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Monda E, Boccia A, Altobelli I, Mauriello A, De Michele G, Siniscalchi S, Fusco A, Cirillo A, Rubino M, Verrillo F, Diana G, Cirillo C, Caiazza M, Bossone E, Della Corte A, Russo MG, Limongelli G. Effect of beta-blockers and angiotensin receptor blockers in reducing the aortic growth rate in children with bicuspid aortic valve-related aortopathy. Int J Cardiol 2024; 408:132067. [PMID: 38714235 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2024.132067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of beta-blockers and angiotensin receptor blockers in reducing the aortic growth rate in children with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV)-related aortopathy and ascending phenotype. METHODS Consecutive paediatric patients (≤16 years) with BAV and ascending aorta (AsAo) dilation (z-score > 3) were enrolled in this observational retrospective cohort study. Patients receiving prophylactic treatment with either atenolol (0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg/daily) or losartan (0.7 to 1.4 mg/kg/daily) were compared with those who did not receive medical prophylaxis (control group). The primary outcome of interest was the annual rate of change in maximal AsAo diameter z-score in the treatment and control groups. RESULTS From a cohort of 1005 patients, 120 (mean age 11.3 ± 4.5 years, 82% males) fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. Patients in the treatment and control group had similar age, sex, family history of BAV, BAV morphology, and baseline AsAo diameter. During a median follow-up of 7.1 years (interquartile range 3.8-10.2), no differences were observed in the annual growth rate of aortic diameter z-score between patients on treatment and controls. The prevalence of aortic diameter progression was similar in the treatment and control groups, and treatment with atenolol or losartan was not associated with a lower rate of aortic disease progression. CONCLUSIONS The findings revealed no significant difference in the annual aortic growth rate between treated and untreated patients. Larger cohort studies or, ideally, randomized clinical controlled trials are needed to validate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Monda
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Boccia
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Ippolita Altobelli
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Alfredo Mauriello
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Gianantonio De Michele
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Sabrina Siniscalchi
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Adelaide Fusco
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Annapaola Cirillo
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Marta Rubino
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Verrillo
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Gaetano Diana
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Cirillo
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Martina Caiazza
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Eduardo Bossone
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Alessandro Della Corte
- Unit of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Monaldi Hospital, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Giovanna Russo
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Limongelli
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; University College London, Institute of Cardiovascular Science, London, United Kingdom.
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Stellon M, Gober L, Culver MA, Hermsen J, Irrer D, Witzenburg C, Roldán-Alzate A, Lamers L. Surgically induced aortic coarctation in a neonatal porcine model allows for longitudinal assessment of cardiovascular changes. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 326:H1117-H1123. [PMID: 38488518 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00087.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Noncritical aortic coarctation (COA) typically presents beyond early childhood with hypertension. Correction of COA does not ensure a return to normal cardiovascular health, but the mechanisms are poorly understood. Therefore, we developed a porcine COA model to study the secondary cardiovascular changes. Eight male neonatal piglets (4 sham, 4 COA) underwent left posterolateral thoracotomy with descending aorta (DAO) mobilization. COA was created via a 1-cm longitudinal DAO incision with suture closure, plication, and placement and an 8-mm external band. All animals had cardiac catheterization at 6 (11-13 kg), 12 (26-31 kg), and 20 (67-70 kg) wk of age. Aortic luminal diameters were similar along the thoracic aorta, except for the COA region [6.4 mm COA vs. 17.3 mm sham at 20 wk (P < 0.001)]. Collateral flow could be seen as early as 6 wk. COA peak systolic pressure gradient was 20 mmHg at 6 wk and persisted through 20 wk increasing to 40 mmHg with dobutamine. Pulse pressures distal to the COA were diminished at 12 and 20 wk. This model addresses many limitations of prior COA models including neonatal creation at an expected anatomic position with intimal injury and vessel sizes similar to humans.NEW & NOTEWORTHY A neonatal model of aortic coarctation was developed in a porcine model using a readily reproducible method of aortic plication and external wrap placement. This model addresses the limitations of existing models including neonatal stenosis creation, appropriate anatomic location of the stenosis, and intimal injury creation and mimics human somatic growth. Pigs met American Heart Association (AHA) criteria for consideration of intervention, and the stenoses were graded as moderate to severe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Stellon
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Leah Gober
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Matthew Allen Culver
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Joshua Hermsen
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Dana Irrer
- Department of Cardiology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Colleen Witzenburg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Alejandro Roldán-Alzate
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Luke Lamers
- Department of Cardiology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
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Mancusi C, Manzi MV, Lembo M, Fucile I, Basile C, Bardi L, Morisco C, De Luca N, Bossone E, Trimarco B, Izzo R, de Simone G, Esposito G. Normalization of ascending aorta dimension for body size influences pathophysiologic correlation in hypertensive patients: the Campania Salute Network. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2023; 30:1774-1780. [PMID: 37409686 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwad224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS In the present study, we assessed correlates and their consistency of ascending aorta (AscAo) measurement in treated hypertensive patients. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 1634 patients ≥ 18 years old with available AscAo ultrasound were included. Ascending aorta was measured at end-diastole with leading edge to leading edge method, perpendicular to the long axis of the aorta in parasternal long-axis view at its maximal identifiable dimension. Correlations of AscAo and AscAo normalized for height (AscAo/HT) or body surface area (AscAo/BSA) with demographics and metabolic profile were explored. Multi-variable regression was also used to identify potential confounders influencing univariate correlations. Sensitivity analysis was performed using cardiovascular (CV) outcome. Correlations with age, estimated glomerular filtration rate, systolic blood pressure (BP), and heart rate (HR) were similar among the three aortic measures. Women exhibited smaller AscAo but larger AscAo/BSA than men with AscAo/HT offsetting the sex difference. Obesity and diabetes were associated with greater AscAo and AscAo/HT but with smaller AscAo/BSA (all P < 0.001). In multi-variable regression model, all aortic measure confirmed the sign of their relations with sex and metabolic profile independently of age, BP, and HR. In Kaplan-Mayer analysis, only dilated AscAo and AscAo/HT were significantly associated with increased risk of CV events (both P < 0.008). CONCLUSIONS Among patients with long-standing controlled systemic hypertension, magnitude of aortic remodelling is influenced by the type of the measure adopted, with physiological consistency only for AscAo and AscAo/HT, but not for AscAo/BSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costantino Mancusi
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Maria Virginia Manzi
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Maria Lembo
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Ilaria Fucile
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Christian Basile
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Luca Bardi
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Carmine Morisco
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Nicola De Luca
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Eduardo Bossone
- Department of Public Health, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Bruno Trimarco
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Raffaele Izzo
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Giovanni de Simone
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Giovanni Esposito
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
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Hu X, Lin Z, Li Y, Chen X, Zhao Y, Xu H, Sun H, Sun X, Liu Y, Zhang M, Zhang Y, Lu H, Yao G. Comparisons of Two-dimensional Echocardiographic Aortic Dimensions between Chinese, Japanese, and Europeans. J Thorac Imaging 2023:00005382-990000000-00081. [PMID: 37506185 DOI: 10.1097/rti.0000000000000730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to investigate the impacts of age, gender, and race on aortic dimensions in healthy adults. METHODS We analyzed data from 3 large population-based sample studies, including Chinese Echocardiographic Measurements in Normal Chinese Adults, Japanese the Normal Values for Echocardiographic Measurements Project, and European Normal Reference Ranges for Echocardiography, to compare the two-dimensional echocardiography-derived aortic diameters at different levels and to explore the effects of age, gender, and race on aortic measurements. We also compared the values corrected by body surface area (BSA) or height. RESULTS The results are as follows: (1) Aortic diameters showed positive correlations with age (r=0.12-0.42, P<0.05), and there were significant inter-age group differences before and after indexing to BSA (P<0.05); (2) Men had greater measurements of aortic diameters than women, with the differences being the same when indexed to height. However, indexing to BSA reversed the differences; (3) The aortic diameters at annulus (Ao-a) and sinus (Ao-s) levels were very close with minor differences between the Chinese and Japanese regardless of whether BSA was used for correction; and (4) The aortic measurements at Ao-s and proximal ascending aorta (Ao-asc) levels in the Chinese were significantly lower than in the Europeans for both genders, with the differences remaining the same even after indexing to BSA or height (P<0.05). CONCLUSION Aortic dimensions vary with age and gender, and there are significant differences between races or ethnicities even when stratified by gender and age. The indexation by BSA or height cannot eliminate these differences. Therefore, age-specific, gender-specific, race-specific, and nationality-specific reference values may be more appropriate at present for clinical practice to avoid misdiagnosis and misclassification of aortic dilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxia Hu
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, the State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 107 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Zongwei Lin
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, the State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 107 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Ying Li
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, the State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 107 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Xiangyun Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Hongxiao Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Hui Sun
- Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoqian Sun
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, the State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 107 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, the State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 107 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Mei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, the State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 107 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, the State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 107 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Huixia Lu
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, the State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 107 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Guihua Yao
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, the State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 107 Wenhuaxi Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
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Limongelli G, Monda E, Lioncino M, Di Paolo F, Ferrara F, Vriz O, Calabro P, Bossone E, Pelliccia A. Aortic Root Diameter in Highly-Trained Competitive Athletes: Reference Values According to Sport and Prevalence of Aortic Enlargement. Can J Cardiol 2023; 39:889-897. [PMID: 36803973 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2023.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies exploring the extent of aortic root dilation across the different types of sport are limited. We aimed to define the physiological limits of aortic remodelling in a large population of healthy elite athletes in comparison with nonathletic controls. METHODS A total of 1995 consecutive athletes evaluated at the Institute of Sports Medicine (Rome, Italy) and 515 healthy controls underwent a comprehensive cardiovascular screening. The aortic diameter was measured at the level of the sinuses of Valsalva. The 99th percentile from the mean of the aortic diameter in the control population was used to define an abnormally enlarged aortic root dimension. RESULTS Athletes showed a larger aortic root diameter (30.6 [± 3.3] vs 28.1 [± 3.1] mm, P value < 0.001) than controls. The difference was evident in male and female athletes, regardless of sport- predominant component and level of intensity. The 99th percentile value for aortic root diameter in control male and female subjects was 37 mm and 32 mm, respectively. Based on these values, 50 (4.2%) male and 21 (2.6%) female athletes would have been diagnosed with an enlarged aortic root. However, aortic root diameter of clinical relevance-ie, ≥ 40 mm-was observed in only 17 male athletes (0.85%) and did not exceed > 44 mm. CONCLUSIONS Athletes show a mild, although significant, increased aortic dimension in comparison with healthy controls. The degree of aortic enlargement varies in relation to type of sports and sex. Eventually, only a small minority of athletes exhibited a markedly enlarged aortic diameter (ie, ≥ 40 mm) in a range of clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Limongelli
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational, Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy; Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University College of London and St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Emanuele Monda
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational, Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy; Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University College of London and St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Michele Lioncino
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational, Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Olga Vriz
- Echocardiography Department, Heart Centre, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Paolo Calabro
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational, Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Eduardo Bossone
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Ng J, Ewe SH, Tan JL, Chao VTT, Ding ZP, Ling LH, Sin KYK, Chua TSJ, Sahlén A. Longitudinal analysis of thoracic aortic expansion in non-syndromic real-world patients. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15823. [PMID: 37305473 PMCID: PMC10256846 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15823] [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: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Remodeling of the thoracic aorta is commonly seen and viewed as a precursor to an aortic aneurysm. However, while aneurysms have been shown to expand at a rate of approximately 1 mm annually, the expansion of the pre-aneurysmal aorta is poorly characterized, especially in relation to age, gender, and aortic size per se. We identified patients that had undergone echocardiography at least twice at a large university medical center. Diagnosis codes, medications, and blood test results were obtained from hospital records. Syndromic patients were excluded (e.g., Marfan's syndrome, bicuspid aortic valve). Final population comprised n = 24,928 patients (median age 61.2 years (inter-quartile range (IQR): 50.6-71.5); 55.8% males) that had undergone a median of 3 echocardiograms (2-4; range 2-27) during a median of 4.0 years (IQR: 2.3-6.2). Hypertension was present in 39.6% of patients and diabetes in 20.7%, median LV ejection fraction was 56.0% (IQR: 41.0-62.0). Aortic size measurements were analyzed in mixed models while clustering on individual patients. Mean expansion was determined for sinus of Valsalva as 1.93 (95% confidence interval; CI95: 1.87-1.99) mm per decade, and for ascending aorta as 1.76 (CI95: 1.70-1.82) mm per decade. Faster expansion was found in males, with larger aortic size, and younger age (p for interaction <0.05 for all). In conclusion, expansion of the thoracic aorta, in real world, non-syndromic patients, is slow and averages <2 mm per decade. This will help to inform management of this large patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josiah Ng
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - See Hooi Ewe
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ju Le Tan
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Victor TT. Chao
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zee Pin Ding
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lieng-Hsi Ling
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kenny YK. Sin
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Terrance SJ. Chua
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Anders Sahlén
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore
- Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Agdamag AC, Patel P, Duval S, Konety S. Agreement of Proximal Thoracic Aorta Size by Two-Dimensional Transthoracic Echocardiography and Magnetic Resonance Angiography. Am J Cardiol 2023; 193:28-33. [PMID: 36863269 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2023.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
There is currently a lack of uniformity in methods of aortic diameter measurements across different imaging modalities. In this study, we sought to evaluate the accuracy of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in comparison with magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) for the measurement of proximal thoracic aorta diameters. This is a retrospective analysis of 121 adult patients at our institution who had TTE and electrocardiogram (ECG)-gated MRA performed within 90 days of each other between 2013 and 2020. Measurements were made at the level of sinuses of Valsalva (SoV), sinotubular junction (STJ), and ascending aorta (AA) using leading edge-to-leading edge (LE) convention for TTE and inner-edge-to-inner-edge (IE) convention for MRA. Agreement was assessed using Bland-Altman methods. Intra- and interobserver variability were assessed by intraclass correlation. The average age of patients in the cohort was 62 years, and 69% of patients were male. The prevalence of hypertension, obstructive coronary artery disease, and diabetes was 66%, 20%, and 11%, respectively. The mean aortic diameter by TTE was SoV 3.8 ± 0.5 cm, STJ 3.5 ± 0.4 cm, and AA 4.1 ± 0.6 cm. The TTE-derived measurements were larger than the MRA ones by 0.2 ± 2 mm, 0.8 ± 2 mm, and 0.4 ± 3 mm at the level of SoV, STJ, and AA, respectively, but the differences were not statistically significant. There were no significant differences in the aorta measurements by TTE compared with MRA, when stratified by gender. In conclusion, transthoracic echocardiogram-derived proximal aorta measurements are comparable to MRA measurements. Our study validates current recommendations that TTE is an acceptable modality for screening and serial imaging of the proximal aorta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianne Clare Agdamag
- Cardiovascular Division, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | - Sue Duval
- Cardiovascular Division, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Suma Konety
- Cardiovascular Division, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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Benjamins JW, Yeung MW, van de Vegte YJ, Said MA, van der Linden T, Ties D, Juarez-Orozco LE, Verweij N, van der Harst P. Genomic insights in ascending aortic size and distensibility. EBioMedicine 2022; 75:103783. [PMID: 34968759 PMCID: PMC8718733 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alterations in the anatomic and biomechanical properties of the ascending aorta (AAo) can give rise to various vascular pathologies. The aim of the current study is to gain additional insights in the biology of the AAo size and function. METHODS We developed an AI based analysis pipeline for the segmentation of the AAo, and the extraction of AAO parameters. We then performed genome-wide association studies of AAo maximum area, AAo minimum area and AAo distensibility in up to 37,910 individuals from the UK Biobank. Variants that were significantly associated with AAo phenotypes were used as instrumental variables in Mendelian randomization analyses to investigate potential causal relationships with coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, stroke and aneurysms. FINDINGS Genome-wide association studies revealed a total of 107 SNPs in 78 loci. We annotated 101 candidate genes involved in various biological processes, including connective tissue development (THSD4 and COL6A3). Mendelian randomization analyses showed a causal association with aneurysm development, but not with other vascular diseases. INTERPRETATION We identified 78 loci that provide insights into mechanisms underlying AAo size and function in the general population and provide genetic evidence for their role in aortic aneurysm development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Walter Benjamins
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Ming Wai Yeung
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands; Department of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherland
| | - Yordi J van de Vegte
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - M Abdullah Said
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Thijs van der Linden
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Daan Ties
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Luis E Juarez-Orozco
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands; Department of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherland
| | - Niek Verweij
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Pim van der Harst
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands; Department of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherland
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9
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Servato ML, Teixidó-Turá G, Sabate-Rotes A, Galian-Gay L, Gutiérrez L, Valente F, Fernandez-Galera R, Casas G, López-Sainz A, González-Alujas MT, Sao-Aviles A, Ferreira I, Rodríguez-Palomares J, Evangelista A. Are Aortic Root and Ascending Aorta Diameters Measured by the Pediatric versus the Adult American Society of Echocardiography Guidelines Interchangeable? J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10225290. [PMID: 34830571 PMCID: PMC8617792 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10225290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ascending aorta diameters have important clinical value in the diagnosis, follow-up, and surgical indication of many aortic diseases. However, there is no uniformity among experts regarding ascending aorta diameter quantification by echocardiography. The aim of this study was to compare maximum aortic root and ascending aorta diameters determined by the diastolic leading edge (DLE) and the systolic inner edge (SIE) conventions in adult and pediatric patients with inherited cardiovascular diseases. Transthoracic echocardiograms were performed in 328 consecutive patients (260 adults and 68 children). Aorta diameters were measured twice at the root and ascending aorta by the DLE convention following the 2015 American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) adult guidelines and the SIE convention following the 2010 ASE pediatric guidelines. Comparison of the diameters measured by the two conventions in the overall population showed a non-significant underestimation of the diameter measured by the SIE convention at root level of 0.28 mm (CI -1.36; 1.93) and at tubular ascending aorta level of 0.17 mm (CI -1.69; 2.03). Intraobserver and interobserver variability were excellent. Maximum aorta diameter measured by the leading edge convention in end-diastole and the inner edge convention in mid-systole had similar values to a mild non-significant underestimation of the inner-to-inner method that permits them to be interchangeable when used in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luz Servato
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
| | - Gisela Teixidó-Turá
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
| | - Anna Sabate-Rotes
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Laura Galian-Gay
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
| | - Laura Gutiérrez
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
| | - Filipa Valente
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
| | - Ruben Fernandez-Galera
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
| | - Guillem Casas
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
| | - Angela López-Sainz
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
| | - M. Teresa González-Alujas
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
| | - Augusto Sao-Aviles
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
| | - Ignacio Ferreira
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
| | - Jose Rodríguez-Palomares
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
| | - Arturo Evangelista
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, CIBERCV, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.L.S.); (G.T.-T.); (L.G.-G.); (L.G.); (F.V.); (R.F.-G.); (G.C.); (A.L.-S.); (M.T.G.-A.); (A.S.-A.); (I.F.); (J.R.-P.)
- Teknon Medical Center-Quirón Salud, Heart Institute, 08022 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence:
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Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is an autosomal dominant, age-related but highly penetrant condition with substantial intrafamilial and interfamilial variability. MFS is caused by pathogenetic variants in FBN1, which encodes fibrillin-1, a major structural component of the extracellular matrix that provides support to connective tissues, particularly in arteries, the pericondrium and structures in the eye. Up to 25% of individuals with MFS have de novo variants. The most prominent manifestations of MFS are asymptomatic aortic root aneurysms, aortic dissections, dislocation of the ocular lens (ectopia lentis) and skeletal abnormalities that are characterized by overgrowth of the long bones. MFS is diagnosed based on the Ghent II nosology; genetic testing confirming the presence of a FBN1 pathogenetic variant is not always required for diagnosis but can help distinguish MFS from other heritable thoracic aortic disease syndromes that can present with skeletal features similar to those in MFS. Untreated aortic root aneurysms can progress to life-threatening acute aortic dissections. Management of MFS requires medical therapy to slow the rate of growth of aneurysms and decrease the risk of dissection. Routine surveillance with imaging techniques such as transthoracic echocardiography, CT or MRI is necessary to monitor aneurysm growth and determine when to perform prophylactic repair surgery to prevent an acute aortic dissection.
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11
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Al-Mousily MF, Lopez L, Muniz JC, Sasaki N, Seltzer I, Gruber J, Welch E. Aortic size in children: Systolic measurements are different from diastolic measurements. Ann Pediatr Cardiol 2021; 14:165-169. [PMID: 34103855 PMCID: PMC8174627 DOI: 10.4103/apc.apc_157_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Current guidelines recommended aortic measurements during diastole in adults and during systole in children. Recent studies in adults have demonstrated noteworthy differences in aortic measurements during systole and diastole in the same subjects. In the present study, we aimed to characterize systolic and diastolic differences in aortic measurements in healthy children. Materials and Methods : This retrospective study included 272 children who had a complete echocardiogram and no heart disease. Aortic measurements at the annulus (ANN), aortic root (AOR), sinotubular junction (STJ), and ascending aorta (AAO) were performed. Systolic and diastolic values were compared by calculating the mean systolic to diastolic (SD) percent difference for each segment; if the SD difference was >5%, it was considered clinically important. Similar measurements were conducted by another observer in 18% of the subjects. Results: Systolic measurements were larger than diastolic measurements with mean SD percent differences >5% (P < 0.001) for the AOR (7.3% ± 5.5%), STJ (10.24% ± 7.1%), and AAO (9.8% ± 7.4%). There was no clinically significant SD difference for the ANN. There was an excellent intraclass correlation coefficient between observers (0.982–0.995). Conclusions: Systolic measurements for the AOR, STJ, and AAO were larger than diastolic measurements. Normal reference values are utilized to design treatment for patients with abnormal aortic sizes, and the timing in the cardiovascular cycle used to decide the reference values should be equivalent to the timing used to make measurements in clinical practice. This is particularly imperative as patients transition their care from a pediatric to an adult cardiologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad F Al-Mousily
- Department of Cardiology, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Cardiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Leo Lopez
- Department of Cardiology, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Stanford, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Juan Carlos Muniz
- Department of Cardiology, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Nao Sasaki
- Department of Cardiology, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Irwin Seltzer
- Department of Cardiology, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Joshua Gruber
- Department of Cardiology, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Elizabeth Welch
- Department of Cardiology, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
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Two-Dimensional Aortic Size Normalcy: A Novelty Detection Approach. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11020220. [PMID: 33540834 PMCID: PMC7912952 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11020220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: To develop a tool for assessing normalcy of the thoracic aorta (TA) by echocardiography, based on either a linear regression model (Z-score), or a machine learning technique, namely one-class support vector machine (OC-SVM) (Q-score). Methods: TA diameters were measured in 1112 prospectively enrolled healthy subjects, aging 5 to 89 years. Considering sex, age and body surface area we developed two calculators based on the traditional Z-score and the novel Q-score. The calculators were compared in 198 adults with TA > 40 mm, and in 466 patients affected by either Marfan syndrome or bicuspid aortic valve (BAV). Results: Q-score attained a better Area Under the Curve (0.989; 95% CI 0.984–0.993, sensitivity = 97.5%, specificity = 95.4%) than Z-score (0.955; 95% CI 0.942–0.967, sensitivity = 81.3%, specificity = 93.3%; p < 0.0001) in patients with TA > 40 mm. The prevalence of TA dilatation in Marfan and BAV patients was higher as Z-score > 2 than as Q-score < 4% (73.4% vs. 50.09%, p < 0.00001). Conclusions: Q-score is a novel tool for assessing TA normalcy based on a model requiring less assumptions about the distribution of the relevant variables. Notably, diameters do not need to depend linearly on anthropometric measurements. Additionally, Q-score can capture the joint distribution of these variables with all four diameters simultaneously, thus accounting for the overall aortic shape. This approach results in a lower rate of predicted TA abnormalcy in patients at risk of TA aneurysm. Further prognostic studies will be necessary for assessing the relative effectiveness of Q-score versus Z-score.
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13
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Forte E, Punzo B, Salvatore M, Maffei E, Nistri S, Cavaliere C, Cademartiri F. Low correlation between biometric parameters, cardiovascular risk factors and aortic dimensions by computed tomography coronary angiography. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e21891. [PMID: 32871919 PMCID: PMC7458269 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000021891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
To analyze the relationship between aortic measures and biometric parameters in a large cohort of consecutive patients undergoing computed tomography coronary angiography.1170 patients (717 men/453 women) performing computed tomography coronary angiography for coronary evaluation were retrospectively evaluated. Aortic diameters and areas were measured at reproducible anatomic landmarks, perpendicular to the axis of vessel, at the level of the aortic root (AoR), the sinotubular junction (STJ), and the tubular ascending aorta (TAo). Biometric parameters and cardiovascular risk factors were recorded.The average values of AoR, STJ, and TAo were 35.63 ± 5.00 mm, 30.56 ± 4.82 mm, 35.07 ± 5.84 mm. Hypertension was significantly associated with aortic dimensions.Aortic measures were significantly different between men and women (37.56 ± 4.77 mm vs 32.58 ± 3.68 mm for AoR, 31.88 ± 4.84 mm vs 28.47 ± 3.98 mm for STJ and 35.93 ± 5.86 mm vs 33.70 ± 5.54 mm for TAo) (P < .001) and linearly increased with age. Low Spearman correlation coefficients were found and the correlation of TAo diameters with age displayed the highest values (ρ = 0.372 for male and ρ = 0.373 for female, P < .001). Multiple linear regression analysis models were compared by R. The best model used body surface area (BSA) and age as independent variables and TAo diameter as dependent variable (R = 0.29 for AoR; R = 0.21 for STJ, and R = 0.20 for TAo).In conclusion, in our population low correlation between aortic dimensions and biometric parameters highlights the difficulty of identifying normal ranges, as well as issues related to normalization using conventional biometric parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Erica Maffei
- Department of Radiology, Area Vasta 1/ASUR Marche, Urbino
| | - Stefano Nistri
- Cardiology Service-CMSR Veneto Medica, Altavilla Vicentina, VI, Italy
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14
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Prevalence of proximal ascending aorta and target organ damage in hypertensive patients: the multicentric ARGO-SIIA project (Aortic RemodellinG in hypertensiOn of the Italian Society of Hypertension). J Hypertens 2020; 37:57-64. [PMID: 30036270 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000001844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of ascending aortic dilatation and to evaluate the possible association between proximal aorta dilatation and structural or functional markers of cardiac organ damage in hypertensive patients. BACKGROUND Dilatation of the sinus of valsalva (SoV) is a common finding in clinical practice and it is associated with an increased cardiovascular risk in hypertensive patients: less is known about the dilatation prevalence of the subsequent portion, the proper ascending aorta and its relationship with cardiovascular organ damage. METHODS This multicentric study included 582 hypertensive and 104 normotensive control individuals. All individuals underwent clinical evaluation and two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography focused on the evaluation of the aorta. Aortic diameters at three levels were measured: SoV, sinotubular junction and ascending aorta. RESULTS The prevalence of ascending aorta dilatation was 13%. Patients with ascending aorta dilatation were on average 10 years older than hypertensive patients without aortic dilatation and control individuals.Left ventricular mass was significantly increased (P < 0.0001) in patients with ascending aorta dilatation with (113.29 ± 3 g/m) or without (109.16 ± 3 g/m) SoV dilatation compared with patients with isolated SoV dilatation (98.80 ± 21.8 g/m) or normal aorta (96.04 ± 26.5 g/m), with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) being twice as common in this group compared with the latter (60 vs. 28%, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION Prevalence of ascending aorta dilatation in hypertensive patients reaches 13%. Hypertensive individuals with enlarged ascending aorta showed significantly increased left ventricular mass, a well known sign of hypertension related cardiac damage and could thus represent a subset of hypertensive patients at an increased cardiovascular risk.
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15
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Lopez L, Colan SD. How Well Does the Neonatal Heart Measure Up? J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2019; 32:906-908. [DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2019.04.423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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16
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LaBounty TM, Kolias TJ, Bossone E, Bach DS. Differences in Echocardiographic Measures of Aortic Dimensions by Race. Am J Cardiol 2019; 123:2015-2021. [PMID: 30955867 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2019.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
It is not clear whether there are differences in aortic dimensions by race. Our hypothesis was that race-specific differences in aortic size exist. We compared the relation between race and aortic dimensions among 15,295 adults without known risk factors for cardiovascular disease or aortic dilatation, who underwent clinically indicated transthoracic echocardiography. We compared inner edge-to-inner edge measurements between whites (n = 12,932), blacks (n = 958), Asians (n = 827), Hispanics (n = 366), Native Americans (n = 38), and others (n = 174). Multivariate analysis compared measurements indexed with body surface area (BSA) between races and adjusted for variables including age, gender, and mean blood pressure. Mean age was 49.9 ± 17.6 years, and 58.7% were female. On gender-specific comparisons, there were significant differences in aortic size between races (p <0.001 for each). Using whites as a baseline, multivariable analysis demonstrated that blacks had smaller BSA-indexed aortic sinus (-0.34 mm/m2, p <0.001) and ascending aorta (-0.43 mm/m2, p <0.001) dimensions; Asians had larger BSA-indexed aortic sinus (0.36 mm/m2, p <0.001), ascending aorta (0.41 mm/m2, p <0.001), and aortic arch (0.20 mm/m2, p = 0.002) dimensions; Hispanics had larger BSA-indexed aortic arch dimensions (0.15 mm/m2, p = 0.01); Native Americans had increased BSA-indexed aortic arch dimensions (0.32 mm/m2, p = 0.01); and other races had increased BSA-indexed aortic arch dimensions (0.11 mm/m2, p = 0.03). In a cohort without known risk factors for aortic dilatation, race is associated with significant differences in aortic dimensions. In conclusion, these findings suggest that reference ranges for aortic size should be established using racially diverse cohorts to prevent misdiagnosis of aortic dilatation based on race.
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Oikonomou E, Lazaros G, Tsalamandris S, Vogiatzi G, Christoforatou E, Papakonstantinou M, Goliopoulou A, Tousouli M, Chasikidis C, Tousoulis D. Alcohol Consumption and Aortic Root Dilatation: Insights from the Corinthia Study. Angiology 2019; 70:969-977. [DOI: 10.1177/0003319719848172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Aortic diameter and progression to thoracic aortic aneurysm are influenced by several factors. In this study, we investigated the association of alcohol consumption with aortic root and ascending aorta dilatation. In the context of the Corinthia study, we examined 1751 patients with echocardiography. Several demographic and clinical characteristics were recorded. Alcohol consumption was assessed based on a questionnaire of frequency, type, and quantity. Accordingly, patients were categorized as everyday alcohol consumers (EDACs) and as social drinkers (SoD). Everyday alcohol consumers were further categorized to group 1: 0 to 1 drink/d; group 2: 1 to 2 drinks/d; and group 3: ≥3 drinks/d. From the study population, 40% were categorized as EDAC and had an increased aortic root diameter (AoRD) and an elevated AoRD index compared with SoD. Interestingly, there was a stepwise increase in aortic root and ascending aorta diameter according to daily alcohol consumption. Specifically, patients consuming ≥3 drinks of alcohol/d had increased indexed aortic by 1.4 mm/m2 compared with SoD even after adjustment for possible confounders. Daily alcohol consumption is associated with increased aortic root diameter. These findings may have important clinical implications, especially in patients with borderline or dilated aortic root, and merit further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Oikonomou
- First Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - George Lazaros
- First Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Sotirios Tsalamandris
- First Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Vogiatzi
- First Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelia Christoforatou
- First Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Margenti Papakonstantinou
- First Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Athina Goliopoulou
- First Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Tousouli
- First Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Christos Chasikidis
- First Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- First Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
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Bossone E, Suzuki T, Asch FM. Aorta dimensions: It is not a single player game. Int J Cardiol 2019; 276:236-237. [PMID: 30355457 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2018.10.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Bossone
- Division of Cardiology, A. Cardarelli Hospital, Naples, Italy.
| | - Toru Suzuki
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, BHF Cardiovascular Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, Leicester, United Kingdom
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Silberbach M, Roos-Hesselink JW, Andersen NH, Braverman AC, Brown N, Collins RT, De Backer J, Eagle KA, Hiratzka LF, Johnson WH, Kadian-Dodov D, Lopez L, Mortensen KH, Prakash SK, Ratchford EV, Saidi A, van Hagen I, Young LT. Cardiovascular Health in Turner Syndrome: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. CIRCULATION-GENOMIC AND PRECISION MEDICINE 2018; 11:e000048. [DOI: 10.1161/hcg.0000000000000048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Bons LR, Duijnhouwer AL, Boccalini S, van den Hoven AT, van der Vlugt MJ, Chelu RG, McGhie JS, Kardys I, van den Bosch AE, Siebelink HMJ, Nieman K, Hirsch A, Broberg CS, Budde RPJ, Roos-Hesselink JW. Intermodality variation of aortic dimensions: How, where and when to measure the ascending aorta. Int J Cardiol 2018; 276:230-235. [PMID: 30213599 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2018.08.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND No established reference-standard technique is available for ascending aortic diameter measurements. The aim of this study was to determine agreement between modalities and techniques. METHODS In patients with aortic pathology transthoracic echocardiography, computed tomography angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) were performed. Aortic diameters were measured at the sinus of Valsalva (SoV), sinotubular junction (STJ) and tubular ascending aorta (TAA) during mid-systole and end-diastole. In echocardiography both the inner edge-to-inner edge (I-I edge) and leading edge-to‑leading edge (L-L edge) methods were applied, and the length of the aortic annulus to the most cranial visible part of the ascending aorta was measured. In CTA and MRA the I-I method was used. RESULTS Fifty patients with bicuspid aortic valve (36 ± 13 years, 26% female) and 50 Turner patients (35 ± 13 years) were included. Comparison of all aortic measurements showed a mean difference of 5.4 ± 2.7 mm for the SoV, 5.1 ± 2.0 mm for the STJ and 4.8 ± 2.1 mm for the TAA. The maximum difference was 18 mm. The best agreement was found between echocardiography L-L edge and CTA during mid-systole. CTA and MRA showed good agreement. A mean difference of 1.5 ± 1.3 mm and 1.8 ± 1.5 mm was demonstrated at the level of the STJ and TAA comparing mid-systolic with end-diastolic diameters. The visible length of the aorta increased on average 5.3 ± 5.1 mmW during mid-systole. CONCLUSIONS MRA and CTA showed best agreement with L-L edge method by echocardiography. In individual patients large differences in ascending aortic diameter were demonstrated, warranting measurement standardization. The use of CTA or MRA is advised at least once.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia R Bons
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Sara Boccalini
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Raluca G Chelu
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jackie S McGhie
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Isabella Kardys
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Koen Nieman
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Departments of Cardiovascular medicine and Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Alexander Hirsch
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Craig S Broberg
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Ricardo P J Budde
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Harmon J, Sisco K, Dutro M, Cua CL. Left Ventricular Dilation: When Pediatric Meet Adult Guidelines. Pediatr Cardiol 2018; 39:26-32. [PMID: 28884203 DOI: 10.1007/s00246-017-1719-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Measuring and grading left ventricular (LV) size is essential for diagnostic, treatment, and prognostic purposes. Guidelines for quantifying LV size exist for pediatric and adult patients via M-mode measurements, but no data exist determining how well they agree with one another. The goal of this study was to determine the agreement between pediatric echocardiographic readers (PER), pediatric guidelines, and adult guidelines in assessing LV dilation. A retrospective review of all noncongenital echocardiograms from 9/2002 to 11/2015 that had a left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) >5.8 cm for males and >5.2 cm for females was performed. LV size was graded as normal (Z-score ≤ 2), mild (2 < Z-score ≤ 3), moderate (3 < Z-score ≤ 4), or severe (4 < Z-score) based on pediatric and adult guidelines. PER interpretation was also recorded. Agreement between LV size assessments was determined for these three interpretations. A total of 1489 echocardiograms met the inclusion criteria (654 males:835 females). Males were 19.0 ± 6.9 years old and had a BSA of 1.9 ± 0.3 m2, and LVEDD was 6.3 ± 0.5 cm. Females were 18.7 ± 8.3 years old and had a BSA of 1.8 ± 0.3 m2, and LVEDD was 5.7 ± 0.5 cm. There was a 63.91% agreement for males and an 81.8% agreement for females between PER and pediatric guidelines in assessing LV size. There was a 39.14% agreement for males and a 14.13% agreement for females between PER and adult guidelines in assessing LV size. There was a 41.44% agreement for males and a 14.49% agreement for females between adult and pediatric guidelines in assessing LV size. These agreement percentages did not change significantly when separating the population into greater than or less than 18 years of age cohorts. Pediatric echocardiographic readers were more consistent in following pediatric guidelines than adult guidelines in assessing LV size. The agreement for PER and pediatric guidelines was poor, especially for females, in relation to adult guidelines when assessing LV size. Further standardization and guidelines are needed for pediatric patients that are adult size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill Harmon
- Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, USA
| | - Kacy Sisco
- Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, USA
| | - Marc Dutro
- Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, USA
| | - Clifford L Cua
- Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, USA.
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Díaz-Peláez E, Barreiro-Pérez M, Martín-García A, Sanchez PL. Measuring the aorta in the era of multimodality imaging: still to be agreed. J Thorac Dis 2017; 9:S445-S447. [PMID: 28616340 DOI: 10.21037/jtd.2017.03.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Díaz-Peláez
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Salamanca - IBSAL -CIBERCV, Spain
| | | | - Ana Martín-García
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Salamanca - IBSAL -CIBERCV, Spain
| | - Pedro L Sanchez
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Salamanca - IBSAL -CIBERCV, Spain
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Vizzardi E, Maffessanti F, Lorusso R, Sciatti E, Bonadei I, Gelsomino S, Metra M, Pepi M. Ascending Aortic Dimensions in Hypertensive Subjects: Reference Values for Two-Dimensional Echocardiography. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2016; 29:827-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2016.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Prihadi E, Delgado V. Multimodality Imaging of the Aorta: Implications for Patient Surveillance. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2016; 29:838-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2016.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Ferrara F, Rudski LG, Vriz O, Gargani L, Afilalo J, D'Andrea A, D'Alto M, Marra AM, Acri E, Stanziola AA, Ghio S, Cittadini A, Naeije R, Bossone E. Physiologic correlates of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion in 1168 healthy subjects. Int J Cardiol 2016; 223:736-743. [PMID: 27573598 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2016.08.275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND TAPSE provides a simple, reproducible estimate of the longitudinal function of the right ventricle (RV). However, the normal limits and physiologic correlates of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) are not exactly known. The aim of this study was to explore the full spectrum of TAPSE values and determine the physiologic correlates of TAPSE. METHODS AND RESULTS From June 2007 to December 2013, 1168 healthy subjects [mean age 45.1±16years, range 16 to 92; 555 (47.5%) men] underwent comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) as recommended by current guidelines. TAPSE values were higher in men than women (24.0±3.5 vs 23.2±3.0mm, p value<0.0001) but did not vary according to age. On multivariable linear regression analysis, cardiac output, RV basal and longitudinal dimensions were the only variables independently associated with TAPSE (β coefficient=0.161, 0.116 and 0.115 respectively). On the other hand echocardiographically-derived systolic pulmonary artery pressure (SPAP), pulmonary vascular resistance and mitral E/e' ratio were significantly higher in older subjects. Therefore a significant decrease of TAPSE/SPAP was detected in >60years old cohort (p=0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Our large cohort of healthy subjects provides sex and age-based TAPSE and TAPSE/SPAP normal cut-offs. TAPSE was found to be higher in men but not influenced by age. It was mainly correlated with echo-Doppler indices reflecting pre-load as opposed to afterload. On the other hand a significant decrease of TAPSE/SPAP with older age was registered as a direct consequence of increased SPAP with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Ferrara
- Cardiology Division, "Cava de' Tirreni and Amalfi Coast" Hospital, Heart Department, University Hospital of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Lawrence G Rudski
- Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Olga Vriz
- Hospital of San Daniele del Friuli, Cardiology and Emergency Department, Udine, Italy
| | - Luna Gargani
- Institute of Clinical Physiology - C.N.R., Pisa, Italy
| | - Jonathan Afilalo
- Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Michele D'Alto
- Second University of Naples, Department of Cardiology, Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Edvige Acri
- Cardiology Division, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Anna Agnese Stanziola
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, Monaldi Hospital, University "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Ghio
- Cardiology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonio Cittadini
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University Federico II of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Eduardo Bossone
- Cardiology Division, "Cava de' Tirreni and Amalfi Coast" Hospital, Heart Department, University Hospital of Salerno, Salerno, Italy.
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Rodríguez-Palomares JF, Teixidó-Tura G, Galuppo V, Cuéllar H, Laynez A, Gutiérrez L, González-Alujas MT, García-Dorado D, Evangelista A. Multimodality Assessment of Ascending Aortic Diameters: Comparison of Different Measurement Methods. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2016; 29:819-826.e4. [PMID: 27288090 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2016.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been widely used to monitor aortic diameters, with no consensus as to the best measurement approach. Thus, the aim of this study was to establish the best measurement methods by two-dimensional (2D) TTE, MDCT, and MRI to achieve comparable aortic diameters. METHODS One hundred forty patients with severe aortic valvular disease or aortic dilatation were prospectively evaluated using 2D TTE and MDCT (n = 70) or MRI (n = 70). The aorta was measured at three different levels: sinuses of Valsalva, sinotubular junction, and ascending aorta. Three different measurements were made by 2D TTE-inner edge to inner edge, leading edge to leading edge (L-L), and outer edge to outer edge-and then compared with the inner edge-to-inner edge and outer edge-to-outer edge measurements of cusp-to-cusp and cusp-to-commissure diameters by MDCT or MRI. Inter- and intraobserver variability was analyzed. RESULTS Aortic diameters by 2D TTE, MDCT, and MRI showed excellent inter- and intraobserver variability using all conventions. Significant underestimation was observed of all aortic diameters assessed by 2D TTE using the inner edge-to-inner edge convention compared with those obtained by MDCT or MRI (P < .0001). However, excellent accuracy was observed by 2D TTE when the L-L convention was used and compared with the internal diameter by MDCT and MRI (mean differences, 0.6 ± 2.6 mm [P = .158] for MDCT and 0.4 ± 3.5 mm [P = .852] for MRI). Cusp-to-cusp diameters were slightly larger than cusp-to-commissure diameters. The diameter by 2D TTE using the L-L convention correlated best with the noncoronary cusp-to-right coronary cusp diameter determined by both MDCT and MRI. CONCLUSIONS Aortic root and ascending aortic diameters measured by 2D TTE using the L-L convention showed accurate and reproducible values compared with internal diameters assessed by MDCT or MRI. This approach permits a multimodality follow-up of patients with aortic diseases and avoids disparities in measurements obtained by different conventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- José F Rodríguez-Palomares
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gisela Teixidó-Tura
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Valentina Galuppo
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hug Cuéllar
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Laynez
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Gutiérrez
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Teresa González-Alujas
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David García-Dorado
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arturo Evangelista
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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