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Lee IH, Heo J, Lee H, Jeong J, Kim J, Han M, Yoo J, Kim J, Baik M, Park H, Jung JW, Kim YD, Nam HS. Long-term outcomes of patients with embolic stroke of undetermined source according to subtype. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9295. [PMID: 38653743 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58292-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The prognosis of patients with embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) may vary according to the underlying cause. Therefore, we aimed to divide ESUS into subtypes and assess the long-term outcomes. Consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent a comprehensive workup, including transesophageal echocardiography and prolonged electrocardiography monitoring, were enrolled. We classified ESUS into minor cardioembolic (CE) ESUS, arteriogenic ESUS, two or more causes ESUS, and no cause ESUS. Arteriogenic ESUS was sub-classified into complex aortic plaque (CAP) ESUS and non-stenotic (< 50%) relevant artery plaque (NAP) ESUS. A total of 775 patients were enrolled. During 1286 ± 748 days follow-up, 116 major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) occurred (4.2 events/100 patient-years). Among the ESUS subtypes, CAP ESUS was associated with the highest MACE frequency (9.7/100 patient-years, p = 0.021). Cox regression analyses showed that CAP ESUS was associated with MACE (hazard ratio 2.466, 95% confidence interval 1.305-4.660) and any stroke recurrence (hazard ratio 2.470, 95% confidence interval, 1.108-5.508). The prognosis of ESUS varies according to the subtype, with CAP ESUS having the worst prognosis. Categorizing ESUS into subtypes could improve patient care and refine clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Il Hyung Lee
- Department of Neurology, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Republic of Korea
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Department of Neurology, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - JoonNyung Heo
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyungwoo Lee
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - JaeWook Jeong
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Joonho Kim
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Minho Han
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Joonsang Yoo
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinkwon Kim
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Minyoul Baik
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyungjong Park
- Department of Neurology, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Wook Jung
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Dae Kim
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Suk Nam
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Chao TF, Potpara TS, Lip GY. Atrial fibrillation: stroke prevention. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. EUROPE 2024; 37:100797. [PMID: 38362551 PMCID: PMC10867001 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanepe.2023.100797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Stroke prevention is central to the management of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) which has moved towards a more holistic or integrative care approach. The published evidence suggests that management of AF patients following such a holistic approach based on the Atrial fibrillation Better Care (ABC) pathway is associated with a lower risk of stroke and adverse events. Risk assessment, re-assessment and use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are important for stroke prevention in AF. The stroke and bleeding risks of AF patients are not static and should be re-assessed regularly. Bleeding risk assessment is to address and mitigate modifiable bleeding risk factors, and to identify high bleeding risk patients for early review and follow-up. Well-controlled comorbidities and healthy lifestyles also play an important role to achieve a better clinical outcome. Digital health solutions are increasingly relevant in the diagnosis and management of patients with AF, with the potential to improve stroke prevention. In this review, we provide an update on stroke prevention in AF, including importance of holistic management, risk assessment/re-assessment, and stroke prevention for special AF populations. Evidence-based and structured management of AF patients would reduce the risk of stroke and other adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tze-Fan Chao
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, and Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tatjana S. Potpara
- School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Cardiology Clinic, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Gregory Y.H. Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Danish Center for Clinical Health Services Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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3
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Haniff S, Shive Gowda A, Al-Khafaji N, Gorantla A. High-Risk Aortic Plaque in Atrial Fibrillation: A Therapeutic Dilemma. Cureus 2024; 16:e53913. [PMID: 38465040 PMCID: PMC10924777 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF), a common cardiac arrhythmia, is often accompanied by aortic plaques that are associated with an increased risk of embolic events, including stroke. Evidence-based management in this population is lacking. We present a case of a 77-year-old female with new-onset AF who was found to have a high-risk aortic plaque at the level of the ascending aorta and ostium of the right coronary artery. Definitive treatment for AF, cardioversion, high-risk aortic plaque, and cardiothoracic surgery, could not be performed due to the elevated risk of ischemic stroke and embolic complications. Based on existing literature, the cardiologist and cardiothoracic surgeon collaboratively decided to treat both conditions with anticoagulation, statin, and periodic imaging surveillance of high-risk aortic plaque. The patient was successfully managed without any thromboembolic complications despite an elevated risk. This case report provides a comprehensive literature review of managing AF with high-risk aortic plaques. It delves into the integration of anticoagulation and antiplatelet agents in the dual challenge of stroke prevention in AF and mitigating embolic risks associated with aortic plaques. To date, there has been no consensus on managing AF and high-risk aortic plaques; thus, we aim to fill this gap.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Asher Gorantla
- Internal Medicine, State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Health Sciences University (HSU), Brooklyn, USA
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4
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Onuegbu A, Calicchio F, Kinninger A, Nakanishi R, Carr JJ, Nasir K, Gottesman R, Budoff M. Mitral annular calcification as a predictor of stroke in the multiethnic study of atherosclerosis. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2023; 24:680-688. [PMID: 37409651 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mitral annular calcification (MAC) is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This study provides recent data on the association between cardiac computed tomography (CT) derived MAC and 15 years of stroke risk in a racially diverse cohort. METHODS All multiethnic studies of atherosclerosis participants ( n = 6814) who completed a cardiac CT at baseline were included in this analysis. MAC score was calculated from cardiac CT using the Agatston and volume score methods. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to compute hazard ratios for the association between MAC and stroke after adjusting for traditional cardiovascular risk factors, inflammatory markers, coronary artery calcium score, atrial fibrillation, and left atrial size. RESULTS Overall, 9% of participants (644/6814) had MAC at baseline. Over a surveillance period of 15 years, 304 strokes occurred, and 79% were ischemic strokes. After adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, SBP, diabetes, smoking, fibrinogen, IL-6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and coronary artery calcium score, baseline MAC was associated with increased risk for all strokes [hazard ratio 1.68; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.22-2.30: P = 0.0013]. When atrial fibrillation/flutter and left atrial size were included in the final multivariable model, MAC remained a predictor of all strokes (hazard ratio 1.93; 95% CI 1.22-3.05: P < 0.0051) and ischemic stroke (hazard ratio 2.03; 95% CI 1.24-3.31: P < 0.0046). CONCLUSION MAC is an independent predictor of long-term stroke risk in a racially diverse population beyond conventional cardiovascular risk factors and atrial fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afiachukwu Onuegbu
- Division of Cardiology, Lundquist Institute at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
| | - Francesca Calicchio
- Division of Cardiology, Lundquist Institute at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
| | - April Kinninger
- Division of Cardiology, Lundquist Institute at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
| | - Rine Nakanishi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Toho University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - John J Carr
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | | | - Rebecca Gottesman
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Matthew Budoff
- Division of Cardiology, Lundquist Institute at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
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5
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Murakami T, Sakakura K, Jinnouchi H, Taniguchi Y, Tsukui T, Watanabe Y, Yamamoto K, Seguchi M, Wada H, Fujita H. Acute Ischemic Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Who Underwent Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12030840. [PMID: 36769488 PMCID: PMC9917385 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12030840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is a rare but critical complication following ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The risk of AIS or transient ischemic attack (TIA) may be amplified by invasive procedures, including primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with in-hospital AIS/TIA in patients with STEMI who required primary PCI. METHODS We included 941 STEMI patients who underwent primary PCI and divided them into an AIS/TIA group (n = 39) and a non-AIS/TIA group (n = 902), according to new-onset AIS/TIA. The primary interest was to find the factors associated with AIS/TIA by multivariate logistic regression analysis. We also compared clinical outcomes between the AIS/TIA and non-AIS/TIA groups. RESULTS The incidence of in-hospital deaths was significantly higher in the AIS/TIA group (46.2%) than in the non-AIS/TIA group (6.3%) (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that cardiogenic shock (OR 3.228, 95% CI 1.492-6.986, p = 0.003), new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) (OR 2.280, 95% CI 1.033-5.031, p = 0.041), trans-femoral approach (OR 2.336, 95% CI 1.093-4.992, p = 0.029), use of ≥4 catheters (OR 3.715, 95% CI 1.831-7.537, p < 0.001), and bleeding academic research consortium (BARC) type 3 or 5 bleeding (OR 2.932, 95% CI 1.256-6.846, p = 0.013) were significantly associated with AIS/TIA. CONCLUSION In STEMI patients with primary PCI, new-onset AIS/TIA was significantly associated with cardiogenic shock, new-onset AF, trans-femoral approach, the use of ≥4 catheters, and BARC type 3 or 5 bleeding. We should recognize these modifiable and unmodifiable risk factors for AIS/TIA in the treatment of STEMI.
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6
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Brust JC. Stroke and Substance Abuse. Stroke 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-69424-7.00039-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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7
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Coexisting of aortic arch atheroma and atrial fibrillation for short-term recurrence and poor functional outcome in acute stroke. Neurol Sci 2021; 43:2387-2396. [PMID: 34748067 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05722-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Multiple embolic sources are sometimes observed simultaneously in patients with embolic stroke. The present study investigated the effects of coexisting aortic arch atheroma ≥ 4 mm thick and atrial fibrillation (AF) on short-term stroke recurrence and functional outcome. METHODS Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) was performed in consecutive embolic stroke patients, and 395 patients were classified into 4 groups according to the presence of aortic arch atheroma ≥ 4 mm thick and AF: AF - /ARCH - group, AF + /ARCH - group, AF - /ARCH + group, and AF + /ARCH + group. In accordance with these 4 groups, we evaluated stroke recurrence and all-cause death for 3 months after stroke onset, and also evaluated the 3-month functional outcome using the modified Rankin scale (mRS). RESULTS Among the 128 AF patients, 39.1% also had aortic arch atheroma ≥ 4 mm thick. Of the 395 enrolled cases, the AF + /ARCH + group showed the highest frequencies of stroke recurrence and all-cause death during 3 months after onset. On multivariate analysis, stroke recurrence or all-cause death during 3 months after onset was relatively more frequent in the AF + /ARCH + group than in the AF + /ARCH - group (OR, 2.34; 95% CI, 0.82-6.69; p = 0.11), but that was not statistically significant, and poor functional outcome (mRS score 3-6) at 3 months was significantly more frequent in the AF + /ARCH + group than in the AF + /ARCH - group (OR, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.08-6.24; p = 0.0339). CONCLUSIONS Aortic arch atheroma concomitant with AF is not rare and appears associated with increased risks of stroke recurrence and poor functional outcome.
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8
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Kojima K, Fukamachi D, Okumura Y. Ischemic Stroke Patients with Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation have a Risk for Aortogenic Embolizations. J Atheroscler Thromb 2021; 28:786-788. [PMID: 33814487 PMCID: PMC8265922 DOI: 10.5551/jat.62890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
We have a great interest in the article in Journal of Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis by Suzuki et al. titled Complex Aortic Arch Atherosclerosis in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients with Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation. The authors demonstrated that 38.7% transesophageal echocardiography-derived complex aortic arch plaques (CAPs) among 106 patients with acute ischemic strokes with atrial fibrillation (AF), suggesting that patients with acute ischemic stroke and AF often had CAPs. The atheromatous lesions at the aortic arch are one of the causes of ischemic strokes. The cause of acute ischemic strokes in patients with AF could not only be cardiogenic embolisms due to AF but also aortogenic embolisms due to CAPs. The possibility of concomitant CAPs should be considered for stroke patients with AF. Non-obstructive general angioscopy has the possibility to detect aortic plaques in the aortic arch more accurately than TEE and might help to diagnose atheromatous plaques and embolic materials in the aortic arch. Further studies are needed to elucidate the causes of ischemic strokes and are expected to improve the outcomes for acute ischemic strokes in patients with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Kojima
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Fukamachi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuo Okumura
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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9
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Effects of Ageing on Aortic Circulation During Atrial Fibrillation; a Numerical Study on Different Aortic Morphologies. Ann Biomed Eng 2021; 49:2196-2213. [PMID: 33655419 PMCID: PMC8455405 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-021-02744-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) can alter intra-cardiac flow and cardiac output that subsequently affects aortic flow circulation. These changes may become more significant where they occur concomitantly with ageing. Aortic ageing is accompanied with morphological changes such as dilation, lengthening, and arch unfolding. While the recognition of AF mechanism has been the subject of numerous studies, less focus has been devoted to the aortic circulation during the AF and there is a lack of such investigation at different ages. The current work aims to address the present gap. First, we analyse aortic flow distribution in three configurations, which attribute to young, middle and old people, using geometries constructed via clinical data. We then introduce two transient inlet flow conditions representative of key AF-associated defects. Results demonstrate that both AF and ageing negatively affect flow circulation. The main consequence of concomitant occurrence is enhancement of endothelial cell activation potential (ECAP) throughout the vascular domain, mainly at aortic arch and descending thoracic aorta, which is consistent with some clinical observations. The outcome of the current study suggests that AF exacerbates the vascular defects occurred due to the ageing, which increases the possibility of cardiovascular diseases per se.
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10
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Suzuki M, Furuya K, Ozawa M, Miura K, Ozawa T, Matsuzono K, Mashiko T, Koide R, Fujimoto S, Tanaka R. Complex Aortic Arch Atherosclerosis in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients with Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation. J Atheroscler Thromb 2020; 28:776-785. [PMID: 32908035 PMCID: PMC8265927 DOI: 10.5551/jat.58339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim:
Aortic arch atherosclerosis, particularly complex aortic arch plaques (CAPs), is an important source of cerebral emboli. CAPs and atrial fibrillation (AF) often co-exist; however, the prevalence and risk of CAPs in acute ischemic stroke patients with AF is unclear.
Methods:
In patients with acute ischemic stroke with non-valvular AF admitted to Jichi Medical University Hospital during April 2016 to September 2019, we retrospectively evaluated the presence of CAPs on transesophageal echocardiography (TEE).
Results:
CAPs were observed in 41 (38.7 %) of 106 patients with non-valvular AF. Older age, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, higher levels of glycohemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), higher CHADS
2
and CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc scores, and intracranial or carotid artery stenosis were more frequently observed in CAPs-positive than in CAPs-negative patients. In multivariable analyses, older age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.2 per year increase; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07–1.24;
P
<0.0001), diabetes mellitus (OR: 4.7; 95%CI: 1.27-17.35;
P
<0.05), and low HDL-C (OR: 0.95 per 1 mg/dl increase; 95%CI: 0.92-0.99;
P
<0.01) were independent risk factors for CAPs. The prevalence of CAPs was age-dependent, and there was a significantly higher risk in patients aged either 75–84 years or >84 years than in those aged <65 (OR: 7.6; 95%CI: 1.50-38.62, and OR: 32.1; 95%CI: 5.14-200.11, respectively).
Conclusions:
Even in patients with ischemic stroke with non-valvular AF, concomitant CAPs should be considered in older individuals and those who have diabetes or low HDL-C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Suzuki
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University
| | - Kohei Furuya
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University
| | - Misato Ozawa
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University
| | - Kumiko Miura
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University
| | - Tadashi Ozawa
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University
| | - Kosuke Matsuzono
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University
| | - Takafumi Mashiko
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University
| | - Reiji Koide
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University
| | - Shigeru Fujimoto
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University
| | - Ryota Tanaka
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University.,Stroke Center, Jichi Medical University Hospital
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11
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Deyranlou A, Naish JH, Miller CA, Revell A, Keshmiri A. Numerical Study of Atrial Fibrillation Effects on Flow Distribution in Aortic Circulation. Ann Biomed Eng 2020; 48:1291-1308. [PMID: 31938982 PMCID: PMC7089914 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-020-02448-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of arrhythmia, which undermines cardiac function. Atrial fibrillation is a multi-facet malady and it may occur as a result of other diseases or it may trigger other problems. One of the main complications of AF is stroke due to the possibility of clot formation inside the atrium. However, the possibility of stroke occurrence due to the AF and the location from which an embolus dispatches are subject of debate. Another hypothesis about the embolus formation during AF is thrombus formation in aorta and carotid arteries, embolus detachment and its movement. To investigate the possibility of the latter postulation, the current work suggests a parametric study to quantify the sensitivity of aortic flow to four common AF traits including lack of atrial kick, atrial remodelling, left ventricle systolic dysfunction, and high frequency fibrillation. The simulation was carried out by coupling several in-house codes and ANSYS-CFX module. The results reveal that AF traits lower flow rate at left ventricular outflow tract, which in general lowers blood perfusion to systemic, cerebral and coronary circulations. Consequently, it leads to endothelial cell activation potential (ECAP) increase and variation of flow structure that both suggest predisposed areas to atherogenesis and thrombus formation in different regions in ascending aorta, aortic arch and descending thoracic aorta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Deyranlou
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering (MACE), The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Josephine H Naish
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Christopher A Miller
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK.,Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Southmoor Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK.,Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell-Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Alistair Revell
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering (MACE), The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Amir Keshmiri
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering (MACE), The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK.
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12
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D’Souza A, Butcher KS, Buck BH. The Multiple Causes of Stroke in Atrial Fibrillation: Thinking Broadly. Can J Cardiol 2018; 34:1503-1511. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2018.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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13
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Mahfouz RA, Galal I, Ghareb MS, Abdelghafar AS. Association between left atrial stiffness and aortic plaque thickness in hypertensive patients with stroke. Echocardiography 2018; 35:949-956. [DOI: 10.1111/echo.13877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ragab A. Mahfouz
- Cardiology Department; Zagazig University Hospital; Zagazig Egypt
| | - Islam Galal
- Cardiology Department; Zagazig University Hospital; Zagazig Egypt
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14
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Inao K, Hirai T, Nakagawa K, Numa S, Ohara K, Fukuda N, Kinugawa K, Inoue H. Transesophageal echocardiographic thromboembolic risk is associated with smoking status in patients with atrial fibrillation. J Arrhythm 2017; 33:613-618. [PMID: 29255510 PMCID: PMC5729004 DOI: 10.1016/j.joa.2017.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Smoking is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, but it is unclear whether smoking status, including environmental tobacco smoke, increases stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Abnormalities of the left atrium (LA) and aortic atherosclerosis, as detected by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), are risk factors for stroke and thromboembolism in AF patients. We investigated the impact of smoking status on thromboembolic risk by TEE in patients with nonvalvular AF. METHODS In 122 patients with AF (mean age, 63 years; chronic AF 50%) who underwent TEE before catheter ablation of AF or for detection of the potential cardioembolic source, urinary concentrations of cotinine and clinical variables including smoking status and the CHA2DS2-VASc score were determined. RESULTS Severe aortic atherosclerosis and increased aortic wall thickness were more frequently detected by TEE in current smokers than in non-smokers (p<0.05), though these findings did not significantly differ between non-smokers and environmental smokers. Patients in AF rhythm during TEE, who were environmental smokers and at relatively low risk, as stratified by their CHA2DS2-VASc score (≤ 2), showed lower LA appendage flow velocity than those without environmental smoking (47±22 vs. 34±13 cm/sec, p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS TEE findings indicated that smoking status could be associated with thromboembolic risk in patients with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoko Inao
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Tadakazu Hirai
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
- Correspondence to: Second Department of Internal Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama 930-0194, Japan. Fax: +81 76 434 5026.Second Department of Internal Medicine, University of Toyama2630 SugitaniToyama930-0194Japan
| | - Keiko Nakagawa
- Center for Health Care and Human Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Satoshi Numa
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Ohara
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Fukuda
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Koichiro Kinugawa
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
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He W, Chu Y. Atrial fibrillation as a prognostic indicator of myocardial infarction and cardiovascular death: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2017; 7:3360. [PMID: 28611377 PMCID: PMC5469813 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-03653-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate whether atrial fibrillation (AF) predicts myocardial infarction (MI) or cardiovascular (CV) death. AF is a well-established risk factor for thrombotic stroke and all-cause mortality. PubMed, EmBase, and Cochrane Central were searched for articles comparing the incidence rates of MI, CV death, or CV events between AF and non-AF patients. Relative risk ratio (RR) was used as effect estimate. Crude and adjusted RRs were calculated. Data were pooled using a random-effects model. The meta-analysis included 27 studies. In the unadjusted analysis, AF patients had a nonsignificant trend toward a higher risk of MI compared with non-AF patients; however, a significant association was found. The crude data analysis showed that AF was associated with increased risk of CV death (P < 0.05) and CV events (P < 0.05). These associations remained significant after pooling data from adjusted models (CV death: RR = 1.95, 95% CI 1.51–2.51, P < 0.05; CV events: RR = 2.10, 95% CI 1.50–2.95, P < 0.05). These results showed that AF is an independent risk factor for MI, CV death, and CV events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqi He
- Emergency department, Henan province People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, 450003, China
| | - Yingjie Chu
- Emergency department, Henan province People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, 450003, China.
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Abstract
Cardiac embolism accounts for an increasing proportion of ischemic strokes and might multiply several-fold during the next decades. However, research points to several potential strategies to stem this expected rise in cardioembolic stroke. First, although one-third of strokes are of unclear cause, it is increasingly accepted that many of these cryptogenic strokes arise from a distant embolism rather than in situ cerebrovascular disease, leading to the recent formulation of embolic stroke of undetermined source as a distinct target for investigation. Second, recent clinical trials have indicated that embolic stroke of undetermined source may often stem from subclinical atrial fibrillation, which can be diagnosed with prolonged heart rhythm monitoring. Third, emerging evidence indicates that a thrombogenic atrial substrate can lead to atrial thromboembolism even in the absence of atrial fibrillation. Such an atrial cardiomyopathy may explain many cases of embolic stroke of undetermined source, and oral anticoagulant drugs may prove to reduce stroke risk from atrial cardiomyopathy given its parallels to atrial fibrillation. Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant drugs have recently expanded therapeutic options for preventing cardioembolic stroke and are currently being tested for stroke prevention in patients with embolic stroke of undetermined source, including specifically those with atrial cardiomyopathy. Fourth, increasing appreciation of thrombogenic atrial substrate and the common coexistence of cardiac and extracardiac stroke risk factors suggest benefits from global vascular risk factor management in addition to anticoagulation. Finally, improved imaging of ventricular thrombus plus the availability of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant drugs may lead to better prevention of stroke from acute myocardial infarction and heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hooman Kamel
- From the Clinical and Translational Neuroscience Unit, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute (H.K.) and Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY (H.K.); and Department of Medicine and Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada (J.S.H.).
| | - Jeff S Healey
- From the Clinical and Translational Neuroscience Unit, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute (H.K.) and Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY (H.K.); and Department of Medicine and Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada (J.S.H.)
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17
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Clinical characteristics of complex aortic plaque in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Int J Cardiol 2016; 230:85-90. [PMID: 28038818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2016.12.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although complex aortic plaque (CxAoP) is a component of the CHA2DS2-VASc score in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), it is underestimated without detection by trans-esophageal echocardiogram (TEE). We have evaluated the incidence and significance of CxAoP among patients with non-valvular AF (NVAF). METHODS We included 981 patients with NVAF who underwent catheter ablation (59.1±11.1years old, 73.7% male, 70.2% paroxysmal AF). All of the patients underwent pre-procedural TEE evaluation. Left atrial (LA)-cardioembolic (CE) milieu was defined as a dense spontaneous echo-contrast or LA appendage flow velocity≤20cm/s. RESULTS CxAoP was present in 8.3% of patients, and independently associated with age (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.03-1.10, p<0.001), male sex (OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.29-4.24, p=0.005), and CHA2DS2-VASc score≥2 (OR 3.33, 95%CI 1.42-7.77, p=0.005). The presence of LA-CE milieu overlapped with CxAoP in only 11% of patients. Patients with CxAoP had a higher prevalence of hypertension (p=0.004), smoking history (p=0.008), paroxysmal AF (PAF, p<0.001), and a smaller LA volume index (p<0.001) than those with LA-CE milieu. The prevalence of persistent AF among patients with a history of stroke was significantly lower in the presence of CxAoP than in those with LA-CE milieu (p=0.014). CHA2DS2-VASc score was underestimated in 11% of high-risk patients (CHA2DS2-VASc score≥2) due to undetected CxAoP. CONCLUSIONS CxAoP may contribute to the risk of stroke by a different mechanism than LA-CE milieu in patients with NVAF. Imaging assessment for CxAoP affects thromboembolic risk stratification and decision making for stroke prevention in patients with NVAF.
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Xing Y, Ma Q, Ma X, Wang C, Zhang D, Sun Y. CHADS2 score has a better predictive value than CHA2DS2-VASc score in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation. Clin Interv Aging 2016; 11:941-6. [PMID: 27478371 PMCID: PMC4951063 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s105360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim The study aims to compare the ability of CHA2DS2-VASc (defined as congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥75 years [two scores], type 2 diabetes mellitus, previous stroke, transient ischemic attack, or thromboembolism [TE] [doubled], vascular disease, age 65–74 years, and sex category) and CHADS2 (defined as congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥75 years, type 2 diabetes mellitus, previous stroke [doubled]) scores to predict the risk of ischemic stroke (IS) or TE among patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). Methods A total of 413 patients with NVAF aged ≥65 years, and not on oral anticoagulants for the previous 6 months, were enrolled in the study. The predictive value of the CHA2DS2-VASc and CHADS2 scores for IS/TE events was evaluated by the Kaplan–Meier method. Results During a follow-up period of 1.99±1.29 years, 104 (25.2%) patients died and 59 (14.3%) patients developed IS/TE. The CHADS2 score performed better than the CHA2DS2-VASc score in predicting IS/TE as assessed by c-indexes (0.647 vs 0.615, respectively; P<0.05). Non-CHADS2 risk factors, such as vascular disease and female sex, were not found to be predictive of IS/TE (hazard ratio 1.518, 95% CI: 0.832–2.771; hazard ratio 1.067, 95% CI: 0.599–1.899, respectively). No differences in event rates were found in patients with the CHADS2 scores of 1 and 2 (7.1% vs 7.8%). It was observed that patients with a CHADS2 score of ≥3 were most in need of anticoagulation therapy. Conclusion In patients with NVAF aged ≥65 years, the CHADS2 score was found to be significantly better in predicting IS/TE events when compared to the CHA2DS2-VASc score. Patients with a CHADS2 score of ≥3 were associated with high risk of IS/TE events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunli Xing
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Ma
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoying Ma
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Cuiying Wang
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Dai Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Sun
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Zamorano J, Gonçalves A, Lancellotti P, Andersen KA, González-Gómez A, Monaghan M, Brochet E, Wunderlich N, Gafoor S, Gillam LD, La Canna G. The use of imaging in new transcatheter interventions: an EACVI review paper. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2016; 17:835-835af. [PMID: 27311822 DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jew043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcatheter therapies for the treatment of valve heart diseases have expanded dramatically over the last years. The new developments and improvements in devices and techniques, along with the increasing expertise of operators, have turned the catheter-based approaches for valvular disease into an established treatment option. Various imaging techniques are used during these procedures, but echocardiography plays an essential role during patient selection, intra-procedural monitoring, and post-procedure follow-up. The echocardiographic assessment of patients undergoing transcatheter interventions places demands on echocardiographers that differ from those of the routine evaluation of patients with valve disease, and there is a need for specific expertise for those working in the cath lab. In the context of the current rapid developments and growing use of transcatheter valve therapies, this document intends to update the previous recommendations and address new advancements in imaging, particularly for those involved in any stage of the treatment of patients with valvular heart diseases.
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Yingchoncharoen T, Jha S, Burchill LJ, Klein AL. Transesophageal Echocardiography in Atrial Fibrillation. Card Electrophysiol Clin 2016; 6:43-59. [PMID: 27063820 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccep.2013.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) plays an important role in atrial fibrillation (AF), mainly to detect the presence of left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombus. It is useful in direct current cardioversion (DCC) guidance and for AF ablation and LAA occlusion. With the increasing number of patients affected by AF, the use of TEE will grow and become an important screening modality for LAA thrombus. Future direction includes broader multi-institutional use; further tools to risk stratify patients; and the use of a new spectrum of oral anticoagulants and their cost-effectiveness in patients with AF undergoing DCC, AF ablation, and LAA occlusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teerapat Yingchoncharoen
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Desk J1-5, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Saurabh Jha
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Desk J1-5, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Luke J Burchill
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Desk J1-5, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Allan L Klein
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Desk J1-5, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
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23
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Noheria A, Syed FF, DeSimone CV, Asirvatham SJ. Optimization Of Stroke Prophylaxis Strategies In Nonvalvular AF -Drugs, Devices Or Both? J Atr Fibrillation 2015; 8:1156. [PMID: 27957183 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.1156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2015] [Revised: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia with the prevalence increasing over time. AF probably afflicts ≥2% of worldwide adult population and increases with age.[1-3] In the Framingham Heart Study, the lifetime risk of having at least one episode of AF for 40-year-old men and women was 26% and 23% respectively.[4].
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Noheria
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Faisal F Syed
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Christopher V DeSimone
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Samuel J Asirvatham
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota; Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
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Hirsh BJ, Copeland-Halperin RS, Halperin JL. Fibrotic atrial cardiomyopathy, atrial fibrillation, and thromboembolism: mechanistic links and clinical inferences. J Am Coll Cardiol 2015; 65:2239-51. [PMID: 25998669 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2015.03.557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Revised: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The association of atrial fibrillation (AF) with ischemic stroke has long been recognized; yet, the pathogenic mechanisms underlying this relationship are incompletely understood. Clinical schemas, such as the CHA2DS2-VASc (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥ 75 years, diabetes mellitus, stroke/transient ischemic attack, vascular disease, age 65 to 74 years, sex category) score, incompletely account for thromboembolic risk, and emerging evidence suggests that stroke can occur in patients with AF even after sinus rhythm is restored. Atrial fibrosis correlates with both the persistence and burden of AF, and gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging is gaining utility for detection and quantification of the fibrotic substrate, but methodological challenges limit its use. Factors related to evolution of the thrombogenic fibrotic atrial cardiomyopathy support the view that AF is a marker of stroke risk regardless of whether or not the arrhythmia is sustained. Antithrombotic therapy should be guided by a comprehensive assessment of intrinsic risk rather than the presence or absence of AF at a given time.
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Sugioka K, Takagi M, Sakamoto S, Fujita S, Ito A, Iwata S, Matsumura Y, Nakagawa M, Doi A, Miki Y, Yoshiyama M, Ueda M. Predictors of silent brain infarction on magnetic resonance imaging in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation: A transesophageal echocardiographic study. Am Heart J 2015; 169:783-90. [PMID: 26027615 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2015.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Silent brain infarction (SBI) is often found in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and may be related to cognitive decline. We investigated the predictors of SBI on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in patients with nonvalvular AF. METHODS The study population consisted of 103 neurologically asymptomatic patients with nonvalvular AF who underwent TEE before transcatheter AF ablation (76 men; mean age 63 ± 10 years). Left atrial (LA) abnormalities such as LA thrombus, spontaneous echo contrast, or abnormal LA appendage emptying velocity (<20 cm/s) and complex plaques in the aortic arch defined as large plaques ≥4 mm thickness, ulcerated plaques, or mobile plaques were evaluated by TEE. All patients were screened for SBI by brain MRI. RESULTS Of 103 patients, 31 (30%) showed SBI on brain MRI. Most lesions were multiple (61%) and small (<15 mm) in diameter (84%). Patients with SBI had a higher prevalence of LA abnormalities (45% vs 14%; P < .001) and complex arch plaques (45% vs 7%; P < .001) compared with those without SBI. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis including age and CHADS2 score ≥2, LA abnormalities (odds ratio 4.13; 95% CI 1.34-12.72; P = .014) and complex arch plaques (odds ratio 4.82; 95% CI 1.23-18.92; P = .024) were independent predictors of SBI. CONCLUSIONS Left atrial abnormalities and complex arch plaques detected by TEE were closely associated with the presence of SBI on brain MRI, suggesting that microembolization of small thrombi derived from the fibrillating LA or advanced aortic atherosclerotic lesions may be important causes of SBI in patients with nonvalvular AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Sugioka
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Masahiko Takagi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sakamoto
- Department of Radiology, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Suwako Fujita
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Asahiro Ito
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shinichi Iwata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Matsumura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masashi Nakagawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Atsushi Doi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yukio Miki
- Department of Radiology, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Minoru Yoshiyama
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Makiko Ueda
- Department of Pathology, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
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“Asymptomatic” persistent or permanent atrial fibrillation: A misnomer in selected patients. Int J Cardiol 2015; 185:112-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2015.03.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Chen-Scarabelli C, Scarabelli TM, Ellenbogen KA, Halperin JL. Device-Detected Atrial Fibrillation. J Am Coll Cardiol 2015; 65:281-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2014.10.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2014] [Revised: 10/14/2014] [Accepted: 10/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Matsumura Y, Sugioka K, Fujita S, Ito A, Iwata S, Yoshiyama M. Association between chronic kidney disease and thoracic aortic atherosclerosis detected using transesophageal echocardiography. Atherosclerosis 2014; 237:301-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2014.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2014] [Revised: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Abstract
Percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) closure is being increasingly used as a treatment strategy to prevent stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who have contraindications to anticoagulants. Several approaches and devices have been developed in the last few years, each with their own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, the published studies on surgical and percutaneous approaches to LAA closure are reviewed, focusing on stroke mechanisms in AF, LAA structure and function relevant to stroke prevention, practical differences in procedural approach, and clinical considerations surrounding management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal F Syed
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Christopher V DeSimone
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Paul A Friedman
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Samuel J Asirvatham
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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30
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Sugioka K, Fujita S, Iwata S, Ito A, Matsumura Y, Hanatani A, Doi A, Takagi M, Naruko T, Ueda M, Yoshiyama M. Relationship between CHADS2 score and complex aortic plaques by transesophageal echocardiography in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2014; 40:2358-2364. [PMID: 25023106 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2014.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2014] [Revised: 04/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/07/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The CHADS2 score is widely used for risk stratification of thromboembolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). Although the correlation of CHADS2 score with left atrial (LA) abnormality as detected by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) has been reported in previous studies, the relationship between CHADS2 score and complex aortic plaque, which is also a significant risk factor for thromboembolism, has not been fully investigated. We assessed aortic plaques by TEE in 150 patients age ≥ 55 y with NVAF. The prevalence of complex aortic plaques increased along with increases in CHADS2 score (p = 0.001). In a multivariate analysis that included atherosclerotic risk factors and LA abnormality, a CHADS2 score ≥2 was independently associated with the presence of complex aortic plaques (odds ratio [OR] 3.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.29-8.90). A high CHADS2 score is closely associated with the presence of complex aortic plaques, which explains, in part, the increased risk of thromboembolism in NVAF patients with high CHADS2 score.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Sugioka
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Suwako Fujita
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shinichi Iwata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Asahiro Ito
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Matsumura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Akihisa Hanatani
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Atsushi Doi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masahiko Takagi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takahiko Naruko
- Department of Cardiology, Osaka City General Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Makiko Ueda
- Department of Pathology, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Minoru Yoshiyama
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
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Danese E, Montagnana M, Cervellin G, Lippi G. Hypercoagulability, D-dimer and atrial fibrillation: an overview of biological and clinical evidence. Ann Med 2014; 46:364-71. [PMID: 24863960 DOI: 10.3109/07853890.2014.912835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common among the severe cardiac arrhythmias and carries a significant risk of mortality and morbidity in the general population. The most important complication is represented by development of one or more thrombi in the left atrium of the dyskinetic heart, and their successive cerebral and peripheral embolization. The pathophysiological basis of the thromboembolic complications in AF entails the presence of a hypercoagulable state, which is mirrored by increased concentrations of a variety of prothrombotic markers. D-dimer is universally considered the gold standard among the various biomarkers that reflect activation of coagulation, fibrinolysis, or both, and several studies have assessed its diagnostic and prognostic role in AF. With a few exceptions and despite a broad heterogeneity in the study designs, published data seem to demonstrate that D-dimer values may be associated with the presence of atrial thrombosis, may be predictive of primary adverse outcomes and death, may be correlated with cerebral infarction volume, and may also be a useful parameter for assessing the degree of hypercoagulability of AF patients after cardioversion. If larger prospective studies confirm these findings, D-dimer assessment may hence become an integral part of the clinical decision-making in patients with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Danese
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Hematology, University of Verona , Verona , Italy
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Cui X, Wu S, Zeng Q, Xiao J, Liu M. Detecting atheromatous plaques in the aortic arch or supra-aortic arteries for more accurate stroke subtype classification. Int J Neurosci 2014; 125:123-9. [PMID: 24738734 DOI: 10.3109/00207454.2014.915825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To investigate the correlations of atheromatous plaques in the aortic arch or supra-aortic arteries with intracranial arterial stenosis and carotid plaques in stroke patients, and to determine whether taking these plaques into account will reduce the proportion of patients in the undetermined etiology group. METHODS We prospectively enrolled 308 ischemic stroke patients, whose clinical characteristics and A-S-C-O classifications were compared with analyses of intracranial arteries, carotid arteries, aortic arch, and supra-aortic arteries. RESULTS 125(40.6%) patients had plaques in the aortic arch or supra-aortic arteries, of which 106 (84.8%) had complex plaques. No correlations were observed between these plaques and carotid plaques ( p = 0.283) or intracranial arterial stenosis ( p = 0.097). After detecting the mobile thrombi in the aortic arch and supra-aortic arteries, the proportion of patients in the atherothrombosis group was increased from 33.8% to 55.5% ( p = 0.00), whereas the proportion of patients in stroke of undetermined etiology group was decreased from 19.2% to 11.0% ( p = 0.00). DISCUSSION Examining only the carotid and intracranial arteries may not provide adequate information about large arteries in stroke patients. Therefore, it would be better to include a search for relevant plaques in the aortic arch or supra-aortic arteries in modern stroke workup, for it may lead to more accurate stroke subtype classification and guide secondary prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyang Cui
- 1Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University , Chengdu , China
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Mulpuru SK, Rabinstein AA, Asirvatham SJ. Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke: A Neurologic Perspective. Card Electrophysiol Clin 2014; 6:31-41. [PMID: 27063819 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccep.2013.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common supraventricular arrhythmia in the United States. The incidence and prevalence of AF are increasing as the population ages and associated risk factors become more prevalent. Stroke is the most severe complication of AF. Various risk stratification schemes to guide therapy and the associated risk of bleeding are described. AF is also associated with cognitive decline, which may be secondary to recurrent microemboli; microbleeds secondary to anticoagulation therapy, or progression of vascular risk factors associated with AF. Prolonged monitoring can be performed to detect AF in patients with cryptogenic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siva K Mulpuru
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Alejandro A Rabinstein
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Samuel J Asirvatham
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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Kamiura N, Yamamoto K, Okada S, Sakai M, Fujimori A. Calcification of the thoracic aorta determined by three-dimensional computed tomography predicts cardiovascular complications in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Int Urol Nephrol 2013; 46:993-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s11255-013-0620-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2013] [Accepted: 11/26/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Ueno Y, Watanabe M, Tanaka Y, Kuroki T, Kurita N, Shimura H, Hattori N, Urabe T. Temporal Changes of Ulcerative Plaques in the Aortic Arch in Recurrent Stroke Patients. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2013; 22:e597-601. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2013.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Revised: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 07/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Feasibility of TEE-guided stroke risk assessment in atrial fibrillation-background, aims, design and baseline data of the TIARA pilot study. Neth Heart J 2013; 19:214-22. [PMID: 21541835 PMCID: PMC3087029 DOI: 10.1007/s12471-011-0095-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antithrombotic management in atrial fibrillation (AF) is currently based on clinical characteristics, despite evidence of potential fine-tuning with transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE). This open, randomised, multicentre study addresses the hypothesis that a comprehensive strategy of TEE-based aspirin treatment in AF patients is feasible and safe. Methods Between 2005 and 2009, ten large hospitals in the Netherlands enrolled AF patients with a moderate risk of stroke. Patients without thrombogenic TEE characteristics were randomised to aspirin or vitamin K antagonists (VKA). The primary objective is to show that TEE-based aspirin treatment is safe compared with VKA therapy. The secondary objective tests feasibility of TEE as a tool to detect echocardiographic features of high stroke risk. This report compares randomised to non-randomised patients and describes the feasibility of a TEE-based approach. Results In total, 310 patients were included. Sixty-nine patients were not randomised because of non-visualisation (n = 6) or TEE risk factors (n = 63). Compared with non-randomised patients, randomised patients (n = 241) were younger (65 ± 11 vs. 69 ± 9 years, p = 0.004), had less coronary artery disease (9 vs. 20%, p = 0.018), previous TIA (1.7 vs. 7.2%, p = 0.029), AF during TEE (25 vs. 54%, p < 0.001), mitral incompetence (55 vs. 70%, p = 0.038), VKA use (69 vs. 82%, p = 0.032), had a lower mean CHADS2 score (1.2 ± 0.6 vs. 1.6 ± 1.0, p = 0.004), and left ventricular ejection fraction (59 ± 8 vs. 56 ± 8%, p = 0.016). Conclusions This study shows that a TEE-based approach for fine-tuning stroke risk in AF patients with a moderate risk for stroke is feasible. Follow-up data will address the safety of this TEE-based approach.
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Anandasundaram B, Lane DA, Apostolakis S, Lip GYH. The impact of atherosclerotic vascular disease in predicting a stroke, thromboembolism and mortality in atrial fibrillation patients: a systematic review. J Thromb Haemost 2013; 11:975-87. [PMID: 23441593 DOI: 10.1111/jth.12177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2012] [Accepted: 02/15/2013] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is commonly associated with vascular disease. Although atherosclerotic vascular disease (for example, defined as a myocardial infarction (MI), complex aortic plaque and peripheral arterial disease) has been proposed as a risk factor for a stroke, the co-existence of the two diseases increases the risk of future cardiovascular events. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review to assess the impact of atherosclerotic vascular disease on the primary end-point of a stroke, thromboembolism or mortality, in patients with AF. METHODS Literature searches were performed electronically, to identify studies published between January 1990and July 2012 examining stroke and thromboembolism in relation to AF and atherosclerotic vascular disease. Nineteen articles satisfied the pre-inclusion criteria. The bibliographies were subsequently screened to retrieve further relevant studies for this review. RESULTS Peripheral arterial disease significantly increased the stroke risk in all 10 observational studies, within a reported risk range of 1.3- to 2.5-fold. Complex aortic plaque on the descending aorta, as identified by trans-oesophageal echocardiography, was also a significant risk factor. Although a prior myocardial infarction (MI) was validated as a significant predictor of the primary end-point amongst five of the six studies, there was a degree of heterogeneity, owing to the marked difference in population sizes and the use of antithrombotic regimens between studies. CONCLUSION Atherosclerotic vascular disease (e.g. peripheral arterial disease, complex aortic plaque and prior MI) are significant predictors of a stroke, thromboembolism and mortality in subjects with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Anandasundaram
- University of Birmingham Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, City Hospital, Birmingham, UK
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Jover E, Marín F, Roldán V, Montoro-García S, Valdés M, Lip GYH. Atherosclerosis and thromboembolic risk in atrial fibrillation: focus on peripheral vascular disease. Ann Med 2013; 45:274-90. [PMID: 23216106 DOI: 10.3109/07853890.2012.732702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia in clinical practice. It results in a 5-fold increased risk for stroke and thromboembolism and is associated with a high morbidity and mortality. AF shares several risk factors and pathophysiological features with atherosclerosis. Hence AF is often complicated by a variety of other cardiovascular conditions. Indeed, peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is highly prevalent among AF patients and associates with increased mortality. Inclusion of PVD within stroke risk scoring systems such as the CHA2DS2-VASc score improves risk stratification of AF patients. Of note, PVD has not been previously well documented nor looked for in observational studies or clinical trials. The aim of this present review article is to provide an overview of the association between atherosclerosis (with particular focus on PVD) and AF as well as its complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Jover
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
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Abstract
OPININION STATEMENT: All patients with ischemic stroke should undergo a comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular risk. Patients with carotid artery disease, symptoms of cerebral ischemia and high cardiovascular risk profiles should be considered for noninvasive testing for coronary artery disease (CAD). Routine testing for CAD before carotid endarterctomy is not recommended. Patients with coexisting coronary and carotid artery disease should be more aggressively treated for reducing their "very high" risk of cardiovascular events. In patients candidates to carotid revascularization, a preoperative coronary angiography and coronary revascularization are not recommended. Warfarin is recommended in all patients with moderate to high risk of stroke. Novel oral anticoagulants represent an attractive alternative to warfarin. However, their place in therapy in clinical practice is not yet established. Percutaneous closure of the left atrial appendage for stroke prophylaxis may be considered in selected patients with atrial fibrillation and contraindications for oral anticoagulant therapy. Warfarin is not indicated in patients with heart failure who are in sinus rhythm. Percutaneous closure of patent foramen does not seem to be superior to medical therapy for the prevention of recurrences in patients with cryptogenic stroke.
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Sachdev M, Daoud EG. Should Atrial Fibrillation Burden Be A Feature to Guide Thromboembolism Prophylaxis? J Atr Fibrillation 2012; 5:530. [PMID: 28496761 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2012] [Revised: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 02/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a well-known risk factor for cerebrovascular events and systemic emboli. However, the frequency and duration of AF necessary to be considered at risk for thrombus formation is unknown. This review summarizes the literature regarding AF burden and risk for thromboembolism. Previously, no distinction was made between patients who had paroxysmal versus persistent AF in regards to initiation of anticoagulation. Recently though, given an enhanced ability to detect even very brief paroxysms of AF via stored device diagnostics, the issue has been readdressed. However, despite multiple studies no clear threshold for AF burden to mandate anticoagulation has been established. In addition, there is a growing body of evidence which suggests that the pathophysiology of thrombus formation in AF involves mechanisms beyond just stasis due to protracted episodes of discoordinate atrial contraction. Therefore, once AF has been diagnosed and the risk-benefit ratio favors anticoagulation, therapy should be initiated and continued indefinitely unless a bleeding contraindication develops. ABBREVIATIONS AF = atrial fibrillation, AT = atrial tachycardia, LAA = left atrial appendage, PAF = paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, SE = systemic emboli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Sachdev
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology,Richard M. Ross Heart Hospital, The Ohio State University Medical Center,Columbus, Ohio
| | - Emile G Daoud
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology,Richard M. Ross Heart Hospital, The Ohio State University Medical Center,Columbus, Ohio
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Maan A, Shaikh AY, Mansour M, Ruskin JN, Heist EK. Stroke and Death Prediction with the Impact of Vascular Disease in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation. J Atr Fibrillation 2012; 5:586. [PMID: 28496751 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2012] [Revised: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 05/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia encountered in the U.S. and the growing burden of AF has profound health implications due to the association of AF with an increased risk of stroke, heart failure, and mortality. AF is a significant risk factor for thromboembolic stroke; and also independently increases total mortality in patients with and without cardiovascular disease. Various risk stratification schemes such as CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc have been implemented in clinical practice to determine the risk of cardio-embolic stroke, and need for thrombo-prophylaxis in patients with AF. AF is also closely related to the pathophysiology of other cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disease. Many patients with AF have associated atherosclerosis given that many risk factors for atherosclerosis also predispose to AF. Myocardial infarction (MI) is also closely related to AF and its clinical course is affected by new onset AF. This review elucidates the impact of AF on major adverse cardiovascular events and mortality outcomes in relation to stroke, coronary artery disease and peripheral vascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Maan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655
| | - Amir Y Shaikh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655
| | - Moussa Mansour
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, GRB 109, 55 Fruit St, Boston MA 02115
| | - Jeremy N Ruskin
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, GRB 109, 55 Fruit St, Boston MA 02115
| | - E Kevin Heist
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, GRB 109, 55 Fruit St, Boston MA 02115
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Violi F, Lip GYH, Basili S. Peripheral artery disease and atrial fibrillation: a potentially dangerous combination. Intern Emerg Med 2012; 7:213-8. [PMID: 21667071 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-011-0637-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2011] [Accepted: 05/20/2011] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is commonly associated with a significant increase in stroke and thromboembolic risk. Many patients with AF have associated atherothrombosis given the many risk factors for atherosclerosis that also predispose to AF. Vascular disease, whether peripheral artery disease or myocardial infarction, contributes to the increased risk of stroke and thromboembolism, and has been included in stroke risk assessment schema. This review analyzes the interplay between AF and peripheral artery disease in relation to their associated pathophysiology, as well as epidemiological data linking both conditions and the associated thromboembolic complications conferred by the presence of both.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Violi
- Divisione di I Clinica Medica, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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Olesen JB, Fauchier L, Lane DA, Taillandier S, Lip GYH. Risk Factors for Stroke and Thromboembolism in Relation to Age Among Patients With Atrial Fibrillation. Chest 2012; 141:147-153. [PMID: 21680645 DOI: 10.1378/chest.11-0862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Bjerring Olesen
- University of Birmingham Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, City Hospital, Birmingham, England; Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Laurent Fauchier
- Service de Cardiologie, Pôle Coeur Thorax Vasculaire, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Trousseau et Faculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais, Tours, France.
| | - Deirdre A Lane
- University of Birmingham Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, City Hospital, Birmingham, England
| | - Sophie Taillandier
- Service de Cardiologie, Pôle Coeur Thorax Vasculaire, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Trousseau et Faculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais, Tours, France
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- University of Birmingham Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, City Hospital, Birmingham, England
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Chatterjee S, Alexander JC, Pearson PJ, Feldman T. Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion: Lessons Learned From Surgical and Transcatheter Experiences. Ann Thorac Surg 2011; 92:2283-92. [PMID: 22029943 DOI: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2011.08.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Revised: 08/16/2011] [Accepted: 08/17/2011] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Kim TS, Youn HJ. Role of echocardiography in atrial fibrillation. J Cardiovasc Ultrasound 2011; 19:51-61. [PMID: 21860717 PMCID: PMC3150696 DOI: 10.4250/jcu.2011.19.2.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2011] [Revised: 05/07/2011] [Accepted: 05/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is most common arrhythmia and its prevalence appears to be increasing as the population ages. Echocardiography can play a key role in risk stratification and management of patients with AF. Transthoracic echocardiography allows rapid and comprehensive assessment of cardiac anatomical structure and function. Pulmonary vein flow monitoring using echocardiography has the potential to an increasing role in the evaluation of cardiac function and AF ablation procedures. Transesophageal echocardiography also provides accurate information about the presence of a thrombus in the atria and thromboembolic risk. The novel technique of intracardiac echocardiography has emerged as a popular and useful tool in the everyday practice of interventional electrophysiology. Other imaging modalities, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have complementary roles in risk stratification and assessment of patients with AF. Echocardiography continues to be the foundation of clinical evaluation and management of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Seok Kim
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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Hwang HJ, Lee MY, Youn HJ, Oh YS, Rho TH, Chung WS, Park CS, Choi YS, Chung WB, Lee JB, Park HK, Lim K, Lee JH. Association between plaque thickness of the thoracic aorta and recurrence of atrial fibrillation after ablation. Korean Circ J 2011; 41:177-83. [PMID: 21607167 PMCID: PMC3098409 DOI: 10.4070/kcj.2011.41.4.177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2010] [Revised: 06/21/2010] [Accepted: 07/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Several predictors of recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) after ablation have been identified, including age, type of AF, hypertension, left atrial diameter and impaired left ventricular ejection fraction. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the atherosclerotic plaque thickness of the thoracic aorta is associated with a recurrence of AF after circumferential pulmonary vein ablation (CPVA). Subjects and Methods Among patients with drug-refractory paroxysmal or persistent AF, 105 consecutive (mean age 58±11 years, male : female=76 : 29) patients who underwent transesophageal echocardiography and CPVA were studied. The relationships between the recurrence of AF and variables, including clinical characteristics, plaque thickness of the thoracic aorta, laboratory findings and echocardiographic parameters were evaluated. Results A univariate analysis showed that the presence of diabetes {hazard ratio (HR)=3.425; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.422-8.249, p=0.006}, ischemic heart disease (HR=4.549; 95% CI, 1.679-12.322, p=0.003), duration of AF (HR=1.010; 95% CI, 1.001-1.018, p=0.025), type of AF (HR=2.412, 95% CI=1.042-5.584, p=0.040) and aortic plaque thickness with ≥4 mm (HR=9.514; 95% CI, 3.419-26.105, p<0.001) were significantly associated with the recurrence of AF after ablation. In Cox multivariate regression analysis, only the aortic plaque thickness (with ≥4 mm) was an independent predictor of recurrence of AF after ablation (HR=7.250, 95% CI=1.906-27.580, p=0.004). Conclusion Significantly increased aortic plaque thickness can be a predictable marker of recurrence of AF after CPVA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Jeong Hwang
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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Fuster V, Rydén LE, Cannom DS, Crijns HJ, Curtis AB, Ellenbogen KA, Halperin JL, Kay GN, Le Huezey JY, Lowe JE, Olsson SB, Prystowsky EN, Tamargo JL, Wann LS. 2011 ACCF/AHA/HRS Focused Updates Incorporated Into the ACC/AHA/ESC 2006 Guidelines for the Management of Patients With Atrial Fibrillation. J Am Coll Cardiol 2011; 57:e101-98. [PMID: 21392637 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2010.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 642] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Stroke and Substance Abuse. Stroke 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4160-5478-8.10042-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Polimeni L, Perri L, Saliola M, Basili S, Violi F. The risk of myocardial infarction in patients with atrial fibrillation: an unresolved issue. Intern Emerg Med 2010; 5:91-4. [PMID: 20198457 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-010-0352-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2010] [Accepted: 01/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Ohara K, Hirai T, Fukuda N, Sakurai K, Nakagawa K, Nozawa T, Inoue H. Relation of left atrial blood stasis to clinical risk factors in atrial fibrillation. Int J Cardiol 2009; 132:210-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2007.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2007] [Revised: 10/24/2007] [Accepted: 11/17/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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