Effects of Heart Transplantation on Cerebral Metabolic Abnormalities in Patients With Congestive Heart Failure

Heart and brain interconnection - clinical implications of changes in brain function during heart failure

Heart failure (HF) is a highly prevalent disorder worldwide and, consequently, a burden on the healthcare systems of many nations. Although the effects of HF are systemic, many therapeutic targets are focused on cardiac dysfunction. The brain is closely related to the heart, but there are few reports on the relationship between these organs. We describe the effects of the brain on HF progression. Specific brain regions control sympathetic drive and neurohumoral factors, which play an important role in disease exacerbation. In addition, we review some of our previous studies on deranged cerebral metabolism and reduced cerebral blood flow during HF. Although the reasons underlying these effects during HF remain uncertain, we propose plausible mechanisms for these phenomena. In addition, the clinical implications of such conditions in terms of predicting prognosis are discussed. Finally, we investigate cognitive impairment in patients with HF. Cognitive impairment through cerebral infarction or hypoperfusion is associated with adverse outcomes, including death. This brief review of brain function during the development of HF should assist with future strategies to better manage patients with this condition.

Developmental outcomes after pediatric heart transplantation

BACKGROUND

Pediatric heart transplantation has now been successfully performed for more than 20 years. As survival rates have improved, more attention is now focused on long-term outcomes.

METHODS

This report reviews the literature on developmental outcomes after pediatric heart transplantation.

RESULTS

Pediatric patients undergoing heart transplantation generally can be expected to have developmental outcomes in the low-normal range, consistent with outcomes seen in other children with complex congenital heart disease requiring surgical intervention. When these children reach school age, or return to school, most can be expected to function reasonably well in mainstream school settings. A significant minority will require additional educational assistance. Approximately 10% will have significant neurologic impairment. In school, particular attention should be paid to evaluating the child for deficits in arithmetic and verbal skills. Performance may be better than predicted from IQ testing. Behavioral issues are common, with depression, concerns about social competence, and attention difficulties most frequently endorsed. This may pre-date transplantation in those who undergo transplantation during childhood and may improve with time. Parents more often report problem behaviors than teachers. Family resources and family coping skills are also strongly correlated with the child's emotions and coping skills.

CONCLUSION

The pediatric heart transplant recipient's ability to transition from childhood into a happy and productive adult life can be significantly affected by his or her cognitive abilities, learning experiences, sense of self, and emotions. Attention to these factors is an important part of caring for these children.