Emergence of Nonobstructive Coronary Artery Disease: A Woman's Problem and Need for Change in Definition on Angiography

A multimodal dataset for coronary microvascular disease biomarker discovery

Coronary microvascular disease (CMD), particularly prevalent among women, is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, making clinical screening vital for effective management. However, limited publicly available screening-level data hinders disease-specific biomarker discovery. To address this gap, 80 female angina patients without obstructive coronary artery disease and 40 age-matched female controls were prospectively enrolled to curate a new dataset. All participants underwent adenosine stress with electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring across Rest, Stress, and Recovery stages. CMD diagnosis was confirmed with the standard clinical criterion, i.e., coronary flow reserve (CFR) < 2.0 via PET/CT. Using ECG variables from different stages, we developed machine learning models to classify CMD, thus validating dataset's effectiveness in CMD identification. We also validated the potential of ECG for differential diagnosis through joint analysis with the published mental stress-induced myocardial ischemia (MSIMI) dataset, which is based on the same cohort under different stress conditions. Disease-specific ECG variable sets were identified. Our findings highlight the value of multi-stage ECG in CMD screening. We expect this dataset to significantly advance CMD research.

Development and Systematic Evaluation of a Progressive Web Application for Women With Cardiac Pain: Usability Study

BACKGROUND

Cardiac pain has been widely considered to be the primary indicator of coronary artery disease. The presentation of cardiac pain and associated symptoms vary in women, making it challenging to interpret as cardiac, possibly cardiac, or noncardiac. Women prefer to consult with family and friends instead of seeking immediate medical care.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the user performance (ie, ease of use, efficiency, and errors) and user satisfaction (System Usability Scale; SUS) of a progressive web application for women with cardiac pain.

METHODS

Following ethics approval, a purposive sample of women aged >18 years with cardiac pain or associated symptoms lasting >3 months and able to speak and read English was recruited to participate in 2 iterative usability testing cycles. The first cycle assessed the performance of and satisfaction with at heart using a web application, and the second cycle assessed the performance of and satisfaction with at heart across various Android and iOS devices. In total, 2 investigators recorded user comments and documented problems. At the end of the testing session, the participants completed the SUS and 4 semistructured interview questions.

RESULTS

In total, 10 eligible women participated in usability testing from March 31, 2020, to April 17, 2020 (cycle 1), and from November 17, 2020, to November 30, 2020 (cycle 2). Women across usability testing cycles had a mean age of 55.6 (SD 7.3) years, and most (9/10, 90%) were well educated. In total, 50% (5/10) were employed full or part time, and 60% (6/10) earned >CAD $70,000 (US $48,881.80) annually. Participants across 2 testing cycles reported the overall usability of the at heart progressive web application as highly acceptable (mean SUS score 81.75, SD 10.41). In total, 90% (9/10) of participants rated the user-friendliness of at heart as good or excellent. All participants (10/10, 100%) thought at heart was easy to use and efficient. Only 2 testing errors were noted as high priority; these were low contrast or small font and clarification that the chatbot was not a real person. User satisfaction was assessed using themes that emerged from the debrief and 4 semistructured interview questions; at heart was engaging, comprehensive, understandable, credible, relevant, affirming, personalized, and innovative.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides initial support for the at heart progressive web application for women living with cardiac pain and symptoms. Ongoing evaluations in phases 3 and 4 should aim to examine the feasibility and acceptability of and the extent of engagement with the at heart core feature set: Heart Check, Wellness Check, and the library. In addition to assessing effectiveness in the phase-4 effectiveness-implementation hybrid trial (type I), describing and better understanding the context for implementation (eg, race and ethnicity and geography) will be necessary.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

RR2-10.1136/bmjopen-2019-033092.

Challenges in diagnosing coronary microvascular dysfunction and coronary vasospasm

Chronic coronary syndromes (CCS) include 2 overlapping subgroups of patients - those with angina with nonobstructive coronary arteries (ANOCA), or ischaemia with non-obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA). A diagnosis of ANOCA-INOCA, is common and should be considered where angina is present and/or ischaemia is found on functional imaging in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) on coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) or invasive coronary angiography (ICA) (Ford and Berry, 2019). This review aims to provide an overview of contemporary challenges in the diagnosis of coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) and vasospastic disease, with a focus on recent guideline changes and current controversies. CMD and vasospastic angina (VSA) are increasingly acknowledged as an important and frequently overlooked, under investigated, and undertreated entities that contribute to ANOCA-INOCA (Samuels et al., 2023; Kunadian et al., 2020; Ford and Berry, 2019; Burgess and Mamas, 2024).

Personalization of primary prevention: Exploring the role of coronary artery calcium and polygenic risk score in cardiovascular diseases

Personalized healthcare is becoming increasingly popular given the vast heterogeneity in disease manifestation between individuals. Many commonly encountered diseases within cardiology are multifactorial in nature and disease progression and response is often variable due to environmental and genetic factors influencing disease states. This makes accurate early identification and primary prevention difficult in certain populations, especially young patients with limited Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) risk factors. Newer strategies, such as coronary artery calcium (CAC) scans and polygenic risk scores (PRS), are being implemented to aid in the detection of subclinical disease and heritable risk, respectively. Data surrounding CAC scans have shown promising results in their ability to detect subclinical atherosclerosis and predict the risk of future coronary events, especially at the extremes; however, predictive variability exists among different patient populations, limiting the test's specificity. Furthermore, relying only on CAC scores and ASCVD risk scores may fail to identify a large group of patients needing primary prevention who lack subclinical disease and traditional risk factors, but harbor genetic variabilities strongly associated with certain cardiovascular diseases. PRS can overcome these limitations. These scores can be measured in individuals as early as birth to identify genetic variants placing them at elevated risk for developing cardiovascular disease, irrespective of their current cardiovascular health status. By applying PRS alongside CAC scores, previously overlooked patient populations can be identified and begin primary prevention strategies early to achieve optimal outcomes. In this review, we expand on the current knowledge surrounding CAC scores and PRS and highlight the future possibilities of these technologies for preventive cardiology.

Gender disparities in delayed angina diagnosis: insights from 2001-2020 NHANES data

BACKGROUND

Women with coronary artery disease (CAD) are more likely than men to experience a delay in diagnosis, which is attributed to differences in clinical presentation. The objective of this study is to examine any persistent disparities in timely CAD diagnosis in the United States (U.S.) among women who present with clinically similar symptoms and demographic characteristics to their male counterparts.

METHODS

From the 2001 - 2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data, participants were categorized as having missed angina if they experienced angina and did not self-report a prior diagnosis of angina pectoris or CAD. We assessed the association between gender and missed angina using weighted multivariate logistic regression models representative of the U.S.

POPULATION

Mortality follow-up data were available for participants up to December 31, 2018.

RESULTS

Of 874 participants with missed angina, 551 (63%) were women and 323 (37.0%) were men. Baseline characteristics showed that women and men with missed angina were more likely than their diagnosed counterparts to be younger, of ethnic minorities, uninsured, and smokers. Women with missed angina were more likely to be in a relationship than diagnosed women, while the opposite pattern was observed in men. The odds ratio of missed angina in women compared to men was 2.61 (95% CI: 1.73, 3.94) after adjusting for age, race, education, body mass index, smoking, alcohol use, income, insurance, and comorbidities. Among participants who had a cardiac cause of death, the odds of missed angina in women compared to men was 3.02 (95% CI: 1.18, 7.75) in the adjusted model.

CONCLUSION

Women with similar CAD symptoms to their male counterparts still have higher odds of going undiagnosed. This relationship extends to individuals who ultimately die of cardiac causes. Potential solutions to this disparity include addressing overgeneralized perceptions of differences in the prevalence and presentation of CAD between genders and exploring targeted screening programs for women with risk factors. Further research accounting for healthcare access and proximity to care is needed to support our findings. Timely recognition of CAD in women is essential to decreasing preventable mortality.

QUIET WARRIOR - Rationale and design: An ancillary study to the Women's IschemiA TRial to Reduce Events in Nonobstructive CAD (WARRIOR)

Background

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among women in the US, predominantly due to ischemic heart disease (IHD). There is a notable deficiency in therapies tailored for IHD in women, who often present with variable symptoms that delay diagnosis and treatment. In many cases, coronary angiography does not reveal obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) despite increased risk for major adverse cardiac events (MACE) compared with sex and age-matched asymptomatic cohorts.

Objectives

The Women's IschemiA TRial to Reduce Events in Nonobstructive CAD (WARRIOR) evaluates intensive medical treatment for women with Ischemia with No Obstructive Coronary Arteries (INOCA). The QUIET WARRIOR sub-study aims to improve predictive tools for adverse outcomes by detailed analysis of Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) data and biorepository samples. These data will also uncover pathophysiological mechanisms associated with angina and MACE, improving predictive tools for symptomatic women with INOCA.

Methods

This ancillary study will analyze CCTA images from 600 WARRIOR subjects. It will assess clinical, social, and coronary artery variables, including plaque characteristics and markers of inflammation. Advanced imaging techniques and machine-learning models will be employed to quantify plaque features and predict clinical outcomes.

Expected results

The study aims to elucidate associations between CCTA-derived plaque characteristics, ischemic symptoms, and MACE. Anticipated findings include correlations of specific plaque attributes with angina severity and novel insights into inflammatory markers. Socioeconomic variables will also be examined for their impact on cardiovascular risk.

Conclusion

The QUIET WARRIOR sub-study will advance the understanding of INOCA in women, integrating clinical, imaging, and socioeconomic data to enhance risk prediction and guide personalized therapeutic strategies. This research will address critical gaps in managing nonobstructive CAD, promoting more equitable cardiovascular care.

Tumor Necrosis Factor-α, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and miRNA-145 Expression in Patients With Different Phenotypes of Stable Coronary Artery Disease

Aim      To evaluate the expression level of miR-145, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD) and different, obstructive and non-obstructive, phenotypes of coronary artery disease (CAD).Material and methods  This cross-sectional observational study included 107 patients aged 45-75 years with a verified diagnosis of stable IHD. Based on the data of coronary angiography or spiral multislice computed tomography of CA, the patients were divided into two groups, with no obstructive (NOCA, 51 patients) and with obstructive coronary artery (OCA, 56 patients). In the NOCA group, women predominated (62.5%), while among patients with OCA, men predominated (67.9%). Concentrations of VEGF and TNF-α and miRNA-145 expression were measured in patients of both groups.Results In the NOCA group, the concentrations of VEGF (p=0.004) and TNF-α (p=0.002) and the miRNA-145 expression (p=0.014) were significantly higher. In this group, the miRNA-145 concentration was correlated with the concentrations of VEGF (ρ=0.442; p=0.013) and TNF-α (ρ=-0.386; p=0.032). In the OCA group, correlations were found between the concentrations of TNF-α and VEGF (ρ=0.645; p<0.001), miRNA-145 and VEGF (ρ=0.584; p<0.001), and miRNA-145c and TNF-α (ρ=0.421; p<0.001). According to the univariate logistic regression analysis, significant factors for the CAD type were miRNA-145 expression and female gender. A statistically significant ROC curve was constructed to evaluate the diagnostic capability of miRNA-145.Conclusion      According to the study results, the highest level of miRNA-145 expression was found in the NOCA group. The ROC analysis showed that a level of miRNA-145 expression higher than 1.084 REU can be a factor of the NOCA phenotype presence in patients with stable IHD. A lower level of miRNA-145 expression can be associated with more severe atherosclerotic CAD.

Sex-related differences in heart failure patients: physiological mechanisms of cardiovascular ageing and evidence-based sex-specific medical therapies

This review aims to describe the sex differences in heart failure (HF) patients, with a particular emphasis on the effect of cardiovascular ageing. Additionally, it takes into consideration the sex-related variation in cardiovascular health and physiology and the role ageing plays in HF and its implications in drug therapy. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the common HF medications, classified according to the established sub-types, are summarised with respect to sex-specific documented findings. Despite numerous studies confirming significant differences in HF outcomes according to sex, there are no current guidelines that consider patients' sex in medical therapy of HF. Moreover, females are significantly under-represented in research trials, as well as under-treated in clinical practice, which hinders our understanding of HF in this demographic. Most of the current knowledge on sex-specific HF therapies is driven by secondary analyses of studies not primarily undertaking sex-specific analyses. Therefore, we propose a multi-faceted approach, including increased awareness among healthcare providers and more inclusive research to create a personalised care plan accounting for sex differences in HF management. Given the highlighted knowledge gaps, it is paramount for new research efforts to account for the different sex phenotypes in HF.

MiRNA-34a, miRNA-145, and miRNA-222 Expression, Matrix Metalloproteinases, TNF-α and VEGF in Patients with Different Phenotypes of Coronary Artery Disease

The development of different phenotypes of coronary artery (CA) lesions is regulated via many various factors, such as pro-inflammatory agents, zinc-dependent endopeptidases, growth factors and circulating microRNAs (miRs). To evaluate the expression levels of miR-34a, miR-145 and miR-222, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, -9, -13 and -14) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in patients with different phenotypes of coronary artery disease (CAD): ischemia/angina with non-obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA/ANOCA) and obstructive CAD (oCAD) compared with a control group. This cross-sectional observational study included 157 subjects with a verified CAD diagnosis (51 patients with INOCA, 76 patients with oCAD and 30 healthy volunteers). The expression of miR-34a, miR-145 and miR-222 (RT-PCR) and the levels of VEGF, TNF-α, MMP-1, MMP-9, MMP-13 and MMP-14 (ELISA) were estimated in plasma samples. A higher concentration of MMP-9 was found in oCAD-group samples compared to the INOCA/ANOCA group. The INOCA/ANOCA group was characterized by higher levels of TNF-α. Based on multivariate regression analysis, a mathematical model predicting the type of CA lesion was constructed. MiR-145 was the independent predictor of INOCA/ANOCA (p = 0.006). Changes in concentrations of MMP-9 and MMP-14 were found in both investigated CAD groups, with MMP-9 levels being significantly higher in obstructive CAD samples than in INOCA/ANOCA, which confirms the role of inflammation in the development of atherosclerosis. A multivariate regression analysis allowed us to achieve a model that can predict the phenotype of stable CAD, and MiR-145 can be assumed as an independent predictor of INOCA/ANOCA.

Abdominal Compared With Coronary Artery Calcification and Incident Cardiovascular Events and Mortality in Black Adults

BACKGROUND

Black adults show heightened cardiovascular risk compared with other groups despite comparable or lower coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores, indicating potential cardiovascular risk underestimation by CAC. Abdominal aortic calcification (AAC), preceding CAC, may predict cardiovascular events better in Black adults who are prone to early atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and excess events at low CAC scores.

METHODS

We included 2551 participants from the JHS (Jackson Heart Study) visit 2 examination (2005-2008) without cardiovascular disease, followed through 2016. Cox regression estimated hazard ratios for incident cardiovascular events defined as a composite of myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, and all-cause mortality. The predictive value of CAC and AAC, when added to the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association cardiovascular risk algorithm (pool cohort equation), was assessed.

RESULTS

Mean age was 57±10 years; 66% were women. Over a follow-up period of 12.6 years, 287 (11.3%) cardiovascular events and 360 (14.1%) mortality cases were observed. Adjusting for demographic and clinical variables, each 2-fold increase in CAC and AAC was associated with cardiovascular events (CAC: hazard ratio, 1.10 [95% CI, 1.06-1.13]; AAC: hazard ratio, 1.10 [95% CI, 1.06-1.13]) and all-cause mortality CAC: hazard ratio, 1.04 [95% CI, 1.01-1.08]; AAC: hazard ratio, 1.05 [95% CI, 1.01-1.08]). The incremental value of CAC (0.17 [95% CI, 0.08-0.23]) and AAC (0.15 [95% CI, 0.07-0.29]) to the pool cohort equation by net reclassification index was comparable. Notably, 45% of participants with 0 CAC showed some degree of AAC. Each 2-fold increase in AAC was associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events (hazard ratio, 1.07 [95% CI, 1.01-1.19]) but not all-cause mortality among participants with 0 CAC.

CONCLUSIONS

AAC is comparable to CAC in predicting cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality among Black adults, potentially valuable when CAC is absent.

Assessment of Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction by Angiography-Based Index of Microcirculatory Resistance: An Indirect Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

There is a lack of consensus on diagnosing coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) using the angiography-based index of microcirculatory resistance (Angio-IMR) due to the absence of evidence. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of Angio-IMR in diagnosing CMD.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library for studies primarily focusing on Angio-IMR diagnosing CMD, using IMR as the gold standard. The primary results were pooled sensitivity, specificity, and the area under the curve (AUC).

RESULTS

A total of 15 studies involving 2,202 individuals and 2,330 vessels were included in our study, Angio-IMR demonstrated high performance in predicting IMR with overall pooled sensitivity and specificity of 0.84 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.81-0.87) and 0.87 (95% CI: 0.83-0.99), respectively, and AUC = 0.91 (95% CI: 0.89-0.94). This indicates that Angio-IMR has good diagnostic characteristics. Subgroup analysis by indirect meta-analysis showed higher sensitivity in the rest state. However, there is no significant difference in sensitivity and specificity between the hyperemic and rest states when using the AccuIMR system. Furthermore, sensitivity and specificity were more pronounced in the group without coronary pressure monitoring compared to the group with monitoring.

CONCLUSION

Angio-IMR is an alternative tool to identify CMD.

Patent Foramen Ovale and Coronary Artery Spasm: A New Patent Foramen Ovale-associated Condition that May Explain the Mechanism of Vasospastic Angina

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) may be an underlying factor in the pathogenesis of migraine, vasospastic angina, and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. This article reviews the role that PFO may play in each of these clinical entities and discusses potential interventions. It also proposes a novel clinical syndrome wherein PFO may be the unifying link among migraine, coronary vasospasm, and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in predisposed individuals.

The complexity of cardiovascular risk in women. Descriptive review

OBJECTIVES

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the greatest threat to the health of women and is the leading cause of death amongst women globally; however, cardiovascular disease in women remains understudied, under-recognized, underdiagnosed, and undertreated. The aim of this descriptive review is to summarize the existing problem and to identify the knowledge gaps in cardiovascular disease research, prevention, treatment, and access to care for women.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This is a descriptive review of the literature based on numerous articles published in peer-reviewed journals since the beginning of this century related to the spectrum of cardiovascular disease in women.

RESULTS

There are several obstacles to improve cardiovascular disease outcomes in women. One of them is the lack of reliable, effective screening modalities since her participation in clinical trial is quite low. Other concern is the complexity of the female organism with several hormonal changes during her life and the hemodynamics stress during pregnancy. Moreover, in the last stage of their life several cardiometabolic risk factor may appear, most of them not recognized by the health team in primary care attention.

DISCUSSION

Effective strategies are required to address inequalities in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of heart disease in women; to advance innovative solutions for early detection and oriented management; to clarify the underlying biological mechanisms that contribute to sex-specific differences in outcomes; and finally, reduce the global burden of cardiovascular disease in women.

A Review of the Role of Tests of Coronary Reactivity in Clinical Practice

Vasoreactivity testing is used by cardiologists in the diagnosis of coronary spasm endotypes, such as epicardial and microvascular spasm. Intracoronary injection of acetylcholine and ergonovine is defined as a standard class I method according to the Coronary Vasomotion Disorder (COVADIS) Group. Because single vasoreactivity testing may have some clinical limitations in detecting the presence of coronary spasm, supplementary or sequential vasoreactivity testing should be reconsidered. The majority of cardiologists do not consider pseudonegative results when performing these vasoreactivity tests. Vasoreactivity testing may have some limitations when it comes to documenting clinical spasm. In the future, cardiologists around the world should use multiple vasoreactivity tests to verify the presence or absence of epicardial and microvascular spasms in the cardiac catheterisation laboratory.

Evaluating Ischemic Heart Disease in Women: Focus on Angina With Nonobstructive Coronary Arteries (ANOCA)

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is common in women, and cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. While obstructive coronary artery disease is the most common form of IHD, millions of women suffer from angina with nonobstructive coronary arteries (ANOCA), an umbrella term encompassing multiple nonatherosclerotic disorders of the coronary tree. The underlying pathology leading to ischemia in these syndromes may be challenging to diagnose, leaving many women without a diagnosis despite persistent symptoms that impact quality of life and adversely affect long-term cardiovascular prognosis. In the last decade, there have been significant advances in the recognition and diagnostic evaluation of ANOCA. Despite these advances, the standard approach to evaluating suspected IHD in women continues to focus predominantly on the assessment of atherosclerotic coronary artery disease, leading to missed opportunities to accurately diagnose and treat underlying coronary vasomotor disorders. The goal of this review is to describe advances in diagnostic testing that can be used to evaluate angina in women and present a pragmatic diagnostic algorithm to guide evaluation of ANOCA in symptomatic patients. The proposed approach for the assessment of ANOCA is consistent with prior expert consensus documents and guidelines but is predicated on the medical interview and pretest probability of disease to inform a personalized diagnostic strategy.

Psychosocial distress and health status as risk factors for ten-year major adverse cardiac events and mortality in patients with non-obstructive coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND

We examined the risk of psychosocial distress, including Type D personality, depressive symptoms, anxiety, positive mood, hostility, and health status fatigue and disease specific and generic quality of life for MACE in patients with non-obstructive coronary artery disease (NOCAD).

METHODS

In the Tweesteden mild stenosis (TWIST) study, 546 patients with NOCAD were followed for 10 years to examine the occurrence of cardiac mortality, a major cardiac event, or non-cardiac mortality in the absence of a cardiac event. Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine the impact of psychosocial distress and health status on the occurrence of MACE while adjusting for age, sex, disease severity, and lifestyle covariates.

RESULTS

In total 19% of the patients (mean age baseline = 61, SD 9 years; 52% women) experienced MACE, with a lower risk for women compared to men. Positive mood (HR 0.97, 95%CI 0.95-1.00), fatigue (HR 1.03, 95%CI 1.00-1.06), and physical limitation (HR 0.99, 95%CI 0.98-1.00) were associated with MACE in adjusted models. No significant interactions between sex and psychosocial factors were present. Depressive symptoms were predictive of MACE, but no longer after adjustment.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with NOCAD fatigue, low positive mood, and a lower physical limitation score were associated with MACE, without marked sex differences. Type D personality, psychosocial factors, and health status were not predictive of adverse outcomes. Reducing psychosocial distress is a valid intervention goal by itself, though it is less likely to affect MACE in patients with NOCAD.

Healthcare Disparities in Cardiovascular Medicine

There are significant healthcare disparities in cardiovascular medicine that represent a challenge for cardiologists and healthcare policy-makers who wish to provide equitable care. Disparities exist in both the management and outcomes of hypertension, coronary artery disease and its sequelae, and heart failure. These disparities are present along the lines of race, gender, and socioeconomic status. Despite recent efforts to reduce disparity, there are knowledge and research gaps among cardiologists with regards to both the scope of the problem and how to solve it. Solutions include increasing awareness of disparities in cardiovascular health, increasing research for optimal treatment of underserved communities, and public policy changes that reduce disparities in social determinants of health.

Coronary microvascular dysfunction in childhood: An emerging pathological entity and its clinical implications

Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) encompasses a spectrum of structural and functional alterations in coronary microvasculature resulting in impaired coronary blood flow and consequent myocardial ischemia without obstruction in epicardial coronary artery. The pathogenesis of CMD is complex involving both functional and structural alteration in the coronary microcirculation. In adults, CMD is predominantly discussed in context with anginal chest pain or existing ischemic heart disease and its risk factors. The presence of CMD suggests increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events independent of coronary atherosclerosis. Coronary microvascular dysfunction is also known in children but is rarely recognized due to paucity of concommitent coronary artery disease. Thus, its clinical presentation, underlying mechanism of impaired microcirculation, and prognostic significance are poorly understood. In this review article, we will overview variable CMD reported in children and delineate its emerging clinical significance.

"The INOCA-IT: Rationale and design of a multicenter registry investigating ischemia in patients with non-obstructive coronary artery (INOCA) disease in Italy"

BACKGROUND

Ischemia with non-obstructive coronary artery (INOCA) disease is being progressively acknowledged as one of the pathophysiological mechanisms of chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) in an increasingly wide range of clinical pictures. Although the research has already begun to move towards a defined diagnostic pathway and a specific medical therapy for this disease, at present it remains a clinical challenge, especially if not thoroughly investigated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The INOCA IT Multicenter Registry RF-2019-12369486 is a prospective, multicentric, non-randomized, single-arm, open label clinical study which aims to evaluate the efficacy of a stratified diagnostic and therapeutic approach on adverse events prevention and symptom relief in Italian patients with INOCA disease. The study population includes patients with a clinical presentation of CCS for angina and/or positive stress test for myocardial ischemia and evidence of non-obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) at coronary angiography. In these patients a complete invasive coronary physiology assessment is performed with the guidewire-based measurement of coronary flow reserve (CFR) and index of microvascular resistance (IMR), followed by acetylcholine (ACh) spasm provocation test. On the basis of the results of coronary function testing, patients are stratified into different INOCA endotypes (coronary microvascular disease, vasospastic angina, microvascular spasm, non-cardiac chest pain) and given a tailored medical therapy in accordance with the latest scientific evidence. At one year follow-up the impact of such a target therapy on angina class and quality of life, as well as on cardiovascular adverse events (hospitalization and coronary revascularization) is evaluated.

CONCLUSIONS

The INOCA-IT Multicenter Registry will inform clinicians on sex-specific prevalence of INOCA in Italy and will show the impact of a stratified diagnostic and therapeutic approach on symptoms burden and prognosis of INOCA patients.

Repeat Coronary Angiography in Patients Aged over 50 Years with Previously Normal/Non-Obstructive Coronary Angiogram-Insights from a Retrospective Study

(1) Introduction: A significant proportion of patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG) have normal (NCA) or non-obstructive coronary artery disease (NOCAD). This study retrospectively tested the incidence of re-catheterization, and long-term outcomes of this population in patients aged over 50 years. (2) Methods: We identified all patients above 50 years of age with NOCAD who underwent their first CAG at our center between January 2008 and December 2019. Patients were evaluated for their baseline characteristics, risk factors profile, and indication for CAG. Patients undergoing repeat CAG after the index procedure were assessed for the above, including the primary preventive pharmacotherapy prescribed. (3) Results: A total of 1939 patients were reported to have NOCAD. Of these, 1756 (90%) patients (62% males, median age 66 (56-75) years) had no repeat angiography (group 1). Repeat angiography was performed in 10%: 136 (7%) proved futile (median time for repeat angiography 5 (3-8) years) (group 3), and 47 (3%) ended with angioplasty (median time for repeat angiography 4 (3-6) years) (group 2). Male gender, BMI above 30 (23% vs. 13%), hypertension (68% vs. 57%), diabetes (28% vs. 17%) and smoking (36% vs. 19%) were significantly higher in the interventional group. Regression analysis showed both paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and hyperlipidemia were significantly associated with repeat CAG. The indication for the first CAG was mainly symptoms related. In the interventional repeat angiography (n = 47) the incidence of troponin positive cases increased from 8.2% before intervention to 57.5%, 50% being ST elevation cases. The symptoms-related cases went from 36.7% to 18.4%. Intriguingly, 85% of the interventional group were not prescribed statin and/or aspirin on a regular basis, and/or did not adhere to treatment. (4) Conclusions: NOCAD is a frequent occurrence. The threshold for repeat angiography must be higher, better reserved to troponin positive cases. Moreover, patients must be handled according to their risk profile, not being mistakenly reassured by a snapshot benign coronary angiography.

The Canadian Women's Heart Health Alliance ATLAS on the Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Management of Cardiovascular Disease in Women - Chapter 7: Sex, Gender, and the Social Determinants of Health

Women vs men have major differences in terms of risk-factor profiles, social and environmental factors, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Women are more likely than men to experience health issues that are complex and multifactorial, often relating to disparities in access to care, risk-factor prevalence, sex-based biological differences, gender-related factors, and sociocultural factors. Furthermore, awareness of the intersectional nature and relationship of sociocultural determinants of health, including sex and gender factors, that influence access to care and health outcomes for women with cardiovascular disease remains elusive. This review summarizes literature that reports on under-recognized sex- and gender-related risk factors that intersect with psychosocial, economic, and cultural factors in the diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of women's cardiovascular health.

Community- and Patient-Partner Engagement in Women's Cardiovascular Disease Research: A Rapid Review of the Evidence

The primary objective of this rapid review is to describe community-partner and patient-partner engagement in women's cardiovascular disease (CVD) research. Secondary objectives are to: (i) describe the phase of the research in which community and patient partners were engaged; (ii) define the level of engagement at each research phase; and (iii) make recommendations for future engagement of community and/or patient partners in women's CVD research. Rapid review guidelines recommended by the Cochrane Rapid Reviews Methods Group and Tricco et al. were used to search 5 databases using medical subject headings (MeSH) and/or keywords. Participants included women (cis and trans) aged > 18 years who had ischemic heart disease, heart failure, or stroke. A risk of bias assessment was not undertaken. Findings are summarized and/or clustered as community-based participatory research, or patient-oriented and/or patient-partner research. Our search yielded 39,998 titles and abstracts. Of these, 35 were included in a final narrative synthesis, comprising data from 474 community and/or patient partners, including 417 (88%) women. Over 85% of community partners collaborated in the design and/or planning and implementation of women's CVD research; most originated in the US; only one originated in Canada. Most patient-oriented and patient-partner research originated in Canada. However, less than 50% of patient partners collaborated in any phase of research. Sex, gender, race, and ethnicity were rarely reported. Results suggest negligible community and inadequate patient-oriented and/or patient-partner engagement in women's CVD research in Canada. Improved CVD outcomes for women may be achieved with better community- and patient-partner collaboration across all phases of research, genders, race, and ethnicities.

Clinical aspects of ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA)

Ischemia with no obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA) is defined as patients with evidence of myocardial ischemia without obstructive coronary artery disease. About 3-4 million people in the United States have INOCA, more commonly affecting women, and carries adverse morbidity, mortality, and relatively high healthcare costs. The pathophysiology of INOCA appears to be multi-factorial with a variety of contributing mechanisms. Diagnosis of INOCA is suggested by non-invasive or invasive testing consistent with myocardial ischemia. Due to the high prevalence of coronary risk factors and atherosclerosis in the INOCA population, current treatment strategies target angina, coronary atherosclerosis, and atherosclerotic risk factors, as well as burgeoning treatment of coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD). Ongoing clinical trials are assessing different options.

Sex differences in diagnostic modalities of coronary artery disease: Evidence from coronary microcirculation

Although atherosclerosis is usually considered a disease of the large arteries, risk factors for atherosclerosis also trigger structural and functional abnormalities at a microvascular level. In cardiac disease, microvascular dysfunction is especially relevant in women, among whom the manifestation of ischemic disease due to impaired coronary microcirculation is more common than in men. This sex-specific clinical phenotype has important clinical implications and, given the higher pre-test probability of coronary microvascular dysfunction in females, different diagnostic modalities should be used in women compared to men. In this review, we summarize invasive and non-invasive diagnostic modalities to assess coronary microvascular function, ranging from catheter-based evaluation of endothelial function to Doppler echocardiography and positron emission tomography. Moreover, we discuss different clinical settings in which microvascular disease plays an important role, underlining the importance of choosing the right diagnostic modality depending on the sex of the patients.

Sex Differences in Quality of Life in Patients with Ischemia with No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease (INOCA): A Patient Self-Report Retrospective Survey from INOCA International

Women with obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) have a relatively lower quality of life (QoL) compared to men, but our understanding of sex differences in QoL in ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA) is limited. We conducted a survey of patient members of INOCA International with an assessment of self-reported health measures. Functional capacity was retrospectively estimated using the Duke Activity Status Index (DASI), assessing levels of activities performed before and after INOCA symptom onset. Of the 1579 patient members, the overall survey completion rate was 21%. Women represented 91% of the respondents. Estimated functional capacity, expressed as metabolic equivalents (METs), was higher before compared to after INOCA diagnosis comparably for both women and men. For every one MET decline in functional capacity, there was a significantly greater decline in QoL for men compared with women in physical health (4.0 ± 1.1 vs. 2.9 ± 0.3 days/month, p < 0.001), mental health (2.4 ± 1.2 vs. 1.8 ± 0.3 days/month, p = 0.001), and social health/recreational activities (4.1 ± 1.0 vs. 2.9 ± 0.3 days/month, p = 0.0001), respectively. In an international survey of patients living with INOCA, despite similar diagnoses, clinical comorbidities, and symptoms, INOCA-related functional capacity declines are associated with a greater adverse impact on QoL in men compared to women.

Evaluation of Ischemia with No Obstructive Coronary Arteries (INOCA) and Contemporary Applications of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR)

Ischemia with no obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA) is a relatively newly discovered ischemic phenotype that affects patients similarly to obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) but has a unique pathophysiology and epidemiology. Patients with INOCA present with ischemic signs and symptoms but no obstructive CAD seen on coronary CTA or invasive coronary angiography, which can assess epicardial vessels. The mechanisms of INOCA can be grouped into three endotypes: coronary microvascular dysfunction, epicardial coronary vasospasm, or a combination of both. Accurate and comprehensive assessment of both epicardial and microvascular disease in suspected cases of INOCA is crucial for providing targeted therapy and improving outcomes in this underrepresented population. This review aims to clarify the complex pathophysiology of INOCA, present an overview of invasive and non-invasive diagnostic methods, and examine contemporary approaches for coronary perfusion assessment using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). We also explore how recent advancements in quantitative CMR can potentially revolutionize the evaluation of suspected INOCA by offering a rapid, accurate, and non-invasive diagnostic approach, thereby reducing the alarming number of cases that go undetected.

Illness Perception and the Impact of a Definitive Diagnosis on Women With Ischemia and No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease: A Qualitative Study

BACKGROUND

Ischemia and no obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA) disproportionately impacts women, yet the underlying pathologies are often not distinguished, contributing to adverse health care experiences and poor quality of life. Coronary function testing at the time of invasive coronary angiography allows for improved diagnostic accuracy. Despite increased recognition of INOCA and expanding access to testing, data lack on first-person perspectives and the impact of receiving a diagnosis in women with INOCA.

METHODS

From 2020 to 2021, we conducted structured telephone interviews with 2 groups of women with INOCA who underwent invasive coronary angiography (n=29) at Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT: 1 group underwent coronary function testing (n=20, of whom 18 received a mechanism-based diagnosis) and the other group who did not undergo coronary function testing (n=9). The interviews were analyzed using the constant comparison method by a multidisciplinary team.

RESULTS

The mean age was 59.7 years, and 79% and 3% were non-Hispanic White and non-Hispanic Black, respectively. Through iterative coding, 4 themes emerged and were further separated into subthemes that highlight disease experience aspects to be addressed in patient care: (1) distress from symptoms of uncertain cause: symptom constellation, struggle for sensemaking, emotional toll, threat to personal and professional identity; (2) a long journey to reach a definitive diagnosis: self-advocacy and fortitude, healthcare interactions brought about further uncertainty and trauma, therapeutic alliance, sources of information; (3) establishing a diagnosis enabled a path forward: relief and validation, empowerment; and (4) commitment to promoting awareness and supporting other women: recognition of sex and racial/ethnic disparities, support for other women.

CONCLUSIONS

Insights about how women experience the symptoms of INOCA and their interactions with clinicians and the healthcare system hold powerful lessons for more patient-centered care. A coronary function testing-informed diagnosis greatly influences the healthcare experiences, quality of life, and emotional states of women with INOCA.

Sex matters: the frequently overlooked importance of considering sex in computational models

Personalised medicine and the development of a virtual human or a digital twin comprises visions of the future of medicine. To realise these innovations, an understanding of the biology and physiology of all people are required if we wish to apply these technologies at a population level. Sex differences in health and biology is one aspect that has frequently been overlooked, with young white males being seen as the "average" human being. This has not been helped by the lack of inclusion of female cells and animals in biomedical research and preclinical studies or the historic exclusion, and still low in proportion, of women in clinical trials. However, there are many known differences in health between the sexes across all scales of biology which can manifest in differences in susceptibility to diseases, symptoms in a given disease, and outcomes to a given treatment. Neglecting these important differences in the development of any health technologies could lead to adverse outcomes for both males and females. Here we highlight just some of the sex differences in the cardio-respiratory systems with the goal of raising awareness that these differences exist. We discuss modelling studies that have considered sex differences and touch on how and when to create sex-specific models. Scientific studies should ensure sex differences are included right from the study planning phase and results reported using sex as a biological variable. Computational models must have sex-specific versions to ensure a movement towards personalised medicine is realised.

Sex Differences in Heart Failure: What Do We Know?

Heart failure (HF) remains an important global health issue, substantially contributing to morbidity and mortality. According to epidemiological studies, men and women face nearly equivalent lifetime risks for HF. However, their experiences diverge significantly when it comes to HF subtypes: men tend to develop HF with reduced ejection fraction more frequently, whereas women are predominantly affected by HF with preserved ejection fraction. This divergence underlines the presence of numerous sex-based disparities across various facets of HF, encompassing aspects such as risk factors, clinical presentation, underlying pathophysiology, and response to therapy. Despite these apparent discrepancies, our understanding of them is far from complete, with key knowledge gaps still existing. Current guidelines from various professional societies acknowledge the existence of sex-based differences in HF management, yet they are lacking in providing explicit, actionable recommendations tailored to these differences. In this comprehensive review, we delve deeper into these sex-specific differences within the context of HF, critically examining associated definitions, risk factors, and therapeutic strategies. We provide a specific emphasis on aspects exclusive to women, such as the impact of pregnancy-induced hypertension and premature menopause, as these unique factors warrant greater attention in the broader HF discussion. Additionally, we aim to clarify ongoing controversies and knowledge gaps pertaining to the pharmacological treatment of HF and the sex-specific indications for cardiac implantable electronic devices. By shining a light on these issues, we hope to stimulate a more nuanced understanding and promote the development of more sex-responsive approaches in HF management.

Sex as a Biological Variable in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

Although sex differences have been noted in cellular function and behavior, therapy efficacy, and disease incidence and outcomes, the adoption of sex as a biological variable in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine remains limited. Furthering the development of personalized, precision medicine requires considering biological sex at the bench and in the clinic. This review provides the basis for considering biological sex when designing tissue-engineered constructs and regenerative therapies by contextualizing sex as a biological variable within the tissue engineering triad of cells, matrices, and signals. To achieve equity in biological sex within medicine requires a cultural shift in science and engineering research, with active engagement by researchers, clinicians, companies, policymakers, and funding agencies.

Non-invasive coronary flow velocity reserve assessment predicts adverse outcome in women with unstable angina without obstructive coronary artery stenosis

Background

Evaluation of coronary flow velocity reserve (CFVR) is the physiological approach to assess the severity of coronary stenosis and microvascular dysfunction. Impaired CFVR occurs frequently in women with suspected or known coronary artery disease. The aim of this study was to assess the role of CFVR to predict long-term cardiovascular event rate in women with unstable angina (UA) without obstructive coronary artery stenosis.

Methods

CFVR in left anterior descending coronary artery was assessed by adenosine transthoracic echocardiograhy in 161 women admitted at our Department with UA and without obstructive coronary artery disease.

Results

During a mean FU of 32.5 ± 19.6 months, 53 cardiac events occurred: 6 nonfatal acute myocardial infarction, 22 UA, 7 coronary revascularization by percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, 1 coronary bypass surgery, 3 ischemic stroke, and 8 episodes of congestive heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and 6 cardiac deaths. Using a ROC curve analysis, CFVR 2.14 was the best predictor of cardiac events and was considered as abnormal CFVR. Abnormal CFVR was associated with lower cardiac event-free survival (30 vs 80%, p < 0.0001). During FU, 70% of women with reduced CFVR had cardiac events whereas only 20% with normal CFVR (p = 0.0001). At multivariate Cox analysis, smoke habitus (p = 0.003), metabolic syndrome (p = 0.01), and CFVR (p < 0.0001) were significantly associated with cardiac events at FU.

Conclusion

Noninvasive CFVR provides an independent predictor of cardiovascular prognosis information in women with UA without obstructive coronary artery disease whereas, impaired CFVR seems to be associated with higher CV events at FU.

Cardiovascular risk factors and pericardial fat volume as predictors of coronary atherosclerosis burden in postmenopausal women: A retrospective, single center study

Background and Aims

Little is known about the clinical relevance of pericardial fat volume (PFV), compared to other conventional cardiovascular risk factors, as predictors of coronary atherosclerosis severity among postmenopausal women. Our main aim was to assess the association of PFV and cardiovascular risk factors with coronary atherosclerosis burden, including occlusive coronary artery disease (CAD) (luminal stenosis >50%), coronary artery calcium score (CAC) >100, and plaque types in postmenopausal women.

Methods

Patients who had chest pain of angina and referred for 64-slice multi-detector CT (MDCT) angiography examination to exclude occlusive CAD presence were enrolled in this retrospective study.

Results

A total of 241 women with absence of menses for more than 2 consecutive years and not taking hormone replacement therapy were enrolled in the present study. Increased PFV (OR [CI] = 1.1 [1-1.3], p = 0.004), age (OR [CI] = 1.1 [1-1.4], p = 0.002), and diabetes mellitus (OR [CI] = 2 [1-4], p = 0.025) were significant predictors of occlusive CAD presence. Increased PFV (OR [CI] = 1.1 [1-1.4], p = 0.017) and increased age (OR [CI] = 1.2 [1.1-1.4], p < 0.001) were better predictors of CAC >100 than other cardiovascular risk factors. Regarding coronary plaque types, increased age (OR [CI] = 1.1 [1.1-1.3], p = 0.001) showed a significant association with coronary calcified plaque presence while increased body mass index(OR [CI] = 1.2 [1-1.4], p = 0.018) showed a significant association with coronary non-calcified plaque presence.

Conclusion

Higher PFV values showed an independent association with occlusive CAD and significant coronary calcification. This may imply that increased PFV is likely associated with the development of advanced and severe phenotype of coronary atherosclerosis among postmenopausal women with suspected CAD.

Trends in LDL-C following coronary angiography involving assessment by fractional flow reserve in obstructive vs non-obstructive coronary artery disease

Background

We sought to determine whether management of LDL-C following invasive angiography and assessment by fractional flow reserve (FFR) differs between those with obstructive vs non-obstructive CAD.

Methods

Retrospective study of 721 patients undergoing coronary angiography involving assessment by FFR between 2013 and 2020 at a single academic center. Groups with obstructive vs non-obstructive CAD by index angiographic and FFR findings were compared over 1 year of follow-up.

Results

Based on index angiographic and FFR findings, 421 (58%) patients had obstructive CAD vs 300 (42%) with non-obstructive CAD, mean (±SD) age 66±11 years, 217 (30%) women, and 594 (82%) white. There was no difference in baseline LDL-C. At 3-months follow-up, LDL-C was lower than baseline in both groups, with no between group difference. In contrast, at 6-months, median (Q1, Q3) LDL-C was significantly higher in non-obstructive vs obstructive CAD (LDL-C 73 (60, 93) vs 63 (48, 77) mg/dL, respectively (p = 0.003), (p = 0.001 in multivariable linear regression)). At 12-months, LDL-C remained higher in non-obstructive vs obstructive CAD (LDL-C 73 (49, 86) vs 64 (48, 79) mg/dL, respectively, although not statistically significant (p = 0.104)). The rate of high-intensity statin use was lower among those with non-obstructive CAD vs obstructive CAD at all time points (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

After coronary angiography involving FFR, there is intensification of LDL-C lowering at 3-months follow-up in both obstructive and non-obstructive CAD. However, by 6-months follow-up LDL-C is significantly higher among those with non-obstructive CAD vs obstructive CAD. Following coronary angiography involving FFR, patients with non-obstructive CAD may benefit from greater attention to LDL-C lowering to reduce residual ASCVD risk.

The Role of Imaging in Preventive Cardiology in Women

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The prevalence of CVD in women is increasing and is due to the increased prevalence of CV risk factors. Traditional CV risk assessment tools for prevention have failed to accurately determine CVD risk in women. CAC has shown to more precisely determine CV risk and is a better predictor of CV outcomes. Coronary CTA provides an opportunity to determine the presence of CAD and initiate prevention in women presenting with angina. Identifying women with INOCA due to CMD with use of cPET or cMRI with MBFR is vital in managing these patients. This review article outlines the role of imaging in preventive cardiology for women and will include the latest evidence supporting the use of these imaging tests for this purpose.

RECENT FINDINGS

CV mortality is higher in women who have more extensive CAC burden. Women have a greater prevalence of INOCA which is associated with higher MACE. INOCA is due to CMD in most cases which is associated with traditional CVD risk factors. Over half of these women are untreated or undertreated. Recent study showed that stratified medical therapy, tailored to the specific INOCA endotype, is feasible and improves angina in women. Coronary CTA is useful in the setting of women presenting with acute chest pain to identify CAD and initiate preventive therapy. CAC confers greater relative risk for CV mortality in women versus (vs.) men. cMRI or cPET is useful to assess MBFR to diagnose CMD and is another useful imaging tool in women for CV prevention.

Clinical case report of a professional triathlete with positive exercise stress test but negative coronary angiography

This article describes the clinical case of a master athlete, practising triathlon, who came to our Sports Medicine Center to be eligible for competitive sport. The subject, who had a family history of ischemic heart disease, presented a significant lowering of the ST segment in the inferolateral leads on the maximal cycle ergometer exercise test. Inducible myocardial ischemia emerged from the second level investigations. However, it was not confirmed by two coronary angiographies, the second performed after 9 years. The subject remained asymptomatic for the entire duration of the follow-up and in excellent clinical conditions, having never shown adverse events of cardiovascular nature.

A Survey of Female-Specific Cardiovascular Protocols in Emergency Departments in Canada

Background

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of death for women. However, systematic inequalities exist in how women experience clinical cardiovascular (CV) policies, programs, and initiatives.

Methods

In collaboration with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, a question regarding female-specific CV protocols in an emergency department (ED), or an inpatient or ambulatory care area of a healthcare site was sent via e-mail to 450 healthcare sites in Canada. Contacts at these sites were established through the larger initiative-the Heart Failure Resources and Services Inventory-conducted by the foundation.

Results

Responses were received from 282 healthcare sites, with 3 sites confirming the use of a component of a female-specific CV protocol in the ED. Three sites noted using sex-specific troponin levels in the diagnosis of acute coronary syndromes; 2 of the sites are participants in the hs-cTn-Optimizing the Diagnosis of Acute Myocardial Infarction/Injury in Women (CODE MI) trial. One site reported the integration of a female-specific CV protocol component into routine use.

Conclusions

We have identified an absence of female-specific CVD protocols in EDs that may be associated with the identified poorer outcomes in women impacted by CVD. Female-specific CV protocols may serve to increase equity and ensure that women with CV concerns have access to the appropriate care in a timely manner, thereby helping to mitigate some of the current adverse effects experienced by women who present to Canadian EDs with CV symptoms.

Sex-Specific Stress Perfusion Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Suspected Ischemic Heart Disease: Insights From SPINS Retrospective Registry

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of mortality in women, but current noninvasive cardiac imaging techniques have sex-specific limitations.

OBJECTIVES

In this study, the authors sought to investigate the effect of sex on the prognostic utility and downstream invasive revascularization and costs of stress perfusion cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) for suspected CVD.

METHODS

Sex-specific prognostic performance was evaluated in a 2,349-patient multicenter SPINS (Stress CMR Perfusion Imaging in the United States [SPINS] Study) registry. The primary outcome measure was a composite of cardiovascular death and nonfatal myocardial infarction; secondary outcomes were hospitalization for unstable angina or heart failure, and late unplanned coronary artery bypass grafting.

RESULTS

SPINS included 1,104 women (47% of cohort); women had higher prevalence of chest pain (62% vs 50%; P < 0.0001) but lower use of medical therapies. At the 5.4-year median follow-up, women with normal stress CMR had a low annualized rate of primary composite outcome similar to men (0.54%/y vs 0.75%/y, respectively; P = NS). In contrast, women with abnormal CMR were at higher risk for both primary (3.74%/y vs 0.54%/y; P < 0.0001) and secondary (9.8%/y vs 1.6%/y; P < 0.0001) outcomes compared with women with normal CMR. Abnormal stress CMR was an independent predictor for the primary (HR: 2.64 [95% CI: 1.20-5.90]; P = 0.02) and secondary (HR: 2.09 [95% CI: 1.43-3.08]; P < 0.0001) outcome measures. There was no effect modification for sex. Women had lower rates of invasive coronary angiography (ICA; 3.6% vs 7.3%; P = 0.0001) and downstream costs ($114 vs $171; P = 0.001) at 90 days following CMR. There was no effect of sex on diagnostic image quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Stress CMR demonstrated excellent prognostic performance with lower rates of ICA referral in women. Stress CMR should be considered as a first-line noninvasive imaging tool for the evaluation of women. (Stress CMR Perfusion Imaging in the United States [SPINS] Study [SPINS]; NCT03192891).

Longitudinal Strain Analysis and Correlation with TIMI Frame Count in Patients with Ischemia with No Obstructive Coronary Artery (INOCA) and Microvascular Angina (MVA)

Background: The aim of the study is to evaluate the subclinical alterations of cardiac mechanics detected using speckle-tracking echocardiography and compare these data with the coronary angiography indices used during coronary angiography in a population of patients diagnosed with ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery (INOCA) and microvascular angina (MVA). Methods: The study included 85 patients admitted to our center between November 2019 and January 2022 who were diagnosed with INOCA compared with a control group of 70 healthy patients. A collection of anamnestic data and a complete cardiovascular physical examination, and echocardiogram at rest with longitudinal strain were performed for all patients. Furthermore, the TIMI frame count (TFC) for the three coronary vessels was calculated according to Gibson's indications. All parameters were compared with a control population with similar characteristics. Results: Patients with INOCA compared to the control population showed statistically significant changes in the parameters assessed on the longitudinal strain analysis. In particular, patients with INOCA showed statistically significant changes in GLS (-16.71) compared to the control population (-19.64) (p = 0.003). In patients with INOCA, the total TIMI frame count (tTFC) correlated with the GLS value with a correlation coefficient of 0.418 (p = 0.021). Conclusions: In patients with angina, documented myocardial ischemia, the absence of angiographically significant stenosis (INOCA) and LVEF > 50%, the prevalence of microvascular dysfunction documented by TFC was extremely represented. A statistically significant reduction in GLS was observed in these patients. TFC and longitudinal strain, therefore, appear to be two reliable, sensitive and easily accessible methods for the study of alterations in coronary microcirculation and the characterization of patients with INOCA and microvascular angina.

Effects of sarpogrelate on blood viscosity

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects and safety of sarpogrelate hydrochloride (sarpogrelate) in patients with elevated blood viscosity (BV), after 12 and 24 weeks of twice (BID) or thrice (TID) daily administrations of sarpogrelate (100 mg). The participants received oral sarpogrelate administration for 24 weeks and visited the hospital every 12 ± 2 week for blood viscosity measurements at shear rates of 5 and 300 s^-1. The BV measured at shear rate of 5 s^-1 in male patients decreased significantly from 18.91 cP at the baseline to 16.3 cP after 24 weeks of sarpogrelate administration (13.6 % drop, p < 0.001). The BV measured at 5 s^-1 in female decreased more significantly from 17.5 cP at the baseline to 13.4 cP after 24 weeks of sarpogrelate administration (23.0 % drop, p < 0.001). In summary, sarpogrelate may be considered as a possible therapeutic option for improving BV in patients with elevated blood viscosity. In particular, the reduction of the low-shear BV with the help of a viscosity-reducing drug such as sarpogrelate may be considered as a potentially new pharmacological tool for microvascular disease.

The sex-dependent response to psychosocial stress and ischaemic heart disease

Stress is an important risk factor for modern chronic diseases, with distinct influences in males and females. The sex specificity of the mammalian stress response contributes to the sex-dependent development and impacts of coronary artery disease (CAD). Compared to men, women appear to have greater susceptibility to chronic forms of psychosocial stress, extending beyond an increased incidence of mood disorders to include a 2- to 4-fold higher risk of stress-dependent myocardial infarction in women, and up to 10-fold higher risk of Takotsubo syndrome-a stress-dependent coronary-myocardial disorder most prevalent in post-menopausal women. Sex differences arise at all levels of the stress response: from initial perception of stress to behavioural, cognitive, and affective responses and longer-term disease outcomes. These fundamental differences involve interactions between chromosomal and gonadal determinants, (mal)adaptive epigenetic modulation across the lifespan (particularly in early life), and the extrinsic influences of socio-cultural, economic, and environmental factors. Pre-clinical investigations of biological mechanisms support distinct early life programming and a heightened corticolimbic-noradrenaline-neuroinflammatory reactivity in females vs. males, among implicated determinants of the chronic stress response. Unravelling the intrinsic molecular, cellular and systems biological basis of these differences, and their interactions with external lifestyle/socio-cultural determinants, can guide preventative and therapeutic strategies to better target coronary heart disease in a tailored sex-specific manner.

Ischemia and no obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA): A narrative review

Myocardial ischemia with no obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA) is a chronic coronary syndrome condition that is increasingly being recognized as a substantial contributor to adverse cardiovascular mortality and outcomes, including myocardial infarction and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). While INOCA occurs in both women and men, women are more likely to have the finding of INOCA and are more adversely impacted by angina, with recurrent hospitalizations and a lower quality of life with this condition. Abnormal epicardial coronary vascular function and coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) have been identified in a majority of INOCA patients on invasive coronary function testing. CMD can co-exist with obstructive epicardial coronary artery disease (CAD), diffuse non-obstructive epicardial CAD, and with coronary vasospasm. Epicardial vasospasm can also occur with normal coronary arteries that have no atherosclerotic plaque on intravascular imaging. While all predisposing factors are not clearly understood, cardiometabolic risk factors, and endothelium dependent and independent mechanisms that increase oxidative stress and inflammation are associated with microvascular injury, CMD and INOCA. Cardiac autonomic dysfunction has also been implicated in abnormal vasoreactivity and persistent symptoms. INOCA is under-recognized and under-diagnosed, partly due to the heterogenous patient populations and mechanisms. However, diagnostic testing methods are available to guide INOCA management. Treatment of INOCA is evolving, and focuses on cardiac risk factor control, improving ischemia, reducing atherosclerosis progression, and improving angina and quality of life. This review focuses on INOCA, relations to HFpEF, available diagnostics, current and investigational therapeutic strategies, and knowledge gaps in this condition.

Imaging of heart disease in women: review and case presentation

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Although major diagnostic and therapeutic advances have significantly improved the prognosis of patients with CVD in the past decades, these advances have less benefited women than age-matched men. Noninvasive cardiac imaging plays a key role in the diagnosis of CVD. Despite shared imaging features and strategies between both sexes, there are critical sex disparities that warrant careful consideration, related to the selection of the most suited imaging techniques, to technical limitations, and to specific diseases that are overrepresented in the female population. Taking these sex disparities into consideration holds promise to improve management and alleviate the burden of CVD in women. In this review, we summarize the specific features of cardiac imaging in four of the most common presentations of CVD in the female population including coronary artery disease, heart failure, pregnancy complications, and heart disease in oncology, thereby highlighting contemporary strengths and limitations. We further propose diagnostic algorithms tailored to women that might help in selecting the most appropriate imaging modality.

Saudi Heart Association Guidelines on Best Practices in the Management of Chronic Coronary Syndromes

Background

The prevalence of both chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) and its risk factors is alarming in Saudi Arabia and only a minority of patients achieve optimal medical management. Context-specific CCS guidelines outlining best clinical practices are therefore needed to address local gaps and challenges.

Consensus panel

A panel of experts representing the Saudi Heart Association (SHA) reviewed existing evidence and formulated guidance relevant to local clinical practice considering the characteristics of the Saudi population, the Saudi healthcare system, its resources and medical expertise. They were reviewed by external experts to ensure scientific and medical accuracy.

Consensus findings

Recommendations are provided on the clinical assessment and management of CCS, along with supporting evidence. Risk reduction through non-pharmacological therapy (lifestyle modifications) remains at the core of CCS management. Great emphasis should be placed on the use of available pharmacological options (anti-anginal therapy and event prevention) only as appropriate and necessary. Lifestyle counseling and pharmacological strategy must be optimized before considering revascularization, unless otherwise indicated. Revascularization strategies should be carefully considered by the Heart Team to ensure the appropriate choice is made in accordance to current guidelines and patient preference.

Conclusion

Conscientious, multidisciplinary, and personalized clinical management is necessary to navigate the complex landscape of CCS in Saudi Arabia considering its population and resource differences. The reconciliation of international evidence and local characteristics is critical for the improvement of healthcare outcomes among CCS patients in Saudi Arabia.

Clinical Practice Variations in the Management of Ischemia With No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease

Background Ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease is a condition associated with major adverse cardiovascular outcomes. To date, there are no specific American Heart Association or American College of Cardiology guidelines. The objective of this survey is to better understand the clinical practice and knowledge gaps that exist nationally. Methods and Results Participant-specific links for a survey with 11 questions and 3 reminders were sent between September and October 2020 to the American College of Cardiology CardioSurve Panel. The panel consist of randomly selected cardiologists (n=437) who represent the current profile of the American College of Cardiology US membership. The survey received a 30% response rate. Of the 172 respondents, 130 (76%) indicated that they have treated patients with ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease. Although the majority (69%) are generally confident in their ability to manage this condition, 1 of 3 report lack of confidence or are neutral. The American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Chronic Stable Angina Guidelines are the most commonly used reference for treating ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease (81%), with most cardiologists wanting additional clinical guidance, such as randomized controlled trials (61%). More than 4 of 5 cardiologists rarely or never order advanced imaging modalities to assess coronary flow reserve. Approximately 2 of 3 of respondents frequently prescribe statins (68%), aspirin (66%), calcium channel blockers (63%), and β blockers or α/β blockers (55%). However, nearly 70% never prescribe angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers. Conclusions This survey demonstrates heterogeneity in the management of ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease among US cardiologists, identifies support for guideline development, and outlines knowledge gaps for research and education in the therapeutic management of this condition.

Gender Disparities in Cardiogenic Shock Treatment and Outcomes

Cardiogenic shock is associated with a high risk for morbidity and mortality. The impact of gender on treatment and outcomes is poorly defined. This study aimed to evaluate whether gender influences the clinical management and outcomes of patients with prehospital cardiogenic shock. Consecutive adult patients with cardiogenic shock who were transferred to hospital by emergency medical services (EMS) between January 1, 2015 and June 30, 2019 in Victoria, Australia were included. Data were obtained from individually linked ambulance, hospital, and state death index datasets. The primary outcome assessed was 30-day mortality, stratified by patient gender. Propensity score matching was performed for risk adjustment. Over the study period a total of 3,465 patients were identified and 1,389 patients (40.1%) were women. Propensity score matching yielded 1,330 matched pairs with no differences observed in baseline characteristics, including age, initial vital signs, pre-existing co-morbidities, etiology of shock, and prehospital interventions. In the matched cohort, women had higher rates of 30-day mortality (44.7% vs 39.2%, p = 0.009), underwent less coronary angiography (18.3% vs 27.2%, p <0.001), and revascularization with percutaneous coronary intervention (8.9% vs 14.2%, p <0.001), compared with men. In conclusion, in this large population-based study, women with cardiogenic shock who were transferred by EMS to hospital had significantly worse survival outcomes and reduced rates of invasive cardiac interventions compared to men. These data underscore the urgent need for targeted public health measures to redress gender differences in outcomes and variation with clinical care for patients with cardiogenic shock.

Traditional and Emerging Sex-Specific Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease in Women

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a major health threat in women. While traditional CVD risk factors such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and smoking have been recognized for over 50 years, optimal control of these risk factors remains a major challenge. Unique sex-specific risk factors such as adverse pregnancy outcomes, premature menopause and low estrogen states, and chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorders also contribute to increased CVD risk in women. In addition, psychological risk factors such as stress, depression, and social determinants of health may have a disproportionately adverse impact in women. An improved understanding of traditional and emerging sex-specific CVD risk factors and management of modifiable factors is critical for clinicians who provide care for women. Early recognition and treatment of risk factors may alter the trajectory of adverse CVD events. A multi-disciplinary approach with team-based care involving multiple specialists and improved, targeted educational efforts are needed to reduce CVD risk factors and its adverse consequences in women.

The Canadian Women's Heart Health Alliance Atlas on the Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Management of Cardiovascular Disease in Women - Chapter 6: Sex- and Gender-Specific Diagnosis and Treatment

This chapter summarizes the sex- and gender-specific diagnosis and treatment of acute/unstable presentations and nacute/stable presentations of cardiovascular disease in women. Guidelines, scientific statements, systematic reviews/meta-analyses, and primary research studies related to diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease (stroke), valvular heart disease, and heart failure in women were reviewed. The evidence is summarized as a narrative, and when available, sex- and gender-specific practice and research recommendations are provided. Acute coronary syndrome presentations and emergency department delays are different in women than they are in men. Coronary angiography remains the gold-standard test for diagnosis of obstructive coronary artery disease. Other diagnostic imaging modalities for ischemic heart disease detection (eg, positron emission tomography, echocardiography, single-photon emission computed tomography, cardiovascular magnetic resonance, coronary computed tomography angiography) have been shown to be useful in women, with their selection dependent upon both the goal of the individualized assessment and the testing resources available. Noncontrast computed tomography and computed tomography angiography are used to diagnose stroke in women. Although sex-specific differences appear to exist in the efficacy of standard treatments for diverse presentations of acute coronary syndrome, many cardiovascular drugs and interventions tested in clinical trials were not powered to detect sex-specific differences, and knowledge gaps remain. Similarly, although knowledge is evolving about sex-specific difference in the management of valvular heart disease, and heart failure with both reduced and preserved ejection fraction, current guidelines are lacking in sex-specific recommendations, and more research is needed.