Transient Myocardial Thickening in Cats Associated with Heart Failure

Transient myocardial thickening after routine ovariohysterectomy in a 15-month-old Ragdoll cat

A 15-month-old female Ragdoll cat was evaluated for progressive lethargy, tachypnoea and increased respiratory effort for 1 week after routine ovariohysterectomy. Thoracic radiographs and an echocardiogram showed evidence of congestive heart failure and a hypertrophic cardiomyopathy phenotype, respectively. The maximum left ventricular wall thickness in end diastole was 6.2 mm. The serum cardiac troponin I concentration was 20.86 ng/mL. The cat was treated with furosemide and clopidogrel and discharged after 3 days. A repeat echocardiogram 2 weeks later showed complete resolution of the hypertrophic cardiomyopathy phenotype (maximum left ventricular wall thickness: 5.0 mm). A repeat cardiac troponin I concentration was 0.041 ng/mL. All cardiac medications were discontinued. A final recheck 4 weeks later revealed stable normal echocardiogram and further reduction in cardiac troponin I concentration to 0.004 ng/mL. This case report demonstrates that resolution of transient myocardial thickening can take 2 weeks after the echocardiographic diagnosis of left ventricular thickening.

Arterial thromboembolism in a cat with transient myocardial thickening

Feline arterial thromboembolism has been reported to be secondary to various feline cardiomyopathies; however, it has not been described in cats with transient myocardial thickening. A previously healthy, one-year-old, castrated male cat presented with acute paraparesis and congestive heart failure. Echocardiography revealed asymmetric left ventricular free wall thickening and left atrial enlargement. Antithrombotic treatment and cardiac medication resulted in reperfusion and mobility on day seven in one limb and on day 10 in the other. Different complications were managed successfully, including worsening acute kidney injury, inflammation, pleural effusion, and anemia. After three weeks, the cat was discharged and prescribed oral antithrombotic drugs (clopidogrel and rivaroxaban) and cardiac medication. Within five months, echocardiographic findings normalized, and medical treatment was gradually discontinued. To date, the cat remains healthy at 1735 days after the initial diagnosis and 1494 days after the last antithrombotic medication. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report on feline arterial thromboembolism combined with transient myocardial thickening, with favorable long-term survival.

Transient myocardial thickening: a retrospective analysis on etiological, clinical, laboratory, therapeutic, and outcome findings in 27 cats

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE

Transient myocardial thickening (TMT) in cats is a poorly characterized clinical entity. Therefore, this study aimed to provide descriptions of additional cats diagnosed with this clinical phenomenon.

ANIMALS, MATERIALS, AND METHODS

For this multicenter observational retrospective study, cats diagnosed with TMT were searched in three medical databases. TMT was defined for cats with at least two echocardiograms showing an increased end-diastolic left ventricular wall thickness (LVWTd; i.e. ≥6 mm) at presentation and subsequent echocardiographic normalization (i.e. LVWTd <5.5 mm). Signalment, history, clinical, laboratory, therapeutic, and outcome data were retrieved.

RESULTS

Twenty seven cats were included. The median age was 3 years. In 9/27 cats, an antecedent event was documented. At admission, 27/27 cats had evidence of myocardial injury (median value of cardiac troponin I 5.5 ng/mL), 25/27 cats had congestive heart failure, 13/27 cats had hypothermia, 8/27 cats had systemic hypotension, 7/27 cats had bradycardia, and 7/27 cats had electrocardiographic evidence of an arrhythmia. The median LVWTd was 6.4 mm. A potential cause of myocardial injury was identified in 14/27 cats. The median time from diagnosis to a significant reduction in LVWTd was 43 days.

DISCUSSION

TMT can be diagnosed in a wide range of cats, including young subjects. An antecedent predisposing event and/or a possible causative trigger can be identified in some. The reduction in LVWTd that defines this phenomenon usually occurs over a variable time frame.

CONCLUSIONS

This study represents the largest investigation of TMT in cats and provides additional information on this uncommon clinical entity.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in a dog: a systematic diagnostic approach

A seven-year-old female neutered Parson Russel Terrier was referred for syncopal episodes. An electrocardiogram revealed paroxysmal atrial flutter followed by periods of sinus arrest, suggesting sick sinus syndrome. Echocardiography showed severe biventricular wall thickening (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) phenotype) with no signs of fixed or dynamic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. Blood pressure, abdominal ultrasound, serum total thyroxin and thyroid-stimulating hormone, and insulin-like growth factor-1 were all within normal limits. Cardiac troponin I was elevated (1.7 ng/mL, ref<0.07). Serological tests for common infectious diseases were negative. A 24-h Holter confirmed that the syncopal episodes were associated with asystolic pauses (sinus arrest after runs of atrial flutter) ranging between 8.5 and 9.6 s. Right ventricular endomyocardial biopsies (EMB) were performed at the time of pacemaker implantation to assess for storage or infiltrative diseases that mimic HCM in people. Histological analysis of the EMB revealed plurifocal inflammatory infiltrates with macrophages and lymphocytes (CD3+ > 7/mm2) associated with myocyte necrosis, but no evidence of myocyte vacuolisation or infiltrative myocardial disorders. These findings were compatible with myocardial ischaemic injury or acute lymphocytic myocarditis. Molecular analysis of canine cardiotropic viruses were negative. The dog developed refractory congestive heart failure and was euthanised 16 months later. Cardiac post-mortem examination revealed cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and disarray with diffuse interstitial and patchy replacement fibrosis, and small vessel disease, confirming HCM. We described a systemic diagnostic approach to an HCM phenotype in a dog, where a diagnosis of HCM was reached by excluding HCM phenocopies.

Flash pulmonary oedema associated with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia: report of two cases

Case summary

We describe two cats that had episodic tachypnoea and increased respiratory effort during periods of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). Thoracic radiographs at the time of clinical signs were consistent with cardiogenic pulmonary oedema. Echocardiography following stabilisation revealed a hypertrophic cardiomyopathy phenotype with normal left atrial size in both cats. The first cat was initially treated with diltiazem, but this did not reduce the frequency of the clinical episodes. Diltiazem was switched to atenolol and the cat remained well without further recurrence. At the time of writing, the cat was reported to be well, 3 years after the initial diagnosis of SVT. The second cat was first managed with diltiazem and was then transitioned to atenolol due to recurrent clinical episodes. The episodes were less frequent with atenolol but still present. Therefore, atenolol was changed to sotalol. The cat remained well on sotalol for 2 years with only one recurrent episode during a painful event. The patient then suffered a sudden cardiac death, 5 years after the initial diagnosis of SVT.

Relevance and novel information

To our knowledge, this is the first report that describes flash pulmonary oedema developing secondary to episodic paroxysmal SVT in cats. Despite the severity and speed of respiratory compromise, prognosis may be good with an adequate arrhythmia control.

Transient myocardial thickening associated with acute myocardial injury and congestive heart failure in two Toxoplasma gondii-positive cats

CASE SERIES SUMMARY

In this report, we provide detailed clinical, laboratory, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic descriptions of two Toxoplasma gondii-positive cats diagnosed with transient myocardial thickening (TMT) and acute myocardial injury (MI). In both cases, aetiological diagnosis was based on the antibody screening test (all cats had IgM titres ⩾1:64) and MI was demonstrated by a concomitant severe increase of the serum concentration of cardiac troponin I (5.1-23.6 ng/ml; upper hospital limit <0.2 ng/ml). In both cats, TMT and MI were aggravated by left atrial dilation and dysfunction, as well as congestive heart failure. In one cat, atrial standstill was also documented, while the other cat showed an intracardiac thrombus. Both cats underwent an extensive diagnostic work-up aimed at excluding additional comorbidities that could contribute to able to contribute to TMT and MI, and received appropriate antiprotozoal (ie, clindamycin) and cardiovascular therapy (eg, furosemide, pimobendan and clopidogrel). This was followed by a simultaneous decline in T gondii serology titres, normalisation of troponin level and the resolution of clinical, electrocardiographic, radiographic and echocardiographic abnormalities. In the light of these results, therapies were interrupted and subsequent controls ruled out any disease relapse.

RELEVANCE AND NOVEL INFORMATION

Although T gondii represents an often-cited cause of myocarditis in feline medicine, the existing literature on the demonstration of T gondii-associated cardiac compromise in cats is extremely limited. Accordingly, this report provides a useful contribution to pertinent scientific literature since it describes TMT and acute MI in two T gondii-positive cats.

Perioperative changes in cardiac biomarkers in juvenile cats during neutering

Perioperative myocardial injury (PMI) is commonly caused by myocardial ischemia that develops during or after non-cardiac surgery. It occurs in 17.9% of human patients after non-cardiac surgery due to elevated high-sensitive perioperation cardiac troponin. However, PMI has not been demonstrated in cats. To investigate its occurrence, this study aimed to analyze the perioperative changes in cardiac biomarkers and clinical data, including measurement of vital signs, echocardiography, blood pressure, electrocardiogram, X-ray, and anesthetic profile, in 30 juvenile cats under neutering surgery. All cats had increased high-sensitive cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) postsurgery compared with presurgery. In particular, 48% of cats (14/29) showed elevated hs-cTnI over a reference range after surgery. In all groups, hs-cTnI and systolic arterial blood pressure (SAP) were significantly higher at 0 h and 18 h postoperation than at preoperation. A significant positive correlation was found between hs-cTnI and SAP at 18 h postoperation. Atrial natriuretic peptides, heart rate, and left ventricular wall thickness were markedly higher at 0 h postoperation than at preoperation; however, respiratory rate and body temperature were significantly lower at 0 h postoperation than at preoperation. Anesthetic time and hs-cTnI were significantly higher at 18 h postoperation in females than in males. Significant positive correlations were observed between hs-cTnI and anesthetic time at 18 h postoperation in females. These results indicate that postoperative hs-cTnI level can greatly increase in juvenile cats and hs-cTnI measurement at perioperation is potentially beneficial for early detection and evaluation of the presence of PMI.

Feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: reduced microvascular density and involvement of CD34+ interstitial cells

The sequence of pathological events in feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (fHCM) is still largely unknown, although we know that fHCM is characterized by interstitial remodeling in a macrophage-driven pro-inflammatory environment and that myocardial ischemia might contribute to its progression. This study aimed to gain further insights into the structural changes associated with interstitial remodeling in fHCM with special focus on the myocardial microvasculature and the phenotype of the interstitial cells. Twenty-eight hearts (16 hearts with fHCM and 12 without cardiac disease) were evaluated in the current study, with immunohistochemistry, RNA-in situ hybridization, and transmission electron microscopy. Morphometrical evaluations revealed a statistically significant lower microvascular density in fHCM. This was associated with structural alterations in capillaries that go along with a widening of the interstitium due to the accumulation of edema fluid, collagen fibers, and mononuclear cells that also proliferated locally. The interstitial cells were mainly of fibroblastic or vascular phenotype, with a substantial contribution of predominantly resident macrophages. A large proportion expressed CD34 mRNA, which suggests a progenitor cell potential. Our results indicate that microvascular alterations are key events in the pathogenesis of fHCM and that myocardial interstitial cell populations with CD34+ phenotype play a role in the pathogenesis of the disease.

The Feline Cardiomyopathies: 1. General concepts

PRACTICAL RELEVANCE

The feline cardiomyopathies are the most prevalent type of heart disease in adult domestic cats. Several forms have been identified (see Parts 2 and 3), with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) being the most common. Clinically the cardiomyopathies are often indistinguishable. Cats with subclinical cardiomyopathy may or may not have characteristic physical examination findings (eg, heart murmur, gallop sound), or radiographic cardiomegaly. Cats with severe disease may develop signs of heart failure (eg, dyspnea, tachypnea) or systemic arterial thromboembolism (ATE; eg, pain and paralysis). Sudden death is possible. Treatment usually does not alter the progression from subclinical to clinical disease and often the treatment approach, once clinical signs are apparent, is the same regardless of the type of cardiomyopathy. However, differentiating cardiomyopathy from normal variation may be important prognostically.

PATIENT GROUP

Domestic cats of any age from 3 months upward, of either sex and of any breed, can be affected. Mixed-breed cats are most commonly affected but certain breeds are disproportionately prone to developing HCM.

DIAGNOSTICS

Subclinical feline cardiomyopathies may be suspected based on physical examination findings, thoracic radiographs and cardiac biomarker results but often the disease is clinically silent. The definitive clinical confirmatory test is echocardiography. Left heart failure (pulmonary edema and/or pleural effusion) is most commonly diagnosed radiographically, but point-of-care ultrasound and amino terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) biomarker testing can also be useful, especially when the stress of taking radiographs is best avoided.

KEY FINDINGS

Knowledge of pathophysiological mechanisms helps the practitioner identify the feline cardiomyopathies and understand how these diseases progress and how they manifest clinically (heart failure, ATE). Existing diagnostic tests have strengths and limitations, and being aware of these can help a practitioner deliver optimal recommendations regarding referral.

CONCLUSIONS

Several types of feline cardiomyopathies exist in both subclinical (mild to severe disease) and clinical (severe disease) phases. Heart failure and ATE are the most common clinical manifestations of severe cardiomyopathy and are therapeutic targets regardless of the type of cardiomyopathy. The long-term prognosis is often guarded or poor once overt clinical manifestations are present.

AREAS OF UNCERTAINTY

Some cats with presumed cardiomyopathy do not have echocardiographic features that fit the classic cardiomyopathies (cardiomyopathy - nonspecific phenotype). Although no definitive treatment is usually available, understanding how cardiomyopathies evolve remains worthy of investigation.

The Feline Cardiomyopathies: 2. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Practical relevance:

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common form of feline cardiomyopathy observed clinically and may affect up to approximately 15% of the domestic cat population, primarily as a subclinical disease. Fortunately, severe HCM, leading to heart failure or arterial thromboembolism (ATE), only occurs in a small proportion of these cats.

Patient group:

Domestic cats of any age from 3 months upward, of either sex and of any breed, can be affected. A higher prevalence in male and domestic shorthair cats has been reported.

Diagnostics:

Subclinical feline HCM may or may not produce a heart murmur or gallop sound. Substantial left atrial enlargement can often be identified radiographically in cats with severe HCM. Biomarkers should not be relied on solely to diagnose the disease. While severe feline HCM can usually be diagnosed via echocardiography alone, feline HCM with mild to moderate left ventricular (LV) wall thickening is a diagnosis of exclusion, which means there is no definitive test for HCM in these cats and so other disorders that can cause mild to moderate LV wall thickening (eg, hyperthyroidism, systemic hypertension, acromegaly, dehydration) need to be ruled out.

Key findings:

While a genetic cause of HCM has been identified in two breeds and is suspected in another, for most cats the cause is unknown. Systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve (SAM) is the most common cause of dynamic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (DLVOTO) and, in turn, the most common cause of a heart murmur with feline HCM. While severe DLVOTO is probably clinically significant and so should be treated, lesser degrees probably are not. Furthermore, since SAM can likely be induced in most cats with HCM, the distinction between HCM without obstruction and HCM with obstruction (HOCM) is of limited importance in cats. Diastolic dysfunction, and its consequences of abnormally increased atrial pressure leading to signs of heart failure, and sluggish atrial blood flow leading to ATE, is the primary abnormality that causes clinical signs and death in affected cats. Treatment (eg, loop diuretics) is aimed at controlling heart failure. Preventive treatment (eg, antithrombotic drugs) is aimed at reducing the risk of complications (eg, ATE).

Conclusions:

Most cats with HCM show no overt clinical signs and live a normal or near-normal life despite this disease. However, a substantial minority of cats develop overt clinical signs referable to heart failure or ATE that require treatment. For most cats with clinical signs caused by HCM, the long-term prognosis is poor to grave despite therapy.

Areas of uncertainty:

Genetic mutations (variants) that cause HCM have been identified in a few breeds, but, despite valiant efforts, the cause of HCM in the vast majority of cats remains unknown. No treatment currently exists that reverses or even slows the cardiomyopathic process in HCM, again despite valiant efforts. The search goes on.

Increased insulin-like growth factor 1 concentrations in a retrospective population of non-diabetic cats diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to document whether a proportion of non-diabetic cats with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) previously diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) have elevated circulating insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) concentrations.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of residual blood samples obtained at the time of echocardiographic diagnosis of HCM from a population of 60 non-diabetic cats were analysed for circulating IGF-1 concentrations using a validated radioimmunoassay and compared with a control group of 16 apparently healthy cats without LVH. Clinical and echocardiographic data for cats with an IGF-1 level >1000 ng/ml were compared with those with an IGF-1 level <800 ng/ml.

RESULTS

In total, 6.7% (95% confidence interval 1.8-16.2%) of cats with HCM had an IGF-1 level >1000 ng/ml. The prevalence of an IGF-1 level >1000 ng/ml in the control group was zero.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

A small proportion of non-diabetic cats previously diagnosed with HCM had an IGF-1 concentration at a level that has been associated with feline hypersomatotropism (fHS) in the diabetic cat population. Further prospective research is required to confirm or refute the presence of fHS in non-diabetic cats with LVH and increased IGF-1.

Point-of-care N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide assay to screen apparently healthy cats for cardiac disease in general practice

Background

Point‐of‐care (POC) N‐terminal pro B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) ELISA test has been evaluated for screening cats for cardiac disease in the referral veterinary setting but less is known about its use in general practice (GP).

Objectives

To evaluate the diagnostic utility of a POC NT‐proBNP ELISA in cats seen in GPs.

Animals

Two hundred and seventeen apparently healthy cats from 21 GPs.

Methods

This was a prospective, cross‐sectional study. Cardiac auscultation and POC NT‐proBNP ELISA were done by veterinarians at their GPs. After enrollment at GPs, cats were sent to a cardiology referral hospital for cardiac auscultation and echocardiographic diagnosis. Results were interpreted based on whether cats had normal or abnormal echocardiographic findings.

Results

Point‐of‐care NT‐proBNP ELISA results differentiated cats in the abnormal group from those in the normal group with a sensitivity of 43%, specificity of 96%. In cats with a heart murmur at GPs, POC NT‐proBNP ELISA results differentiated cats in the abnormal group from those in the normal group with a sensitivity of 71% and a specificity of 92%.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

In apparently healthy cats in GPs, positive POC NT‐proBNP results are associated with heart disease, warranting an echocardiogram, but negative results do not reliably exclude heart disease. These results suggest POC NT‐proBNP is not an effective screening test for apparently healthy cats in GPs, although its performance is improved if it is used only in cats that have a heart murmur.

Updates on Laboratory Evaluation of Feline Cardiac Diseases

Laboratory tests can be altered in cardiovascular diseases and the investigation of specific tests or biomarkers may provide additional information about myocardial damage. Traditional laboratory tests, such as cell blood count, serum biochemistry, and coagulation, can be useful in investigating patients, but are not specific. However, markers like Troponin and Natriuretic Peptides may possibly furnish further data on myocardium damage and can be used in both studying and monitoring cats with cardiac disease. Moreover, the evaluation of the thyroid profile is very important as hyperthyroid cats concomitant cardiovascular diseases are very common and they can also be a direct consequence of endocrinopathy. The purpose of this manuscript is to provide the widest possible overview of what is present in the literature about the feline clinical pathology of heart diseases through a rational division of the main alterations of traditional tests and biomarkers.

Characteristics and outcomes of cats with and without pacemaker placement for high-grade atrioventricular block

INTRODUCTION

Available information on characteristics and outcome in cats with high-grade atrioventricular block (AVB) that receive a pacemaker is limited.

ANIMALS

Twenty-two privately owned cats presenting with high-grade AVB.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Medical records were retrospectively examined. Cats were grouped as having received a pacemaker (PACE group) or not having received a pacemaker (non-PACE group). Clinical characteristics and outcomes of groups were evaluated.

RESULTS

There were 10 cats in the PACE group and 12 cats in the non-PACE group. At presentation, syncope or seizure-like behavior (p = 0.004) and bradycardia (p = 0.043) were more common in the PACE than the non-PACE group. Historical lethargy (p = 0.015) and dull mentation (p = 0.045) were more common in the non-PACE group, as was clinically relevant systemic disease. Pacemaker placement improved syncope or seizure-like behavior in 100% of cats. The degree of AVB at presentation was not associated with pacemaker placement nor the future degree of AVB. The major complication rate of pacemaker placement was 40%. Intergroup survival was not significantly different (PACE group 1278 days, 95% confidence interval: 0-2145 days; non-PACE group 213 days, confidence interval: 1-not available, p = 0.77).

CONCLUSIONS

Pacemaker placement improved clinical signs in cats with high-grade AVB. A difference in survival time could not be demonstrated between cats that received and did not receive a pacemaker in this retrospective study. High-grade AVB can be transient and accompanied by systemic disease in some cats.

Retrospective evaluation of the safety and tolerability of pimobendan in cats with obstructive vs nonobstructive cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Pimobendan is frequently used off-label for treatments of cats with congestive heart failure (CHF). Concern exists regarding the safety of pimobendan in cats with outflow tract obstruction (OTO).

OBJECTIVES

In cats treated with pimobendan, incidence of adverse effects will not differ between cats with OTO vs cats with nonobstructive cardiomyopathy.

ANIMALS

Two-hundred sixty cats with CHF (57 with OTO, 203 with nonobstructive disease).

METHODS

Retrospective medical record review. Groups were compared using 2-sample t-tests, Wilcoxon rank-sum tests, and Fisher exact tests.

RESULTS

Compared to cats with nonobstructive cardiomyopathy, cats with OTO were younger (8.9 [interquartile range (IQR) 6.6] vs 10.8 [6.3] years, P = .0036), more likely to have a heart murmur (51/57 [90%] vs 76/203 [37.8%] cats, P < .0001), more likely to manifest CHF as pulmonary edema (53/57 [83%] vs 144/203 [70.9%] cats, P = .0004), and less likely to have pleural effusion (19/57 [33%] vs 122/203 [60.1%] cats, P = .0005). Adverse effects suspected to be related to pimobendan administration occurred in 12/260 cats (4.6%), including 11/203 cats (5.4%) with nonobstructive cardiomyopathy and 1/57 cat (2%) with OTO (P = .7). Pimobendan was discontinued due to adverse effects in 4/260 cats (1.5%), 3 with nonobstructive disease and 1 with OTO (P = 1.0). Acute adverse hemodynamic effects after pimobendan administration were not detected in any cats.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE

Pimobendan is well tolerated in cats with cardiomyopathy and CHF, regardless of the presence of OTO.

Twenty-four-hour ambulatory (Holter) electrocardiographic findings in 13 cats with non-hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Detection and characterisation of cardiac arrhythmias in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) has already been documented in various studies. However, similar studies have not been reported for other forms of feline cardiomyopathy. The clinical records of 13 client-owned cats diagnosed with restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM), arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) and non-specific cardiomyopathy (NSCM) that underwent Holter recording at the time of diagnosis were reviewed retrospectively. Eight cats had signs of congestive heart failure at presentation, one cat had a history of recurrent syncope and the remaining four cats were asymptomatic. The average heart rate was 138 ± 22 (range 97-181) beats per minute (bpm) with the lowest value (97 bpm) recorded in a cat with third degree atrioventricular block (3-AVB) and the highest value (181 bpm) observed in a cat with atrial fibrillation (AF). The median number of ventricular ectopic beats (VEB) over 24 h was 2031 (338-8305), mostly represented by single isolated VPCs (803, 123-2221). Cardiac pauses were observed in three cats, with the longest pause lasting more than 6 s. A survival analysis was not performed due to the small number of cats and limited follow-up information. Holter recording revealed cardiac arrhythmias in all 13 cats, while 8/13 cats (61.5%) had an unremarkable resting electrocardiogram (ECG). The average daily heart rate in these cats did not appear affected by the presence of heart failure, although periods of sinus arrhythmia were absent in all individuals.

Evaluation of N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide and cardiac troponin-I levels in cats with systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve in the absence of left ventricular hypertrophy

OBJECTIVES

To identify the prevalence of systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve (SAM) in apparently healthy cats in the absence of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and examine the relationship between specific cardiac biomarker concentrations and echocardiographic parameters in these individuals.

ANIMALS

eighty client-owned cats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

retrospective study; inclusion criteria were the presence of SAM on conscious echocardiography and concurrent measurement of plasma N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and serum cardiac troponin-I (cTnI). Cats were excluded if they had LVH, left atrial enlargement or systemic disease. The percentages of cats with NT-proBNP and cTnI concentrations above the normal reference range were calculated. The correlation between each biomarker concentration and left ventricular myocardial wall thickness, left atrial size and maximum left ventricular outflow tract velocity was evaluated.

RESULTS

Thirty-four of 80 patients with SAM showed no evidence of cardiac remodelling (LVH or left atrial enlargement). Of these patients, 30 of 34 had elevated NT-proBNP, and cTnI was elevated in 13 of 27 (48.1%) cats where this biomarker was measured in association with the NT-proBNP assay. A positive correlation was observed between concentration of plasma NT-proBNP and maximum left ventricular outflow tract velocity (rs = 0.67, p<0.0001). No significant correlations were found between the concentration of biomarkers and the remaining echocardiographic parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

SAM is frequently observed in cats even in the absence of cardiac remodelling, and these individuals often demonstrate elevated plasma NT-proBNP and serum cTnI concentrations. Plasma NT-proBNP elevation is correlated with the severity of the left ventricular outflow obstruction caused by SAM.

Supraventricular tachycardia in 23 cats; comparison with 21 cats with atrial fibrillation (2004-2014)

INTRODUCTION

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) has not been well described in cats. The aim of this study was to describe the signalment, clinical findings, and outcome for cats with SVT versus cats with atrial fibrillation (AF).

ANIMALS

Forty-four client owned cats are included in the study. 23 cats with SVT and 21 with AF.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study. Clinical characteristics were compared between groups using a two-sample t-test or Mann-Whitney U test. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were generated to assess for impact of rhythm diagnosis, presence of ventricular arrhythmia, left atrial diameter, heart rate and congestive heart failure (CHF) status on cardiac death. Differences in survival between groups were compared using Mantel-Cox logrank comparison of Kaplan-Meier survival curves.

RESULTS

Cats with supraventricular arrhythmias most commonly presented with respiratory distress (10 of 44 cats). Cats with AF had a slower median heart rate (220 [range: 180-260 beats per minute (bpm)] compared with cats with SVT (300 [range: 150-380] bpm, p < 0.001). All cats with AF had structural heart disease, whereas 4 cats with SVT had no structural abnormalities. Left atrial diameter was significantly larger in cats with AF (23.7 (16.2-40.1) mm compared with 19.1 (12.8-31.4) mm in SVT cats; p = 0.02). Median survival was 58 days (1-780) in cats with AF and 259 days (2-2295) in cats with SVT (p = 0.1). Cats with signs of CHF had a shorter survival time (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Most cats with AF or SVT have advanced structural heart disease. Some cats with SVT had structurally normal hearts, suggesting that SVT in cats is not always a consequence of atrial enlargement.

ACVIM consensus statement guidelines for the classification, diagnosis, and management of cardiomyopathies in cats

Cardiomyopathies are a heterogeneous group of myocardial disorders of mostly unknown etiology, and they occur commonly in cats. In some cats, they are well‐tolerated and are associated with normal life expectancy, but in other cats they can result in congestive heart failure, arterial thromboembolism or sudden death. Cardiomyopathy classification in cats can be challenging, and in this consensus statement we outline a classification system based on cardiac structure and function (phenotype). We also introduce a staging system for cardiomyopathy that includes subdivision of cats with subclinical cardiomyopathy into those at low risk of life‐threatening complications and those at higher risk. Based on the available literature, we offer recommendations for the approach to diagnosis and staging of cardiomyopathies, as well as for management at each stage.

Cats with thermal burn injuries from California wildfires show echocardiographic evidence of myocardial thickening and intracardiac thrombi

Recent increases in the prevalence and severity of wildfires in some regions have resulted in an increased frequency of veterinary burn patients. Few studies exist regarding diagnostics and management of burn wounds in veterinary patients and current knowledge is extrapolated from human literature and research models. Post-burn cardiac injury is a common finding and predictor of mortality in human patients and echocardiography is an important tool in monitoring response to therapy and predicting outcome. We describe the notable findings from cats naturally exposed to California wildfires in 2017 and 2018. Domestic cats (n = 51) sustaining burn injuries from the Tubbs (2017) and Camp (2018) wildfires were prospectively enrolled and serial echocardiograms and cardiac troponin I evaluations were performed. Echocardiograms of affected cats revealed a high prevalence of myocardial thickening (18/51) and spontaneous echocardiographic contrast and thrombi formation (16/51). Forty-two cats survived to discharge and 6 died or were euthanized due to a possible cardiac cause. For the first time, we describe cardiovascular and coagulation effects of thermal burn and smoke inhalation in cats. Further studies in veterinary burn victims are warranted and serve as a translational research opportunity for uncovering novel disease mechanisms and therapies.

Cats with thermal burn injuries from California wildfires show echocardiographic evidence of myocardial thickening and intracardiac thrombi

Recent increases in the prevalence and severity of wildfires in some regions have resulted in an increased frequency of veterinary burn patients. Few studies exist regarding diagnostics and management of burn wounds in veterinary patients and current knowledge is extrapolated from human literature and research models. Post-burn cardiac injury is a common finding and predictor of mortality in human patients and echocardiography is an important tool in monitoring response to therapy and predicting outcome. We describe the notable findings from cats naturally exposed to California wildfires in 2017 and 2018. Domestic cats (n = 51) sustaining burn injuries from the Tubbs (2017) and Camp (2018) wildfires were prospectively enrolled and serial echocardiograms and cardiac troponin I evaluations were performed. Echocardiograms of affected cats revealed a high prevalence of myocardial thickening (18/51) and spontaneous echocardiographic contrast and thrombi formation (16/51). Forty-two cats survived to discharge and 6 died or were euthanized due to a possible cardiac cause. For the first time, we describe cardiovascular and coagulation effects of thermal burn and smoke inhalation in cats. Further studies in veterinary burn victims are warranted and serve as a translational research opportunity for uncovering novel disease mechanisms and therapies.

A case report on transient global ventricular wall thickening secondary to acute myocarditis: Focus on the unique role of cardiac MRI

INTRODUCTION

Transient left ventricular wall thickening is known to develop in the acute phase of myocarditis, with several reports documenting this unusual mode of myocarditis. Diagnosing myocarditis can be challenging because symptoms, clinical exam findings, electrocardiogram results, biomarkers, and echocardiogram results are often non-specific. Therefore, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging has become the primary non-invasive imaging tool in patients with suspected myocarditis.

PATIENT CONCERNS AND DIAGNOSIS

A 51-year-old male was referred to our hospital with a 20-day history of fever. Initial echocardiogram demonstrated diffuse concentric left ventricular hypertrophy with depressed left ventricular diastolic function, previously misdiagnosed as restrictive cardiomyopathy. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed global ventricular wall thickening, and the negative delayed enhancement made hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and myocardial amyloidosis less likely. This information, along with laboratory analyses, led to a diagnosis of acute myocarditis.

INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOMES

The patient underwent a treatment regimen, including a prescription of levofloxacin and other supporting treatments. During the period following, the patient experienced a few minor episodes of atypical chest pain with spontaneous remission. The patient was discharged after 8 days of hospitalization. A cardiac MRI evaluation was repeated after 17 months, this time showing that the wall thickness had returned to normal; the myocarditis resolved without sequela.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, we report on a case of transient global ventricular wall thickening secondary to acute myocarditis, which rarely has been described previously. Our study demonstrates that transient ventricular wall thickening related to myocardial interstitial edema also can involve the right ventricular wall, a fact that is important in diagnosis and differential diagnosis. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance currently is considered the most comprehensive and accurate diagnostic tool in patients with suspected myocarditis.

Evaluation of a sensitive cardiac troponin I assay as a screening test for the diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats

Background

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common cardiac disease in cats. However, most cats are not diagnosed until they develop congestive heart failure, arterial thromboembolism (ATE), or sudden cardiac death. Thus, an affordable screening test for early detection of HCM is desirable.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Evaluation of a sensitive cardiac troponin I (cTnI) assay as a screening test for HCM in cats and determination of a cutoff for its early detection.

Animals

One hundred sixty‐six client‐owned cats (male, n = 97) of various breeds were evaluated and classified using echocardiography as being healthy (n = 87), equivocal (n = 15), or having HCM (mild, n = 16; moderate, n = 10; severe, n = 34) or ATE (n = 4).

Methods

All cats were prospectively evaluated by echocardiography, and serum cTnI concentration was determined using the currently most sensitive assay (Siemens ADVIA Centaur TnI‐Ultra).

Results

The median cTnI concentration was significantly different between study groups (P < .000001). A cutoff of 0.06 ng/mL provided good discrimination between healthy cats and cats with HCM (sensitivity, 91.7%; specificity, 95.4%; area under the curve [AUC], 0.95; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.899‐0.978). Even for asymptomatic cats with HCM, sensitivity and specificity for a cutoff of >0.06 ng/mL remained high at 87.8% and 95.4%, respectively (AUC, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.864‐0.964).

Conclusions and clinical importance

Cardiac troponin I can be used as a sensitive and specific screening test for the diagnosis of HCM in otherwise healthy cats (cutoff, >0.06 ng/mL). However, echocardiography is needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Holter monitoring demonstrates that ventricular arrhythmias are common in cats with decompensated and compensated hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Arrhythmias can complicate cardiac disease in cats and are a potential cause of sudden death. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence and nature of cardiac arrhythmias, and the potential correlation between plasma serum troponin I (cTnI) concentrations and the presence or severity of arrhythmias in cats with decompensated (dHCM) and compensated hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (cHCM). Forty one client-owned cats were studied: 16 with cHCM, 15 with dHCM and 10 healthy control cats. Physical examination, echocardiography, cTnI and 24-h Holter recordings were obtained in all cats and thoracic radiographs in cats with dHCM. Cats in both HCM groups were followed for 1 year after their initial Holter examination. The median (range) number of ventricular premature complexes (VPCs) over 24h was 867 (1-35,160) in cats with dHCM, 431 (0-18,919) in cats with cHCM and 2 (0-13) in healthy control cats. The median number of episodes of ventricular tachycardia (VTach) was 0 (0-1497) in dHCM and 0.5 (0-91) in cats with cHCM. The number of VPCs, VTach episodes and heart rate was not different between the HCM groups. Plasma serum troponin I was highest in the cats with dHCM, but there was no correlation between cTnI concentration and the number of arrhythmias. Thirteen of 31 cats with HCM died, but an association with the presence and complexity of ventricular arrhythmias was not observed. Compared to healthy cats, ventricular arrhythmias were common in cats with cHCM and dHCM, but neither presence nor complexity of arrhythmias could be linked to prognosis.

Transient myocardial thickening in a Bartonella henselae-positive cat

A 3-year-old castrated male domestic shorthair presented to the Cornell University Hospital for Animals for acute onset respiratory distress. Thoracic radiographs, echocardiogram, and electrocardiogram (ECG) revealed left-sided congestive heart failure, myocardial thickening with left atrial dilation, and sinus rhythm conducted with a left bundle branch block, respectively. Cardiac troponin I was elevated and continued to increase over 36 h (1.9 ng/mL, 3.1 ng/mL, and 3.5 ng/mL, sequentially every 12 h). The cat tested positive for Bartonella henselae and was treated with azithromycin (30 mg/kg by mouth (PO) every 24 h for 30 days), along with furosemide (1 mg/kg PO every 24 h), benazepril (0.4 mg/kg PO every 24 h), pimobendan (0.23 mg/kg PO every 12 h), and clopidogrel (18.75 mg PO every 24 h). Reevaluation at 6 weeks revealed normal respiratory rate on physical examination, normal cardiac structures and function on echocardiogram, resolution of left bundle branch block on ECG, and normal cardiac troponin I levels (0.06 ng/mL). All medications were discontinued at this time, and the cat continued to do well 5 months after reevaluation. Here, we report a case of transient myocardial thickening in a cat that was also positive for B. henselae.