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Groen RA, Jukema JW, van Dijkman PRM, Bax JJ, Lamb HJ, Antoni ML, de Graaf MA. The Clear Value of Coronary Artery Calcification Evaluation on Non-Gated Chest Computed Tomography for Cardiac Risk Stratification. Cardiol Ther 2024; 13:69-87. [PMID: 38349434 PMCID: PMC10899125 DOI: 10.1007/s40119-024-00354-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
To enhance risk stratification in patients suspected of coronary artery disease, the assessment of coronary artery calcium (CAC) could be incorporated, especially when CAC can be readily assessed on previously performed non-gated chest computed tomography (CT). Guidelines recommend reporting on patients' extent of CAC on these non-cardiac directed exams and various studies have shown the diagnostic and prognostic value. However, this method is still little applied, and no current consensus exists in clinical practice. This review aims to point out the clinical utility of different kinds of CAC assessment on non-gated CTs. It demonstrates that these scans indeed represent a merely untapped and underestimated resource for risk stratification in patients with stable chest pain or an increased risk of cardiovascular events. To our knowledge, this is the first review to describe the clinical utility of different kinds of visual CAC evaluation on non-gated unenhanced chest CT. Various methods of CAC assessment on non-gated CT are discussed and compared in terms of diagnostic and prognostic value. Furthermore, the application of these non-gated CT scans in the general practice of cardiology is discussed. The clinical utility of coronary calcium assessed on non-gated chest CT, according to the current literature, is evident. This resource of information for cardiac risk stratification needs no specific requirements for scan protocol, and is radiation-free and cost-free. However, some gaps in research remain. In conclusion, the integration of CAC on non-gated chest CT in general cardiology should be promoted and research on this method should be encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roos A Groen
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - J Wouter Jukema
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands.
- Netherlands Heart Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Paul R M van Dijkman
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen J Bax
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Hildo J Lamb
- Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - M Louisa Antoni
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Michiel A de Graaf
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Ivachevska VV, Supyk RR, Ivachevskyi MM, Hechko MM, Varvarynets AV. Coronary artery calcium score as independent risk factor of obstructive coronary artery disease. WIADOMOSCI LEKARSKIE (WARSAW, POLAND : 1960) 2024; 77:424-428. [PMID: 38691782 DOI: 10.36740/wlek202403108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Aim: To prove an independence of CAC score comparatively to conventional risk factors such as age, and dyslipidemia especially in patients under forty years of age. PATIENTS AND METHODS Materials and Methods: Thirty-four asymptomatic adult patients with no prior established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus or severe comorbidities, except of complex clinical examination, underwent CT scan with evaluation of coronary artery calcium score. RESULTS Results: The average total cholesterol level in the group was (5.62±1.02) mmol/l, indicating the presence of dyslipidemia. The average HDL level was (1.26±0.24) mmol/l, suggesting an average risk of atherosclerosis. The average LDL levels were within the borderline range at (3.63±1.01) mmol/l. The average triglyceride level was within the safe range at (1.93±1.08) mmol/l. The atherogenicity coefficient indicated a moderate risk of atherosclerosis with an average value of 3.64±1.31. The average coronary artery calcium score was 56.71±143.85, indicating minor plaques and a moderate risk of coronary artery disease. Correlation analysis revealed no significant correlation between age and the CAC score (r=0.1, p>0.05). However, reliable direct correlation of weak strength was found between the CAC score and LDL level (r=0.35, p<0.05). Direct correlations of weak strength were also observed between age and the levels of total cholesterol, LDL and the atherogenicity coefficient (r=0.43, 0.49, 0.42 respectively, p<0.05). CONCLUSION Conclusions: Coronary artery calcium score is a valuable screening tool for identifying potential obstructive coronary artery disease, not only for individuals aged forty and above, but also for younger asymptomatic patients.
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Shahraki MN, Jouabadi SM, Bos D, Stricker BH, Ahmadizar F. Statin Use and Coronary Artery Calcification: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Observational Studies and Randomized Controlled Trials. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2023; 25:769-784. [PMID: 37796384 PMCID: PMC10618336 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-023-01151-w] [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] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aimed to determine the association between statin use and coronary artery calcification (CAC), as detected by computed tomography in the general population, in previously published observational studies (OSs) and randomized controlled trials (RCTs). RECENT FINDINGS A systematic search until February 2022 identified 41 relevant studies, comprising 29 OSs and 12 RCTs. We employed six meta-analysis models, stratifying studies based on design and effect metrics. For cohort studies, the pooled β of the association with CAC quantified by the Agatston score was 0.11 (95% CI = 0.05; 0.16), with an average follow-up time per person (AFTP) of 3.68 years. Cross-sectional studies indicated a pooled odds ratio of 2.11 (95% CI = 1.61; 2.78) for the presence of CAC. In RCTs, the pooled standardized mean differences (SMDs) for CAC, quantified by Agatston score or volume, over and AFTP of 1.25 years were not statistically significant (SMD = - 0.06, 95% CI = - 0.19; 0.06 and SMD = 0.26, 95% CI = - 0.66; 1.19), but significantly different (p-value = 0.04). Meta-regression and subgroup analyses did not show any significant differences in pooled estimates across covariates. The effect of statins on CAC differs across study designs. OSs demonstrate associations between statin use and higher CAC scores and presence while being prone to confounding by indication. Effects from RCTs do not reach statistical significance and vary depending on the quantification method, hampering drawing conclusions. Further investigations are required to address the limitations inherent in each approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitra Nekouei Shahraki
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Soroush Mohammadi Jouabadi
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel Bos
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bruno H Stricker
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fariba Ahmadizar
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Data Science and Biostatistics, Julius Global Health, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Ueng KC, Chiang CE, Chao TH, Wu YW, Lee WL, Li YH, Ting KH, Su CH, Lin HJ, Su TC, Liu TJ, Lin TH, Hsu PC, Wang YC, Chen ZC, Jen HL, Lin PL, Ko FY, Yen HW, Chen WJ, Hou CJY. 2023 Guidelines of the Taiwan Society of Cardiology on the Diagnosis and Management of Chronic Coronary Syndrome. ACTA CARDIOLOGICA SINICA 2023; 39:4-96. [PMID: 36685161 PMCID: PMC9829849 DOI: 10.6515/acs.202301_39(1).20221103a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Coronary artery disease (CAD) covers a wide spectrum from persons who are asymptomatic to those presenting with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and sudden cardiac death. Coronary atherosclerotic disease is a chronic, progressive process that leads to atherosclerotic plaque development and progression within the epicardial coronary arteries. Being a dynamic process, CAD generally presents with a prolonged stable phase, which may then suddenly become unstable and lead to an acute coronary event. Thus, the concept of "stable CAD" may be misleading, as the risk for acute events continues to exist, despite the use of pharmacological therapies and revascularization. Many advances in coronary care have been made, and guidelines from other international societies have been updated. The 2023 guidelines of the Taiwan Society of Cardiology for CAD introduce a new concept that categorizes the disease entity according to its clinical presentation into acute or chronic coronary syndromes (ACS and CCS, respectively). Previously defined as stable CAD, CCS include a heterogeneous population with or without chest pain, with or without prior ACS, and with or without previous coronary revascularization procedures. As cardiologists, we now face the complexity of CAD, which involves not only the epicardial but also the microcirculatory domains of the coronary circulation and the myocardium. New findings about the development and progression of coronary atherosclerosis have changed the clinical landscape. After a nearly 50-year ischemia-centric paradigm of coronary stenosis, growing evidence indicates that coronary atherosclerosis and its features are both diagnostic and therapeutic targets beyond obstructive CAD. Taken together, these factors have shifted the clinicians' focus from the functional evaluation of coronary ischemia to the anatomic burden of disease. Research over the past decades has strengthened the case for prevention and optimal medical therapy as central interventions in patients with CCS. Even though functional capacity has clear prognostic implications, it does not include the evaluation of non-obstructive lesions, plaque burden or additional risk-modifying factors beyond epicardial coronary stenosis-driven ischemia. The recommended first-line diagnostic tests for CCS now include coronary computed tomographic angiography, an increasingly used anatomic imaging modality capable of detecting not only obstructive but also non-obstructive coronary plaques that may be missed with stress testing. This non-invasive anatomical modality improves risk assessment and potentially allows for the appropriate allocation of preventive therapies. Initial invasive strategies cannot improve mortality or the risk of myocardial infarction. Emphasis should be placed on optimizing the control of risk factors through preventive measures, and invasive strategies should be reserved for highly selected patients with refractory symptoms, high ischemic burden, high-risk anatomies, and hemodynamically significant lesions. These guidelines provide current evidence-based diagnosis and treatment recommendations. However, the guidelines are not mandatory, and members of the Task Force fully realize that the treatment of CCS should be individualized to address each patient's circumstances. Ultimately, the decision of healthcare professionals is most important in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwo-Chang Ueng
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital; School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung
| | - Chern-En Chiang
- General Clinical Research Center and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei
| | - Ting-Hsing Chao
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital; College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan
| | - Yen-Wen Wu
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Medical Center, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City
| | - Wen-Lieng Lee
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei
- Cardiovascular Center, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung
| | - Yi-Heng Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital; College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan
| | - Ke-Hsin Ting
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yunlin Christian Hospital, Yunlin
| | - Chun-Hung Su
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital; School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung
| | - Hung-Ju Lin
- Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital
| | - Ta-Chen Su
- Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei
| | - Tsun-Jui Liu
- Cardiovascular Center, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung
| | - Tsung-Hsien Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung
| | - Po-Chao Hsu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung
| | - Yu-Chen Wang
- Division of Cardiology, Asia University Hospital, Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung
| | - Zhih-Cherng Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan
| | - Hsu-Lung Jen
- Division of Cardiology, Cheng Hsin Rehabilitation Medical Center, Taipei
| | - Po-Lin Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Hsinchu MacKay Memorial Hospital, Hsinchu
| | - Feng-You Ko
- Cardiovascular Center, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung
| | - Hsueh-Wei Yen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung
| | - Wen-Jone Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Min Sheng General Hospital, Taoyuan
| | - Charles Jia-Yin Hou
- Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, MacKay Memorial Hospital; Department of Medicine, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan
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Subclinical Hypertension-Mediated Organ Damage (HMOD) in Hypertension: Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) and Calcium Score. High Blood Press Cardiovasc Prev 2023; 30:17-27. [PMID: 36376777 PMCID: PMC9908727 DOI: 10.1007/s40292-022-00551-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium controls numerous events within the vessel wall. Permeability of the endothelium is calcium dependent, as are platelet activation and adhesion, vascular smooth muscle proliferation and migration, and synthesis of fibrous connective tissue. Double-helix computerized tomography is a noninvasive technique that can detect, measure, and compare coronary calcification in the coronary arteries. Despite some convincing evidence about the prognostic value and usefulness of coronary artery calcium score (CACS) in the stratification of cardiovascular risk in the high risk general population and also in hypertensive patients, current guidelines for the management of hypertension, do not include such evaluation among the recommended procedures to be performed in the majority of patients even with the intent to detect hypertension-mediated organ damage (HMOD) in an early phase. On the contrary, the European Society of Cardiology guidelines for the diagnosis and management of chronic coronary syndromes, the 2019 ACC/AHA Guideline on the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, and the 2018 Cholesterol Clinical Practice Guidelines indicate that the evaluation of CACS may be of some usefulness in specific subpopulations, although this view is not accepted in the US Preventive Services Task Force document. Very recently, the European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on cardiovascular disease prevention in clinical practice stated that CACS estimation may be considered to improve risk classification around treatment decision thresholds. In conclusion, the use of CACS as a diagnostic tool is still controversial. While some evidence exists about is ability to improve stratification of cardiovascular risk in primary prevention, in particular in selected patients who are at intermediate or borderline risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, there is insufficient evidence to use it as a standard means to assess HMOD.
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Figtree GA, Adamson PD, Antoniades C, Blumenthal RS, Blaha M, Budoff M, Celermajer DS, Chan MY, Chow CK, Dey D, Dwivedi G, Giannotti N, Grieve SM, Hamilton-Craig C, Kingwell BA, Kovacic JC, Min JK, Newby DE, Patel S, Peter K, Psaltis PJ, Vernon ST, Wong DT, Nicholls SJ. Noninvasive Plaque Imaging to Accelerate Coronary Artery Disease Drug Development. Circulation 2022; 146:1712-1727. [PMID: 36441819 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.122.060308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading cause of adult mortality globally. Targeting known modifiable risk factors has had substantial benefit, but there remains a need for new approaches. Improvements in invasive and noninvasive imaging techniques have enabled an increasing recognition of distinct quantitative phenotypes of coronary atherosclerosis that are prognostically relevant. There are marked differences in plaque phenotype, from the high-risk, lipid-rich, thin-capped atheroma to the low-risk, quiescent, eccentric, nonobstructive calcified plaque. Such distinct phenotypes reflect different pathophysiologic pathways and are associated with different risks for acute ischemic events. Noninvasive coronary imaging techniques, such as computed tomography, positron emission tomography, and coronary magnetic resonance imaging, have major potential to accelerate cardiovascular drug development, which has been affected by the high costs and protracted timelines of cardiovascular outcome trials. This may be achieved through enrichment of high-risk phenotypes with higher event rates or as primary end points of drug efficacy, at least in phase 2 trials, in a manner historically performed through intravascular coronary imaging studies. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the current technology available and its application in clinical trials, including implications for sample size requirements, as well as potential limitations. In its effort to accelerate drug development, the US Food and Drug Administration has approved surrogate end points for 120 conditions, but not for CAD. There are robust data showing the beneficial effects of drugs, including statins, on CAD progression and plaque stabilization in a manner that correlates with established clinical end points of mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events. This, together with a clear mechanistic rationale for using imaging as a surrogate CAD end point, makes it timely for CAD imaging end points to be considered. We discuss the importance of global consensus on these imaging end points and protocols and partnership with regulatory bodies to build a more informed, sustainable staged pathway for novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma A Figtree
- Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia (G.A.F., S.T.V.)
- Department of Cardiology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Australia (G.A.F., S.T.V.)
- Charles Perkins Centre (G.A.F., C.K.C.), University of Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health (G.A.F., D.S.C., N.G., S.P., S.T.V.), University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Philip D Adamson
- Christchurch Heart Institute, University of Otago Christchurch, New Zealand (P.D.A.)
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom (P.D.A., D.E.N.)
| | - Charalambos Antoniades
- Acute Vascular Imaging Centre (C.A.), Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, UK
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (C.A.), Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Roger S Blumenthal
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Baltimore, MD (R.S.B., M. Blaha)
| | - Michael Blaha
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Baltimore, MD (R.S.B., M. Blaha)
| | | | - David S Celermajer
- Faculty of Medicine and Health (G.A.F., D.S.C., N.G., S.P., S.T.V.), University of Sydney, Australia
- Departments of Cardiology (D.S.C., S.P.), Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mark Y Chan
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, Singapore (M.Y.C.)
| | - Clara K Chow
- Westmead Applied Research Centre (C.K.C.), University of Sydney, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre (G.A.F., C.K.C.), University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Damini Dey
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA (D.D.)
| | - Girish Dwivedi
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia (G.D.)
- Department of Cardiology, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Australia (G.D.)
| | - Nicola Giannotti
- Faculty of Medicine and Health (G.A.F., D.S.C., N.G., S.P., S.T.V.), University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Stuart M Grieve
- Imaging and Phenotyping Laboratory (S.M.G.), University of Sydney, Australia
- Radiology (S.M.G.), Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Christian Hamilton-Craig
- Faculty of Medicine and Centre for Advanced Imaging, University of Queensland and School of Medicine, Griffith University Sunshine Coast, Australia (C.H.-C.)
| | | | - Jason C Kovacic
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, Australia (J.C.K.)
- St Vincent's Clinical School, University of NSW, Australia (J.C.K.)
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY (J.C.K.)
| | | | - David E Newby
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom (P.D.A., D.E.N.)
| | - Sanjay Patel
- Faculty of Medicine and Health (G.A.F., D.S.C., N.G., S.P., S.T.V.), University of Sydney, Australia
- Departments of Cardiology (D.S.C., S.P.), Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Karlheinz Peter
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia (K.P.)
- Department of Cardiology, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia (K.P.)
| | - Peter J Psaltis
- Lifelong Health, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide (P.J.P.)
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Australia (P.J.P.)
| | - Stephen T Vernon
- Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia (G.A.F., S.T.V.)
- Department of Cardiology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Australia (G.A.F., S.T.V.)
- Faculty of Medicine and Health (G.A.F., D.S.C., N.G., S.P., S.T.V.), University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Dennis T Wong
- Monash Heart, Clayton, Australia (D.T.W., S.J.N.)
- Victorian Heart Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (D.T.W., S.J.N.)
| | - Stephen J Nicholls
- Monash Heart, Clayton, Australia (D.T.W., S.J.N.)
- Victorian Heart Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (D.T.W., S.J.N.)
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An update on the coronary calcium score: a review for clinicians. ADVANCES IN INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY 2022; 18:201-205. [PMID: 36751288 PMCID: PMC9885234 DOI: 10.5114/aic.2022.121035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical manifestation of coronary artery atherosclerosis is coronary artery disease (CAD) with symptoms ranging from exertional chest pain due to reduction of coronary flow reserve to acute coronary syndrome due to rupture of usually a nonobstructive plaque with abrupt coronary blood flow reduction. CAD is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Therefore, identifying asymptomatic people at risk of CAD is pivotal to guide decision-making for primary prevention. Coronary artery calcium (CAC) is a hallmark of coronary artery atherosclerosis. It can be detected using cardiac computed tomography and quantified by the Agatston method. CAC examination is a cheap, fast and low radiation dose test, without injecting a contrast agent. It provides prognostic information over other traditional cardiovascular risk markers and established scoring systems, especially for low-risk subgroups such as women and younger adults, and indicates the appropriate moment to implement primary prevention, including acetylsalicylic acid and statins. In this review, we discuss the methods of CAC evaluation, the meaning of a zero CAC score (CACS), its conversion to CACS > 0 and the impact of this fact on cardiovascular risk, the effect of statins and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitor on CAC progression, interpretation of CACS results, and CACS prognostic value in both asymptomatic and symptomatic patients.
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Emfietzoglou M, Mavrogiannis MC, Samaras A, Rampidis GP, Giannakoulas G, Kampaktsis PN. The role of cardiac computed tomography in predicting adverse coronary events. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:920119. [PMID: 35911522 PMCID: PMC9334665 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.920119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac computed tomography (CCT) is now considered a first-line diagnostic test for suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) providing a non-invasive, qualitative, and quantitative assessment of the coronary arteries and pericoronary regions. CCT assesses vascular calcification and coronary lumen narrowing, measures total plaque burden, identifies plaque composition and high-risk plaque features and can even assist with hemodynamic evaluation of coronary lesions. Recent research focuses on computing coronary endothelial shear stress, a potent modulator in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, as well as differentiating an inflammatory from a non-inflammatory pericoronary artery environment using the simple measurement of pericoronary fat attenuation index. In the present review, we discuss the role of the above in the diagnosis of coronary atherosclerosis and the prediction of adverse cardiovascular events. Additionally, we review the current limitations of cardiac computed tomography as an imaging modality and highlight how rapid technological advancements can boost its capacity in predicting cardiovascular risk and guiding clinical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Emfietzoglou
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Michail C. Mavrogiannis
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Polydoros N. Kampaktsis
- Division of Cardiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Polydoros N. Kampaktsis
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Bélanger AM, Akioyamen LE, Ruel I, Hales L, Genest J. Aortic stenosis in homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia: a paradigm shift over a century. Eur Heart J 2022; 43:3227-3239. [PMID: 35776569 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (HoFH) is an orphan disease defined by extreme elevations in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, cutaneous xanthomas, and pre-mature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Survival has more than doubled over the past three decades. Aortic stenosis (AS) [supravalvular aortic stenosis (SVAS) or valvular aortic stenosis (VAS)] is commonly encountered. There are no medical treatments available and complex high-risk surgeries represent the only available option in severe cases. A systematic review was performed to summarize the current evidence on AS in HoFH and to determine whether pharmacological treatment (statins) have had an impact on clinical presentation, phenotype and clinical course over the past nine decades (PROSPERO CRD42021250565). METHODS AND RESULTS MEDLINE, Embase Classic + Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, AfricaWide, and Scopus were searched from inception to 10 November 2021. Searches identified 381 publications, of which 19 were retained; they were cross-sectional or retrospective studies. Separately, 108 individual case reports were described. Within the 424 HoFH cases, AS was identified in 57% of patients in the pre-statin era vs. 35% in patients reported more recently (>2000, long-term statin period). With an increase in longevity due to statins and lipoprotein apheresis, a change in the proportion of patients with SVAS and VAS with a SVAS:VAS ratio of 47:53 and 10:90 for HoFH patients not on statin and on long-term statin, respectively, was noted. CONCLUSION These data suggest that SVAS and VAS are frequent in HoFH and that the phenotype has shifted towards calcific VAS as statins and lipoprotein apheresis improve survival in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre M Bélanger
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, 1001, Boul. Décarie, Office EM1.2212, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Leo E Akioyamen
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Isabelle Ruel
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, 1001, Boul. Décarie, Office EM1.2212, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Lindsay Hales
- McGill University Health Centre Medical Libraries, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Jacques Genest
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, 1001, Boul. Décarie, Office EM1.2212, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Updates on the Use of Subclinical Atherosclerosis to Predict Risk of Cardiovascular Events in Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2022; 24:407-418. [PMID: 35386094 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-022-01017-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The high variability of cardiovascular risk in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) is a challenge for therapeutical management. Subclinical cardiovascular imaging represents a tool to overcome this challenge. The purpose of this review is to update the reader on the most recent findings on the non-invasive detection of atherosclerotic burden by carotid doppler ultrasound (US), coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, and computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) for the optimization of risk stratification in HeFH subjects. RECENT FINDINGS Carotid ultrasound (US) proved its efficacy in the long-term follow-up of HeFH children treated early on with statins, showing a significant reduction of atherosclerotic progression compared to untreated unaffected siblings. The added value of CAC score has been confirmed to predict the risk of cardiovascular events and improve risk stratification provided by available risk equations in asymptomatic HeFH subjects from large prospective cross-national cohorts. Additionally, CTCA provides detailed information on plaque quality and stability, but its role in primary prevention HeFH subjects needs to be further explored. Cardiovascular imaging for the detection of subclinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in HeFH is a promising tool to improve diagnostic and therapeutical management of this undertreated and late-diagnosed disease.
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11
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Caselli C, De Caterina R, Ragusa R, Liga R, Gimelli A, Scholte AJHA, Clerico A, Knuuti J, Neglia D. Association of Circulating Heme Oxygenase-1, Lipid Profile and Coronary Disease Phenotype in Patients with Chronic Coronary Syndrome. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10122002. [PMID: 34943105 PMCID: PMC8698632 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10122002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. The NF-E2–related factor 2 (Nrf2)/Heme Oxygenase-1 (HO-1) pathway has an emerging role in atherosclerosis. Activated by oxidative stress, it is deemed to exert athero-protective effects. We aimed at evaluating the relationships between plasma HO-1, clinical/molecular profiles and coronary disease patterns in patients with chronic coronary syndromes (CCS). Methods. HO-1 was measured in 526 patients (60 ± 9 years, 318 males) with CCS. Coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) and stress imaging were used to assess the disease phenotype (coronary atherosclerosis and myocardial ischemia) in a subgroup of 347 patients. Results. In the overall population, HO-1 median value (25–75 percentile) was 5.195 (1.75–8.25) ng/mL. Patients with higher HO-1 were more frequently male, had a higher BMI and lower LVEF%, but otherwise similar risk factors than the other patients. Their bio-humoral profile was characterized by higher markers of endothelial/myocardial dysfunction, but lower levels of cholesterol lipoproteins. Coronary artery disease was characterized by more diffuse atherosclerosis, with mainly non-obstructive and calcified plaques, and a higher prevalence of functional ischemia. Conclusion: In patients with CCS, higher plasma HO-1 levels are associated with lower cholesterol and a more diffuse but mainly non-obstructive coronary atherosclerosis, confirming a potential role for the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway as a protective feedback.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Caselli
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council (IFC-CNR), Via Moruzzi, 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
- Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.G.); (A.C.); (D.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-050-315-3551; Fax: 39-050-315-2166
| | - Raffaele De Caterina
- Institute of Cardiology, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (R.D.C.); (R.L.)
| | - Rosetta Ragusa
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council (IFC-CNR), Via Moruzzi, 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
- Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Riccardo Liga
- Institute of Cardiology, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (R.D.C.); (R.L.)
| | - Alessia Gimelli
- Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.G.); (A.C.); (D.N.)
| | | | - Aldo Clerico
- Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.G.); (A.C.); (D.N.)
- Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Juhani Knuuti
- Turku University Hospital, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland;
| | - Danilo Neglia
- Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.G.); (A.C.); (D.N.)
- Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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12
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Pulipati VP, Alenghat FJ. The impact of lipid-lowering medications on coronary artery plaque characteristics. Am J Prev Cardiol 2021; 8:100294. [PMID: 34877559 PMCID: PMC8627965 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpc.2021.100294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is the predominant cause of coronary artery disease. The last several decades have witnessed significant advances in lipid-lowering therapies, which comprise a central component of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease prevention. In addition to cardiovascular risk reduction with dyslipidemia management, some lipid-based therapies show promise at the level of the atherosclerotic plaque itself through mechanisms governing lipid accumulation, plaque stability, local inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and thrombogenicity. The capacity of lipid-lowering therapies to modify atherosclerotic plaque burden, size, composition, and vulnerability should correlate with their ability to reduce disease progression. This review discusses plaque characteristics, diagnostic modalities to evaluate these characteristics, and how they are altered by current and emerging lipid-lowering therapies, all in human coronary artery disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishnu Priya Pulipati
- Section of Cardiology, University of Chicago Medicine, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, MC 6080, Chicago, IL 60637, United States
| | - Francis J Alenghat
- Section of Cardiology, University of Chicago Medicine, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, MC 6080, Chicago, IL 60637, United States.,Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
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13
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Sirin G. Surgical strategies for severely atherosclerotic (porcelain) aorta during coronary artery bypass grafting. World J Cardiol 2021; 13:309-324. [PMID: 34589167 PMCID: PMC8436682 DOI: 10.4330/wjc.v13.i8.309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Porcelain aorta (PA) is an asymptomatic atherosclerotic disease, characterized by circumferential calcification throughout the whole perimeter of the aorta. It is seen in 2% to 9.3% of patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and makes manipulation of the ascending aorta impossible. It has been clearly shown that most emboli seen and detected during the CABG procedure occur during aortic cross-clamping and aortic side-clamping. Manipulation of porcelain or a severely atherosclerotic aorta increases the risk of perioperative stroke. The incidence of stroke after CABG is between 0.48% and 2.9%, and the risk is correlated with the extent and severity of the atherosclerotic disease. A conventional CABG procedure involves successive steps that include cannulation of the ascending aorta, application of a cross-clamp to the aorta, and partial clamping of the aorta to create the proximal anastomosis. Therefore in procedures that involve cannulation, clamping, or proximal anastomosis, and where aortic manipulation is inevitable, preassessment of the atherosclerotic aortic plaques is crucial. Although many surgeons still rely on intraoperative manual aortic palpation, this approach has very low sensitivity and underestimates the severity of the atherosclerotic illness. Imaging methods including preoperative computed tomography or intraoperative epiaortic ultrasonography enable modification of the surgical technique according to the severity of atherosclerosis. Various surgical techniques have been described to reduce the risk of atheroembolism that may lead to cerebrovascular events in patients with severely atherosclerotic ascending aorta. Anaortic or “no-touch” techniques that do not utilize aortic manipulation may significantly decrease the development of neurological complications by avoiding aortic maneuvers known to cause emboli. In cases where severe atherosclerotic disease or other factors preclude safe use of the ascending aorta, modifications in the surgical techniques, such as switching to different cannulation sites including the axillary/subclavian, femoral and innominate arteries, or using hypothermic ventricular fibrillation and in-situ pedicled arterial grafts, or performing proximal anastomoses at alternative anatomical locations will enable CABG operations to be performed safely with low morbidity and mortality rates in patients with porcelain aortas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gokce Sirin
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Biruni University, Istanbul 34010, Turkey
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Camlica Medicana Hospital, Istanbul 34692, Turkey
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14
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Surgical strategies for severely atherosclerotic (porcelain) aorta during coronary artery bypass grafting. World J Cardiol 2021. [DOI: 10.4330/wjc.v13.i8.310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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15
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Childs BG, Zhang C, Shuja F, Sturmlechner I, Trewartha S, Fierro Velasco R, Baker D, Li H, van Deursen JM. Senescent cells suppress innate smooth muscle cell repair functions in atherosclerosis. NATURE AGING 2021; 1:698-714. [PMID: 34746803 PMCID: PMC8570576 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-021-00089-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Senescent cells (SNCs) degenerate the fibrous cap that normally prevents atherogenic plaque rupture, a leading cause of myocardial infarction and stroke. Here we explored the underlying mechanism using pharmacological or transgenic approaches to clear SNCs in the Ldlr -/- mouse model of atherosclerosis. SNC clearance reinforced fully deteriorated fibrous caps in highly advanced lesions, as evidenced by restored vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) numbers, elastin content, and overall cap thickness. We found that SNCs inhibit VSMC promigratory phenotype switching in the first interfiber space of the arterial wall directly beneath atherosclerotic plaque, thereby limiting lesion entry of medial VSMCs for fibrous cap assembly or reinforcement. SNCs do so by antagonizing IGF-1 through the secretion of insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3 (Igfbp3). These data indicate that the intermittent use of senolytic agents or IGFBP-3 inhibition in combination with lipid lowering drugs may provide therapeutic benefit in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bennett G. Childs
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Fahad Shuja
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Ines Sturmlechner
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
- Molecular Genetics Section, Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Shawn Trewartha
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Raul Fierro Velasco
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Darren Baker
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Hu Li
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Jan M. van Deursen
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
- Correspondence:
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16
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Mohandas R, Chamarthi G, Segal MS. Nonatherosclerotic Vascular Abnormalities Associated with Chronic Kidney Disease. Cardiol Clin 2021; 39:415-425. [PMID: 34247754 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccl.2021.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Nonatherosclerotic vascular diseases are manifested by endothelial dysfunction, hypertension, vascular calcification, coronary microvascular dysfunction, and calciphylaxis. Unfortunately, there are no definitive treatments for many of these disorders other than hypertension. In addition, although hypertension is more difficult to treat in the chronic kidney disease population, it is necessary to try and target a blood pressure of less than 130/80 mm Hg through the use of aggressive angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, diuretics, and other antihypertensive medications. New therapies are being actively investigated in an attempt to treat nonatherosclerotic vascular diseases in the chronic kidney disease population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Mohandas
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension & Transplantation, University of Florida College of Medicine, CG-98, 1600 Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Nephrology and Hypertension Section, Gainesville Veterans Administration Medical Center, CG-98, 1600 Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Gajapathiraju Chamarthi
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension & Transplantation, University of Florida College of Medicine, CG-98, 1600 Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Mark S Segal
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension & Transplantation, University of Florida College of Medicine, CG-98, 1600 Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Nephrology and Hypertension Section, Gainesville Veterans Administration Medical Center, CG-98, 1600 Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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17
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Otaki Y, Han D, Klein E, Gransar H, Park RH, Tamarappoo B, Hayes SW, Friedman JD, Thomson LEJ, Slomka PJ, Dey D, Cheng V, Miller RJ, Berman DS. Value of semiquantitative assessment of high-risk plaque features on coronary CT angiography over stenosis in selection of studies for FFRct. J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2021; 16:27-33. [PMID: 34246594 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2021.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The degree of stenosis on coronary CT angiography (CCTA) guides referral for CT-derived flow reserve (FFRct). We sought to assess whether semiquantitative assessment of high-risk plaque (HRP) features on CCTA improves selection of studies for FFRct over stenosis assessment alone. METHODS Per-vessel FFRct was computed in 1,395 vessels of 836 patients undergoing CCTA with 25-99% maximal stenosis. By consensus analysis, stenosis severity was graded as 25-49%, 50-69%, 70-89%, and 90-99%. HRPs including low attenuation plaque (LAP), positive remodeling (PR), and spotty calcification (SC) were assessed in lesions with maximal stenosis. Lesion FFRct was measured distal to the lesion with maximal stenosis, and FFRct<0.80 was defined as abnormal. Association of HRP and abnormal lesion FFRct was evaluated by univariable and multivariable logistic regression models. RESULTS The frequency of abnormal lesion FFRct increased with increase of stenosis severity across each stenosis category (25-49%:6%; 50-69%:30%; 70-89%:54%; 90-99%:91%, p < 0.001). Univariable analysis demonstrated that stenosis severity, LAP, and PR were predictive of abnormal lesion FFRct, while SC was not. In multivariable analyses considering stenosis severity, presence of PR, LAP, and PR and/or LAP were independently associated with abnormal FFRct: Odds ratio 1.58, 1.68, and 1.53, respectively (p < 0.02 for all). The presence of PR and/or LAP increased the frequency of abnormal FFRct with mild stenosis (p < 0.05) with a similar trend with 70-89% stenosis. The combination of 2 HRP (LAP and PR) identified more lesions with FFR < 0.80 than only 1 HRP. CONCLUSIONS Semiquantitative visual assessment of high-risk plaque features may improve the selection of studies for FFRct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Otaki
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Donghee Han
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eyal Klein
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Heidi Gransar
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Rebekah H Park
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Balaji Tamarappoo
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sean W Hayes
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - John D Friedman
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Louise E J Thomson
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Piotr J Slomka
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Damini Dey
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Victor Cheng
- Department of Cardiology, Minneapolis Heart Institute, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Robert Jh Miller
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Cardiac Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Daniel S Berman
- Department of Imaging (Division of Nuclear Medicine), Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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18
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Cademartiri F, Casolo G, Clemente A, Seitun S, Mantini C, Bossone E, Saba L, Sverzellati N, Nistri S, Punzo B, Cavaliere C, La Grutta L, Gentile G, Maffei E. Coronary CT angiography: a guide to examination, interpretation, and clinical indications. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2021; 19:413-425. [PMID: 33884942 DOI: 10.1080/14779072.2021.1915132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The introduction of Cardiac Computed Tomography (CCT) has changed the paradigm in the field of diagnostic cardiovascular medicine. CCT is the primary tool in the assessment of suspected Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and should be followed by functional assessment when needed to stratify disease and to plan potential interventional or surgical therapy. AREAS COVERED We provided the current state of the knowledge on the main aspects of technique of examination, image interpretation and clinical indications. We have focused our attention on the basic routine applications and activities. EXPERT OPINION The primary role of CCT in suspected CAD will progressively become the standard approach. In general, any situation in which anatomy of the heart and thoracic vessels/structures is mandatory must be approached using CT first, whenever possible. The quantity and quality of information that can be provided by CCT is big and the operators should learn how to deal with this information. On the other hand, CCT is only apparently a straightforward and simple examination. It is actually the most complex diagnostic procedure that can be performed on CT and requires highly skilled operators and state-of-art-technology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giancarlo Casolo
- Department of Cardiology, Ospedale Della Versilia, Viareggio, Italy
| | - Alberto Clemente
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio, Massa, Italy
| | - Sara Seitun
- Department of Radiology, Ospedale San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Cesare Mantini
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Eduardo Bossone
- Department of Cardiology, Ospedale Cardarelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Saba
- Department of Radiology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | | | - Bruna Punzo
- Department of Radiology, SDN IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Erica Maffei
- Department of Radiology, Area Vasta 1, ASUR Marche, Urbino, Italy
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De Bosscher R, Dausin C, Claus P, Bogaert J, Dymarkowski S, Goetschalckx K, Ghekiere O, Belmans A, Van De Heyning CM, Van Herck P, Paelinck B, El Addouli H, La Gerche A, Herbots L, Heidbuchel H, Willems R, Claessen G. Endurance exercise and the risk of cardiovascular pathology in men: a comparison between lifelong and late-onset endurance training and a non-athletic lifestyle - rationale and design of the Master@Heart study, a prospective cohort trial. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2021; 7:e001048. [PMID: 33927885 PMCID: PMC8055127 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2021-001048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Low and moderate endurance exercise is associated with better control of cardiovascular risk factors, a decreased risk of coronary artery disease and atrial fibrillation (AF). There is, however, a growing proportion of individuals regularly performing strenuous and prolonged endurance exercise in which the health benefits have been challenged. Higher doses of endurance exercise have been associated with a greater coronary atherosclerotic plaque burden, risk of AF and myocardial fibrosis (MF). Methods and analysis Master@Heart is a multicentre prospective cohort study aiming to assess the incidence of coronary atherosclerosis, AF and MF in lifelong endurance athletes compared to late-onset endurance athletes (initiation of regular endurance exercise after the age of 30 years) and healthy non-athletes. The primary endpoint is the incidence of mixed coronary plaques. Secondary endpoints include coronary calcium scores, coronary stenosis >50%, the prevalence of calcified and soft plaques and AF and MF presence. Tertiary endpoints include ventricular arrhythmias, left and right ventricular function at rest and during exercise, arterial stiffness and carotid artery intima media thickness. Two hundred male lifelong athletes, 200 late-onset athletes and 200 healthy non-athletes aged 45–70 will undergo comprehensive cardiovascular phenotyping using CT, coronary angiography, echocardiography, cardiac MRI, 12-lead ECG, exercise ECG and 24-hour Holter monitoring at baseline. Follow-up will include online tracking of sports activities, telephone calls to assess clinical events and a 7-day ECG recording after 1 year. Ethics and dissemination Local ethics committees approved the Master@Heart study. The trial was launched on 18 October 2018, recruitment is complete and inclusions are ongoing. Trial registration number NCT03711539.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben De Bosscher
- Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.,Cardiology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Christophe Dausin
- Movement Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Piet Claus
- Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Jan Bogaert
- Radiology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Steven Dymarkowski
- Radiology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Kaatje Goetschalckx
- Cardiology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Olivier Ghekiere
- Radiology, Jessa Ziekenhuis Campus Virga Jesse, Hasselt, Limburg, Belgium
| | - Ann Belmans
- Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | | | - Paul Van Herck
- Cardiology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
| | | | | | - André La Gerche
- Cardiology, St Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lieven Herbots
- Cardiology, Jessa Ziekenhuis Campus Virga Jesse, Hasselt, Limburg, Belgium
| | | | - Rik Willems
- Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.,Cardiology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Guido Claessen
- Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.,Cardiology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
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20
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Wu YJ, Mar GY, Wu MT, Wu FZ. A LASSO-Derived Risk Model for Subclinical CAC Progression in Asian Population With an Initial Score of Zero. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 7:619798. [PMID: 33521068 PMCID: PMC7843450 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2020.619798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: This study is aimed at developing a prediction nomogram for subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in an Asian population with baseline zero score, and to compare its discriminatory ability with Framingham risk score (FRS) and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) models. Methods: Clinical characteristics, physical examination, and laboratory profiles of 830 subjects were retrospectively reviewed. Subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in term of Coronary artery calcification (CAC) progression was the primary endpoint. A nomogram was established based on a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO)-derived logistic model. The discrimination and calibration ability of this nomogram was evaluated by Hosmer–Lemeshow test and calibration curves in the training and validation cohort. Results: Of the 830 subjects with baseline zero score with the average follow-up period of 4.55 ± 2.42 year in the study, these subjects were randomly placed into the training set or validation set at a ratio of 2.8:1. These study results showed in the 612 subjects with baseline zero score, 145 (23.69%) subjects developed CAC progression in the training cohort (N = 612), while in the validation cohort (N = 218), 51 (23.39%) subjects developed CAC progression. This LASSO-derived nomogram included the following 10 predictors: “sex,” age,” “hypertension,” “smoking habit,” “Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT),” “C-reactive protein (CRP),” “high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C),” “cholesterol,” “waist circumference,” and “follow-up period.” Compared with the FRS and ASCVD models, this LASSO-derived nomogram had higher diagnostic performance and lower Akaike information criterion (AIC) and Bayesian information criterion (BIC) value. The discriminative ability, as determined by the area under receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.780 (95% confidence interval: 0.731–0.829) in the training cohort and 0.836 (95% confidence interval: 0.761–0.911) in the validation cohort. Moreover, satisfactory calibration was confirmed by Hosmer–Lemeshow test with P-values of 0.654 and 0.979 in the training cohort and validation cohort. Conclusions: This validated nomogram provided a useful predictive value for subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in subjects with baseline zero score, and could provide clinicians and patients with the primary preventive strategies timely in individual-based preventive cardiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Ju Wu
- Department of Radiology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Health Care Administration, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Guang-Yuan Mar
- Physical Examination Center, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Ting Wu
- Department of Radiology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Zong Wu
- Department of Radiology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Imaging and Radiology, Shu-Zen Junior College of Medicine and Management, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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21
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Ravnskov U, Alabdulgader A, de Lorgeril M, Diamond DM, Hama R, Hamazaki T, Hammarskjöld B, Harcombe Z, Kendrick M, Langsjoen P, McCully KS, Okuyama H, Sultan S, Sundberg R. The new European guidelines for prevention of cardiovascular disease are misleading. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2021; 13:1289-1294. [PMID: 33416003 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2020.1841635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The European Society of Cardiology and European Atherosclerosis Society (ESC/EAS) have recently published three major revisions of their guidelines for the management of chronic heart disease, blood lipids, and diabetes. Areas covered: We have scrutinized these guidelines in detail and found that the authors have ignored many studies that are in conflict with their conclusions and recommendations. Expert commentary: The authors of the guidelines have ignored that LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) of patients with acute myocardial infarction is lower than normal; that high cholesterol is not a risk factor for diabetics; that the degree of coronary artery calcification is not associated with LDL-C; and that 27 follow-up studies have shown that people with high total cholesterol or LDL-C live just as long or longer than people with low cholesterol. They have also ignored the lack of exposure-response in the statin trials; that several of these trials have been unable to lower CVD or total mortality; that no statin trial has succeeded with lowering mortality in women, elderly people, or diabetics; and that cholesterol-lowering with statins has been associated with many serious side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michel de Lorgeril
- Laboratoire Coeur et Nutrition, TIMC-CNRS, Université Grenoble-Alpes, Faculté de Médecine , La Tronche, France
| | - David M Diamond
- Departments of Psychology, Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology, PCD 4118G, University of South Florida , Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Rokuro Hama
- Japan Institute of Pharmacovigilance, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomohito Hamazaki
- Department of Internal Medicine, Toyama Jonan Onsen Daini Hospital, University of Toyama , Toyama City, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | - Kilmer S McCully
- Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School , Boston, MA, USA
| | - Harumi Okuyama
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Nagoya City University, 1-89 Kaminokura , Midoriku, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Sherif Sultan
- Department of Vascular & Endovascular Surgery, National University of Ireland , Galway, Ireland
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22
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Maffei E, Punzo B, Cavaliere C, Bossone E, Saba L, Cademartiri F. Coronary atherosclerosis as the main endpoint of non-invasive imaging in cardiology: a narrative review. Cardiovasc Diagn Ther 2021; 10:1897-1905. [PMID: 33381433 DOI: 10.21037/cdt-20-525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The change of paradigm determined by the introduction of cardiac computed tomography (CCT) in the field of cardiovascular medicine has allowed new evidence to emerge. These evidences point towards a major role, probably the most important one in terms of prognostic impact, in the detection, characterization and quantification of atherosclerosis as the main driver and endpoint for the management of coronary artery disease (CAD). Extensive literature has been published in the last decade with large numbers and patients' populations, investigating several aspects and correlations between atherosclerotic plaque features and risk factors; also, the relationship between plaque features, both with qualitative and quantitative approaches, and cardiovascular events has been investigated. More recent studies have also pointed out the relationship between the knowledge and classification of sub-clinical atherosclerosis and the induced modification of medical therapy (both aggressiveness and compliance) that is most likely able to increase the effect of anti-atherosclerotic drugs, hence significantly improving prognosis. Non-invasive assessment of CAD by means of CCT is becoming the primary tool for management and also the most important parameter for the comprehension of natural history of CAD and how the therapies we adopt are affecting plaque burden as a whole. In this review we will address the modern concepts of CAD driven understanding and management of cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Maffei
- Department of Radiology, Area Vasta 1, ASUR Marche, Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Bruna Punzo
- Department of Radiology, SDN IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Eduardo Bossone
- Department of Cardiology, Ospedale Cardarelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Saba
- Department of Radiology, University of Cagliari, Italy
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23
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Correlates of Coronary Artery Calcification Prevalence and Severity in Patients With Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia. CJC Open 2020; 3:62-70. [PMID: 33458634 PMCID: PMC7801218 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2020.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Determinants of coronary artery calcification (CAC) prevalence and severity in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) remain understudied. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to investigate correlates of CAC in patients with HeFH. Methods A CAC score was calculated by a noncontrast computed tomography scan in women (n = 68) and men (n = 78) with genetically defined HeFH. We classified CAC prevalence and severity using 3 categories: CAC score = 0 Agatston Unit (AU), CAC score = 1-100 AU, and CAC score > 100 AU. Information on potential correlates of CAC including familial and personal health history, cardiovascular risk factors, lipid-lowering medication, and lifestyle habits was collected. Results A total of 95 patients had prevalent CAC. Independent correlates of CAC prevalence and severity included age (odds ratio [OR] per 10 years: 5.06, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.19, 7.93, P < 0.0001), family history of premature cardiovascular disease (OR: 3.88, 95% CI: 1.71, 8.81, P = 0.001), male sex (OR: 3.40, 95% CI: 1.49, 7.78, P = 0.004), statin use (OR: 15.5, 95% CI: 1.89, 126, P = 0.01), diet quality assessed with the Alternative Healthy Eating Index score (OR per 1 standard deviation: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.39, 0.90, P = 0.01), ever smoking (OR: 3.06, 95% CI: 1.20, 7.81, P = 0.02), receptor-negative genotype (OR: 3.17, 95% CI: 1.16, 8.66, P = 0.02), lipoprotein(a) year-score (OR per 1 standard deviation of log-transformed year-score: 1.53, 95% CI: 0.99, 2.36, P = 0.05). Conclusions In individuals with HeFH, age, family history of premature cardiovascular disease, sex, statin use, diet quality, smoking status, the LDLR genotype, and lipoprotein(a) concentrations were independently associated with CAC prevalence and severity.
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24
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Coronary artery bypass grafting and perioperative stroke: imaging of atherosclerotic plaques in the ascending aorta with ungated high-pitch CT-angiography. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13909. [PMID: 32807858 PMCID: PMC7431556 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70830-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Perioperative stroke is a devastating complication after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, with atherosclerosis of the ascending aorta as important risk factor. During surgical manipulation, detachment of plaques can lead to consecutive embolization into brain-supplying arteries. High-pitch computed tomography angiography (HP-CTA) represents a non-invasive imaging modality, which provides the opportunity for comprehensive imaging of the ascending aorta, including plaque detection and advanced characterization. In our present retrospective study on 719 individuals, who had undergone HP-CTA within 6 months prior to CABG, atherosclerotic disease of the ascending aorta was evaluated with respect to perioperative stroke rates. For image analysis, the ascending aorta was divided into a proximal and distal part, consisting of four segments, and evaluated for presence and distribution of calcified and mixed plaques. All patients with perioperative stroke presented with atherosclerotic disease of the ascending aorta. The stroke rate was significantly associated with the presence and extent of atherosclerotic disease. Patients burdened with mixed plaques presented with significantly higher perioperative stroke rates. This study demonstrates that HP-CTA allows accurate evaluation of plaque extent and composition in the ascending aorta, and therefore may improve risk stratification of stroke prior to CABG.
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25
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Saito Y, Nakamura K, Ito H. Effects of Eicosapentaenoic Acid on Arterial Calcification. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155455. [PMID: 32751754 PMCID: PMC7432365 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Arterial calcification is a hallmark of advanced atherosclerosis and predicts cardiovascular events. However, there is no clinically accepted therapy that prevents progression of arterial calcification. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, statins, lower low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular events, but coronary artery calcification is actually promoted by statins. The addition of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) to statins further reduced cardiovascular events in clinical trials, JELIS and REDUCE-IT. Additionally, we found that EPA significantly suppressed arterial calcification in vitro and in vivo via suppression of inflammatory responses, oxidative stress and Wnt signaling. However, so far there is a lack of evidence showing the effect of EPA on arterial calcification in a clinical situation. We reviewed the molecular mechanisms of the inhibitory effect of EPA on arterial calcification and the results of some clinical trials.
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26
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Zhou XH, Cai LY, Lai WH, Bai X, Liu YB, Zhu Q, He GD, Chen JY, Huang M, Zhou ZL, Zhong SL. Impact of Plasma Exposure of Statins and Their Metabolites With Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Chinese Patients With Coronary Artery Disease. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:675. [PMID: 32536863 PMCID: PMC7267016 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The selection of optimum statin intensity is inconclusive, and the association of plasma exposure of statins and metabolites with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) is unclear. This study sought to compare the effect of low (quartile 1), intermediate (quartiles 2 and 3), and high (quartile 4) plasma exposure of statins and metabolites on MACE, re-ischemia events and death in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) at 5 years. A total of 1,644 patients in atorvastatin (AT) cohort and 804 patients in rosuvastatin (RST) cohort were included, and their plasma concentration of statins and metabolites was categorized as low-, mid-, or high-group. The association between the plasma levels of statins and metabolites and the incidence of primary endpoint in patients was assessed by Cox proportional hazard models. Intensive AT exposure (Q4 > 5.32 ng/ml) was significantly associated with increased risk of death compared with low (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.522; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.035–1.061; P = 0.0022) or moderate exposure (HR: 2.054; 95% CI: 1.348–3.130; P = 0.0008). This association was also found in AT’s five metabolites (all P < 0.01). In patients with RST treatment, moderate RST concentration (0.53–4.29 ng/ml) versus low concentration had a significantly lower risk of MACE and re-ischemia events. (HR: 0.532, 95% CI: 0.347–0.815, P = 0.0061 and HR: 0.505, 95% CI: 0.310–0.823, P = 0.0061, respectively). A higher plasma exposure of AT and metabolites has a significantly higher risk of death, and moderate RST exposure has a significantly lower risk of MACE and re-ischemia events in Chinese patients with CAD. The harms of high plasma exposure should be considered when prescribing statins to patients because it may be a risk factor for having poor prognosis in patients with CAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Hong Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Yun Cai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Hua Lai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue Bai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Bin Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guo-Dong He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ji-Yan Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Huang
- Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Ling Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Shi-Long Zhong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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27
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Yao T, Long Q, Li J, Li G, Ding Y, Cui Q, Liu Z. Small dense low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is strongly associated with NIHSS score and intracranial arterial calcification in acute ischemic stroke subjects. Sci Rep 2020; 10:7645. [PMID: 32376851 PMCID: PMC7203297 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64715-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracranial artery calcification (IAC) is an important risk factor for cerebral infarction and a key biomarker for intracranial artery stenosis. Small dense low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (sd-LDL-c) was independently associated with increased cardiovascular events and coronary calcification. Our study assessed whether sd-LDL-c is an independent factor for IAC in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients. This cross-sectional study involved a total of 754 patients with AIS (mean age: 65 ± 13.2 years). All the patients had received brain computed tomography angiography (CTA) examination to evaluate IAC. Serum sd-LDL-c levels and other biochemical parameters were analyzed. Admission NIHSS score and mRS score at discharge were collected. After 60-days 85 patients died during hospitalization and follow-up. Partial correlation analysis showed that serum sd-LDL-c levels were associated with admission NIHSS score and IAC score after adjusted age and gender. Logistic regression analysis showed that serum sd-LDL-c levels independently predicted NIHSS scores (β = 1.537, 95%CI: 0.134-2.878, p = 0.042) and IAC scores (β = 1.355, 95%CI: 0.319-2.446, p = 0.015). The average level of sd-LDL-c in patients who died was also significantly increased compared to survival patients (1.04 ± 0.59 vs 0.88 ± 0.44 mmol/L, p = 0.017). However, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed serum sd-LDL-c levels could not predict all-cause mortality and prognosis in AIS patients. Our study found that sd-LDL-c as a strong atherogenic lipid particle can independently predict admission NIHSS scores and the severity of cerebral artery calcification in AIS patients. However, its prognostic value in AIS patients still needs further study in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Yao
- Department of Neurology, Wuhan University, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Qi Long
- Emergency Department, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430061, China.,Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Li
- Emergency Department, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430061, China.,Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Gang Li
- Emergency Department, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430061, China. .,Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China.
| | - Yanbin Ding
- Department of Neurology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430061, China.
| | - Qin Cui
- Department of Neurology, Wuhan University, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhichao Liu
- Department of Neurology, Wuhan University, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan, China
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28
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Svanteson M, Rollefstad S, Kløw NE, Hisdal J, Ikdahl E, Sexton J, Haig Y, Semb AG. Effects of long-term statin-treatment on coronary atherosclerosis in patients with inflammatory joint diseases. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226479. [PMID: 31830762 PMCID: PMC6908439 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The effect of statins over time on coronary atherosclerosis in patients with inflammatory joint diseases (IJD) is unknown. Our aim was to evaluate the change in coronary plaque morphology and volume in long-term statin-treated patients with IJD. Methods Sixty-eight patients with IJD and carotid artery plaque(s) underwent coronary computed tomography angiography before and after a mean of 4.7 (range 4.0–6.0) years of statin treatment. The treatment target for low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) was ≤1.8 mmol/L. Changes in plaque volume (calcified, mixed/soft and total) and coronary artery calcification (CAC) from baseline to follow-up were assessed using the 17-segment American Heart Association-model. Results Median (IQR) increase in CAC after statin treatment was 38 (5–236) Agatston units (p<0.001). Calcified and total plaque volume increased with 5.6 (0.0–49.1) and 2.9 (0.0–23.5) mm3, respectively (p<0.001 for both). The median (IQR) change in soft/mixed plaque volume was -10 (-7.1–0.0), p = <0.001. Patients who had obtained the LDL-c treatment target at follow-up, experienced reduced progression of both CAC and total plaque volume compared to patients with LDL-c >1.8mmol/L (21 [2–143] vs. 69 [16–423], p = 0.006 and 0.65 [-1.0–13.9] vs. 13.0 [0.0–60.8] mm3, p = 0.019, respectively). Conclusions A progression of total atherosclerotic plaque volume in statin-treated patients with IJD was observed. However, soft/mixed plaque volume was reduced, suggesting an alteration in plaque composition. Patients with recommended LDL-c levels at follow-up had reduced atherosclerotic progression compared to patients with LDL-c levels above the treatment target, suggesting a beneficial effect of treatment to guideline-recommended lipid targets in IJD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Svanteson
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- * E-mail:
| | - Silvia Rollefstad
- Preventive Cardio-Rheuma Clinic, Department of Rheumatology, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nils-Einar Kløw
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jonny Hisdal
- Department of Vascular Investigations, Oslo University Hospital, Aker, Oslo, Norway
| | - Eirik Ikdahl
- Preventive Cardio-Rheuma Clinic, Department of Rheumatology, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Joseph Sexton
- Department of Rheumatology, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ylva Haig
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Grete Semb
- Preventive Cardio-Rheuma Clinic, Department of Rheumatology, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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29
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Tajbakhsh A, Kovanen PT, Rezaee M, Banach M, Sahebkar A. Ca 2+ Flux: Searching for a Role in Efferocytosis of Apoptotic Cells in Atherosclerosis. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8122047. [PMID: 31766552 PMCID: PMC6947386 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8122047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In atherosclerosis, macrophages in the arterial wall ingest plasma lipoprotein-derived lipids and become lipid-filled foam cells with a limited lifespan. Thus, efficient removal of apoptotic foam cells by efferocytic macrophages is vital to preventing the dying foam cells from forming a large necrotic lipid core, which, otherwise, would render the atherosclerotic plaque vulnerable to rupture and would cause clinical complications. Ca2+ plays a role in macrophage migration, survival, and foam cell generation. Importantly, in efferocytic macrophages, Ca2+ induces actin polymerization, thereby promoting the formation of a phagocytic cup necessary for efferocytosis. Moreover, in the efferocytic macrophages, Ca2+ enhances the secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Various Ca2+ antagonists have been seminal for the demonstration of the role of Ca2+ in the multiple steps of efferocytosis by macrophages. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo experiments and clinical investigations have revealed the capability of Ca2+ antagonists in attenuating the development of atherosclerotic plaques by interfering with the deposition of lipids in macrophages and by reducing plaque calcification. However, the regulation of cellular Ca2+ fluxes in the processes of efferocytic clearance of apoptotic foam cells and in the extracellular calcification in atherosclerosis remains unknown. Here, we attempted to unravel the molecular links between Ca2+ and efferocytosis in atherosclerosis and to evaluate cellular Ca2+ fluxes as potential treatment targets in atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Tajbakhsh
- Halal Research Center of IRI, FDA, Tehran, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Mahdi Rezaee
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948, Iran
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Hypertension, WAM University Hospital in Lodz, Medical University of Lodz, Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
- Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), 93-338 Lodz, Poland
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948, Iran
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +98-51-1800-2288; Fax: +98-51-1800-2287
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30
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Brandenburg VM, Schuh A, Kramann R. Valvular Calcification in Chronic Kidney Disease. Adv Chronic Kidney Dis 2019; 26:464-471. [PMID: 31831124 DOI: 10.1053/j.ackd.2019.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Revised: 10/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Accelerated and premature cardiovascular calcification is a hallmark of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The presence and the amount of cardiovascular calcification are among the driving forces of increased morbidity and mortality in renal patients. Cardiovascular calcification occurs at different sites, including the cardiac valves-a location that is of particular importance for both the patient and the treating physician. The correlation between degree of calcification and functional impairment is particularly close at the aortic valve, that is, the amount of calcification predicts the degree of stenosis. Calcific aortic stenosis (CAS) is the most prevalent valvular heart disease in Western societies. CAS is particularly prevalent in patients with underlying CKD or ESRD. CAS increases afterload and hence contributes to the widespread finding of left ventricular hypertrophy in CKD/ESRD patients. Medical treatment options to prevent the development and progression of CAS are limited. Hence, close surveillance and timely referral of patients for heart valve replacement therapy is a mainstay of current therapy. Novel treatment approaches, such as transcatheter aortic valve implantation, offer promising yet challenging options for elderly, comorbid, and often frail patients with CAS in combination with advanced CKD/ESRD.
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Abstract
Unstable coronary plaques that are prone to erosion and rupture are the major cause of acute coronary syndromes. Our expanding understanding of the biological mechanisms of coronary atherosclerosis and rapid technological advances in the field of medical imaging has established cardiac computed tomography as a first-line diagnostic test in the assessment of suspected coronary artery disease, and as a powerful method of detecting the vulnerable plaque and patient. Cardiac computed tomography can provide a noninvasive, yet comprehensive, qualitative and quantitative assessment of coronary plaque burden, detect distinct high-risk morphological plaque features, assess the hemodynamic significance of coronary lesions and quantify the coronary inflammatory burden by tracking the effects of arterial inflammation on the composition of the adjacent perivascular fat. Furthermore, advances in machine learning, computational fluid dynamic modeling, and the development of targeted contrast agents continue to expand the capabilities of cardiac computed tomography imaging. In our Review, we discuss the current role of cardiac computed tomography in the assessment of coronary atherosclerosis, highlighting its dual function as a clinical and research tool that provides a wealth of structural and functional information, with far-reaching diagnostic and prognostic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos K. Oikonomou
- From the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Henry W. West
- From the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Charalambos Antoniades
- From the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
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Interaction of arterial proteoglycans with low density lipoproteins (LDLs): From theory to promising therapeutic approaches. MEDICINE IN NOVEL TECHNOLOGY AND DEVICES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medntd.2019.100016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
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33
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A cross-sectional survey of coronary plaque composition in individuals on non-statin lipid lowering drug therapies and undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography. J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2019; 13:99-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2019.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Cho YK, Nam CW, Koo BK, Schulman-Marcus J, Hartaigh BÓ, Gransar H, Lu Y, Achenbach S, Al-Mallah M, Andreini D, Bax JJ, Budoff MJ, Cademartiri F, Callister TQ, Chang HJ, Chinnaiyan K, Chow BJW, Cury RC, Delago A, Feuchtner G, Hadamitzky M, Hausleiter J, Kaufmann PA, Kim YJ, Leipsic J, Maffei E, Marques H, Pontone G, Raff GL, Rubinshtein R, Shaw LJ, Villines TC, Berman DS, Jones EC, Peña JM, Lin FY, Min JK. Usefulness of baseline statin therapy in non-obstructive coronary artery disease by coronary computed tomographic angiography: From the CONFIRM (COronary CT Angiography EvaluatioN For Clinical Outcomes: An InteRnational Multicenter) study. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207194. [PMID: 30540755 PMCID: PMC6291090 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The extent to which the presence and extent of subclinical atherosclerosis by coronary computed tomography angiography influences a potential mortality benefit of statin is unknown. We evaluated the relationship between statin therapy, mortality, and subclinical atherosclerosis. METHODS In the CONFIRM study, patients with normal or non-obstructive plaque (<50% diameter stenosis) for whom data on baseline statin use was available were included. Coronary artery calcium (CAC) was quantified using the Agatston score. The extent of non-obstructive coronary atherosclerosis was quantified using the segment involvement score (SIS). 8,016 patients were followed for a median of 2.5 years with analysis of all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) including all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, unstable angina, target vessel revascularization, and coronary artery disease-related hospitalization. RESULTS 1.2% of patients experienced all-cause mortality. Patients not on baseline statin therapy had a stepwise increased risk of all-cause mortality by CAC (relative to CAC = 0; CAC 1-99: hazard ratio [HR] 1.65, CAC 100-299: HR 2.19, and CAC≥300: HR 2.98) or SIS (relative to SIS = 0; SIS 1: HR 1.62, SIS 2-3: 2.48 and SIS≥4: 2.95). Conversely, in patients on baseline statin therapy, there was no significant increase in mortality risk with increasing CAC (p value for interaction = 0.049) or SIS (p value for interaction = 0.007). The incidence of MACE was 2.1%. Similar to the all-cause mortality, the risk of MACE was increased with CAC or SIS strata in patient not on baseline statin therapy. However, this relation was not observed in patient on baseline statin therapy. CONCLUSION In individuals with non-obstructive coronary artery disease, increased risk of adverse events occurs with increasing CAC or SIS who are not on baseline statin therapy. Statin therapy is associated with a mitigation of risk of cardiac events in the presence of increasing atherosclerosis, with no particular threshold of disease burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Kyeong Cho
- Department of Cardiology, Keimyung University Dongsan Medical Center, Daegu, Korea
| | - Chang-Wook Nam
- Department of Cardiology, Keimyung University Dongsan Medical Center, Daegu, Korea
| | - Bon-Kwon Koo
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Center, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joshua Schulman-Marcus
- Department of Radiology, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and the Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Bríain Ó. Hartaigh
- Department of Radiology, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and the Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Heidi Gransar
- Department of Imaging, Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Yao Lu
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, New York-Presbyterian Hospital and the Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Stephan Achenbach
- Department of Cardiology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremburg, Germany
| | - Mouaz Al-Mallah
- King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, King AbdulAziz Cardiac Center, Ministry of National Guard, Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Jeroen J. Bax
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Matthew J. Budoff
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | | | - Tracy Q. Callister
- Tennessee Heart and Vascular Institute, Hendersonville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Hyuk-Jae Chang
- Division of Cardiology, Severance Cardiovascular Hospital and Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kavitha Chinnaiyan
- Division of Cardiology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, Michigan, United States of America
| | | | - Ricardo C. Cury
- Department of Radiology, Miami Cardiac and Vascular Institute, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Augustin Delago
- Capitol Cardiology Associates, Albany, New York, United States of America
| | - Gudrun Feuchtner
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Martin Hadamitzky
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, German Heart Center Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jörg Hausleiter
- Medizinische Klinik I der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Philipp A. Kaufmann
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Yong-Jin Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Center, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jonathon Leipsic
- Department of Medicine and Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Erica Maffei
- Department of Radiology, Area Vasta 1/ASUR Marche, Urbino, Italy
| | - Hugo Marques
- UNICA, Unit of Cardiovascular Imaging, Hospital da Luz, Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Gilbert L. Raff
- Division of Cardiology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Ronen Rubinshtein
- Department of Cardiology at the Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport School of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Leslee J. Shaw
- Department of Radiology, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and the Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Todd C. Villines
- Cardiology Service, Walter Reed National Military Center, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Daniel S. Berman
- Department of Imaging and Medicine, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Erica C. Jones
- Department of Radiology, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and the Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Jessica M. Peña
- Department of Radiology, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and the Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Fay Y. Lin
- Department of Radiology, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and the Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - James K. Min
- Department of Radiology, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and the Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
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Mrgan M, Gram J, Hecht Olsen M, Dey D, Linde Nørgaard B, Gram J, Rønnow Sand NP. Sex differences in coronary plaque composition evaluated by coronary computed tomography angiography in newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetes: association with low-grade inflammation. Diabet Med 2018; 35:1588-1595. [PMID: 29931809 DOI: 10.1111/dme.13768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM To determine differences in coronary plaque composition and inflammatory biomarkers between men and women with newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetes without known cardiovascular disease. METHODS A total of 88 people with newly diagnosed (<1 year) Type 2 diabetes underwent contrast-enhanced coronary computed tomography angiography. Advanced coronary plaque analysis was performed using semi-automated software. Plasma concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers were determined. RESULTS There were no significant differences between men (n=60) and women (n=28) regarding age or cardiovascular risk factors (all P>0.05). The median (quartiles) serum levels of fibrinogen [10.9 (9.8-12.6) μmol/l vs 9.7 (8.8-10.9) μmol/l], fibrin d-dimer [0.3 (0.2-0.4) mg/l vs 0.27 (0.2-0.4) mg/l] and C-reactive protein [3.1 (1.1-5.2) mg/l vs (0.8-2.6) 1.6 mg/l] were significantly higher in women (all P<0.05). Overall, men more often had multi-vessel involvement [28 men (47%) vs 4 women (14%)], and higher total plaque burden [median (quartiles) 11.6 (2.3-36.0)% vs 2.0 (0.4-5.4)%; both P<0.05]. The median (quartiles) total plaque volume [269.9 (62.6-641.9) mm3 vs 61.1 (7.6-239.9) mm3 ] and absolute calcified plaque volume [33.5 (8.3-148.3) mm3 vs 4.7 (0.9-17.3) mm3 ] were higher in men (both P<0.05). Women had a lower relative proportion of the calcified plaque component [median (quartiles) 7.8 (4.7-15.4)% vs 23.7 (8.4-31.1)%] and a higher relative proportion (median [quartiles]) of the non-low-density non-calfied plaque component [77.6 (66.0-86.0)% vs 63.6 (54.0-72.9)%; both P<0.05]. CONCLUSIONS In people with newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetes, women had lower absolute coronary plaque volumes but a more unfavourable plaque composition and enhanced systemic inflammation compared with men.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mrgan
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital of Southwest Denmark, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - J Gram
- Unit for Thrombosis Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Hospital of Southwest Denmark, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - M Hecht Olsen
- Cardiology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Holbaek Hospital, Holbaek, Denmark
- Centre for Individualized Medicine in Arterial Diseases (CIMA), Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - D Dey
- Department of Biomedical Sciences (Biomedical Imaging Research Institute), Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - B Linde Nørgaard
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Skejby, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - J Gram
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital of Southwest Denmark, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - N P Rønnow Sand
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital of Southwest Denmark, Esbjerg, Denmark
- Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern, Denmark, Odense
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Andrews J, Psaltis PJ, Bartolo BAD, Nicholls SJ, Puri R. Coronary arterial calcification: A review of mechanisms, promoters and imaging. Trends Cardiovasc Med 2018; 28:491-501. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2018.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Du X, Zhang S, Liu L. Statin therapy contributes to plaque-stability by increasing the presence of calcification of plaque. Int J Cardiol 2018; 271:24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2018.04.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Prognostic Value and Therapeutic Perspectives of Coronary CT Angiography: A Literature Review. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:6528238. [PMID: 30306089 PMCID: PMC6165606 DOI: 10.1155/2018/6528238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Coronary stenosis severity is both a powerful and a still debated predictor of prognosis in coronary artery disease. Coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a noninvasive technique that enables anatomic visualization of coronary artery disease (CAD). CCTA with newer applications, plaque characterization and physiologic/functional evaluation, allows a comprehensive diagnostic and prognostic assessment of otherwise low-intermediate subjects for primary prevention. CCTA measures the overall plaque burden, differentiates plaque subtypes, and identifies high-risk plaque with good reproducibility. Research in this field may also advance towards an era of personalized risk prediction and individualized medical therapy. It has been demonstrated that statins may delay plaque progression and change some plaque features. The potential effects on plaque modifications induced by other medical therapies have also been investigated. Although it is not currently possible to recommend routinely serial scans to monitor the therapeutic efficacy of medical interventions, the plaque modulation, as a part of risk modification, appears a feasible strategy. In this review we summarize the current evidence regarding vulnerable plaque and effects of lipid lowering therapy on morphological features of CAD. We also discuss the potential ability of CCTA to characterize coronary atherosclerosis, stratify prognosis of asymptomatic subjects, and guide medical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mouaz H Al-Mallah
- Advanced Cardiac Imaging, King Abdulaziz Cardiac Center, Ministry of National Guard - Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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The annual rate of coronary artery calcification with combination therapy with a PCSK9 inhibitor and a statin is lower than that with statin monotherapy. NPJ Aging Mech Dis 2018; 4:7. [PMID: 29951223 PMCID: PMC6015059 DOI: 10.1038/s41514-018-0026-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2018] [Revised: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Statins and/or PCSK9 inhibitors cause the regression of coronary atheroma and reduce clinical events. However, it currently remains unclear whether these drugs modulate coronary atheroma calcification in vivo. Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores (Agatston Units, AUs) were estimated in 120 patients receiving coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) (63% males; median age 56 years). The CAC scores were compared among the three groups: (1) neither statin nor PCSK9 inhibitor therapy, (2) statin monotherapy, and (3) statin and PCSK9 inhibitor combination therapy in an unpaired cross-sectional study. Additionally, CCTA was performed twice at an interval in 15 patients undergoing statin monotherapy to compare the previous (baseline) and subsequent (follow-up) CAC scores in a paired longitudinal study. In addition, a PCSK9 inhibitor was administered to 16 patients undergoing statin therapy. Before and after that, CCTA was performed twice to compare the previous and subsequent CAC scores in a paired longitudinal study. The unpaired cross-sectional study and paired longitudinal study consist of completely different patients. Among 120 patients, 40 (33%) had a CAC score >100 AUs. The median CAC score increased in the following order: statin group, statin and PCSK9 group, and no-statin-no-PCSK9 group. Annual CAC score progression was 29.7% by statin monotherapy and 14.3% following the addition of the PCSK9 inhibitor to statin therapy. The annual rate of CAC with the combination therapy with a PCSK9 inhibitor and a statin is lower than that with statin monotherapy. CAC may be prevented with PCSK9 Inhibitor.
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Mujaj B, Bos D, Selwaness M, Leening MJ, Kavousi M, Wentzel JJ, van der Lugt A, Hofman A, Stricker BH, Vernooij MW, Franco OH. Statin use is associated with carotid plaque composition: The Rotterdam Study. Int J Cardiol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2018.02.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Nozue T, Takamura T, Fukui K, Sozu T, Tanaka Y, Hibi K, Kishi S, Michishita I. Changes in coronary atherosclerosis, composition, and fractional flow reserve evaluated by coronary computed tomography angiography in patients with type 2 diabetes. IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2018; 19:46-51. [PMID: 29946564 PMCID: PMC6016070 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2018.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 03/31/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background The use of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) for noninvasive anatomic detection of coronary artery disease is increasing. Recently, fractional flow reserve (FFR) assessment using routinely acquired CCTA datasets (FFRCT) has been developed. However, there are no reports about changes in coronary atherosclerosis, composition, and FFRCT in patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods This prospective, multicenter, observational trial evaluated changes in coronary atherosclerosis after alogliptin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes. Fifty-one patients with type 2 diabetes who underwent CCTA examination and having intermediate coronary artery stenosis were treated with 25 mg of alogliptin. After 48 weeks, CCTA examination was repeated. The primary endpoint was changes in FFRCT, and the secondary endpoint was changes in total atheroma volume (TAV) from the baseline to the 48-week follow-up. Results The FFRCT decreased from the baseline to follow-up, but not significantly. A significant increase in TAV (from 658.5 mm3 to 668.9 mm3, p = 0.048) was observed. Vessel volume tended to increase, whereas percentage atheroma volume and lumen volume did not change. A significant negative correlation was observed between percentage change in TAV and change in FFRCT (r = −0.185, p = 0.048). A significant increase in calcified plaques (p = 0.01) and a decrease in intermediate-attenuation plaques (p = 0.006) was observed. Conclusions In Japanese patients with diabetes and intermediate coronary artery stenosis, alogliptin could not improve FFRCT or reduce atheroma volume, whereas the plaque composition changed. A progression of atheroma volume was associated with a reduction in FFRCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Nozue
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yokohama Sakae Kyosai Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Takeshi Takamura
- Department of Cardiology, Sagamihara National Hospital, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Kazuki Fukui
- Department of Cardiology, Kanagawa Cardiovascular and Respiratory Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Takashi Sozu
- Faculty of Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuji Tanaka
- Faculty of Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Hibi
- Division of Cardiology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | | | - Ichiro Michishita
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yokohama Sakae Kyosai Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
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Okuyama H, Hamazaki T, Hama R, Ogushi Y, Kobayashi T, Ohara N, Uchino H. A Critical Review of the Consensus Statement from the European Atherosclerosis Society Consensus Panel 2017. Pharmacology 2018; 101:184-218. [PMID: 29353277 DOI: 10.1159/000486374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Consensus Statement from the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) Consensus Panel 2017 concludes on the basis of 3 different types of clinical studies that low-density lipoprotein (LDL) causes atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). In Mendelian randomization studies, rare genetic mutations affecting LDL receptor function were found to cause higher or lower LDL-C levels, which are associated with correspondingly altered ASCVD risk. In prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of statins, a remarkably consistent log-linear association was demonstrated between the absolute magnitude of LDL-C exposure and ASCVD risk. The EAS Statement proposes that any mechanism of lowering plasma LDL concentration should reduce the risk of ASCVD events proportional to the absolute reduction in LDL-C and the cumulative duration of exposure to lower LDL-C. However, as we explain, we do not find this conclusion acceptable. SUMMARY Our review points out that different interpretations are possible for the results of Mendelian randomization studies. As for prospective cohort studies, many inconsistent reports on the association of LDL-C and ASCVD were disregarded when drafting the Statement, reports with and without genetic factors related to LDL receptor function should be analyzed separately, and the term ASCVD in the Statement is used inappropriately because myocardial infarction and cerebral infarction differ in their association with LDL-C. As for RCTs, clinical reports on statins published before and after the implementation of new regulations affecting clinical trials (2004/2005) should not both be included in meta-analyses because the evaluated efficacy of statins changed markedly, and the irreversible adverse effects of statins need to be evaluated more rigorously now that their mechanisms have been elucidated. Key Messages: Apart from the EAS hypothesis that LDL causes ASCVD, recent pharmacological/biochemical studies, as summarized in this review and elsewhere, have revealed that atherosclerosis is caused by statins taken to lower LDL-C, as well as by warfarin and some types of vegetable fats and oils, in the absence of significantly elevated LDL-C levels. Thus, the promotion of statin treatment by the Statement is rather risky and we do not feel that the conclusions are justified for the prevention of ASCVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harumi Okuyama
- Nagoya City University, and Institute for Consumer Science and Human Life, Kinjo, Gakuin University, Nagoya, Japan
| | | | - Rokuro Hama
- Non-Profit Organization Japan Institute of Pharmacovigillance, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoichi Ogushi
- Ogushi Institute of Medical Informatics, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Tetsuyuki Kobayashi
- Graduate School of Humanities and Sciences, Ochanomizu University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoki Ohara
- College of Pharmacy, Kinjo Gakuin University, Nagoya, Japan
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Panh L, Lairez O, Ruidavets JB, Galinier M, Carrié D, Ferrières J. Coronary artery calcification: From crystal to plaque rupture. Arch Cardiovasc Dis 2017; 110:550-561. [DOI: 10.1016/j.acvd.2017.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Revised: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Sehra D, Sehra S, Sehra ST. Cardiovascular pleiotropic effects of statins and new onset diabetes: is there a common link: do we need to evaluate the role of KATP channels? Expert Opin Drug Saf 2017; 16:823-831. [PMID: 28571494 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2017.1338269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Statins are considered the main stay of treatment in the prevention of cardio-vascular morbidity and mortality. They have multiple pleiotropic effects, like stabilization of atherosclerotic plaques, inhibition of platelet aggregation, and vascular smooth muscle proliferation; in addition to their lipid lowering action. Statins manifest these pleiotropic effects because they activate KATP channels in the cardiac and vascular tissue. Simultaneous activation of the KATP channels by statins in β cells of pancreas may inhibit insulin release which may lead to diabetes. Areas covered: Literature published between 1980 and 2016 on cholesterol biosynthesis, new onset diabetes and on the pleiotropic effects of statins, was reviewed. A comprehensive search on PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases was carried out. Expert opinion: Statins exert their beneficial pleiotropic effects on the cardiovascular system by activating KATP channels in the cardiac and vascular tissue. However, simultaneous activation of KATP channels in the beta cells of pancreas leads to inhibition of insulin release. This disturbs the carbohydrate metabolism and probably leads to diabetes. In our opinion, use of stains should be more judicious and restricted to secondary prevention only.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devindra Sehra
- a Internal Medicine , Sehra Medical Centre , New Delhi , India
| | - Sudhish Sehra
- a Internal Medicine , Sehra Medical Centre , New Delhi , India.,b Medicine , Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute , New Delhi , India
| | - Shiv Tej Sehra
- c Department of Medicine , Mount Auburn Hospital , Cambridge , MA , USA
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Chen Z, Qureshi AR, Parini P, Hurt-Camejo E, Ripsweden J, Brismar TB, Barany P, Jaminon AM, Schurgers LJ, Heimbürger O, Lindholm B, Stenvinkel P. Does statins promote vascular calcification in chronic kidney disease? Eur J Clin Invest 2017; 47:137-148. [PMID: 28036114 DOI: 10.1111/eci.12718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In end-stage renal disease (ESRD), coronary artery calcification (CAC) and inflammation contribute to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Statins do not improve survival in patients with ESRD, and their effect on vascular calcification is unclear. We explored associations between CAC, inflammatory biomarkers, statins and mortality in ESRD. MATERIALS AND METHODS In 240 patients with ESRD (63% males; median age 56 years) from cohorts including 86 recipients of living donor kidney transplant (LD-Rtx), 96 incident dialysis patients and 58 prevalent peritoneal dialysis patients, associations of CAC score (Agatston Units, AUs), interleukin-6 (IL-6) with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), tumour necrosis factor (TNF), use of statins and all-cause mortality were analysed. Cardiac CT was repeated in 35 patients after 1·5 years of renal replacement therapy. In vitro, human vascular smooth muscle cells (hVSMCs) were used to measure vitamin K metabolism. RESULTS Among 240 patients, 129 (53%) had a CAC score > 100 AUs. Multivariate analysis revealed that independent predictors of 1-SD higher CAC score were age, male gender, diabetes and use of statins. The association between CAC score and mortality remained significant after adjustment for age, gender, diabetes, CVD, use of statins, protein-energy wasting and inflammation. Repeated CAC imaging in 35 patients showed that statin therapy was associated with greater progression of CAC. In vitro synthesis of menaquinone-4 by hVSMCs was significantly impaired by statins. CONCLUSION Elevated CAC score is a mortality risk factor in ESRD independent of inflammation. Future studies should resolve if statins promote vascular calcification and inhibition of vitamin K synthesis in the uremic milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Chen
- Kidney Disease Center, First Affiliated Hospital College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Abdul Rashid Qureshi
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paolo Parini
- Division of Clinical Chemistry, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Metabolism Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Hurt-Camejo
- Translational Science, CVMD iMed, AstraZeneca R&D, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jonaz Ripsweden
- Division of Medical Imaging and Technology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Radiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Torkel B Brismar
- Division of Medical Imaging and Technology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Radiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Barany
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Armand M Jaminon
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Leon J Schurgers
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Olof Heimbürger
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bengt Lindholm
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Stenvinkel
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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ten Kate GJR, Bos S, Dedic A, Neefjes LA, Kurata A, Langendonk JG, Liem A, Moelker A, Krestin GP, de Feyter PJ, Roeters van Lennep JE, Nieman K, Sijbrands EJ. Increased Aortic Valve Calcification in Familial Hypercholesterolemia. J Am Coll Cardiol 2015; 66:2687-2695. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2015.09.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Revised: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Ehlgen A, Bylock A, Kreuzer J, Koslowski M, Gantner F, Niessen HG. Clinical imaging in anti-atherosclerosis drug development. Drug Discov Today 2015; 20:1317-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2015.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2014] [Revised: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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State-of-the-Art Updates on Cardiac Computed Tomographic Angiography for Assessing Coronary Artery Disease. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE 2015; 17:398. [PMID: 26092612 DOI: 10.1007/s11936-015-0398-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Cardiac computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) is a noninvasive imaging modality that is increasingly useful for the evaluation of coronary artery disease (CAD). Over the past decade, CCTA has consistently demonstrated an excellent sensitivity for the detection and exclusion of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with stable or acute chest pain symptoms. Large prospective registries have repeatedly demonstrated the prognostic significance of the presence, extent, or absence of CAD by CCTA. In response to initial concerns, technical advances have permitted a dramatic reduction in patient radiation exposure with preserved image quality. For many patients, the radiation dose of CCTA is less than half of that with conventional myocardial perfusion imaging while providing significantly more anatomic information. Furthermore, CCTA's excellent spatial resolution is increasingly being used for noninvasive assessment of coronary plaque, including the detection of higher-risk vulnerable plaque and association between plaque characteristics and ischemia. Finally, new promising techniques that incorporate physiology with anatomy, such as CT-based fractional flow reserve (FFR-CT) and CT perfusion (CTP), are allowing for the noninvasive hemodynamic assessment of coronary stenoses and improvements in the specificity of CCTA findings. Such advances augur a coming transition when CCTA will be a first-line test for the detection, exclusion, and even management of CAD in many patients.
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Auscher S, Heinsen L, Nieman K, Vinther KH, Løgstrup B, Møller JE, Broersen A, Kitslaar P, Lambrechtsen J, Egstrup K. Effects of intensive lipid-lowering therapy on coronary plaques composition in patients with acute myocardial infarction: Assessment with serial coronary CT angiography. Atherosclerosis 2015; 241:579-87. [PMID: 26115069 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2015.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2014] [Revised: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Statins have been shown to possess favourable effects on the cardiovascular system with stabilization of the vulnerable plaque. We sought to assess the effects of early aggressive statin treatment on plaque composition in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), using serial assessment with coronary CT-angiography (CTA). METHODS In a prospective randomized blinded endpoint trial patients with AMI were randomized to an intensive lipid lowering treatment receiving statin loading with 80 mg rosuvastatin followed by 40 mg daily or standard statin therapy according to current guidelines. Patients were assessed with CTA at baseline and after 12 months with evaluation of plaque volume and composition. RESULTS In total, 140 patients with AMI were randomized and plaque composition was assessed in 96 patients. In the intensive care group LDL-level was median 1.3 [0.9; 1.5] mmol/l at 12 months follow-up and 2.0 [1.7; 2.4] mmol/l in the usual care group, p < 0.001. Plaque volume increased over 12 months with 43.5 (±225.8) mm(3) in the intensive care group and 19.1 (±190.2) mm(3) in the usual care group, p = 0.57. Plaque composition changed over 12 months with an increase in total dense calcium volume by 11.1 (±39.6) mm(3), corresponding to a 23% increase, in the intensive care group and a decreased by -0.4 (±26.6) mm(3) in the usual care group, p < 0.001. Necrotic core volume increased 26.8 (±122.1) mm(3) in the intensive care group and 25.2 (±80.1) mm(3) in the usual care group, p = 0.94. CONCLUSIONS Early aggressive lipid lowering therapy significantly increases dense calcium volume in patients with AMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Søren Auscher
- Department of Medical Research, OUH/Svendborg Hospital, Denmark.
| | - Laurits Heinsen
- Department of Medical Research, OUH/Svendborg Hospital, Denmark
| | - Koen Nieman
- Department of Cardiology and Radiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Brian Løgstrup
- Department of Medical Research, OUH/Svendborg Hospital, Denmark
| | | | - Alexander Broersen
- Department of Radiology, Division of Image Processing, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter Kitslaar
- Department of Radiology, Division of Image Processing, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Kenneth Egstrup
- Department of Medical Research, OUH/Svendborg Hospital, Denmark
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