Increased left atrial volume index is an independent predictor of raised serum natriuretic peptide in patients with suspected heart failure but normal left ventricular ejection fraction: Implication for diagnosis of diastolic heart failure

Post-exercise left atrial conduit strain predicted hemodynamic change in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

OBJECTIVES

Left ventricle function directly impacts left atrial (LA) conduit function, and LA conduit strain is associated with exercise intolerance in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) before and during exercise is the current gold standard for diagnosing HFpEF. Post-exercise ΔPCWP can lead to worse long-term outcomes. This study examined the correlation between LA strain and post-exercise ΔPCWP in patients with HFpEF.

METHODS

We enrolled 100 subjects, including 74 with HFpEF and 26 with non-cardiac dyspnea, from November 2017 to December 2020. Subjects underwent echocardiography, invasive cardiac catheterization, and expired gas analysis at rest and during exercise. Arterial blood pressure, right atrial pressure, pulmonary artery pressure, and PCWP were recorded during cardiac catheterization. Cardiac output, stroke volume, pulmonary vascular resistance, pulmonary artery compliance, systemic vascular resistance, and LV stroke work were calculated using standard formulas.

RESULTS

Exercise LA conduit strain significantly correlated with both post-exercise ΔPCWP (r =  - 0.707, p < 0.001) and exercise PCWP (r =  - 0.659; p < 0.001). Exercise LA conduit strain differentiated patients who did and did not meet the 2016 European Society of Cardiology HFpEF criteria with an area under the curve of 0.69 (95% confidence interval, 0.548-0.831) using a cutoff value of 14.25, with a sensitivity of 0.64 and a specificity of 0.68.

CONCLUSIONS

Exercise LA conduit strain significantly correlates with post-exercise ΔPCWP and has a comparable power to identify patients with HFpEF. Additional studies are warranted to confirm the ability of LA conduit strain to predict long-term outcomes among patients with HFpEF.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

Exercise left atrial conduit strain was highly associated with the difference of post-exercise pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and may indicate increased mortality risk in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, and also has comparable diagnostic ability.

KEY POINTS

• Left atrial conduit strain is associated with exercise intolerance in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. • Left atrial conduit strain during exercise can identify patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. • Exercise left atrial conduit strain significantly correlates with the difference of pulmonary capillary wedge pressure during and before exercise which might predict the long-term outcomes of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction patients.

The Role of the Left Atrium: From Multimodality Imaging to Clinical Practice: A Review

In recent years, new interest is growing in the left atrium (LA). LA functional analysis and measurement have an essential role in cardiac function evaluation. Left atrial size and function are key elements during the noninvasive analysis of diastolic function in several heart diseases. The LA represents a “neuroendocrine organ” with high sensitivity to the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. New insights highlight the importance of left atrial structural, contractile, and/or electrophysiological changes, introducing the concept of “atrial cardiomyopathy”, which is closely linked to underlying heart disease, arrhythmias, and conditions such as aging. The diagnostic algorithm for atrial cardiomyopathy should follow a stepwise approach, combining risk factors, clinical characteristics, and imaging. Constant advances in imaging techniques offer superb opportunities for a comprehensive evaluation of LA function, underlying specific mechanisms, and patterns of progression. In this literature review, we aim to suggest a practical, stepwise algorithm with integrative multimodality imaging and a clinical approach for LA geometry and functional analysis. This integrates diastolic flow analysis with LA remodelling by the application of traditional and new diagnostic imaging techniques in several clinical settings such as heart failure (HF), atrial fibrillation (AF), coronary artery disease (CAD), and mitral regurgitation (MR).

The correlation between the left atrial volume index and atrial fibrillation development in heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction and long-term follow-up results

BACKGROUND

The European Society of Cardiology has recently defined heart failure (HF) patient group with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 41-49% as a different category with the term heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF). In this study, we aimed to conduct a research about the correlation between left atrial volume index (LAVI) and atrial fibrillation in patients HFmrEF.

METHODS

A total of 282 patients HFmrEF who were admitted to the cardiology department from three different centres were included in the study. The study was planned as multicenter, cross-sectional study. The patients were divided into two groups as sinus rhythm and atrial fibrillation based on their electrocardiographic findings.

RESULTS

It was found out that Nt-ProBNP, LA area, LAVI, pulmonary artery pressure, and severe mitral regurgitation rates were significantly higher in the AF group (p < 0.001). ROC analysis resulting in LAVI > 30.5 had 64% sensitivity and 66% specificity in the predicting presence of AF (ROC area under the curve: 0.660, 95% CI: 0.587-0.733, p < 0.001). We also observed that the LA area being >16.55 predicting presence of AF with 60% sensitivity and 58% specificity (ROC area under the curve: 0.624, 95% CI: 0.549-0.699, p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

In the study conducted, we found a correlation between AF and LAVI values in patients in the HFmrEF group. If the LAVI value increases in the follow-up of this group of patients with echocardiography, close follow-up in terms of AF may allow the early control and treatment of AF-related incidents.

Echocardiographic Diagnosis of Postcapillary Pulmonary Hypertension: A RIGHT1 Substudy

Background: Pulmonary hypertension is observed in 70% of patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Right heart catheterization is the gold standard for a complete evaluation of Pulmonary Hypertension (PH); however, echocardiography represents a powerful initial diagnostic tool. The aim of our study was to evaluate the accuracy of echocardiography for the diagnosis of postcapillary PH, i.e., due to increased left ventricular filling pressures. Methods and Results: We recruited patients with a diagnosis of PH from the RIGHT1 study (Right heart invasive and echocardiographic hemodynamic evaluation in Turin 1). Transthoracic echocardiography was performed within 60 min of cardiac catheterization. High LV filling pressures were defined by a pulmonary arterial wedge pressure (PAWP) greater than 15 mmHg. We assessed numerous morphological and functional features of LV, and their association with PAWP. 128 patients were diagnosed with PH. We observed a significant association between PAWP, the left atrial volume indexed by BSA (LAVi, R2 = 0.27; p < 0.0001) and the E/e’ ratio (R2 = 0.27; p < 0.0001). With these parameters, we implemented a diagnostic algorithm to identify high ventricular filling pressures in PH patients. The application of this algorithm could help identify patients with a diagnosis of postcapillary PH due to high ventricular filling pressures (E/E’ > 15). Conclusions: The echocardiographic parameters with the best association with PAWP in PH patients are E/e’ and LAVi. For these patients, our diagnostic algorithm could improve the diagnostic precision for the definition of subgroups.

Twist/untwist parameters are promising evaluators of myocardial mechanic changes in heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the twist/untwist parameters of the left ventricle (LV) in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) measured by ultrasonic two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) and to examine the correlations between twist parameters and serum N‐terminal pro b‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) as well as conventional two‐dimensional echocardiography (2DE) indexes.

Hypothesis

Changes in twist/untwist parameters can be used to evaluate LV function in HFpEF patients.

Methods

In 63 HFpEF patients and 40 healthy controls, we analyzed LV twist/untwist parameters by STE, cardiac function by 2DE, and serum NT‐proBNP by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The correlations between twist/untwist parameters and 2DE parameters and serum NT‐proBNP were examined by Pearson correlation analysis.

Results

Left ventricular end diastolic inner diameter and ejection fraction in HFpEF patients were within the normal range, whereas other 2DE parameters including left ventricular posterior wall end diastolic thickness, interventricular septal thickness, left atrial volume index, E, E/A, and E/e' differed significantly between HFpEF patients and control subjects. The twist/untwist parameters such as peak apical rotation (Par), peak untwisting velocity (PUWV), and isovolumic diastole untwisting percentage (Iutw%) were significantly decreased in HFpEF patients compared with control participants. Positive correlations between PUWV/Iutw% and E/A/E/e' and a significant negative correlation between PUWV/Iutw% and left atrial volume index (LAVI) were observed. The plasma NT‐proBNP concentration was positively correlated with LAVI, but negatively correlated with PUWV and Iutw%.

Conclusions

Changes in twist/untwist parameters correlate well with conventional 2DE parameters and plasma levels of NT‐proBNP, and can be used to evaluate LV function in HFpEF patients. Par is sensitive to the LV myocardial function damage.

Prognostic impact of atrial rhythm and dimension in patients with structural heart disease undergoing cardiac sympathetic denervation for ventricular arrhythmias

BACKGROUND

Cardiac sympathetic denervation (CSD) is a promising treatment for patients with structural heart disease (SHD) and refractory ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VTs). The effect of CSD on atrial rhythm as well as the prognostic impact of atrial arrhythmias (AAs) or left atrial volume index (LAVI) on CSD outcome are unknown.

OBJECTIVES

The goals of this study were to evaluate the impact of AAs and LAVI on CSD outcome and to assess changes in AAs burden and in atrial pacing after CSD.

METHODS

Patients with SHD undergoing CSD for VTs were analyzed. Hazards models were built to assess predictors of sustained VT/implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) shock recurrences and death/orthotopic heart transplant (OHT). Changes before vs after CSD were assessed using ICD, clinical, and echocardiographic data. A drug index was devised to correct for medication use.

RESULTS

Between 2009 and 2018, 91 patients (mean age 56 ± 13 years; mean left ventricular ejection fraction 34% ± 14%; 47% with a history of AAs) underwent left CSD (16%) or bilateral CSD (BCSD). The median follow-up was 14 months (interquartile range 4-37 months). Using multivariable analysis, neither LAVI nor AAs were associated with recurrences; LAVI was an independent predictor of death/OHT. AAs burden did not change after BCSD, but atrial pacing increased from a median of 28% to 72% (P < .01). Left ventricular end-diastolic diameter slightly increased; however, sustained VT/ICD shocks were reduced.

CONCLUSION

In patients with SHD undergoing CSD, LAVI predicts death/OHT. AAs burden, already low at baseline, was unchanged after BCSD, while the need for atrial pacing increased, suggesting an impact of BCSD on sinus node chronotropism.

Combination of Peak Exercise Systolic Blood Pressure and Left Atrial Diameter as a Novel Non-Spirometry Prognostic Predictor Comparable to Peak Oxygen Uptake for Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction

BACKGROUND

Although peak oxygen uptake (pV̇O₂) is a well-established powerful prognostic predictor in heart failure (HF) patients, implementation of cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) is limited by its complex analysis. We aimed to develop a new bivariate predictor obtained without respiratory gas measurement, comparable to pV̇O₂.Methods and Results:We studied 560 consecutive HF patients with ejection fraction (EF) <45% who underwent CPX. During a median follow-up of 49.0 months, the composite of all-cause death or HF hospitalization occurred in 228 patients (40.7%) and all-cause death in 111 (19.8%). pV̇O₂was the strongest single predictor of the composite outcome (chi-square, 99.3). Among the bivariate non-spirometry parameters, the ratio of systolic blood pressure at peak exercise to left atrial diameter (pSBP/LAD) was the strongest predictor (chi-square, 112.4). Patients with pSBP/LAD <2.8 mmHg/mm, compared with those with pSBP/LAD ≥2.8 mmHg/mm, had a hazard ratio of 3.84 (95% confidence interval, 2.95-5.04) for the composite outcome and 3.66 (2.50-5.37) for all-cause death. In the subgroup with pV̇O₂<14 mL/kg/min (n=149), where pV̇O₂had no further predictive value, pSBP was the strongest single predictor, and the predictive power of pSBP/LAD was more enhanced.

CONCLUSIONS

pSBP/LAD was a new powerful predictor of HF hospitalization and death, comparable to pV̇O₂, in HF with reduced EF. Because of its simplicity and high availability, this index has the potential for more widespread use than pV̇O₂.

Left atrial stiffness is superior to volume and strain parameters in predicting elevated NT-proBNP levels in systemic sclerosis patients

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is common in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and implies a worse prognosis therefore non-invasive assessment of left ventricular (LV) filling pressure is pivotal. Besides E/eʹ the use of maximal left atrial volume (LA Vmax index) is recommended. LA reservoir strain was also reported to be useful. The utility of LA stiffness, however, was never investigated in SSc. Thus we aimed to compare the diagnostic power of LA Vmax index, reservoir strain and stiffness in predicting elevated LV filling pressure in SSc patients. 72 SSc patients (age: 57 ± 11 years) were investigated. LA stiffness was calculated as ratio of E/eʹ to LA reservoir strain. Elevated LV filling pressure was defined as NT-proBNP > 220 pg/ml. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to estimate the diagnostic performance of the investigated parameters. Average NT-proBNP level was 181 ± 154 pg/ml. NT-proBNP > 220 pg/ml was found in 21 SSc patients. LA stiffness showed the highest diagnostic performance in predicting NT-pro-BNP > 220 pg/ml, with a cut off value of 0.314 (Area under the curve: 0.719, specificity: 89.4%, sensitivity: 42.1%). AUC values for LA reservoir strain and Vmax index were 0.595 and 0.521, respectively. LA stiffness was superior to Vmax index and reservoir strain in predicting elevated NT-proBNP levels in SSc patients. Although invasive validation studies on larger samples are required, our data suggest, that the use of LA stiffness may significantly contribute to diagnostic precision in populations with a high suspicion of HFpEF.

Combination of Plasma Biomarkers and Clinical Data for the Detection of Myocardial Fibrosis or Aggravation of Heart Failure Symptoms in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction Patients

Background: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is characterized by heart failure symptoms and structural change (including fibrosis). The relationship between novel biomarkers and the above components remains unclear. Methods: Seventy-seven HFpEF patients were recruited. All patients underwent echocardiography with tissue doppler imaging, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI), and measurement of plasma inflammatory, remodelling, endothelial function, and heart failure biomarker levels. Myocardial fibrosis was defined by CMRI-extracellular volume. Forward conditional logistic regression was applied to demonstrate the determinants of myocardial fibrosis or heart failure symptoms. Results: The levels of growth differentiation factor, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1, galectin-3, and N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) were significantly higher in patients with more myocardial fibrosis. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and galectin-3 were independent markers of ECV. After adjusting for confounding factors, plasma galectin-3 and MMP-2 levels were correlated with myocardial fibrosis levels (odds ratio (OR): 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02 to 1.09, p = 0.005 and OR: 2.11, 95% CI: 1.35⁻3.28, respectively), while NT-proBNP level only was associated with heart failure symptoms. We developed a score system consisted of biomarkers and clinical parameters. The area under the curve of the scoring system receiver operating characteristic curve is 0.838 to predict the degree of myocardial diffuse fibrosis. Conclusions: In conclusion, we found that galectin-3 and MMP-2 were significantly associated with global cardiac fibrosis in HFpEF patients. We also combined plasma biomarkers and clinical data to identify HFpEF patients with more severe cardiac fibrosis.

Rationale and design of a multicentre, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of mirabegron, a Beta3-adrenergic receptor agonist on left ventricular mass and diastolic function in patients with structural heart disease Beta3-left ventricular hypertrophy (Beta3-LVH)

Aims

Progressive left ventricular (LV) remodelling with cardiac myocyte hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, and endothelial dysfunction plays a key role in the onset and progression of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. The Beta3‐LVH trial will test the hypothesis that the β₃ adrenergic receptor agonist mirabegron will improve LV hypertrophy and diastolic function in patients with hypertensive structural heart disease at high risk for developing heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Methods and results

Beta3‐LVH is a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, two‐armed, multicentre, European, parallel group study. A total of 296 patients will be randomly assigned to receive either mirabegron 50 mg daily or placebo over 12 months. The main inclusion criterion is the presence of LV hypertrophy, that is, increased LV mass index (LVMi) or increased wall thickening by echocardiography. The co‐primary endpoints are a change in LVMi by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and a change in LV diastolic function (assessed by the E/e′ ratio). Secondary endpoints include mirabegron's effects on cardiac fibrosis, left atrial volume index, maximal exercise capacity, and laboratory markers. Two substudies will evaluate mirabegron's effect on endothelial function by pulse amplitude tonometry and brown fat activity by positron emission tomography using 17F‐fluorodeoxyglucose. Morbidity and mortality as well as safety aspects will also be assessed.

Conclusions

Beta3‐LVH is the first large‐scale clinical trial to evaluate the effects of mirabegron on LVMi and diastolic function in patients with LVH. Beta3‐LVH will provide important information about the clinical course of this condition and may have significant impact on treatment strategies and future trials in these patients.

Prevalence and Prognostic Significance of Nonsustained Ventricular Tachycardia in Patients With a Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction from 35% to 50

The risk of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias in patients with mild-to-moderately reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is unknown. This retrospective case-control study aims to identify the prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes associated with the development of nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) as documented on permanent pacemakers or implantable loop recorders in tertiary care center patients with an LVEF of 35% to 50%. Data pertaining to patient demographics, previous medical history, heart failure functional class, echocardiographic parameters, and survival were compared between the groups. Of the 326 patients with an LVEF within the target range, 90 patients (27.6%) had NSVT recorded on their device and 236 patients (72.4%) did not. Compared with patients without NSVT, patients with NSVT had a higher body mass index (28.4 kg/m² vs 26.8 kg/m², p = 0.02), more ischemic heart disease (57.8% vs 32.8%, p < 0.0001), higher left atrial volume index (45.8 ml/m² vs 42.0 ml/m², p = 0.04), and lower use of antiarrhythmic medications (4.4% vs 11.9%, p = 0.04). The presence of NSVT and the duration of NSVT had no relation to survival, supporting the notion that NSVT is a benign finding in patients with an LVEF of 35% to 50%.

The importance of integrated left atrial evaluation: From hypertension to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

AIM

Functional analysis and measurement of left atrium are an integral part of cardiac evaluation, and they represent a key element during non-invasive analysis of diastolic function in patients with hypertension (HT) and/or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). However, diastolic dysfunction remains quite elusive regarding classification, and atrial size and function are two key factors for left ventricular (LV) filling evaluation. Chronic left atrial (LA) remodelling is the final step of chronic intra-cavitary pressure overload, and it accompanies increased neurohormonal, proarrhythmic and prothrombotic activities. In this systematic review, we aim to purpose a multi-modality approach for LA geometry and function analysis, which integrates diastolic flow with LA characteristics and remodelling through application of both traditional and new diagnostic tools.

METHODS

The most important studies published in the literature on LA size, function and diastolic dysfunction in patients with HFpEF, HT and/or atrial fibrillation (AF) are considered and discussed.

RESULTS

In HFpEF and HT, pulsed and tissue Doppler assessments are useful tools to estimate LV filling pressure, atrio-ventricular coupling and LV relaxation but they need to be enriched with LA evaluation in terms of morphology and function. An integrated evaluation should be also applied to patients with a high arrhythmic risk, in whom eccentric LA remodelling and higher LA stiffness are associated with a greater AF risk.

CONCLUSION

Evaluation of LA size, volume, function and structure are mandatory in the management of patients with HT, HFpEF and AF. A multi-modality approach could provide additional information, identifying subjects with more severe LA remodelling. Left atrium assessment deserves an accurate study inside the cardiac imaging approach and optimised measurement with established cut-offs need to be better recognised through multicenter studies.

Role of serum TGF-β1 level in atrial fibrosis and outcome after catheter ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between serum transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) concentration and atrial fibrosis and to determine whether plasma TGF-β1 concentration is an independent predictor of atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after catheter ablation.We included 98 consecutive patients who underwent catheter ablation, including 38 with paroxysmal AF (AF group) and 60 with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (control group). We compared their preablation serum concentration of biomarkers and clinical and echocardiographic findings.Serum TGF-β1 concentrations, type-III procollagen N-terminal peptides (PIIINP), type-IV procollagen (IV-C), and laminin (LN) were significantly higher in the AF group than in the control group; however, there was no correlation between their concentrations and left atrial diameter (LAD). The area of the low-voltage zone positively correlated with TGF-β1 and PIIINP concentrations, but not with LAD. Atrial tachyarrhythmia (AF and AFL/AT) recurrence was observed in 15 patients (39.4%) at mean 241.4 ± 68.5 days of follow-up 12 months after ablation. Regression analysis revealed that TGF-β1 was a major risk factor for AF recurrence (odds ratio, 1.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.11-1.17; P = .02).Serum TGF-β1 concentration is an independent predictor of AF recurrence in patients with paroxysmal AF and may help identify patients likely to have better outcomes after catheter ablation.

High sensitivity troponin T and I reflect left atrial function being assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging

Background

Left atrial function (LAF) plays an interactive role between pulmonary and systemic circulation. Cardiac biomarkers, such as amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and troponins, might reflect cardiac function. This study aims to evaluate the association between high sensitivity troponins (hsTn) and left atrial function in patients undergoing cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI).

Methods

Patients undergoing cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) were enrolled prospectively. Patients with right ventricular dysfunction (<50%) were excluded. Blood samples for measurements of hsTn and NT-proBNP were collected at the time of cMRI.

Results

Eighty-four patients were included. Median LVEF was 59% (IQR 51–64%). HsTn correlated inversely with LAF within multivariable linear regression models (hsTnI: Beta −0.46; T −4.44; P = 0.0001; hsTnT: Beta −0.29; T −3.06; P = 0.003). High sensitivity troponins increased significantly according to decreasing stages of impaired LAF ( P = 0.0001). High sensitivity troponins discriminated patients with impaired LAF < 55% (hsTnT: AUC = 0.80; P = 0.0001; hsTnI: AUC = 0.74; P = 0.0001) and <45% (hsTnT: AUC = 0.75; P = 0.0001; hsTnI: AUC = 0.73; P = 0.001) and were still significantly associated in multivariable logistic regression models (LAF < 55%: hsTnT: OR = 21.78; P = 0.0001; hsTnI: OR = 5.96; P = 0.009; LAF < 45%: hsTnT: OR = 10.27; P = 0.0001; hsTnI: OR = 12.56; P = 0.001).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that hsTn are able to reflect LAF being assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.

Association between left atrial enlargement and obstructive sleep apnea in a general population of 71-year-old men

Left atrial enlargement has been shown to be associated with obstructive sleep apnea in patients with coronary artery disease and in sleep clinic cohorts. However, data from the general population are limited. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is an association between obstructive sleep apnea and left atrial enlargement in a random sample from a general population of 71-year-old men. As part of the longitudinal population study The Study of Men Born in 1943, we analysed cross-sectional data for 411 men, all 71 years old, who had participated in an overnight home sleep study and a standardized echocardiographic examination. Of the 411 men, 29.4% had moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea [apnea-hypopnea index score of ≥15 (n = 121)]. These participants showed a significantly higher frequency of systolic heart failure, hypertension, overweight, had greater waist circumference as well as higher left atrial areas compared with men with no or mild obstructive sleep apnea (23.7 ± 5.5 cm² versus 21.6 ± 4.5 cm² , P < 0.001). In a linear regression analysis, obstructive sleep apnea was significantly associated with left atrial enlargement after adjusting for overweight, atrial fibrillation, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, hypertension and mitral regurgitation. Compared with individuals without obstructive sleep apnea, the mean left atrial area was 1.7 ± 1.5 cm² larger in men with severe obstructive sleep apnea (P < 0.05) and 1.3 ± 1.1 cm² larger among men with moderate obstructive sleep apnea (P < 0.05). In this cross-sectional study of 71-year-old men from the general population, left atrial area was independently associated with prevalence and severity of obstructive sleep apnea.

The significance of the left atrial volume index in prediction of atrial fibrillation recurrence after electrical cardioversion

Introduction: Electrical cardioversion (ECV) is a safe method for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. It seems that left atrial volume index (LAVI) could be a good marker in predicting the success of ECV. The purpose of this study is to assess of the significance of LAVI measurement before ECV in predicting the recurrence of the AF.

Methods: Fifty-one patients with AF, selected for ECV were studied in the cardiology department of Tabriz University of medical sciences. The clinical and demographic data of all the patients were obtained. Echocardiography was performed before and also three months after ECV. Patients were separated into two groups: those who maintained SR and those with relapse of AF diagnosed by clinical manifestations and electrocardiography (ECG).

Results: Sinus rhythm (SR) was maintained in 76.5 percent of the patients following the three months after ECV. The age, sex and the body mass index (BMI) were not significantly different between SR and AF groups. Two groups showed no significant differences considering pre-ECV medical history including medications and systemic diseases. The initial LAVI of SR group was 42.21±12.4 mL/m² and AF group was 96.08±52.21 mL/m², the initial LAVI was significantly different between two groups (P = 0.000). The LAVI of SR group decreased significantly (5.69±0.74 mL/m²) after three months, LAVI decreased from 42.21 ± 12.4 ml/m² to 37.51 ± 10.52 mL/m². (P = 0.000). The cut-off point of LAVI value in predicting the maintenance of SR was 55 mL/m².

Conclusion: The present study indicates that LAVI is a powerful forecaster of the recurrence of AF after ECV. The LAVI measurement could be a useful method in the selection of the patients with AF for ECV.

How to diagnose heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: the value of invasive stress testing

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a growing healthcare burden worldwide and its prevalence is increasing. Diagnosing HFpEF is challenging and relies upon the presence of symptoms and/or signs of heart failure, preserved left ventricular systolic function, and evidence of diastolic dysfunction. Current diagnostic algorithms mainly rely on echocardiography (E/e’) and biomarkers (NT-proBNP). However, only a minority of patients with HFpEF are identified, and especially HFpEF patients at an early stage of the disease are easily missed. We propose to incorporate invasive stress testing, by means of right heart catheterisation at rest and during exercise, and accurate assessment of right ventricular function, by means of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. These additions to the current diagnostic work-up will improve diagnostic sensitivity and accurate staging of HFpEF patients.

Echocardiographic Assessment of Right Atrial Pressure in a Pediatric and Young Adult Population

Right atrial pressure (RAP) reflects right-sided cardiac hemodynamics and is useful in management of patients with cardiac and systemic disease. Studies in older adults demonstrated that inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter, IVC collapsibility index, hepatic vein systolic filling fraction (SFF), and right atrial volume (RAV) correlated with mean RAP at catheterization. This study aimed to assess the utility of echocardiographic parameters for assessment of RAP in children and young adults. Patients with pulmonary hypertension or heart transplantation undergoing right heart catheterization were recruited for this prospective observational pilot study. Transthoracic echocardiographic assessment of RAP was performed simultaneously with catheterization. For each parameter, three consecutive cardiac cycles were recorded. Long- and short-axis images of the IVC were obtained. RAV was assessed by area-length and biplane methods. IVC diameters and RAV were indexed to body surface area (BSA)(0.5) and (BSA)(1.4), respectively. Relationships between echocardiographic parameters and mean RAP were correlated using "Pearson's r." Fifty subjects aged 0.3-23 years (median 13, mean 12.3 ± 7 years) were enrolled. Mean RAP correlated modestly with RAV (r = 0.51, p < 0.001). Long-axis IVCmax (r = 0.30, p < 0.05) and tricuspid E wave velocity (r = 0.36, p < 0.01) also correlated with mean RAP. RV free wall tissue Doppler velocities, IVC collapsibility index, and hepatic vein SFF had no relation to mean RAP. In a pediatric and young adult population with pulmonary hypertension or heart transplantation, echocardiographic assessment of RAV and long-axis IVCmax provided a reasonable estimate of mean RAP. IVC collapsibility index and hepatic vein SFF demonstrated no association with mean RAP.

A simple, fast and reproducible echocardiographic approach to grade left ventricular diastolic function

The American Society of Echocardiography and European Association of Echocardiography (ASE/EAE) have published an algorithm for the grading of diastolic function. However, the ability to use this algorithm effectively in daily clinical practice has not been investigated. We hypothesized that in some patients it may be difficult to grade diastolic dysfunction with this scheme, since there may be discrepancies in the assessed parameters. The aim of the current study was to test the feasibility of the ASE/EAE algorithm and to compare this with a new Thoraxcenter (TXC) algorithm. The ASE/EAE and TXC algorithms were applied to 200 patients. The ASE/EAE algorithm starts with assessment of diastolic myocardial wall velocities and left atrial (LA) volumes with subsequent assessment of E/A ratio, E-wave deceleration time and pulmonary venous flow. The TXC algorithm reverses these steps, uses LA dimension instead of volume and does not include a Valsalva manoeuvre and pulmonary venous flow. Due to inconsistencies between diastolic myocardial wall velocities and LA volumes and a not covered E/A ratio in the range of 1.5–2 it was not possible to classify 48 % of patients with the ASE/EAE algorithm, as opposed to only 10 % by the TXC algorithm. LA volume was always needed in the ASE/EAE algorithm. In only 64 % of patients LA size was necessary by the TXC algorithm. When LA volume would have been used instead of LA dimension, grading of LV diastolic function would have been different in only 2 % of patients without apparent improvement. Assessment of LA dimension was considerably faster than LA volume. The TXC algorithm to grade LV diastolic dysfunction was compared to the ASE/EAE algorithm simpler, faster, better reproducible and yields a higher diagnostic outcome.

Impact of atrial fibrillation ablation on left ventricular filling pressure and left atrial remodeling

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction is associated with new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF), and the estimation of elevated LV filling pressures by E/e' ratio is related to worse outcomes in patients with AF. However, it is unknown if restoring sinus rhythm reverses this process.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of AF ablation on estimated LV filling pressure.

METHODS

A total of 141 patients underwent radiofrequency (RF) ablation to treat drug-refractory AF. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed 30 days before and 12 months after ablation. LV functional parameters, left atrial volume index (LAVind), and transmitral pulsed and mitral annulus tissue Doppler (e' and E/e') were assessed. Paroxysmal AF was present in 18 patients, persistent AF was present in 102 patients, and long-standing persistent AF in 21 patients. Follow-up included electrocardiographic examination and 24-h Holter monitoring at 3, 6, and 12 months after ablation.

RESULTS

One hundred seventeen patients (82.9%) were free of AF during the follow-up (average, 18 ± 5 months). LAVind reduced in the successful group (30.2 mL/m(2) ± 10.6 mL/m(2) to 22.6 mL/m(2) ± 1.1 mL/m(2), p < 0.001) compared to the non-successful group (37.7 mL/m(2) ± 14.3 mL/m(2) to 37.5 mL/m(2) ± 14.5 mL/m(2), p = ns). Improvement of LV filling pressure assessed by a reduction in the E/e' ratio was observed only after successful ablation (11.5 ± 4.5 vs. 7.1 ± 3.7, p < 0.001) but not in patients with recurrent AF (12.7 ± 4.4 vs. 12 ± 3.3, p = ns). The success rate was lower in the long-standing persistent AF patient group (57% vs. 87%, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Successful AF ablation is associated with LA reverse remodeling and an improvement in LV filling pressure.

Left atrium systolic and diastolic function assessment in hypertensive patients with preserved ejection fraction

Left atrium remodeling is a physiological response to pressure overload in hypertensive patients. The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between left atrium remodeling and left ventricle diastolic dysfunction in hypertensive patients with preserved systolic function.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a prospective study on 96 hypertensive patients (48.75 ± 5.01 years, 50 men) and 96 healthy control subjects (48.17 ± 8.52 years, 56 men), whose data were all evaluated by echocardiography measuring left atrium volumes during the reservoir,conduit and pump phases. Standard indices reflecting left ventricular filling were also assessed.

RESULTS

Medium left atrium volume indexed for body surface was significantly higher in hypertensive patients – 30.87 (6.38) mL/m² vs.21.72 (2.52) mL/m². Indexed left atrium volume was strongly associated with left ventricle diastolic function (p <0.0001). When compared to normal subjects, patients with mild diastolic dysfunction had lower corrected passive emptying volumes ( p < 0.0001) and higher corrected active emptying volumes (p = 0.001), thus leading to similar corrected total emptying volumes ( p < 0.001). However, patients with moderate diastolic dysfunction had smaller active emptying volumes, but higher passive and total emptying volumes when compared to normal controls and patients with mild diastolic dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

Left atrium indexed volumes evaluation during the reservoir,conduit and pump phases proved to be essential for early diastolic dysfunction assessment in hypertensive patients.

Quantification of left ventricular performance in different heart failure phenotypes by comprehensive ergometry stress echocardiography

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the left ventricular (LV) performance in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF) during exercise as compared to those with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFREF) and healthy subjects.

METHODS

All subjects received echocardiographic (Vivid7, GE Healthcare) examination with symptom-limited exercise testing on a semi-recumbent and tilting bicycle ergometer (Lode BV, Netherlands). The exercise images for 2-dimensional (2D) speckle tracking were acquired with heart rate of 90-100 bpm, while exercise images for tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and M-mode echocardiography were stored with attainment of >85% of maximal age-predicted heart rate.

RESULTS

Stress echocardiographic examinations were performed in 40 HFPEF (aged 65 ± 9 years; 53% male), 40 HFREF (aged 62 ± 9 years; 90% male) and 30 normal controls (aged 56 ± 5 years; 33% male). Trends of progressive decline in 2D global longitudinal, circumferential and radial strains (GLS, GCS and GRS); TDI septal s' and Sm; and M-mode mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE) were observed from control, HFPEF to HFREF groups (p<0.05 for all). LV twist was preserved in HFPEF but reduced in HFREF patients as compared to normal controls (p<0.05). Diastolic function measured by TDI septal e', Em and septal E/e' progressively decreased from controls, HFPEF to HFREF patients (all p<0.05). Stroke volumes and cardiac indices (LVSI & LVCI) were preserved in HFPEF but deteriorated in HFREF than controls.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides the reference values of LV performance during exercise in HFPEF and knowledge about these changes provide important insights for future clinical studies.

The role of natriuretic peptides for the diagnosis of left ventricular dysfunction

Natriuretic peptides (NPs) are entered in current guidelines for heart failure (HF) diagnosis and management because of their high specificity and sensibility in screening patients with acute dyspnea. Due to their availability and relatively low cost, they became the first step examinations in HF patients evaluation at hospital admission together with clinical and chest radiography examination. NPs are released following any cardiac haemodynamic stress due to volume or pressure overload and should be considered as a mirror of cardiac condition helping in recognizing patients with poor outcome. Moreover, the exact role of NPs in early HF stages, in isolated diastolic dysfunction, and in general population is questioned. Several promising reports described their potential role; however, the wide cut-off definition, inclusion criteria, and intrinsic measurement biases do not actually consent to their clinical application in these settings. A multimodality strategy including both NPs and imaging studies appears to be the best strategy to define the cardiac dysfunction etiology and its severity as well as to identify patients with higher risk. In this review, we describe the current and potential role of NPs in patients with asymptomatic cardiac insufficiency, evaluating the requirement to obtain a better standardization for imaging as for laboratory criteria.

Left atrial volume change throughout the cardiac cycle in children with congenital heart disease associated with increased pulmonary blood flow: evaluation using a novel left atrium-tracking method

There is a paucity of data regarding the significance of left atrial (LA) volume and its changes throughout the cardiac cycle in pediatric patients with heart disease. The recently developed LA volume-tracking (LAVT) method can automatically construct the LA volume curve. The study group consisted of 48 pediatric patients with ventricular septal defect (n = 34) or patent ductus arteriosus (n = 14) and age-matched healthy controls. Maximum and minimum LA volumes (LAVmax and LAVmin, respectively) were measured. The total LA emptying volume (LAVtotal) was defined as LAVmax--LAVmin. Volume parameters were standardized by dividing by body surface area (BSA). The total LA emptying fraction (%LAVtotal) was defined as the ratio of LAVtotal to LAVmax. In the patient group, there was a positive correlation between the ratio of pulmonary to systemic blood flow (Qp/Qs) and LAVmax/BSA, LAVmin/BSA, and LAVtotal/BSA (r = 0.42, 0.44, and 0.34, respectively). LAVmin/BSA was positively correlated with the ratio of early mitral inflow velocity to early mitral annular diastolic tissue Doppler velocity (E/E') (r = 0.32). The %LAVtotal had a negative correlation with left-ventricular (LV) end-diastolic pressure (r = -0.32). There were significant correlations between serum B-type natriuretic peptide level and LAVmax/BSA, LAVmin/BSA, and %LAVtotal (r = 0.38, 0.49, and -0.35, respectively). The LAVT method is useful in the evaluation of LV diastolic function in pediatric patients with chronic LV volume overload.

Depressed atrial function in diastolic dysfunction: a speckle tracking imaging study

BACKGROUND

Two-dimensional speckle tracking imaging (STI) has recently been applied to the study of left atrial (LA) reservoir function. We utilized STI to analyze LA function in diastolic dysfunction (DD), hypothesizing that LA strain abnormality is part of the pathogenesis of diastolic dysfunction.

METHODS

We applied STI to 50 patients with Grade 1-2 DD, comparing these results to 100 normal controls. Complete Doppler analysis of filling was made using peak E, peak A and tissue Doppler e' velocities; E/e' was used as a surrogate for LA pressure and LA stiffness index was calculated.

RESULTS

In analysis of covariance, adjusting for age and gender, compared with controls, DD patients had higher E/e', greater LA volume and greater LA stiffness, but lower E/A ratio and global LA strain. LA strain appears to be inversely related to LA volume, but not to other indices of LV diastolic function. In subgroup analysis, LA strain was significantly lower, and stiffness significantly higher in DD, even after correction for differences in LA volume and E/A ratio. Analysis of ROC curves suggests that abnormal LA strain is a better marker for diastolic dysfunction than LA enlargement.

CONCLUSION

LA strain by STI is significantly reduced in early diastolic dysfunction and is related to higher LA stiffness and LA size. Reduction in LA strain is partially independent of LA volume; accordingly we hypothesize that reduced atrial strain indicates impaired atrial distensibility.

The impact of confounders on the test performance of natriuretic peptides for cardiac dysfunction in subjects aged 80 and older

The hypothesis that natriuretic peptides could be used to identify 'pancardiac' damage has been proposed. However, multiple factors are known to influence circulating levels of natriuretic peptides, especially in the very old. Therefore, the impact of confounders on the association between natriuretic peptide levels and cardiac dysfunction was further explored in subjects aged 80 and older. A diagnostic cross-sectional study embedded within the BELFRAIL study (n=567) was performed. Baseline BNP and NT-proBNP levels were measured and echocardiograms were performed at the subject's home. Cardiac dysfunction was defined as systolic dysfunction, valvular heart disease or isolated severe diastolic dysfunction. Several functional and structural echocardiographic parameters were independently related to circulating levels of natriuretic peptides. Cystatin C, BMI, β blockers, diabetes, heart frequency, usCRP, age and sex were identified as confounders. The prevalence of cardiac dysfunction was 17.1% in the subjects without and 30.8% in the subjects with chronic atrial fibrillation (CAF) or pacemaker (PM). Only in subjects with CAF or PM the C statistic for cardiac dysfunction improved after correcting for confounders. The post-test probability for a negative test (PTP-) ranged from 3.7% to 12.2% and the PTP+ ranged from 21.9% to 62.2% in different strata of confounders. According to these data adjusting for identified confounders does not improve the diagnostic accuracy of the natriuretic peptides for cardiac dysfunction, except in subjects with CAF or PM. Stratifying for individual confounders showed that different cut-off values could be used to optimize the diagnostic characteristics of natriuretic peptides.

Heart failure with normal left ventricular ejection fraction: role of echocardiography

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Nearly half of patients presenting with heart failure have a preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), previously known as diastolic heart failure. The diagnosis requires fulfillment of three criteria: signs or symptoms of heart failure, presence of a normal LVEF, and evidence of diastolic dysfunction. Two of the criteria can be evaluated by echocardiography. This article reviews the echocardiographic approach to the patient with suspected heart failure with a normal left ventricular ejection fraction (HFNEF).

RECENT FINDINGS

Echocardiography is the primary modality for evaluating left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function in heart failure patients. Measurements of LVEF from two-dimensional echocardiography can have significant variability despite the use of quantitative methods. The use of contrast agents and three-dimensional echocardiography can improve the accuracy. Newer modalities of tissue Doppler imaging and deformation imaging are challenging the concept that systolic function is preserved in HFNEF. Evaluation of diastolic function with echocardiography requires a comprehensive approach using multiple modalities to quantitate transmitral flow, pulmonary venous flow, mitral annular motion, myocardial deformation, and cardiac structure. The clinical applicability of parameters used for evaluating diastolic function and filling pressures is dependent on the LVEF, necessitating a unique approach in patients with suspected HFNEF.

SUMMARY

A comprehensive examination with knowledge of the potential limitations of echocardiography is required to accurately interpret LV systolic and diastolic function in patients with suspected HFNEF.

Echocardiographic serial changes of hypertensive cardiomyopathy with severely reduced ejection fraction: comparison with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Hypertensive cardiomyopathy with reduced ejection fraction (HTCMREF) is known as an important cause of reversible cardiomyopathy, but its serial changes on echocardiography is yet to be elucidated.

HYPOTHESIS

HTCMREF on serial echocardiography has distinctive points as compared to idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (idDCM).

METHODS

We retrospectively studied 18 hypertensive patients (mean age, 63 ± 13 years, 56% women) admitted with severe left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction and heart failure. We compared clinical characteristics and echocardiographic parameters at admission and follow-up between the patients with HTCMREF and 18 age-matched patients with idDCM. Left ventricular mass (LVM) and left atrial volume (LAV) were calculated by a formula using echocardiographic measurement.

RESULTS

In HTCMREF, left ventricular ejection fraction improved to 52.3 ± 8.8% during a mean follow-up of 574 days. In HTCMREF, initial left atrial diameter was greater than in idDCM (43.6 ± 5.8 mm vs 38.9 ± 6.3, p = 0.027). At follow-up, LAV index decreased in HTCMREF (from 31.9 ± 8.3 mL/m(2) to 21.0 ± 8.9, P < 0.001), as opposed to a significant increase in idDCM (from 28.5 ± 10.9 mL/m(2) to 31.9 ± 8.3, P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in initial LVM index between the 2 groups, but only in HTCMREF did LVM index decrease significantly (151.4 ± 42.1 g/m(2) from 192.2 ± 43.7, P < 0.01) at follow-up. In HTCMREF, LV wall on M-mode was thicker than in idDCM.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypertensive cardiomyopathy with severe LV systolic dysfunction might be characterized by eccentric left ventricular hypertrophy and enlarged left atrium in comparison with idDCM.

Development and initial validation of a simple clinical decision tool to predict the presence of heart failure in primary care: the MICE (Male, Infarction, Crepitations, Edema) rule

AIMS

Diagnosis of heart failure in primary care is often inaccurate, and access to and use of echocardiography is suboptimal. This study aimed to develop and provisionally validate a clinical prediction rule to optimize referral for echocardiography of people identified in primary care with suspected heart failure.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A systematic review identified studies of diagnosis of heart failure set in primary care. The individual patient data for five of these studies were obtained. Logistic regression models to predict heart failure were developed on one of the data sets and validated on the others using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), and goodness-of-fit calibration plots. A model based upon four simple clinical features (Male, history of myocardial Infarction, Crepitations, Edema: MICE) and natriuretic peptide had good validity when applied to other data sets, with AUROCs between 0.84 and 0.93, and reasonable calibration. The rule performed well across the data sets, with sensitivity between 81% and 96% and specificity between 57% and 74%.

CONCLUSIONS

A simple clinical rule based upon gender, history of myocardial infarction, presence of ankle oedema, and presence of basal lung crepitations can discriminate between people with suspected heart failure who should be referred straight for echocardiography and people for whom referral should depend upon the result of a natriuretic peptide test. Prospective validation and an implementation evaluation of the rule is now warranted.

Heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction additive value of an exercise stress echocardiography

BACKGROUND

Heart failure (HF) with a preserved (P) left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) is common, though its diagnosis and physiopathology remains unclear. We sought to analyse the myocardial characteristics at rest and during a sub-maximal exercise test in patients with HFPEF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Standardized sub-maximal exercise stress echocardiography was performed in (i) 21 patients from the Karolinska Rennes Prospective Study of Heart Failure with Preserved Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction HFPEF registry, whose LVEF was ≥45% and (ii) 15 control patients free of any manifestations of HF. During a sub-maximal exercise test, LV systolic function measured as a global four-chamber longitudinal strain was -17±5% in patients with HFPEF vs. -22±4% in controls (P<0.001), LV longitudinal diastolic relaxation, expressed as e' (septal and lateral walls averaged) was 9±2 cm/s in patients vs. 15±4 cm/s in controls (P<0.001), and RV longitudinal systolic function, expressed as RV s', was 14±3 cm/s in patients vs. 18±1 cm/s in controls (P=0.03). LV afterload (arterial elastance) was 2.7±1 mmHg/mL and was correlated with a decrease in LV longitudinal strain (R=0.51, P<0.01) during exercise.

CONCLUSION

The assessment of longitudinal systolic and diastolic LV and RV functions is valuable during a sub-maximal exercise stress echocardiography to confirm the heart dysfunction related to the HFPEF symptoms. It might be used as a diagnostic test for difficult clinical situations. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01091467.

Neurohormonal and cytokine fluctuations following transcatheter closure for an atrial septal defect

INTRODUCTION

Inflammation and neurohormonal activation are considered to be involved in the development of earlier and/or later complications in congenital heart disease patients, even after a successful repair of the lesion. It is not yet clarified what is the role of the therapeutic interventions in the occurrence of such a response and how it could be associated with possible postoperative complications.

AIM

We sought to assess the inflammatory and neurohormonal response to transcatheter closure of secundum type atrial septal defects (ASD) over a six-month follow-up period. We also evaluated the association between the respective markers and catheterization data as well as echocardiographic measurements.

METHODS

Plasma concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-10 (IL-10), N-terminal-proatrial natriuretic peptide (NT-proANP) and N-terminal-probrain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) were assessed and echocardiographic measurements were performed in twenty-eight patients with atrial septal defect prior to, and at the first, second and sixth months post transcatheter closure. Thirty-three age-matched healthy volunteers were also enrolled.

RESULTS

IL-6 plasma levels, although higher preoperatively, [physical logarithm (ln) IL-6: 3.37±0.66 vs 2.92±0.44 pg/ml, p=0.015], reached control levels postoperatively, at the end of the third month, whereas TNF-α and IL-10 were not influenced by the procedure. NT-proANP levels were elevated preoperatively compared to the control group (ln NT-proANP 3.78±0.572 vs 3.48±0.30, p=0.031), with a further significant increase during the 1st month (ln NT-proANP 3.78±0.572 vs 4.2±0.42, p=0.006), following the pattern of the left atrial volume enlargement, and remained high even 6 months after the procedure .On the other hand, the initially normal concentrations of NT-proBNP, after a transient significant increase during the first month postoperatively (ln NT-proBNP 3.56±0.94 vs 4.58±0.91, p<0.0001) returned to the controls' levels at the end of the third month. Preoperative concentrations of NT-proANP positively correlated with NT-proBNP concentrations and pulmonary to systemic flow ratio (Qp/Qs).

CONCLUSIONS

Transcatheter closure could improve, on a mid- term basis, the inflammatory process but natriuretic peptides' secretion continues in parallel with left atrial volume increase. Further follow up is required to determine the long-term progress of the inflammatory and neurohormonal response to the procedure.

Abnormalities in cardiac structure and function in adults with sickle cell disease are not associated with pulmonary hypertension

BACKGROUND

In sickle cell disease (SCD), pulmonary hypertension (assessed by tricuspid regurgitant jet [TRJ] velocity ≥ 2.5 m/sec) is associated with increased mortality. The relationships among TRJ velocity and left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) systolic and diastolic function (i.e., relaxation and compliance) have not been well characterized in SCD.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted in 53 ambulatory adults with SCD (mean age, 34 years; range, 21-65 years) and 33 African American controls to define the relationship between LV and RV function and TRJ velocity using echocardiography.

RESULTS

Subjects with SCD had larger left and right atrial volumes and increased LV mass compared with controls. When patients with SCD were compared with controls, LV and RV relaxation (i.e., E') were similar. Among subjects with SCD, pulmonary hypertension (TRJ ≥ 2.5 m/sec) was present in 40%. Higher TRJ velocity was correlated with larger left atrial volumes in patients with SCD. Additionally, some measures of LV (peak A, lateral and septal annular E/E' ratio) and RV (tricuspid valve E/E' ratio) compliance were correlated with TRJ velocity. No other measures of LV and RV systolic function or LV diastolic function (i.e., relaxation and compliance) were associated with TRJ velocity.

CONCLUSIONS

Ambulatory adults with SCD exhibited structural (i.e., LV and RV chamber enlargement) and functional (i.e., higher surrogate measures of LV and RV filling pressure) abnormalities compared with the control group. In subjects with SCD, few abnormalities of LV and RV structure and function were associated with TRJ velocity.

Natriuretic peptides in heart failure: where we are, where we are going

Tremendous advances have been made in understanding the pathophysiology and treatment of congestive heart failure (CHF). However, diagnosis still remains difficult, even with a comprehensive physical examination. Symptoms such as dyspnea are non-specific and poorly sensitive indicators for early CHF that can be largely undetected. The discovery of natriuretic peptides (BNP) as diagnostic biomarkers has been one of the most critical advances for heart failure diagnosis. Therefore, both B-type and N-terminal pro-B-type have potential role in the diagnosis of heart failure, as well as in prognostic risk assessment. A single determination of BNP at any time during the progression of chronic HF provides a clinically useful tool for risk stratification. The hypothesis that repeated measurements might carry prognostic information beyond a single measure was confirmed in different settings. One of the main interests is given to the values of repeated determinations for monitoring progression of disease, and for the evaluation of the clinical effects of medical therapy. Nevertheless, despite thousands of papers describing their potential utility, current guidelines have not endorsed the highest level of recommendation for their use, in part, because the application in clinical practice is often limited for the absence of well codified cut off. Recently, European guidelines emphasized the role of natriuretic peptides as potential laboratory markers. In the near future, algorithm building will take into consideration clinical and echocardiographic parameters as well as NP measurements, and this may lead to a correct diagnosis and identification of patients at high risk. The purpose of this review is to discuss the clinical approaches and future applications of natriuretic peptides in heart failure and coronary disease.

Assessment of left atrial function in diabetes mellitus by left atrial volume tracking method

The value of the left atrial volume tracking (LAVT) method in the evaluation of left atrial (LA) function in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) was examined in this study. Fifty-eight DM patients as DM group and 40 healthy people as normal control group were enrolled in this study. EUB-6500 echocardiographic imaging system with LAVT was applied to display and analyze the LA volume curve imaging on LV apical two and four chamber views. The maximal LA volume at end-systole (LAV(max)), LA volume at the onset of ECG-P wave (LAV(p)), the minimal LA volume at end-diastole (LAV(min)) from the LA volume curve were acquired and recorded. All values above were standardized by body surface area (BSA). Then the passive, active and total LA volume (LAVIpass, LAVIact, LAVItotal) and empting rate (%LAVIpass, %LAVIact, %LAVItotal), effective passive and active empting rate (%eLAVIpass, %eLAVIact), and the proportionality of passive empting volume and active empting volume were calculated. The LAVIp, LAVIact, LAVItotal, %LAVIact, %LAVItotal and %eLAVIact were significantly higher in the DM group than those in the control group, whereas the LAVIpass, %LAVIpass, %eLAVIpass and LAVIpass/act were lower (all P<0.05). For the LA volume change in DM, the active empting volume was enhanced at end-diastole. It was concluded that LAVT is a potentially useful tool to evaluate the function of LA.

Current perspectives on diagnosis of heart failure in long-term dialysis patients

Cardiovascular disease is highly prevalent in patients with chronic kidney failure treated using dialysis. The risk of cardiovascular events is estimated to be at least 2- to 10-fold higher in dialysis patients than in age-, race-, and sex-matched persons with normal kidney function. A significant proportion of cardiovascular events in long-term dialysis patients is caused by heart failure, and the presence of heart failure is predictive of a poor prognosis. Despite the significant morbidity and mortality associated with heart failure, very few therapeutic options are proved to prevent and treat the progression of this complication in dialysis patients. There are several potential reasons for this, chiefly reflecting both challenges with diagnosis due to the coexistence of volume overload and a paucity of adequately powered prospective randomized controlled trials that examine the efficacy of different therapeutic options in dialysis patients with cardiac disease or heart failure. Thus, unlike in the general population, very few advances have been made in managing this severe complication in dialysis patients. In this article, an overview of the prevalence, severity, and risk factors for heart failure in maintenance dialysis patients is provided and the diagnosis of heart failure in these patients is revisited.

Pathological and physiological left ventricular hypertrophy: echocardiography for differentiation

Distinguishing physiological left ventricular hypertrophy of an athlete's heart from that of pathological left ventricular (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) can be difficult despite the advent of new imaging techniques. Nevertheless, the final diagnosis is of utmost importance as it will have a profound impact on an individual's life. A diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy essentially excludes an individual from sport and strenuous exertion and necessitates the need for further tests and treatment, as well as the screening of family members. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy remains the most common cause of a pathologically hypertrophied heart in young athletes, with a prevalence of one in 500. The issue of sudden death in athletes due to pathological left ventricular hypertrophy and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy has recently gained recognition owing to the death of several word class athletes during sporting participation. What compounds this further is the fact that a proportion of athletes fall into the 'grey zone' (ventricular wall thickness of 13-16 mm) where the increase in cardiac size overlaps with the phenotypic variation of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy - making echocardiographic differentiation of the two entities challenging. This review discusses the echocardiographic differentiation of the athlete's heart, including physiological left ventricular hypertrophy from pathological left ventricular hypertrophy. Although several of the cardiomyopathies cause pathological left ventricular hypertrophy, focus will be given to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, for reasons mentioned above. Discussion will also focus on the newer and emerging echocardiographic techniques for this purpose. The term 'hypertrophic cardiomyopathy' is used to describe the nonobstuctive form of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy as this review article focuses on distinguishing the 'mild' form of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy from an athlete's heart. When the more severe obstructive form is being described, the term 'hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy' is used.