index of LA reservoir function that may more appropriately reflect LA compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Palecek
- 2nd Department of Medicine - Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University of Prague and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague 2, Czech Republic.
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19
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Chimenti C, Russo MA, Carpi A, Frustaci A. Histological substrate of human atrial fibrillation. Biomed Pharmacother 2010; 64:177-83. [PMID: 20006465 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2009.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2009] [Accepted: 09/24/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Histologic and ultrastructural examination of atrial tissue regarding the main entities responsible of human atrial fibrillation, is reported. The pathologic changes deriving from various disorders, like degenerative, inflammatory, ischemic diseases as well as from cardiac aging and hormonal imbalance are analysed. Structural changes associated with lone atrial fibrillation and investigated by atrial biopsy are also described, as being able to provide useful information on the disease's etiology, prognosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Chimenti
- Cardiovascular and Respiratory Sciences Department, La Sapienza University, viale del Policlinico 155, Rome, Italy
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20
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D'Andrea A, Scarafile R, Riegler L, Salerno G, Gravino R, Cocchia R, Castaldo F, Allocca F, Limongelli G, Di Salvo G, Cuomo S, Pacileo G, Caso P, Russo MG, Calabrò R. Right atrial size and deformation in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy. Eur J Heart Fail 2009; 11:1169-1177. [DOI: 10.1093/eurjhf/hfp158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Antonello D'Andrea
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Raffaella Scarafile
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Lucia Riegler
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Gemma Salerno
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Rita Gravino
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Rosangela Cocchia
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Francesca Castaldo
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Filomena Allocca
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Giuseppe Limongelli
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Giovanni Di Salvo
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Sergio Cuomo
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Giuseppe Pacileo
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Pio Caso
- Department of Cardiology Monaldi Hospital Naples Italy
| | - Maria Giovanna Russo
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
| | - Raffaele Calabrò
- Department of Cardiology Second University of Naples Via G. Martucci 35 Naples 80121 Italy
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21
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D'Andrea A, Caso P, Romano S, Scarafile R, Cuomo S, Salerno G, Riegler L, Limongelli G, Di Salvo G, Romano M, Liccardo B, Iengo R, Ascione L, Del Viscovo L, Calabrò P, Calabrò R. Association between left atrial myocardial function and exercise capacity in patients with either idiopathic or ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy: A two-dimensional speckle strain study. Int J Cardiol 2009; 132:354-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2007.11.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2007] [Revised: 07/20/2007] [Accepted: 11/25/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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22
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Zhang Q, Yip GWK, Yu CM. Approaching regional left atrial function by tissue Doppler velocity and strain imaging. Europace 2009; 10 Suppl 3:iii62-9. [PMID: 18955401 DOI: 10.1093/europace/eun237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial function is an integral part for the proper performance of the circulatory system. Assessment of its haemodynamic and mechanical characteristics by use of non-invasive echocardiography, including tissue Doppler velocity and strain imaging, may provide a better insight into atrial function and its relationship with ventricular function. From an electromechanical perspective, this review summarizes not only the various methods for evaluating regional atrial function by tissue Doppler imaging, but also the normal findings in healthy subjects and the major clinical utilities in cardiac diseases, such as atrial fibrillation, ischaemic heart disease and heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, SH Ho Cardiovascular and Stroke Centre, Institute of Vascular Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, Peoples' Republic of China
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23
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Oki T, Tabata T, Yamada H, Wakatsuki T, Fukuda K, Abe M, Onose Y, Iuchi A, Fukuda N, Ito S. Evaluation of left atrial filling using systolic pulmonary venous flow velocity measurements in patients with atrial fibrillation. Clin Cardiol 2009; 21:169-74. [PMID: 9541760 PMCID: PMC6655777 DOI: 10.1002/clc.4960210306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pattern of pulmonary venous flow velocity is useful for understanding the hemodynamic relationship between the left atrium and left ventricle in patients with a variety of diseases, and the systolic flow wave, in particular, is considered a clinically important parameter that reflects left atrial filling. HYPOTHESIS The study was undertaken to determine whether systolic pulmonary venous flow velocity patterns can be used to evaluate left atrial filling in patients with atrial fibrillation. METHODS We performed transesophageal pulsed Doppler echocardiography and cardiac catheterization in 34 patients with chronic atrial fibrillation (10 with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, 5 with dilated cardiomyopathy, 7 with previous myocardial infarction, and 12 with isolated atrial fibrillation) and 15 normal controls in sinus rhythm. RESULTS Mean pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, V-wave height in the pulmonary capillary wedge pressure curve, and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure were significantly higher in the hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and dilated failing heart (previous myocardial infarction and dilated cardiomyopathy) groups than in the isolated atrial fibrillation and normal groups. The peak velocity and time-velocity integral of the systolic pulmonary venous flow velocity, and percent left atrial emptying fraction were significantly lower in the dilated failing heart group than in the isolated atrial fibrillation, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and normal groups. The peak velocity and time-velocity integral of the systolic pulmonary venous flow velocity, percent left atrial emptying fraction, and V-wave height were comparatively constant when the preceding R-R intervals were relatively stable in the isolated atrial fibrillation group and in 4 of the 10 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. However, changes in these variables correlated with the preceding R-R interval in all patients with dilated failing hearts and in 6 of the 10 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. CONCLUSION Transesophageal pulsed Doppler echocardiographic measurements of systolic pulmonary venous flow velocity are valid indicators of left atrial filling in patients with atrial fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Oki
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Tokushima, Japan
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24
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Nunes MCP, Barbosa MM, Ribeiro ALP, Colosimo EA, Rocha MO. Left Atrial Volume Provides Independent Prognostic Value in Patients With Chagas Cardiomyopathy. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2009; 22:82-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2008.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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25
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Costanzo P, Prastaro M, Perrino C, Caiazzo G, Monda C, Guerra G, Iorio A, Gargiulo P, Chiariello M, Perrone-Filardi P. Differences in Echocardiographic Assessment with Standard Doppler and Tissue Doppler Imaging of Left Ventricular Filling Pressure in Idiopathic and Ischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy. Echocardiography 2008; 25:683-91. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8175.2008.00687.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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26
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Barbieri A, Bursi F, Zanasi V, Veronesi B, Cioni E, Modena MG. Left Atrium Reclassified: Application of the American Society of Echocardiography/European Society of Cardiology Cutoffs to Unselected Outpatients Referred to the Echocardiography Laboratory. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2008; 21:433-8. [PMID: 17904802 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2007.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We sought to determine whether categorization of abnormal left atrial (LA) size based on volumes indexed to body surface area (LAVi) results in reclassification of LA dilatation if the classic antero-posterior diameter (LAd) was measured. The American Society of Echocardiography/European Society of Cardiology recommended LAVi over linear measurements and recently published cutoffs to qualify LA dilatation. However, many laboratories continue to use the LAd because it appears easier to measure. METHODS Unselected adult outpatients referred to the echocardiography laboratory for any indication in the period March 2005 to January 2006 prospectively underwent standard Doppler echocardiography, including real-time measurement of LAd and LAVi. RESULTS We enrolled 578 patients (mean age 66 +/- 14 years, 56% women). There was a good positive linear correlation between LAd and LAVi (r = 0.686, P < .0001). When the published cutoffs for LA enlargement were used, 49.0% of patients were classified as having abnormal LA by LAd and 76.3% by LAVi (P < .001). Of the 295 who had normal LA by LAd, 58.6% patients had abnormal LAVi. Conversely, of the 283 with abnormal LAd, almost all patients (94.7%) had abnormal LAVi. The proportion of overall agreement was 67.5% (kappa = 0.357, P < .001). CONCLUSION Assessment of LA size by LAVi allows identification of patients with enlarged atria that would have been missed if classified by antero-posterior diameters, especially when cutoffs are applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Barbieri
- Department of Cardiology, Policlinico Hospital, Modena and Reggio Emilia University, Modena, Italy
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27
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D'Andrea A, Caso P, Romano S, Scarafile R, Riegler L, Salerno G, Limongelli G, Di Salvo G, Calabrò P, Del Viscovo L, Romano G, Maiello C, Santangelo L, Severino S, Cuomo S, Cotrufo M, Calabrò R. Different effects of cardiac resynchronization therapy on left atrial function in patients with either idiopathic or ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy: a two-dimensional speckle strain study. Eur Heart J 2007; 28:2738-2748. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehm443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
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28
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Tsai CT, Hwang JJ, Shih YC, Chiang FT, Lai LP, Lin JL. Evolution of Left Atrial Systolic and Diastolic Functions in Different Stages of Hypertension: Distinct Effects of Blood Pressure Control. Cardiology 2007; 109:180-7. [PMID: 17684363 DOI: 10.1159/000106680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2006] [Accepted: 12/08/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the left atrial (LA) volume, and LA systolic (contractile) and diastolic (expansion) functions in different stages of hypertension with or without atrial fibrillation (AF), as well as the effects of good blood pressure control. METHODS A prospective observational study. Individuals including 22 normotensive controls, 23 patients with mild hypertension, 20 with severe hypertension, and 17 with hypertension and paroxysmal AF were recruited for paired echocardiography studies at baseline and 6 months after control of hypertension. RESULTS With increasing severity of hypertension, left ventricular (LV) diastolic function deteriorated with decreasing LV septal E'/A' and increasing E/E' ratios. LA expansion index was reduced in parallel. LA expansion index was correlated positively with LV E'/A' (r = 0.43, p = 0.022) and inversely with LV E/E' (r = 0.49, p = 0.009). Significant improvement of LV diastolic function and LA expansion index preceded the reduction of LA volume after blood pressure control. In patients with paroxysmal AF, LA volume reduction was more evident in patients receiving angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockers. CONCLUSIONS With progressive LV diastolic dysfunction in hypertension, there was a corresponding deterioration in LA diastolic function. Effective blood pressure control for 6 months improved LA diastolic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Ti Tsai
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
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Karayannis G, Kitsios G, Kotidis H, Triposkiadis F. Left atrial remodelling contributes to the progression of asymptomatic left ventricular systolic dysfunction to chronic symptomatic heart failure. Heart Fail Rev 2007; 13:91-8. [PMID: 17450425 DOI: 10.1007/s10741-007-9021-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2007] [Accepted: 03/30/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Systolic heart failure (HF) is a progressive disorder that often begins with asymptomatic left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction and culminates in symptoms from fluid overload and poor end-organ perfusion. The progression to symptomatic HF is accompanied by marked activation of neurohormonal and cytokine systems, as well as a series of adaptive LV anatomical and functional changes, collectively referred to as LV remodelling. However, the mechanisms underlying symptom appearance have not been delineated and the weight of experimental and clinical evidence suggests that the development of symptomatic HF occurs independently of the haemodynamic status of the patient. The left atrium is a muscular chamber strategically located between the left ventricle and the pulmonary circulation with important mechanical function (modulation of LV filling), which is closely coupled with its endocrine (atrial natriuretic peptide synthesis and secretion) and regulatory (contribution to the control of sympathetic activity and vasopressin release) functions. In this narrative review we provide evidence supporting the concept that left atrial dilation and systolic dysfunction (left atrial remodelling) contributes to the progression of asymptomatic LV dysfunction to chronic symptomatic systolic HF as it is a prerequisite for the development of the pulmonary congestion and marked neuronhormoral activity that characterize the symptomatic state.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Karayannis
- Department of Cardiology, University of Thessaly Medical School, Larissa University Hospital, P.O. Box 1425, 411 10 Larissa, Greece
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30
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Paraskevaidis I, Farmakis D, Parissis JT, Dodouras T, Filippatos G, Tsiapras D, Kremastinos DT. Carvedilol Improves Left Atrial and Left Ventricular Function and Reserve in Dilated Cardiomyopathy After 1 Year of Treatment. J Card Fail 2007; 13:108-13. [PMID: 17395050 DOI: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2006.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2006] [Revised: 10/10/2006] [Accepted: 10/12/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of carvedilol therapy on left atrial (LA) function in patients with heart failure from nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. METHODS AND RESULTS Thirty-five patients (42.4 +/- 13.5 years) in New York Heart Association functional Class II-III have been studied. A low-dose (20 mug.kg.min) echo-dobutamine study has been performed, before and 12 months after carvedilol therapy. Twelve months after carvedilol therapy, a significant improvement in LA and left ventricular (LV) function was observed. To investigate the beneficial effects of carvedilol, patients were separated into 2 groups according to the presence of pretreatment LV contractile reserve (CR) (ejection fraction [EF] increases >20% after dobutamine infusion): Group A consisted of 18 patients with CR and Group B of 17 patients without CR. After carvedilol treatment, both the LV and LA function were improved in group A (P < .01 for all). However, in group B, only the LA function was significantly improved (left atrial ejection volume increased from 10.4 +/- 3 mL to 15.4 +/- 6.7, P < .01 and LA ejection fraction from 19.6 +/- 45.3% to 29.4 +/- 12.5%, P < .01), whereas the LV contractile reserve has partially reappeared (EF from 29.9 +/- 4.5% at baseline, increased after dobutamine infusion to 35.8 +/- 6.8%, P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, carvedilol therapy is associated with improvement in both LV and LA functions in nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. In a subgroup of these patients, carvedilol may act differently on LV and LA function.
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MESH Headings
- Adrenergic beta-Antagonists/therapeutic use
- Adult
- Atrial Function, Left/drug effects
- Atrial Function, Left/physiology
- Carbazoles/therapeutic use
- Cardiomyopathy, Dilated/complications
- Cardiomyopathy, Dilated/drug therapy
- Cardiomyopathy, Dilated/physiopathology
- Cardiotonic Agents/administration & dosage
- Carvedilol
- Dobutamine/administration & dosage
- Echocardiography, Doppler
- Echocardiography, Stress
- Female
- Follow-Up Studies
- Heart Atria/diagnostic imaging
- Heart Atria/drug effects
- Heart Atria/physiopathology
- Heart Ventricles/diagnostic imaging
- Heart Ventricles/drug effects
- Heart Ventricles/physiopathology
- Humans
- Infusions, Intravenous
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Propanolamines/therapeutic use
- Stroke Volume/drug effects
- Stroke Volume/physiology
- Time Factors
- Treatment Outcome
- Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/drug therapy
- Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/etiology
- Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/physiopathology
- Ventricular Function, Left/drug effects
- Ventricular Function, Left/physiology
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Inaba Y, Yuda S, Kobayashi N, Hashimoto A, Uno K, Nakata T, Tsuchihashi K, Miura T, Ura N, Shimamoto K. Strain rate imaging for noninvasive functional quantification of the left atrium: comparative studies in controls and patients with atrial fibrillation. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2006; 18:729-36. [PMID: 16003270 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2004.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Strain rate (SR) imaging enables quantitative measurement of left ventricular (LV) function independent of cardiac translation. However, whether SR imaging is applicable for detection of left atrial (LA) dysfunction remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of measuring LA function by SR imaging, focusing on the effects of aging and LA dilatation during atrial fibrillation (AF). Echocardiographic evaluation including SR imaging was performed in 50 controls (29 males and 21 females; mean age, 41 +/- 14 years) and in 27 patients with AF (15 males and 12 females; mean age, 62 +/- 12 years; 8 with persistent AF and 19 with paroxysmal AF) from 3 apical views and analyzed off-line. Peak SR was measured at each LA segment (septum, lateral, posterior, anterior, and inferior), and mean peak systolic SR (SR-LAs), early diastolic SR (SR-LAe), and late diastolic SR (SR-LAa) were calculated by averaging the results for each segment. LA dimension, peak mitral and pulmonary velocities at late diastole, LA fractional shortening, and atrial filling fraction were calculated as parameters of LA function. Normal values for mean SR-LAs, SR-LAe, and SR-LAa were 3.4 +/- 1.0 s -1 , -3.9 +/- 1.7 s -1 , and -3.1 +/- 1.0 s -1 , respectively, and they were successfully measured in more than 95% of the LA segments. In controls, both mean SR-LAs and mean SR-LAe correlated with age, LA dimension, and early to late diastolic mitral flow velocity ratio. Conversely, mean SR-LAa did not show significant correlation with age or parameters of LA function. In AF patients, mean SR-LAs was correlated inversely with age. The mean SR-LAs was significantly lower in persistent AF patients than in age-matched controls (1.7 +/- 0.8 vs 2.9 +/- 0.9 s -1 ; P < .01). Based on our findings, we conclude that noninvasive quantification of LA function using SR imaging enables evaluation of LA dysfunction due to aging and LA dilatation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshie Inaba
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
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Moyssakis I, Papadopoulos DP, Kelepeshis G, Gialafos E, Votteas V, Triposkiadis F. Left atrial systolic reserve in idiopathic vs. ischaemic-dilated cardiomyopathy. Eur J Clin Invest 2005; 35:355-61. [PMID: 15948895 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2362.2005.01505.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE There are studies indicating more pronounced left atrial (LA) systolic dysfunction at rest in idiopathic (IDDC) than in ischaemic-dilated cardiomyopathy (ISDC). It was hypothesized that the findings would be similar with regards LA systolic reserve. METHODS Twenty-six patients with IDDC, 28 with ISDC and 25 normal controls underwent low-dose dobutamine stress echocardiography (5-10 microg kg(-1) min(-1) IV). Left atrial volumes were echocardiographically determined at rest and during stress at the mitral valve opening (maximal, Vmax), electrocardiographic P wave (onset of atrial systole, Vp) and mitral valve closure (minimal, Vmin) from the apical 4- and 2-chamber views (biplane area-length method). Left atrial systolic function was assessed with the LA-active emptying volume (ACTEV) = Vp-Vmin and fraction (ACTEF) = ACTEV/Vp. RESULTS Vmax at rest was similar in IDDC and ISDC and greater than in the controls (54.2 +/- 12 vs. 48.5 +/- 18 vs. 27.1 +/- 6.3 cm(3) m(-2), respectively, P < 0.001) and did not change with stress (53.9 +/- 13.8 vs. 46.9 +/- 16.2 vs. 25.8 +/- 5.9 cm(3) m(-2), P < 0.001). The ACTEV at rest was similar in IDDC and ISDC and greater than in the controls (8.6 +/- 3.5 vs. 9.7 +/- 2.9 vs. 6.1 +/- 2.2 cm(3) m(-2) P < 0.01), whereas during the dobutamine infusion it remained unaltered in IDDC (10.8 +/- 4.6 cm(3) m(-2), P = NS vs. rest) and increased in ISDC (11.8 +/- 3.3 cm(3) m(-2), P < 0.05) and the controls (13.1 +/- 3.2 cm(3) m(-2), P < 0.01). The ACTEF was lower in IDDC than ISDC and the controls at rest (20 +/- 10% vs. 33 +/- 8% vs. 36 +/- 10%, P < 0.01). Dobutamine infusion was associated with no significant increase in ACTEF in IDDC (25 +/- 12%, P = NS vs. rest), and with an increase in this variable in ISDC (39 +/- 10%, P < 0.05) and the controls (49 +/- 12%, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Dobutamine infusion is associated with an increase in LA ACTEV and fraction in ISDC and no significant change in these indices in IDDC. These findings indicate a reduced LA systolic reserve in IDDC.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Moyssakis
- Laico General Hospital of Athens, Athens, Greece
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33
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Oki T, Oishi Y, Tanaka H, Emi S, Mizuguchi Y, Ishimoto T, Nagase N, Ara N. Renewed Interest in Left Atrial Function: What do we Need to Evaluate Clinically? J Echocardiogr 2005. [DOI: 10.2303/jecho.3.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Moyssakis I, Triposkiadis F, Pantazopoulos NJ, Kyriakidis M, Nihoyannopoulos P. Left atrial systolic function in primary and familial amyloidosis: assessment from left atrial volume change. Clin Cardiol 2004; 27:528-32. [PMID: 15471167 PMCID: PMC6654726 DOI: 10.1002/clc.4960270912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2003] [Accepted: 04/06/2004] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The severity of left ventricular involvement may differ between primary (PA) and familial amyloidosis (FA). This study examined whether differences in left atrial (LA) systolic function are also present. Twenty-eight patients (18 men, 10 women, aged 59 +/- 12 years) with PA, 17 (11 men, 6 women, aged 40 +/- 11 years) with FA, and 25 normal controls (18 men, 7 women, aged 56 +/- 14 years) underwent transthoracic M-mode, two-dimensional, and Doppler echocardiography. Left atrial volumes were determined at mitral valve (MV) opening (maximal, Vmax), electrocardiographic P wave (onset of atrial systole, Vp), and MV closure (minimal, Vmin) from the apical two-and four-chamber views using the biplane area-length method. Left atrial systolic function was assessed with the LA active emptying volume (ACTEV) = Vp-Vmin and fraction (ACTEF) = ACTEV/Vp. The E/A ratio was increased (1.34 +/- 0.93 vs. 0.89 +/- 0.3), whereas deceleration time was decreased (168.1 +/- 33.7 vs. 196.2 +/- 34.2 ms) in PA compared with FA (p<0.05). Vmax and Vp were similar in PA and FA and greater than in the controls (46.6 +/- 14 vs. 40 +/- 11.4 vs. 27.1 +/- 6.3 cm3/m2, p<0.01, and 33.4 +/- 11.6 vs. 29.7 +/- 10.8 vs. 16.8 +/- 3.8 cm3/m2, p<0.01, respectively). The ACTEV was lower in PA and in the controls than in FA (6.7 +/- 2 vs. 6.2 +/- 2.2 vs. 8.5 +/- 3.3, respectively, p<0.05). The ACTEF was lower in PA than in FA and both were lower than those in the controls (20 +/- 5% vs. 28 +/- 7% vs. 36 +/- 11%, respectively, p<0.01). Despite a similar increase in LA volume, LA systolic dysfunction is more pronounced in PA than in FA. This is most likely due to the restrictive left ventricular physiology possibly associated with depressed LA contractility in the former.
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Rossi A, Cicoira M, Zanolla L, Sandrini R, Golia G, Zardini P, Enriquez-Sarano M. Determinants and prognostic value of left atrial volume in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. J Am Coll Cardiol 2002; 40:1425. [PMID: 12392832 DOI: 10.1016/s0735-1097(02)02305-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 266] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate the determinants of left atrial (LA) volume and its prognostic value in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). BACKGROUND Enlargement of the LA is a marker of mortality in the general population. Patients with DCM are characterized by a wide range of LA sizes, but the clinical role of this observation has been played down. METHODS A complete echocardiographic Doppler examination was performed in 337 patients (age 60 +/- 13 years; 84% male) with the diagnosis of DCM. Left atrial maximal volume (LA(max)) was measured at left ventricular (LV) end systole (four-chamber view; area-length method). Left ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes (LVEDV and LVESV) and ejection fraction (EF) were also measured. Mitral regurgitation (MR) was graded using a 5-point scale. Mitral E-wave (E) and A-wave (A) velocities, as well as their ratio (E/A), were measured off-line. RESULTS Determinants of LA(max) were: atrial fibrillation (r = 0.34, p < 0.0001), LVEDV (r = 0.46, p < 0.0001), EF (r = 0.40, p < 0.0001), MR (r = 0.39, p < 0.0001), and E/A ratio (r = 0.36, p < 0.0001). During follow-up (41 +/- 29 months), 77 patients died and 12 underwent heart transplantation. Univariate Cox analysis showed that LA(max) (hazard ratio [HR] 1.01, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.007-1.013, p < 0.0001), LVESV (HR 1.003, CI 1.001-1.005, p = 0.0003), E/A ratio (HR 1.6, CI 1.3-2.005, p < 0.0001), and MR (HR 1.21, CI 1.03-1.44, p = 0.02) were related to the outcome. On bivariate Cox analysis, LA(max) predicted the prognosis independently of each determinant. Patients with a larger LA volume (LA(max)/m(2) >68.5 ml/m(2)) had a risk ratio of 3.8 compared with those with a smaller LA volume. CONCLUSIONS In patients with DCM, LA volume is associated with LV remodeling, diastolic dysfunction, and the degree of MR. The maximal volume of the LA has an independent and incremental prognostic value, compared with all its determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Rossi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Chirurgiche, Sezione di Cardiologia, Universita' di Verona, Verona, Italy.
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Paraskevaidis IA, Dodouras T, Adamopoulos S, Kremastinos DT. Left atrial functional reserve in patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy: an echocardiographic dobutamine study. Chest 2002; 122:1340-7. [PMID: 12377862 DOI: 10.1378/chest.122.4.1340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate left atrial functional reserve in patients with chronic heart failure and nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). BACKGROUND Left ventricular functional status has been investigated using echocardiographic dobutamine. METHODS In 35 consecutive patients (29 men and 6 women; mean +/- SD age, 42.37 +/- 13.5 years), peak oxygen consumption (O(2)max) was measured; the day after, a low-dose dobutamine (5 to 10 micro g/kg/min, of 5 min each step) study was performed. Left atrial volumes at mitral valve opening, onset of left atrial systole, and mitral valve closure were measured by using two-dimensional echocardiography. Left atrial active emptying volume (LAEV) [volume at onset of atrial systole - minimal volume] was calculated, as was left atrial active emptying fraction (LAEF): [(volume at onset of atrial systole - minimal volume)/volume at onset of atrial systole] x 100. The changes (values obtained after inotropic stimulation minus those obtained at baseline) of the above-mentioned echocardiographic variables were considered as left atrial functional reserve. RESULTS In the entire study group after dobutamine infusion, increases in LAEV (3.34 +/- 7.54 mL, p = 0.01) and LAEF (6 +/- 13.2%, p = 0.01) were observed. The changes in the above-mentioned parameters were correlated with O(2)max values (r = 0.73 and r = 0.71, respectively; p < 0.001). After inotropic stimulation, LAEV and LAEF were increased in patients with O(2)max values > 14 mL/kg/min (5.62 +/- 7.28 mL and 10.04 +/- 13.13%, respectively) and decreased in patients with O(2)max values < 14 mL/kg/min (- 1.08 +/- 6.13 mL and - 1.6 +/- 9.9%, respectively; p = 0.01 for both). CONCLUSION Echocardiographic dobutamine can evaluate left atrial functional reserve in patients with nonischemic DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis A Paraskevaidis
- Second Department of Cardiology, Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, 356 Syngrou Avenue, 176 74 Athens, Greece.
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Bolca O, Akdemir O, Eren M, Dagdeviren B, Yildirim A, Tezel T. Left atrial maximum volume is a recurrence predictor in lone atrial fibrillation: an acoustic quantification study. JAPANESE HEART JOURNAL 2002; 43:241-8. [PMID: 12227699 DOI: 10.1536/jhj.43.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Predictors of recurrence in lone atrial fibrillation have not been clearly identified. Acoustic quantification (AQ) is a promising method in the assessment of left atrial (LA) volumes. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the potential of LA volumes obtained by standard manual tracing and AQ methods in predicting AF-recurrence after restoring the sinus rhythm in patients with lone AF, and to test the agreement between the two approaches. Standard echocardiography combined with AQ was performed in 28 patients with lone AF one hour after the sinus rhythm was regained, and in 10 controls. LA volumes were determined by conventional manual tracing and AQ methods. AQ waveforms of LA were obtained by drawing a region of interest around the LA border. The agreement of the two methods was tested by Bland-Altman analysis. Patients were followed up for 6 months for the occurrence of AF recurrence. A good correlation was observed between AQ and manual tracing methods in determining both minimal (r=0.59) and maximal (r=0.88) LA volumes. Patients with AF recurrence had a significantly larger maximum LA volume as assessed with both methods (P<0.05 for both). M-mode derived LA dimension and isovolumic relaxation time were additional predictors of recurrence in patients with lone AF. In lone AF, patients prone to recurrence could be predicted by determining LA maximum volume assessed either by AQ or manual tracing methods. AQ provides on-line, accurate estimation of LA volumes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osman Bolca
- Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Center, Istanbul, Turkey
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38
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Spencer KT, Mor-Avi V, Gorcsan J, DeMaria AN, Kimball TR, Monaghan MJ, Perez JE, Weinert L, Bednarz J, Edelman K, Kwan OL, Glascock B, Hancock J, Baumann C, Lang RM. Effects of aging on left atrial reservoir, conduit, and booster pump function: a multi-institution acoustic quantification study. Heart 2001; 85:272-7. [PMID: 11179264 PMCID: PMC1729654 DOI: 10.1136/heart.85.3.272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the feasibility of measuring left atrial (LA) function with acoustic quantification (AQ) and then assess the effects of age and sex on LA reservoir, conduit, and booster pump function. PATIENTS AND SETTING 165 subjects without cardiovascular disease, 3-79 years old, were enrolled by six tertiary hospital centres. INTERVENTIONS Continuous LA AQ area data were acquired and signal averaged to form composite waveforms which were analysed off-line. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Parameters of LA performance according to age and sex. RESULTS Signal averaged LA waveforms were sufficiently stable and detailed to allow automated analysis in all cases. An age related increase in LA area was noted. LA reservoir function did not vary with age or sex. All parameters of LA passive and active emptying revealed a significant age dependency. Overall, the passive emptying phase accounted for 66% of total LA emptying ranging from 76% in the youngest to 44% in the oldest decade. LA contraction accounted for 34% of atrial emptying in all subjects combined with the older subjects being more dependent on atrial booster pump function. When adjusted for atrial size, there were no sex related differences in LA function. CONCLUSIONS LA reservoir, conduit, and booster pump function can be assessed with automated analysis of signal averaged LA area waveforms. As LA performance varies with age, establishment of normal values should enhance the evaluation of pathologic states in which LA function is important.
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Affiliation(s)
- K T Spencer
- University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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Abstract
Left atrial function is an important determinant of ventricular filling. Assessment of the complex role that the atrial cavity exerts in the ventricular filling process can be made noninvasively. Computing the net instantaneous difference between mitral and pulmonary venous flow is an approach which permits the construction of the left atrial volume curve throughout the cardiac cycle (as well as the left ventricular volume curve during diastole), and to quantify the 3 different functions that the cavity performs. In particular, increasing degrees of ventricular filling impairment are met by mechanical left atrial adaptations which basically rely on the Starling mechanism, with the reservoir/pump complex activated to the limit of the preload reserve of the cavity. At end-stage left ventricular dysfunction, however, the atrial reservoir and the booster pump function decline and conduit takes precedence, suggesting afterload mismatch, impaired atrial compliance and, perhaps, depressed atrial contractility. Increased wall stiffening and reduced elastic recoil induced by chronic atrial distension might explain the additional power of atrial size in stratifying prognostically patients with left ventricular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rossi
- Division of Cardiology, University of Verona, Italy
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40
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Triposkiadis F, Moyssakis I, Hadjinikolaou L, Makris T, Zioris H, Hatzizaharias A, Kyriakidis M. Left atrial systolic function is depressed in idiopathic and preserved in ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. Eur J Clin Invest 1999; 29:905-12. [PMID: 10583434 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2362.1999.00563.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Left atrial systolic dysfunction, unexplained by altered loading conditions, has been reported in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy suggesting left atrial involvement in the myopathic process. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventeen patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy, 16 with ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy and 18 normal controls were studied with transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac catheterization. Transmitral diastolic flow was evaluated with pulsed Doppler. Left atrial volume (cm3/m2) at mitral valve opening (maximal, Vmax.), onset of atrial systole (P wave of the electrocardiogram, Vp), and mitral valve closure (minimal, Vmin. ) was determined with two-dimensional echocardiography using the biplane area-length method. The left atrial active emptying fraction (ACTEF = [Vp-Vmin.] x 100/Vp) served as an index of systolic function. RESULTS The peak early diastolic transmitral flow velocity (cm/sec) was similar in the three groups (idiopathic: 60 +/- 16, ischemic: 58 +/- 20, control: 56 +/- 22; P = NS), whereas the late diastolic transmitral flow velocity was lower but not significantly different in idiopathic compared to ischemic cardiomyopathy, and in both was lower than control (26 +/- 12 vs. 34 +/- 13 vs. 44 +/- 14, respectively; P < 0.05). Vmax. and Vp were similar in idiopathic and ischemic cardiomyopathy and greater than control (44.6 +/- 13.6 vs. 48.2 +/- 18.3 vs. 26.9 +/- 6.2; P < 0.05, and 34.6 +/- 13.4 vs. 30.8 +/- 10.9 vs. 16.7 +/- 3.7, respectively; P < 0.05). ACTEF was lower in idiopathic than in ischemic cardiomyopathy and in the latter it was similar to control (18 +/- 10% vs. 32 +/- 10% vs. 36 +/- 10%, respectively; P < 0.05). Moreover, ACTEF was inversely related to left atrial tension at end-of atrial systole both in idiopathic and in ischemic cardiomyopathy (r2 = 0.52, P = 0.001 and r2 = 0.57, P = 0.0007, respectively). However, at any given level of left atrial tension at end of atrial systole, ACTEF was lower in idiopathic than ischemic cardiomyopathy. CONCLUSION Left atrial systolic function is depressed in idiopathic and preserved in ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy despite similar left atrial loading conditions. This finding suggests left atrial myopathy in the former, and may be related to the differences in the response to medical treatment and clinical outcome observed between the two conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Triposkiadis
- University of Thessaly, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Larissa, Greece.
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Budoff MJ, Mao S, Wang S, Bakhsheshi H, Brundage BH. Simple single-section method for measurement of left and right atrial volumes with electron-beam CT. Acad Radiol 1999; 6:481-6. [PMID: 10480044 DOI: 10.1016/s1076-6332(99)80167-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES The authors estimated left and right atrial volumes by using a simple method of measurement with nonenhanced electron-beam computed tomography (CT). MATERIALS AND METHODS One hundred sixty-four contrast material-enhanced electron-beam CT studies were divided into two groups. Group 1, which included 104 studies, was used to develop the measurement method (i.e., the formulas) for measuring left and right atrial volumes from a nonenhanced study. Group 2 consisted of 60 studies on which the validity of the method was tested. Measurement of left and right atrial volumes was performed on all section levels by tracing the respective atrial borders for each section, then multiplying the area by section thickness and summing the resultant volumes. RESULTS Calculated left and right atrial volumes were derived by using the biggest atrial area and cephalic-caudal span. The span was equal to section thickness times the number of sections in which the atria were present. Linear regression analysis formulas were acquired with the biggest atrial area and cephalic-caudal span. Left and right atrial calculated volumes were obtained with these formulas and demonstrated a significant good relation (r > .95, P < .001) and a difference of less than 11% (P < .05) in absolute values between measured and calculated volumes. Intraobserver, interobserver, and interstudy reproducibility were excellent, with less than 10% difference in absolute values. CONCLUSION Left and right atrial volumes can be accurately estimated from a single midventricular section by using nonenhanced electron-beam CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Budoff
- Saint John's Cardiovascular Research Center, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center Research and Education Institute, CA 90502, USA
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Trikas A, Tentolouris K, Katsimaklis G, Antoniou J, Stefanadis C, Toutouzas P. Exercise capacity in patients with beta-thalassemia major: relation to left ventricular and atrial size and function. Am Heart J 1998; 136:988-90. [PMID: 9842011 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-8703(98)70154-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to examine the association between exercise capacity and echocardiographic indexes of atrial and ventricular function and size in patients with beta-thalassemia major. BACKGROUND In patients with beta-thalassemia major, the assessment of cardiac function with echocardiography alone does not always correspond to their functional status. Peak oxygen uptake and anaerobic threshold, on the other hand, constitute 2 objective and reproducible determinants of exercise capacity in patients with heart failure. METHODS AND RESULTS Forty consecutive patients (22 women and 18 men, 18 to 30 years old) who were in stable condition while receiving regular transfusions and 30 age- and sex-matched control subjects were studied. At 2 to 3 days after the last transfusion, each subject underwent complete echocardiographic study followed by cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Left atrial volumes (maximal [Vmax], at onset of atrial systolic [Vp], and minimal [Vmin]) and left ventricular volumes were measured with the biplane area-length method, and left atrial active emptying fraction (ACTEF) and left ventricular ejection (LVEF) fraction were calculated. Peak oxygen uptake (Vo 2 max) and anaerobic threshold (AT) were also estimated. After transfusion, patients with beta-thalassemia major had reduced Vo 2 max and AT and greater left atrial volume in comparison with control subjects. Also, ACTEF and LVEF were significantly lower in the patient group. Moreover, Vo2 max and AT were inversely related to Vmax (r = -0.74 and r = -0.80, respectively) and directly related to ACTEF (r = 0.85 and r = 0.82, respectively) in beta-thalassemia major, whereas they were poorly related to LVEF (r = 0.50 and r = 0. 53, respectively). In the control group, Vo 2 max and AT parameters were related to Vmax and ACTEF in a similar way to that in the beta-thalassemia group. CONCLUSIONS In patients with beta-thalassemia major, exercise capacity does not correlate with left ventricular dimensions and function. On the contrary, left atrial size and systolic dysfunction are probably predictors of decreased exercise capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Trikas
- Department of Cardiology, University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
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Capomolla S, Pozzoli M, Opasich C, Febo O, Riccardi G, Salvucci F, Maestri R, Sisti M, Cobelli F, Tavazzi L. Dobutamine and nitroprusside infusion in patients with severe congestive heart failure: hemodynamic improvement by discordant effects on mitral regurgitation, left atrial function, and ventricular function. Am Heart J 1997; 134:1089-98. [PMID: 9424070 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-8703(97)70030-9] [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
OBJECTIVES In patients with severe heart failure additional therapeutic support with intravenous inotropic or vasodilator drugs is frequently used in the attempt to obtain hemodynamic control. The nature and extent to which diastolic filling, atrial function, and mitral regurgitation are modified by these drugs have not been fully explored. The aim of this study was to compare the acute adaptations of the left ventricular performance, left atrial function, and mitral regurgitation that accompanied hemodynamic improvement during intravenous dobutamine and nitroprusside infusions in patients with severe chronic heart failure. METHODS Forty consecutive patients with severe heart failure were evaluated by simultaneous echo-Doppler and hemodynamic investigations at baseline and during nitroprusside and dobutamine administration. Mitral flow velocity variables, left atrial and ventricular volumes, left atrial reservoir, conduit and pump volumes, and mitral regurgitation jet area were compared by analysis of variance for repeated measurements. RESULTS Nitroprusside increased cardiac output (2.1 +/- .5 vs 2.6 +/- .5 L/min/m2, p < 0.004), reduced left ventricular filling pressure (25 +/- 6 vs 14 +/- 4 mm Hg, p < 0.0001), and improved left atrial pump volume (19 +/- 3 vs 26 +/- 12 ml, p < 0.02) without variations in left atrial reservoir and conduit volume. The restoration of preload reserve and improvement of the atrial contribution to left ventricular diastolic filling were demonstrated by the Doppler mitral flow pattern, which moved from a restrictive to a normal pattern. Furthermore mitral regurgitation decreased in all patients (9 +/- 4.6 vs 4.6 +/- 3.4 cm2, p < 0.0001). Dobutamine increased cardiac output (2.1 +/- .5 vs 2.8 +/- .6 L/min/m2), but the effects on pulmonary wedge pressure and mitral regurgitation were variable and unpredictable. Left atrial reservoir and conduit volumes increased, whereas left atrial pump volume did not change (19 +/- 13 vs 22 +/- 14 ml, p = NS). Furthermore Doppler mitral flow showed a persistent restrictive pattern. CONCLUSIONS In patients with advanced congestive heart failure both nitroprusside and dobutamine improve cardiac output, with different adaptations of left ventricular performance and left atrial function. Nitroprusside seems to restore both atrial and ventricular pump function better. Careful echo-Doppler monitoring during drug infusion provides information relevant to the clinical treatment of individual patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Capomolla
- Salvatore Maugeri Foundation, Institute of Medical Care and Research Montescano, Pavia, Italy
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Järvinen VM, Kupari MM, Poutanen VP, Hekali PE. A simplified method for the determination of left atrial size and function using cine magnetic resonance imaging. Magn Reson Imaging 1996; 14:215-26. [PMID: 8725187 DOI: 10.1016/0730-725x(95)02098-e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
This work aimed at developing a rapid and clinically applicable method for the assessment of left atrial size and function using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We studied 17 healthy subjects and 26 cardiac patients. Left atrial cine MRI with 50 ms phases was made in 6-12 contiguous long-axis sections encompassing the entire atrial cavity. A volume-time curve was reconstructed to measure the minimum and maximum volumes as well as the fractional volume change, reservoir function, ejection fraction, and mean filling and emptying rates of the left atrium. The image section with the largest left atrial area was then selected and a comparable area-time curve was reconstructed. The atrial phasic areas and functional indices were determined analogously to the volume-based assessment. The contours of atrial area-time and volume-time curves agreed closely in individual subjects. All area-based left atrial measurements distinguished cardiac patients as a group from healthy persons. The combined specificity of the area-based analyses was 92% and the sensitivity, 65%, in identifying abnormal results in individual patients. The accuracy of the area-based data was best for the atrial minimum size, fractional change, reservoir function, and mean filling rate. The estimated time savings with the simplified method were 5 to 6 h per patient. Left atrial size and function can be studied by reconstructing a phasic atrial area-time curve with cine MRI. Atrial enlargement and abnormalities of filling and reservoir function can be reliably identified, but if data on conduit or stroke function are crucial the three-dimensional MRI technique is still recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- V M Järvinen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Finland
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Ito T, Suwa M, Hirota Y, Otake Y, Moriguchi A, Kawamura K. Influence of left atrial function on Doppler transmitral and pulmonary venous flow patterns in dilated and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: evaluation of left atrial appendage function by transesophageal echocardiography. Am Heart J 1996; 131:122-30. [PMID: 8553998 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-8703(96)90060-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Information regarding the relation of left atrial (LA) function to transmitral and pulmonary venous (PV) flow is limited. Using transesophageal echocardiography, we analyzed this relation in 23 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and 25 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Left atrial appendage (LAA) function was assessed as a substitute for overall LA function. Transmitral and PV flow-velocity variables, the LAA emptying flow velocity (LAA-A), and the LAA ejection fraction (LAA-EF) were determined. Each patient group was divided into two subgroups with a normal ( < 15 mm Hg) or elevated ( > or = 15 mm Hg) mean pulmonary wedge pressure (PWP). Transmitral and PV flow patterns as well as LA function were similar in the two subgroups with a normal PWP (11 patients with DCM and 14 patients with HCM). For the subgroups with an elevated PWP, however, the peak velocity ratio of the early filling wave (E) to atrial contraction wave (A) was higher in DCM patients (n = 12) than in HCM patients (n = 11) (2.1 +/- 0.7 vs 1.3 +/- 0.2; p < 0.01). This difference mostly resulted from a lower A velocity in the DCM group than in the HCM group (30 +/- 10 cm/sec vs 43 +/- 7 cm/sec; p < 0.05). In addition, the reverse flow velocity at atrial contraction in the PV was lower in the DCM group than in the HCM group (19 +/- 8 cm/sec vs 37 +/- 8 cm/sec; p < 0.01). These findings were associated with poorer LA systolic function in the DCM group (LAA-A, 35 +/- 13 cm/sec vs 60 +/- 11 cm/sec; LAA-EF, 37% +/- 12% vs 55% +/- 15%, p < 0.05, respectively). Our data suggest that a restrictive transmitral flow pattern develops more easily in DCM than in HCM because LA dysfunction is present in DCM, and that LA contractility plays an important role in determining the atrial contraction wave of transmitral and PV flows with elevated LA pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Ito
- Department of Internal Medicine, Osaka Medical College, Japan
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Trikas A, Triposkiadis F, Androulakis A, Toutouzas K, Tentolouris K, Nihoyannopoulos P, Gialafos J, Toutouzas P. Response of left atrial systolic function to handgrip in normal subjects. Am Heart J 1995; 130:1303-5. [PMID: 7484791 DOI: 10.1016/0002-8703(95)90164-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Trikas
- Department of Cardiology, University of Athens Medical School, Greece
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47
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Triposkiadis F, Tentolouris K, Androulakis A, Trikas A, Toutouzas K, Kyriakidis M, Gialafos J, Toutouzas P. Left atrial mechanical function in the healthy elderly: new insights from a combined assessment of changes in atrial volume and transmitral flow velocity. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 1995; 8:801-9. [PMID: 8611280 DOI: 10.1016/s0894-7317(05)80004-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
To assess left atrial mechanical function in the elderly, 35 old (age > 70 years) and 18 sex-matched young (age < 50 years) healthy subjects were studied. Transmitral flow velocities were recorded with pulsed Doppler echocardiography. Left atrial volumes were measured echocardiographically at mitral valve opening (maximal) and closure (minimal) and at onset of atrial systole (P wave of the electrocardiogram) according to the biplane area-length method. Left atrial passive emptying was assessed with the passive emptying volume (maximal-volume at onset of atrial systole) and fraction (passive emptying volume/maximal). Left atrial active emptying was assessed with the active emptying volume (volume at onset of atrial systole-minimal) and fraction (active emptying volume/volume at onset of atrial systole) and with left atrial ejection force = 0.5.blood density.volume at onset of atrial systole.active emptying fraction.(A velocity)2/A integral. Left atrial volumes were greater in old compared with young subjects (maximal: 31 +/- 10 cm3/m2 vs 24 +/- 8 cm3/m2, p = 0.02; at onset of atrial systole: 23 +/- 8 cm3/m2 vs 15 +/- 5 cm3/m2, p = 0.0002; minimal: 13 +/- 5 cm3/m2 vs 9 +/- 4 cm3/m2, p = 0.001). Passive emptying volume and fraction were lower (7.8 +/- 1.7 cm3/m2 vs 9.2 +/- 3.2 cm3/m2 [p = 0.04] and 26.4% +/- 9.8% vs 37.9% +/- 11.2% [p = 0.003], respectively), whereas atrial ejection force and active emptying volume were greater in old compared with young subjects (6.8 +/- 3.3 kdynes/m2 vs 4.2 +/- 2.8 kdynes/m2 [p = 0.007] and 9.2 +/- 4.1 cm3/m2 vs 5.7 +/- 2.9 cm3/m2 [p = 0.002], respectively). The active emptying fraction was similar in the two groups (39.7% +/- 11% vs 38.4% +/- 13%; difference not significant). Thus advanced age is associated with depressed left atrial passive emptying function and increased left atrial volume. Left atrial dilation contributes to an increase in atrial ejection force and the amount of blood ejected during left atrial systole and may represent an important compensatory mechanism in this age population.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Triposkiadis
- Department of Cardiology, University of Athens Medical School, Greece
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Trikas A, Triposkiadis F, Pitsavos C, Tentolouris K, Kyriakidis M, Gialafos J, Toutouzas P. Relation of left atrial volume and systolic function to the hormonal response in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy. Int J Cardiol 1994; 47:139-43. [PMID: 7721481 DOI: 10.1016/0167-5273(94)90180-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
We studied the relation of left atrial mechanical function to the hormonal response in 14 patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy. Left atrial volumes were echocardiographically measured at mitral valve opening (maximal), at onset of atrial systole (onset of the P wave of the electrocardiogram) and at mitral valve closure (minimal) from the apical 2- and 4-chamber views using the biplane area-length method. Left atrial systolic function was assessed with the left atrial active emptying fraction ([volume at onset of atrial systole-minimal]/[volume at onset of atrial systole]). Plasma renin activity, aldosterone and atrial natriuretic peptide plasma levels were determined using commercially available kits. Left atrial maximal volume was directly, and left atrial active emptying fraction was inversely related to plasma renin activity (r = 0.60, P = 0.02 and r = -0.59, P = 0.026, respectively), aldosterone (r = 0.61, P = 0.02 and r = -0.53, P = 0.048) and atrial natriuretic factor (r = 0.79, P = 0.0009 and r = -0.62, P = 0.01) plasma levels. Thus, increased left atrial size and depressed left atrial contractile performance are associated with increased hormonal response in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Trikas
- Department of Cardiology, Hippokration Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, Greece
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