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Sandhu RK, Raj SR, Hamzeh R, Sheldon RS. The Seventh Prevention of Syncope Trial (POST VII)-A randomized clinical trial of atomoxetine for the prevention of vasovagal syncope: Rationale and study design. Am Heart J 2023; 262:49-54. [PMID: 37100187 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2023.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is common, recurs, and is associated with markedly reduced quality of life, anxiety, and frequent injuries. The few pharmacological therapies for VVS proven to have a moderate benefit in reducing recurrences are limited to patients without coexisting conditions such as hypertension or heart failure. Although there is some data to suggest Atomoxetine, a norepinephrine reuptake transport inhibitor (NET), may be a promising treatment option, an adequately powered randomized placebo-controlled trial is needed. STUDY DESIGN POST VII is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study that will randomize 180 patients with VVS and at least 2 syncopal spells in the preceding year to a target daily dose of atomoxetine 80 mg daily or to a matching placebo, with an observation period of 6 months in each phase and with a 1-week washout period between phases. The primary end point will be the proportion of patients with at least one syncope recurrence in each arm analyzed with an intention-to-treat approach. The secondary end points include total syncope burden, quality of life, cost, and cost-effectiveness. POWER CALCULATIONS Assuming a 33% relative risk reduction in syncope recurrence with atomoxetine, and a dropout rate of 16%, the enrollment of 180 patients will give an 85% power of reaching a positive conclusion about atomoxetine, with P = .05. CONCLUSIONS This will be the first adequately powered trial to determine whether atomoxetine is effective in preventing VVS. If proven effective, atomoxetine might become the first-line pharmacological treatment for recurrent VVS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roopinder K Sandhu
- Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Hospital, Los Angeles, CA; Division of Cardiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Satish R Raj
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Rasha Hamzeh
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Robert S Sheldon
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Sharad B, Rivasi G, Hamrefors V, Johansson M, Ungar A, Sutton R, Brignole M, Parati G, Fedorowski A. Twenty-Four-Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Profile in Patients With Reflex Syncope and Matched Controls. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e028704. [PMID: 37026553 PMCID: PMC10227244 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.122.028704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring has long been used to monitor BP in hypertension and lately emerged as a useful tool to detect hypotensive susceptibility in reflex syncope. However, hemodynamic characteristics in reflex syncope have not been sufficiently explored. The present study investigated the differences between ambulatory BP monitoring profiles associated with reflex syncope and normal population. Methods and Results This is an observational study comparing ambulatory BP monitoring data from 50 patients with reflex syncope and 100 controls without syncope, age- and sex-matched 1:2. Mean 24-hour systolic (SBP) and diastolic BP, pulse pressure (24-hour PP), dipping status, and number of daytime SBP drops <90 to 100 mm Hg were analyzed. Variables associated with reflex syncope were investigated using multivariable logistic regression. Patients with reflex syncope displayed significantly lower 24-hour SBP (112.9±12.6 versus 119.3±11.5 mm Hg, P=0.002), higher 24-hour diastolic BP (85.2±9.6 versus 79.1±10.6 mm Hg, P<0.001), and markedly lower 24-hour PP (27.7±7.6 versus 40.3±9.0 mm Hg, P<0.001) compared with controls. Daytime SBP drops <90 mm Hg were more prevalent in patients with syncope (44% versus 17%, P<0.001). Daytime SBP drops <90 mm Hg, 24-hour PP <32 mm Hg, 24-hour SBP ≤110 mm Hg, and 24-hour diastolic BP ≥82 mm Hg were independently associated with reflex syncope, with 24-hour PP <32 mm Hg achieving the highest sensitivity (80%) and specificity (86%). Conclusions Patients with reflex syncope have lower 24-hour SBP but higher 24-hour diastolic BP and more frequent daytime SBP drops <90 mm Hg than individuals without syncope. Our results support the presence of lower SBP and PP in reflex syncope and suggest a role for ambulatory BP monitoring in the diagnostic work-up of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashaaer Sharad
- Department of Clinical SciencesLund University, and Skåne University HospitalMalmöSweden
| | - Giulia Rivasi
- Division of Geriatric and Intensive Care MedicineUniversity of Florence and Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria CareggiFlorenceItaly
| | - Viktor Hamrefors
- Department of Clinical SciencesLund University, and Skåne University HospitalMalmöSweden
- Department of CardiologySkåne University HospitalMalmöSweden
| | - Madeleine Johansson
- Department of Clinical SciencesLund University, and Skåne University HospitalMalmöSweden
- Department of CardiologySkåne University HospitalMalmöSweden
| | - Andrea Ungar
- Division of Geriatric and Intensive Care MedicineUniversity of Florence and Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria CareggiFlorenceItaly
| | - Richard Sutton
- Department of Clinical SciencesLund University, and Skåne University HospitalMalmöSweden
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial CollegeHammersmith Hospital CampusLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Michele Brignole
- IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Cardiology UnitS.Luca HospitalMilanItaly
- Department of Cardiovascular, Neural and Metabolic SciencesS.Luca HospitalMilanItaly
| | - Gianfranco Parati
- IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Cardiology UnitS.Luca HospitalMilanItaly
- Department of Cardiovascular, Neural and Metabolic SciencesS.Luca HospitalMilanItaly
| | - Artur Fedorowski
- Department of Clinical SciencesLund University, and Skåne University HospitalMalmöSweden
- Department of CardiologyKarolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
- Department of MedicineKarolinska InstituteStockholmSweden
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Wang J, Liu X, Jin H, Du J. Markers for predicting the efficacy of beta-blockers in vasovagal syncope management in children: A mini-review. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1131967. [PMID: 36970341 PMCID: PMC10030864 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1131967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is a common subtype of neurally mediated syncope. It is prevalent in children and adolescents, and critically affects the quality of life of patients. In recent years, the management of pediatric patients with VVS has received extensive attention, and β-blocker serves as an important choice of the drug therapy for children with VVS. However, the empirical use of β-blocker treatment has limited therapeutic efficacy in patients with VVS. Therefore, predicting the efficacy of β-blocker therapy based on biomarkers related to the pathophysiological mechanism is essential, and great progress has been made by applying these biomarkers in formulating individualized treatment plans for children with VVS. This review summarizes recent advances in predicting the effect of β-blockers in the management of VVS in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xueqin Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Correspondence: Junbao Du Hongfang Jin Xueqin Liu
| | - Hongfang Jin
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Correspondence: Junbao Du Hongfang Jin Xueqin Liu
| | - Junbao Du
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Correspondence: Junbao Du Hongfang Jin Xueqin Liu
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Pawłowski R, Zalewski P, Newton J, Piątkowska A, Koźluk E, Opolski G, Buszko K. An assessment of heart rate and blood pressure asymmetry in the diagnosis of vasovagal syncope in females. Front Physiol 2023; 13:1087837. [PMID: 36699671 PMCID: PMC9868761 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1087837] [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] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Heart Rate Asymmetry (HRA) describes a phenomenon of differences between accelerations and decelerations in human heart rate. Methods used for HRA assessment can be further implemented in the evaluation of asymmetry in blood pressure variations (Blood Pressure Asymmetry-BPA). Methods: We have analyzed retrospectively the series of heartbeat intervals extracted from ECG and beat-to-beat blood pressure signals from 16 vasovagal patients (age: 32.1 ± 13.3; BMI: 21.6 ± 3.8; all female) and 19 healthy subjects (age: 34.6 ± 7.6; BMI: 22.1 ± 3.4; all female) who have undergone tilt test (70°). Asymmetry was evaluated with Poincaré plot-based methods for 5 min recordings from supine and tilt stages of the test. The analyzed biosignals were heart rate (RR), diastolic (dBP) and systolic Blood Pressure (sBP) and Pulse Pressure (PP). In the paper we explored the differences between healthy and vasovagal women. Results: The changes of HRA indicators between supine and tilt were observed only in the control group (Porta Index p = 0.026 and Guzik Index p = 0.005). No significant differences in beat-to-beat variability (i.e. spread of points across the line of identity in Poincaré plot-SD1) of dBP was noted between supine and tilt in the vasovagal group (p = 0.433 in comparison to p = 0.014 in healthy females). Moreover, in vasovagal patients the PP was significantly different (supine: 41.47; tilt: 39.27 mmHg) comparing to healthy subjects (supine: 35.87; tilt: 33.50 mmHg) in supine (p = 0.019) and in tilt (p = 0.014). Discussion: Analysis of HRA and BPA represents a promising method for the evaluation of cardiovascular response to orthostatic stressors, however currently it is difficult to determine a subject's underlying health condition based only on these parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafał Pawłowski
- Department of Biostatistics and Biomedical Systems Theory, Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Bydgoszcz, Poland,*Correspondence: Rafał Pawłowski,
| | - Paweł Zalewski
- Department of Exercise Physiology and Functional Anatomy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz, Poland,Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Julia Newton
- Population Health Sciences Institute, The Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle, United Kingdom
| | - Agnieszka Piątkowska
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland,1st Chair and Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Edward Koźluk
- 1st Chair and Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Opolski
- 1st Chair and Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Buszko
- Department of Biostatistics and Biomedical Systems Theory, Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
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Lazurova Z, Mitro P, Popovnakova M. The Role of Adenosine and Its Degradation Enzymes - Adenosinedeaminase and Adenosinekinase in Pathogenesis of Vasovagal Syncope. Eur J Intern Med 2022; 105:77-81. [PMID: 36075846 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2022.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adenosine is mediator regulating physiological and pathological processes in organism. It probably plays a role in pathogenesis of vasovagal syncopes (VVS), too. Adenosine, its receptors and degradation enzymes- adenosinedeaminase (ADA) and adenosinekinase (ADK), are called the adenosinergic system. AIM We aimed to evaluate serum levels of adenosine, ADA and ADK in patients with tilt-induced VVS and compare them to tlit-negative controls. Secondary aim was to compare the levels between the types of VVS and correlate them with hemodynamic parameters. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Altogether 132 individuals were involved in this study (age 39,88±15,64 years, 51 males). All patients underwent head up tilt test (HUTT) in differential diagnosis of syncope. Blood sampling was performed before and after HUTT. Baseline and stimulated serum levels of adenosine, ADA and ADK were evaluated by ELISA method. RESULTS HUTT was positive in 91 patients (HUTT+), 41 individuals were negative (HUTT-). HUTT+ patients had higher baseline and stimulated adenosine levels, when compared to HUTT- population. The rise in adenosine was higher in HUTT+ group. On the other hand, the increase of ADA was significantly higher in HUTT- subjects. Among HUTT+ group, the highest adenosine was found during vasodepressoric VVS. CONCLUSION Adenosinergic system may play role in pathogenesis of VVS. Patients with VVS have higher adenosine levels, that may be caused by attenuated degradation. Adenosine seems to be involved predominantly in vasodepressoric type of VVS. Further research evaluating complex function of adenosinergic system in these patients is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zora Lazurova
- 4th Department of Internal medicine, University of PJ Safarik, Medical Faculty, Košice, Slovakia; 1st Department of Cardiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases of Eastern Slovakia, Košice, Slovakia.
| | - Peter Mitro
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases of Eastern Slovakia, Košice, Slovakia
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Goldstein DS. Stress and the "extended" autonomic system. Auton Neurosci 2021; 236:102889. [PMID: 34656967 PMCID: PMC10699409 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2021.102889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This review updates three key concepts of autonomic neuroscience-stress, the autonomic nervous system (ANS), and homeostasis. Hans Selye popularized stress as a scientific idea. He defined stress variously as a stereotyped response pattern, a state that evokes this pattern, or a stimulus that evokes the state. According to the "homeostat" theory stress is a condition where a comparator senses a discrepancy between sensed afferent input and a response algorithm, the integrated error signal eliciting specific patterns of altered effector outflows. Scientific advances since Langley's definition of the ANS have incited the proposal here of the "extended autonomic system," or EAS, for three reasons. (1) Several neuroendocrine systems are bound inextricably to Langley's ANS. The first to be described, by Cannon in the early 1900s, involves the hormone adrenaline, the main effector chemical of the sympathetic adrenergic system. Other neuroendocrine systems are the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical system, the arginine vasopressin system, and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. (2) An evolving body of research links the ANS complexly with inflammatory/immune systems, including vagal anti-inflammatory and catecholamine-related inflammasomal components. (3) A hierarchical network of brain centers (the central autonomic network, CAN) regulates ANS outflows. Embedded within the CAN is the central stress system conceptualized by Chrousos and Gold. According to the allostasis concept, homeostatic input-output curves can be altered in an anticipatory, feed-forward manner; and prolonged or inappropriate allostatic adjustments increase wear-and-tear (allostatic load), resulting in chronic, stress-related, multi-system disorders. This review concludes with sections on clinical and therapeutic implications of the updated concepts offered here.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Goldstein
- Autonomic Medicine Section, Clinical Neurosciences Program, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Autonomic Medicine Section, CNP/DIR/NINDS/NIH, 9000 Rockville Pike MSC-1620, Building 10 Room 8N260, Bethesda, MD 20892-1620, USA..
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Fish E, Barak Lanciano S, Shavit I, Palacci H, Chaiat C, Avivi I, Haber Kaptsenel E, Nussinovitch U. Venous capacitance and venous return in young adults with typical vasovagal syncope: a cross-sectional study. J Investig Med 2021; 70:402-408. [PMID: 34580160 DOI: 10.1136/jim-2021-001906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Vasovagal syncope (VVS) has a high prevalence in the general population and is associated with potential complications. There is limited information on the possible association between venous capacitance (VC) and venous return (VR), important determinants of preload and VVS. Since the tilt test was reported to yield a high rate of false positive results, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether abnormal VC and VR at baseline could predispose individuals to VVS.To this end, 88 young, healthy volunteers were recruited and classified to 26 (29.5%) who experienced typical VVS and 62 (70.5%) who did not. VC and VR were evaluated with a commercial device and plethysmography applied to the elevated legs. Maximum venous outflow (MVO), segmental venous capacitance (SVC) and MVO/SVC ratio were calculated and averaged.No significant differences between MVO (5.0±0.5 vs 5.6±0.8, p>0.05), SVC (6.0±0.5 vs 6.3±0.8, p>0.05) or MVO/SVC ratio (0.83±0.02 vs 0.86±0.03, p>0.05) were observed for the non-VVS and VVS volunteers, respectively. There was a significant association between a higher MVO and SVC values and a larger decrease in diastolic blood pressure with standing, although correlations were weak (R2=0.0582 and 0.0681, respectively).In conclusion, at baseline, VC and VR are not impaired in healthy volunteers with a history of VVS. It remains unknown if similar results would be found in patients with cardiovascular comorbidities. Also, the sensitivity of VC and VR evaluations to identify a predisposition for VVS following physiological provocations merits further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ely Fish
- Department of Psychiatry, Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | | | - Itay Shavit
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Hagar Palacci
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Chen Chaiat
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ishay Avivi
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Udi Nussinovitch
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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Brignole M, Rivasi G, Sutton R, Kenny RA, Morillo CA, Sheldon R, Raj SR, Ungar A, Furlan R, van Dijk G, Hamdan M, Hamrefors V, Engström G, Park C, Soranna D, Zambon A, Parati G, Fedorowski A. Low-blood pressure phenotype underpins the tendency to reflex syncope. J Hypertens 2021; 39:1319-1325. [PMID: 33560050 PMCID: PMC8183486 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000002800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We hypothesized that cardiovascular physiology differs in reflex syncope patients compared with the general population, predisposing such individuals to vasovagal reflex. METHODS In this multicohort cross-sectional study, we compared aggregate data of resting SBP, DBP, pulse pressure (PP) and heart rate (HR), collected from six community-based cohort studies (64 968 observations) with those from six databases of reflex syncope patients (6516 observations), subdivided by age decades and sex. RESULTS Overall, in male individuals with reflex syncope, SBP (-3.4 mmHg) and PP (-9.2 mmHg) were lower and DBP (+2.8 mmHg) and HR (+5.1 bpm) were higher than in the general population; the difference in SBP was higher at ages above 60 years. In female individuals, PP (-6.0 mmHg) was lower and DBP (+4.7 mmHg) and HR (+4.5 bpm) were higher than in the general population; differences in SBP were less pronounced, becoming evident only above 60 years. Compared with male individuals, SBP in female individuals exhibited slower increase until age 40 years, and then demonstrated steeper increase that continued throughout remaining life. CONCLUSION The patients prone to reflex syncope demonstrate a different resting cardiovascular haemodynamic profile as compared with a general population, characterized by lower SBP and PP, reflecting reduced venous return and lower stroke volume, and a higher HR and DBP, suggesting the activation of compensatory mechanisms. Our data contribute to a better understanding why some individuals with similar demographic characteristics develop reflex syncope and others do not. VIDEO ABSTRACT http://links.lww.com/HJH/B580.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Brignole
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Faint & Fall Programme, Ospedale San Luca, Milan
| | - Giulia Rivasi
- Syncope Unit, Division of Geriatrics and Intensive Care Unit, University of Florence and Careggi Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Richard Sutton
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Ducane Road, London, UK
| | - Rose Anne Kenny
- Chair Medical Gerontology, Syncope and Falls Unit, School of Medicine, St James Hospital and Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Carlos A. Morillo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Robert Sheldon
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Satish R. Raj
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andrea Ungar
- Syncope Unit, Division of Geriatrics and Intensive Care Unit, University of Florence and Careggi Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Raffaello Furlan
- Internal Medicine, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center-IRCCS, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Gert van Dijk
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mohamed Hamdan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Viktor Hamrefors
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University
- Department of Internal Medicine, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | | | - Chloe Park
- MRC Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing, Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College, London, UK
| | | | - Antonella Zambon
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Biostatistics Unit
- Department of Statistics and quantitative methods, University of Milano-Bicocca
| | - Gianfranco Parati
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Faint & Fall Programme, Ospedale San Luca, Milan
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca and IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Ospedale San Luca, Milan, Italy
| | - Artur Fedorowski
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University
- Department of Cardiology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
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Tajdini M, Aminorroaya A, Tavolinejad H, Tofighi S, Jalali A, Sadeghian S, Vasheghani-Farahani A, Yadangi S, Shahmansouri N, Akhondzadeh S, Bozorgi A. Atomoxetine as an adjunct to nonpharmacological treatments for preventing vasovagal attacks in patients with recurrent vasovagal syncope: A pilot randomized-controlled trial. IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2021; 34:100789. [PMID: 34027030 PMCID: PMC8129927 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2021.100789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the reduced quality of life in patients with recurrent vasovagal syncope (VVS), pharmacologic treatment options remain limited. Studies indicate that norepinephrine reuptake inhibition reduces tilt-induced syncope/pre-syncope. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of atomoxetine on syncopal/pre-syncopal episodes in patients with recurrent VVS. METHODS In a placebo-controlled trial, we randomized patients with newly diagnosed VVS who experienced ≥3 syncopal episodes in the past three months to receive either atomoxetine (20 mg daily for two weeks followed by 40 mg daily for two weeks) or placebo. The primary endpoint was the combined number of syncopal and pre-syncopal episodes. RESULTS Among 843 patients initially screened, 46 were randomized (N = 23 in each group) and reevaluated at one and three months. Compared to placebo, atomoxetine significantly reduced the primary endpoint after three months (P < 0.001). In the atomoxetine arm, the median time to first pre-syncopal episode was 55 days (95% confidence interval (CI): 41.21-68.79), while this was 27 days (95% CI: 14.48-39.52) for the placebo group (P < 0.001). In a subgroup analysis of patients with systolic blood pressure < 110 mmHg, atomoxetine reduced the primary endpoint, and the number of syncopal and pre-syncopal episodes after one and three months. In this subgroup, the median time to first pre-syncopal attack was 56 days in the atomoxetine group as opposed to 9 days in the placebo group. CONCLUSIONS In this pilot study, the promising effects of atomoxetine in reducing syncopal/pre-syncopal episodes in recurrent VVS, especially with low blood pressure phenotype, warrant the conduction of future randomized trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masih Tajdini
- Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arya Aminorroaya
- Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Tavolinejad
- Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Tofighi
- Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arash Jalali
- Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Sadeghian
- Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Somayeh Yadangi
- Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Shahin Akhondzadeh
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Bozorgi
- Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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10
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Y Lei L, S Chew D, K Sandhu R, S Sheldon R, R Raj S. Non-Pharmacological and Pharmacological Management of Cardiac Dysautonomia Syndromes. J Atr Fibrillation 2020; 13:2395. [PMID: 33024496 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.2395] [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: 01/02/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Vasovagal syncope, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, and inappropriate sinus tachycardia comprise a heterogenous group of common autonomic disorders that are associated with significant symptoms that impair quality of life. Clinical management of these disorders should prioritize conservative non-pharmacological therapies and consider incorporating pharmacological agents for recurrences. The selection and titration of medications may be complicated by the occurrence of potentially overlapping pathophysiological variants, differences in specific clinical presentations, and commonly associated comorbidities. However, with appropriate long-term management and specialist input, most patients note both symptomatic improvement and functional restoration over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Y Lei
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Derek S Chew
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Robert S Sheldon
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Satish R Raj
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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11
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Liao Y, Du J. Pathophysiology and Individualized Management of Vasovagal Syncope and Postural Tachycardia Syndrome in Children and Adolescents: An Update. Neurosci Bull 2020; 36:667-681. [PMID: 32367250 PMCID: PMC7271077 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-020-00497-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasovagal syncope (VVS) and postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) are the main forms of orthostatic intolerance in pediatrics and both are underlying causes of neurally-mediated syncope. In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the management of VVS and POTS in children and adolescents. A number of potential mechanisms are involved in their pathophysiology, but the leading cause of symptoms varies among patients. A few studies thus have focused on the individualized treatment of VVS or POTS based on selected hemodynamic parameters or biomarkers that can predict the therapeutic effect of certain therapies and improve their effectiveness. This review summarizes the latest developments in individualized treatment of VVS and POTS in children and indicates directions for further research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liao
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Junbao Du
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China.
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12
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Benditt DG, van Dijk JG, Krishnappa D, Adkisson WO, Sakaguchi S. Neurohormones in the Pathophysiology of Vasovagal Syncope in Adults. Front Cardiovasc Med 2020; 7:76. [PMID: 32478097 PMCID: PMC7232538 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2020.00076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is the most common cause of syncope across all age groups. Nonetheless, despite its clinical importance and considerable research effort over many years, the pathophysiology of VVS remains incompletely understood. In this regard, numerous studies have been undertaken in an attempt to improve insight into the evolution of VVS episodes and many of these studies have examined neurohormonal changes that occur during the progression of VVS events primarily using the head-up tilt table testing model. In this regard, the most consistent finding is a marked increase in epinephrine (Epi) spillover into the circulation beginning at an early stage as VVS evolves. Reported alterations of circulating norepinephrine (NE), on the other hand, have been more variable. Plasma concentrations of other vasoactive agents have been reported to exhibit more variable changes during a VVS event, and for the most part change somewhat later, but in some instances the changes are quite marked. The neurohormones that have drawn the most attention include arginine vasopressin [AVP], adrenomedullin, to a lesser extent brain and atrial natriuretic peptides (BNP, ANP), opioids, endothelin-1 (ET-1) and serotonin. However, whether some or all of these diverse agents contribute directly to VVS pathophysiology or are principally a compensatory response to an evolving hemodynamic crisis is as yet uncertain. The goal of this communication is to summarize key reported neurohumoral findings in VVS, and endeavor to ascertain how they may contribute to observed hemodynamic alterations during VVS.
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Affiliation(s)
- David G Benditt
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Cardiac Arrhythmia and Syncope Center, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - J Gert van Dijk
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Darshan Krishnappa
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Cardiac Arrhythmia and Syncope Center, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Wayne O Adkisson
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Cardiac Arrhythmia and Syncope Center, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Scott Sakaguchi
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Cardiac Arrhythmia and Syncope Center, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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13
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Grassi G, Quarti-Trevano F, Esler MD. Sympathetic activation in congestive heart failure: an updated overview. Heart Fail Rev 2019; 26:173-182. [PMID: 31832833 DOI: 10.1007/s10741-019-09901-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Conclusive evidence demonstrates that the sympathetic nervous system activation is a hallmark of congestive heart failure. This has been shown via a variety of biochemical, neurophysiological, and neuroimaging approaches for studying human sympathetic neural function. The sympathetic activation appears to be an early phenomenon in the clinical course of the disease, closely related to its severity and potentiated by the concomitant presence of other comorbidities, such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and renal failure. The adrenergic overdrive in heart failure is associated with other sympathetic abnormalities, such as the downregulation of beta-adrenergic adrenoreceptors at cardiac level, and exerts unfavorable consequences on the cardiovascular system. These include the endothelial dysfunction, the development of left ventricular hypertrophy, the atherosclerosis development, as well as the generation of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, and, at very extreme levels of sympathetic activation, the occurrence of microscopic myocardial necrosis. Given the close direct independent relationships detected in heart failure between sympathetic activation and mortality, the adrenergic overdrive has become a target of neuromodulatory therapeutic interventions, which include non-pharmacological, pharmacological, and device-based interventions. For some of these approaches (specifically bilateral renal nerves ablation and carotid baroreceptor stimulation), additional studies are needed to better define their impact on the clinical course of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Grassi
- Clinica Medica, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Pergolesi 33, 20052, Monza, Italy.
| | - Fosca Quarti-Trevano
- Clinica Medica, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Pergolesi 33, 20052, Monza, Italy
| | - Murray D Esler
- Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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14
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Barsukov AV, Chepcheruk OG, Glukhovskoi DV, Yakovlev VV, Gordienko AV. [Features of changes in volume-impedance hemodynamic indicators during the tilt test in young males with a history of vasovagal syncopes]. KARDIOLOGIIA 2019; 59:31-38. [PMID: 31849297 DOI: 10.18087/cardio.2019.11.n527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The direction of changes in hemodynamic parameters during the tilt test (TT) nin individuals with history of vasovagal syncope (VVS) is a subject of discussion. OBJECTIVE to study changes of volume-impedance hemodynamic indicators in the process of tilt test in somatically healthy young men with history of VVS. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 102 men aged 18-30 years were divided into 4 groups, taking into account the specific features of fainting history and response to TT. Persons of group 1 (n=14) had history of VVS and positive response to TT (syncope). Subjects of group 2 (n=14) had history of VVS and a pattern of postural tachycardia without fainting during TT. Persons of group 3 (n=42) had history of VVS and negative response to TT. Subjects of group 4 (n=32) had no history of VVS and negative response to TT. During TT, we studied dynamics of some indicators, including cardiac output (CO) and total peripheral vascular resistance (TPVR). RESULTS In individuals of all groups in the initial horizontal phase of TT values of CO and TPVR corresponded to the norm. Subjects of group 1 had significantly lower CO compared with subjects of groups 2, 3, 4 (p<0.05, p<0.01, p<0.05, respectively). Values of TPVR in subjects of group 1 were significantly higher than in subjects of groups 2, 3, 4 (p<0.05; p<0.05; p<0.05, respectively). In response to orthostasis CO values increased in groups 1, 2, 4 (by 18%, 10%, 5%, respectively) and did not change in group 3; TPVR values decreased in groups 1, 2 (by 8%, 0.5%, respectively), and increased in groups 3, 4 (by 8%, 4% respectively). In the final horizontal phase of TT, CO values in group 1 were significantly lower than in groups 3, 4 (p<0.05), while TPVR values did not significantly differ between all groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS In tilt-positive and tilt-negative subjects with history of VVS, standardized postural stress leads to unidirectional changes in cardiac output, but to multidirectional changes in total peripheral vascular resistance.
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15
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Brignole M, Moya A, de Lange FJ, Deharo JC, Elliott PM, Fanciulli A, Fedorowski A, Furlan R, Kenny RA, Martín A, Probst V, Reed MJ, Rice CP, Sutton R, Ungar A, van Dijk JG. Practical Instructions for the 2018 ESC Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of syncope. Eur Heart J 2019; 39:e43-e80. [PMID: 29562291 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehy071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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Twenty-four-hour urine NE level as a predictor of the therapeutic response to metoprolol in children with recurrent vasovagal syncope. Ir J Med Sci 2019; 188:1279-1287. [PMID: 30761458 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-019-01979-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is a heterogeneous disorder that creates challenges for treatment. Metoprolol is an important therapeutic option for children with VVS. AIMS The study examined the predictive value of 24-h urine norepinephrine (NE) levels in the assessment of the therapeutic efficacy of metoprolol for recurrent VVS in children. METHODS Thirty-eight children with recurrent VVS and 20 healthy children were enrolled in our study. Twenty-four-hour urine NE levels were measured by LC-MS-MS. VVS children were diagnosed by BHUTT and/or SNHUTT, and received metoprolol treatment for 3 months. Symptom scoring was utilized to evaluate the therapeutic effect. A ROC curve was used to investigate the predictive value of 24-h urine norepinephrine levels. RESULTS There exists significant correlation between 24-h urine NE levels and supine systolic and diastolic blood pressures. The 24-h urine NE levels of responders (40.75 ± 12.86 μg/24 h) were higher than those of nonresponders (21.48 ± 6.49 μg/24 h), and there was a significant difference between the two groups (P < 0.001). A ROC curve of the predictive value of 24 h urine NE levels revealed that the area under the curve was 0.926. A cutoff value for 24-h urine NE level of 34.84 μg/24 h produced both high sensitivity (70%) and specificity (100%) in predicting the efficacy of metoprolol therapy for VVS. CONCLUSIONS Patients with high 24-h urine NE levels have higher supine systolic and diastolic pressures and more effective responses to metoprolol. A 24-h urine norepinephrine level of > 34.84 μg/24 h was an indicator of the effectiveness of metoprolol therapy for VVS in children.
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18
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Tao C, Chen S, Li H, Wang Y, Wang Y, Liu P, Liao Y, Zhang C, Tang C, Jin H, Du J. Value of Immediate Heart Rate Alteration From Supine to Upright in Differential Diagnosis Between Vasovagal Syncope and Postural Tachycardia Syndrome in Children. Front Pediatr 2018; 6:343. [PMID: 30510926 PMCID: PMC6252323 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2018.00343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To explore the predictive value of immediate heart rate alteration from supine to upright in the differential diagnosis between vasovagal syncope (VVS) and postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) in children. Materials and Methods: A total of 76 pediatric outpatients or inpatients who visited the Peking University First Hospital from July 2016 to November 2017 were recruited in the study. Among them, 52 patients were diagnosed with VVS and 24 patients were diagnosed with POTS. The differential diagnostic value of acceleration index (AI) and 30/15 ratio was evaluated by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. An external validation test was performed in another 46 patients. Results: Compared with the cases in the VVS group, patients in the POTS group had a significantly increased AI but a decreased 30/15 ratio (33.495 ± 8.472 vs. 23.440 ± 8.693, p < 0.001; 0.962 ± 0.067 vs. 1.025 ± 0.084, p = 0.002; respectively). The ROC curves showed that AI and 30/15 ratio were useful for differentiating POTS from VVS. A cut-off value of AI set at 28.180 yielded a sensitivity of 79.2% and a specificity of 73.1%. A cut-off value of 30/15 ratio set at 1.025 yielded a sensitivity of 87.5% and a specificity of 61.5%. A combined use of these two indices improved the sensitivity to 95.8% when either AI or 30/15 was used, and specificity to 80.8% with the use of both AI and 30/15 at the same diagnosis. The external validation test showed that the positive and negative predictive values of the AI and 30/15 ratio were 77.3 and 79.2%, and 72.0 and 81.0%, respectively. The positive predictive value increased to 87.5% when both the AI and 30/15 ratio cut-off values were used together. Conclusions: The AI and 30/15 ratio, which are easy to perform and non-invasive, have proper sensitivity and specificity to differentiate patients with POTS from those with VVS. The combination of these two indices significantly improves the predictive value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Tao
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Selena Chen
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Hongxia Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuli Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Liao
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chunyu Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chaoshu Tang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Peking University Health Sciences Centre, Beijing, China
| | - Hongfang Jin
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Junbao Du
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
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19
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Idiaquez J, Idiaquez JF, Iturriaga R. Cardiovascular responses to isometric handgrip exercise in young patients with recurrent vasovagal syncope. Auton Neurosci 2018; 212:23-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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20
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Brignole M, Moya A, de Lange FJ, Deharo JC, Elliott PM, Fanciulli A, Fedorowski A, Furlan R, Kenny RA, Martín A, Probst V, Reed MJ, Rice CP, Sutton R, Ungar A, van Dijk JG. 2018 ESC Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of syncope. Eur Heart J 2018; 39:1883-1948. [PMID: 29562304 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehy037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 993] [Impact Index Per Article: 165.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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21
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Flevari P, Leftheriotis D, Kroupis C, Antonakos G, Lekakis J, Dima K. Copeptin levels in patients with vasovagal syncope. Int J Cardiol 2017; 230:642-645. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2017.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2016] [Revised: 12/31/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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22
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Márquez MF, Gómez-Flores JR, González-Hermosillo JA, Ruíz-Siller TDJ, Cárdenas M. [Role of the sympathetic nervous system in vasovagal syncope and rationale for beta-blockers and norepinephrine transporter inhibitors]. Medwave 2016; 16:e6824. [PMID: 28055999 DOI: 10.5867/medwave.2016.6824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasovagal or neurocardiogenic syncope is a common clinical situation and, as with other entities associated with orthostatic intolerance, the underlying condition is a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. This article reviews various aspects of vasovagal syncope, including its relationship with orthostatic intolerance and the role of the autonomic nervous system in it. A brief history of the problem is given, as well as a description of how the names and associated concepts have evolved. The response of the sympathetic system to orthostatic stress, the physiology of the baroreflex system and the neurohumoral changes that occur with standing are analyzed. Evidence is presented of the involvement of the autonomic nervous system, including studies of heart rate variability, microneurography, cardiac innervation, and molecular genetic studies. Finally, we describe different studies on the use of beta-blockers and norepinephrine transporter inhibitors (sibutramine, reboxetine) and the rationality of their use to prevent this type of syncope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manlio F Márquez
- Departamento de Electrofisiología, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Ciudad de México, México. Address: Juan Badiano 1, Colonia Sección XVI, Delegación Tlalpan, Distrito Federal, México.
| | - Jorge Rafael Gómez-Flores
- Departamento de Electrofisiología, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Jesús A González-Hermosillo
- Departamento de Proyectos de Innovación y Desarrollo, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Ciudad de México, México
| | | | - Manuel Cárdenas
- Departamento de Electrofisiología, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Ciudad de México, México
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McBride DW, Reis C, Frank E, Klebe DW, Zhang JH, Applegate R, Tang J. An Experimental Model of Vasovagal Syncope Induces Cerebral Hypoperfusion and Fainting-Like Behavior in Awake Rats. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0163280. [PMID: 27658057 PMCID: PMC5033448 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0163280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasovagal syncope, a contributing factor to elderly falls, is the transient loss of consciousness caused by decreased cerebral perfusion. Vasovagal syncope is characterized by hypotension, bradycardia, and reduced cerebral blood flow, resulting in fatigue, altered coordination, and fainting. The purpose of this study is to develop an animal model which is similar to human vasovagal syncope and establish an awake animal model of vasovagal syncope. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to sinusoidal galvanic vestibular stimulation (sGVS). Blood pressure, heart rate, and cerebral blood flow were monitored before, during, and post-stimulation. sGVS resulted in hypotension, bradycardia, and decreased cerebral blood flow. One cohort of animals was subjected to sGVS while freely moving. sGVS in awake animals produced vasovagal syncope-like symptoms, including fatigue and uncoordinated movements; two animals experienced spontaneous falling. Another cohort of animals was preconditioned with isoflurane for several days before being subjected to sGVS. Isoflurane preconditioning before sGVS did not prevent sGVS-induced hypotension or bradycardia, yet isoflurane preconditioning attenuated sGVS-induced cerebral blood flow reduction. The sGVS rat model mimics elements of human vasovagal syncope pathophysiology (hypotension, bradycardia, and decreased cerebral perfusion), including behavioral symptoms such as fatigue and altered balance. This study indicates that the sGVS rat model is similar to human vasovagal syncope and that therapies directed at preventing cerebral hypoperfusion may decrease syncopal episodes and reduce injuries from syncopal falls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin W. McBride
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States of America
| | - Cesar Reis
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States of America
| | - Ethan Frank
- Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, United States of America
| | - Damon W. Klebe
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States of America
| | - John H. Zhang
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States of America
- Department of Neurosurgery, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States of America
| | - Richard Applegate
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States of America
| | - Jiping Tang
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Skoog J, Zachrisson H, Länne T, Lindenberger M. Reduced compensatory responses to maintain central blood volume during hypovolemic stress in women with vasovagal syncope. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2016; 312:R55-R61. [PMID: 27654398 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00166.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Revised: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although vasovagal syncope (VVS) is a common clinical condition, the underlying pathophysiology is not fully understood. A decrease in cardiac output has recently been suggested as a factor in orthostatic VVS. The aim was to investigate compensatory mechanisms to maintain central blood volume and venous return during hypovolemic stress in women with VVS. Fourteen VVS women (25.7 ± 5.0 yr) and 15 matched controls (22.8 ± 3.2 yr) were investigated. Single-step and graded lower body negative pressure (LBNP) to presyncope were used to create hypovolemic stress. Peripheral mobilization of venous blood from the arm (capacitance response and net capillary fluid absorption) and lower limb blood pooling (calf capacitance response) were evaluated using a volumetric technique. Cardiovascular responses and plasma norepinephrine (P-NE) were measured. Resting P-NE was elevated in VVS women (P < 0.01). Despite a similar hypovolemic stimulus, the increase in P-NE was blunted (P < 0.01) and the maximal percent increase in total peripheral resistance was reduced (P < 0.05) during graded LBNP in VVS women. The arm capacitance response was slower (P < 0.05) and reduced in VVS women at higher levels of LBNP (P < 0.05). Capillary fluid absorption from extra- to intravascular space was reduced by ∼40% in VVS women (P < 0.05). Accordingly, the reduction in cardiac output was more pronounced (P < 0.05). In conclusion, in VVS women, mobilization of peripheral venous blood and net fluid absorption from tissue to blood during hypovolemic stress were decreased partly as a result of an attenuated vasoconstrictor response. This may seriously impede maintenance of cardiac output during hypovolemic stress and could contribute to the pathogenesis of VVS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Skoog
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden;
| | - Helene Zachrisson
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Physiology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Toste Länne
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; and
| | - Marcus Lindenberger
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Cardiology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Grimaldi Capitello T, Fiorilli C, Placidi S, Vallone R, Drago F, Gentile S. What factors influence parents' perception of the quality of life of children and adolescents with neurocardiogenic syncope? Health Qual Life Outcomes 2016; 14:79. [PMID: 27188269 PMCID: PMC4869310 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-016-0476-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Health-related quality of life, which can be investigated using self-reports or parental reports, could help healthcare providers understand the subjective perception of well-being of children suffering from recurrent syncopal episodes. Quality of life is not only a measure of health but is also a reflection of patients’ and parents’ perceptions and expectations of health. This study assessed: 1) the consistency and agreement between pediatric patients’ self-reports and parents’ proxy-reports of their child’s quality of life; 2) whether this patient-parent agreement is dependent on additional demographic and clinical or distress factors; 3) whether the parents’ psychological distress influences children’s and parents’ responses to questionnaires on quality of life. Methods One hundred and twenty-five Italian children aged 6-18 years old (Mean age 12.75, SD 2.73, 48 % female) and their parents completed the Pediatric Quality of Life inventory with self-reports and parent-proxy reports, the Parenting Stress Index - Short Form questionnaire and the Child Behavior Checklist for ages 6-18. Patients’ and parents’ scores on quality of life were analyzed via an intra-class correlation coefficient, Spearman’s correlation coefficient, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and Bland-Altman plot. Results Child-rated quality of life was lower than parent-rated quality of life. However, there were no statistically significant differences between pediatric patients’ self-reports and their parents’ proxy-reports of on quality of life. Clinically significant patient-parent variation in pediatric health-related quality of life was observed. Differences in patient-parent proxy Pediatric Quality of Life inventory Total Scale Score scores were significantly associated with patient age. Conclusion Concerning parents’ proxy-ratings of their children’s quality of life on the Pediatric Quality of Life inventory, parental stress was found to be negatively associated with their perceptions of their child’s psychological quality of life. Indeed, childhood illness is a source of stress for the whole family, and exposes family members to a greater risk of developing psychosocial difficulties. In conclusion, this study invites reflection on the use of cross-informants in investigating the quality of life of young patients with neurocardiogenic syncope and the psychological factors that influence how quality of life is perceived.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Grimaldi Capitello
- Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, Clinic Psychology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy. .,Libera Università Maria Santissima Assunta, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Silvia Placidi
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Paediatric Arrhythmia and Syncope Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Vallone
- Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, Clinic Psychology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Drago
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Paediatric Arrhythmia and Syncope Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Simonetta Gentile
- Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, Clinic Psychology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
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26
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Lee AKY, Krahn AD. Evaluation of syncope: focus on diagnosis and treatment of neurally mediated syncope. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2016; 14:725-36. [DOI: 10.1586/14779072.2016.1164034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Therapist Perceptions of Physical Counterpressure Maneuvers for the Management of Pre-Syncope. JOURNAL OF ACUTE CARE PHYSICAL THERAPY 2015. [DOI: 10.1097/jat.0000000000000014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Skoog J, Lindenberger M, Ekman M, Holmberg B, Zachrisson H, Länne T. Reduced venous compliance: an important determinant for orthostatic intolerance in women with vasovagal syncope. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2015; 310:R253-61. [PMID: 26561647 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00362.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The influence of lower limb venous compliance on orthostatic vasovagal syncope (VVS) is uncertain. The most widespread technique to calculate venous compliance uses a nonphysiological quadratic regression equation. Our aim was therefore to construct a physiologically derived venous wall model (VWM) for calculation of calf venous compliance and to determine the effect of venous compliance on tolerance to maximal lower body negative pressure (LBNP). Venous occlusion plethysmography was used to study calf volume changes in 15 women with VVS (25.5 ± 1.3 yr of age) and 15 controls (22.8 ± 0.8 yr of age). The fit of the VWM and the regression equation to the experimentally induced pressure-volume curve was examined. Venous compliance was calculated as the derivative of the modeled pressure-volume relationship. Graded LBNP to presyncope was used to determine the LBNP tolerance index (LTI). The VWM displayed a better fit to the experimentally induced pressure-volume curve (P < 0.0001). Calf blood pooling was similar in the groups and was not correlated to the LTI (r = 0.204, P = 0.30). Venous compliance was significantly reduced at low venous pressures in women with VVS (P = 0.042) and correlated to the LTI (r = 0.459, P = 0.014) in the low pressure range. No correlation was found between venous compliance at high venous pressures and the LTI. In conclusion, the new VWM accurately adopted the curvilinear pressure-volume curve, providing a valid characterization of venous compliance. Reduced venous compliance at low venous pressures may adversely affect mobilization of peripheral venous blood to the central circulation during hypovolemic circulatory stress in women with VVS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Skoog
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden;
| | - Marcus Lindenberger
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Cardiology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | - Bengt Holmberg
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Clinical Physiology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; and
| | - Helene Zachrisson
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Clinical Physiology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; and
| | - Toste Länne
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Carter JR, Goldstein DS. Sympathoneural and adrenomedullary responses to mental stress. Compr Physiol 2015; 5:119-46. [PMID: 25589266 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c140030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
This concept-based review provides historical perspectives and updates about sympathetic noradrenergic and sympathetic adrenergic responses to mental stress. The topic of this review has incited perennial debate, because of disagreements over definitions, controversial inferences, and limited availability of relevant measurement tools. The discussion begins appropriately with Cannon's "homeostasis" and his pioneering work in the area. This is followed by mental stress as a scientific idea and the relatively new notions of allostasis and allostatic load. Experimental models of mental stress in rodents and humans are discussed, with particular attention to ethical constraints in humans. Sections follow on sympathoneural responses to mental stress, reactivity of catecholamine systems, clinical pathophysiologic states, and the cardiovascular reactivity hypothesis. Future advancement of the field will require integrative approaches and coordinated efforts between physiologists and psychologists on this interdisciplinary topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason R Carter
- Department of Kinesiology and Integrative Physiology, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, Michigan Clinical Neurocardiology Section, Clinical Neurosciences Program, Division of Intramural Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Sheldon RS, Grubb BP, Olshansky B, Shen WK, Calkins H, Brignole M, Raj SR, Krahn AD, Morillo CA, Stewart JM, Sutton R, Sandroni P, Friday KJ, Hachul DT, Cohen MI, Lau DH, Mayuga KA, Moak JP, Sandhu RK, Kanjwal K. 2015 heart rhythm society expert consensus statement on the diagnosis and treatment of postural tachycardia syndrome, inappropriate sinus tachycardia, and vasovagal syncope. Heart Rhythm 2015; 12:e41-63. [PMID: 25980576 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2015.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 582] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Satish R Raj
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Alberta, Canada; Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Andrew D Krahn
- Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Carlos A Morillo
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Division, McMaster University Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, Canada
| | | | - Richard Sutton
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Karen J Friday
- (13)Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | | | - Mitchell I Cohen
- Phoenix Children's Hospital, University of Arizona School of Medicine-Phoenix, Arizona Pediatric Cardiology/Mednax, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Dennis H Lau
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide; Department of Cardiology, Royal Adelaide Hospital; and South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | - Jeffrey P Moak
- Children's National Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Roopinder K Sandhu
- University of Alberta, Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Alberta, Canada
| | - Khalil Kanjwal
- Michigan Cardiovascular Institute, Central Michigan University, Saginaw, Michigan
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Lambert E, Lambert GW. Sympathetic dysfunction in vasovagal syncope and the postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. Front Physiol 2014; 5:280. [PMID: 25120493 PMCID: PMC4112787 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Orthostatic intolerance is the inability to tolerate the upright posture and is relieved by recumbence. It most commonly affects young women and has a major impact on quality of life and psychosocial well-being. Several forms of orthostatic intolerance have been described. The most common one is the recurrent vasovagal syncope (VVS) phenotype which presents as a transient and abrupt loss of consciousness and postural tone that is followed by rapid recovery. Another common type of orthostatic intolerance is the postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) which is characterized by an excessive rise in heart rate upon standing and is associated with symptoms of presyncope such as light-headedness, fatigue, palpitations, and nausea. Maintenance of arterial pressure under condition of reduced central blood volume during the orthostasis is accomplished in large part through sympathetic efferent nerve traffic to the peripheral vasculature. Therefore sympathetic nervous system (SNS) dysfunction is high on the list of possible contributors to the pathophysiology of orthostatic intolerance. Investigations into the role of the SNS in orthostatic intolerance have yielded mixed results. This review outlines the current knowledge of the function of the SNS in both VVS and POTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Lambert
- Human Neurotransmitters Laboratory, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute Melbourne, VIC, Australia ; Departments of Physiology, Monash University Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Gavin W Lambert
- Human Neurotransmitters Laboratory, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute Melbourne, VIC, Australia ; Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Pathophysiology of neurally mediated syncope: Role of cardiac output and total peripheral resistance. Auton Neurosci 2014; 184:24-6. [PMID: 25081417 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2014.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Revised: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Syncope is a common clinical condition occurring even in otherwise healthy people without underlying cardiovascular disease. Neurally mediated syncope is by far the most common cause of syncope in individuals without any structural heart disease. Based on traditional wisdom, loss of sympathetic tone with relaxation of vascular smooth muscle is the key mechanism underlying the pathophysiology of syncope, especially in patients without an acute decrease in heart rate. However, this concept has recently been challenged. Some microneurographic studies indicate that sympathetic withdrawal may not always be a prerequisite even for the development of classic "vasodepressor" forms of syncope. Conversely, a decrease in cardiac output appears to be a determinant factor for syncope in most circumstances. This article reviews the relative contribution of cardiac output versus sympathetic vasoconstriction in neurally mediated syncope in otherwise healthy individuals. It is suggested that a moderate to severe fall in cardiac output with or without vasodilatation may contribute to syncope.
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Esler M. Sympathetic nervous system moves toward center stage in cardiovascular medicine: from Thomas Willis to resistant hypertension. Hypertension 2014; 63:e25-32. [PMID: 24420544 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.113.02439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Murray Esler
- Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, PO Box 6492 St Kilda Rd Central, Melbourne, Victoria 8008, Australia.
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Lenski M, Mahfoud F, Razouk A, Ukena C, Lenski D, Barth C, Linz D, Laufs U, Kindermann I, Böhm M. Orthostatic function after renal sympathetic denervation in patients with resistant hypertension. Int J Cardiol 2013; 169:418-24. [PMID: 24157238 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2013.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2013] [Revised: 09/17/2013] [Accepted: 10/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Catheter-based renal denervation (RDN) reduces local and whole-body sympathetic activity and blood pressure (BP) in patients with resistant hypertension. However, safety concerns exist concerning the development of orthostatic dysfunction after RDN. METHODS AND RESULTS In 36 patients (65 ± 7.6 years, 75% male) with resistant hypertension (office BP 162 ± 24/91 ± 14 mm Hg) treated with 4.8 ± 1.7 antihypertensive drugs, tilt table testing (TTT) was performed before and three months after RDN. Response to RDN was defined as a reduction in office systolic BP (SBP) ≥ 10 mm Hg three months after RDN. Responders (n=26; 72.2%) and non-responders (n=10; 27.8%) were evaluated separately. After RDN, office SBP and diastolic BP (DBP) were reduced by 29 ± 6.2/14 ± 3.6 mm Hg (p<0.0001; p=0.0002) only in responders. During TTT, SBP and DBP in supine position were only reduced in responders. Resting heart rate (HR) decreased in responders but not in non-responders by 5.9 ± 1.7beats/min (p=0.0016). Mean and minimal SBP were not altered during passive tilting. In the responder group, ∆SBP was reduced in the initial phase of tilting. The adaptive increase of HR was preserved in both groups after RDN, while only in responders mean and minimal HR were reduced after passive tilting. Following drug provocation, mean and minimal SBP during all phases of passive tilting remained unchanged. ∆SBP, ∆HR and total number of (pre-)syncopes were neither influenced by RDN nor differing between responders and non-responders. CONCLUSIONS In patients with resistant hypertension, RDN reduced office BP, supine BP and HR during TTT without causing orthostatic dysfunction or (pre-)syncopes three months after treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Lenski
- Klinik für Innere Medizin III, Kardiologie, Angiologie und Internistische Intensivmedizin, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, Homburg/Saar, Germany
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Deharo JC, Guieu R, Mechulan A, Peyrouse E, Kipson N, Ruf J, Gerolami V, Devoto G, Marrè V, Brignole M. Syncope Without Prodromes in Patients With Normal Heart and Normal Electrocardiogram. J Am Coll Cardiol 2013; 62:1075-1080. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2013.05.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2013] [Revised: 05/01/2013] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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ROUKOZ HENRI, BENDITT DAVIDG. NET-NET: Are Norepinephrine Transport Inhibitors a Potentially Useful Therapy for Vasovagal Syncope? J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2013; 24:804-5. [DOI: 10.1111/jce.12136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- HENRI ROUKOZ
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine; University of Minnesota Medical School; Minneapolis Minnesota USA
| | - DAVID G BENDITT
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine; University of Minnesota Medical School; Minneapolis Minnesota USA
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Stewart JM. Update on the theory and management of orthostatic intolerance and related syndromes in adolescents and children. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2013; 10:1387-99. [PMID: 23244360 DOI: 10.1586/erc.12.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Orthostasis means standing upright. One speaks of orthostatic intolerance (OI) when signs, such as hypotension, and symptoms, such as lightheadedness, occur when upright and are relieved by recumbence. The experience of transient mild OI is part of daily life. 'Initial orthostatic hypotension' on rapid standing is a normal form of OI. However, other people experience OI that seriously interferes with quality of life. These include episodic acute OI, in the form of postural vasovagal syncope, and chronic OI, in the form of postural tachycardia syndrome. Less common is neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, which is an aspect of autonomic failure. Normal orthostatic physiology and potential mechanisms for OI are discussed, including forms of sympathetic hypofunction, forms of sympathetic hyperfunction and OI that results from regional blood volume redistribution. General and specific treatment options are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian M Stewart
- Departments of Pediatrics, Physiology and Medicine, The Maria Fareri Childrens Hospital and New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA.
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Abstract
The autonomic nervous system, adequate blood volume, and intact skeletal and respiratory muscle pumps are essential components for rapid cardiovascular adjustments to upright posture (orthostasis). Patients lacking sufficient blood volume or having defective sympathetic adrenergic vasoconstriction develop orthostatic hypotension (OH), prohibiting effective upright activities. OH is one form of orthostatic intolerance (OI) defined by signs, such as hypotension, and symptoms, such as lightheadedness, that occur when upright and are relieved by recumbence. Mild OI is commonly experienced during intercurrent illnesses and when standing up rapidly. The latter is denoted "initial OH" and represents a normal cardiovascular adjustment to the blood volume shifts during standing. Some people experience episodic acute OI, such as postural vasovagal syncope (fainting), or chronic OI, such as postural tachycardia syndrome, which can significantly reduce quality of life. The lifetime incidence of ≥1 fainting episodes is ∼40%. For the most part, these episodes are benign and self-limited, although frequent syncope episodes can be debilitating, and injury may occur from sudden falls. In this article, mechanisms for OI having components of adrenergic hypofunction, adrenergic hyperfunction, hyperpnea, and regional blood volume redistribution are discussed. Therapeutic strategies to cope with OI are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian M. Stewart
- Departments of Pediatrics, Physiology, and Medicine, The Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital and New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York
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Lambert E, Straznicky N, Sari CI, Eikelis N, Hering D, Head G, Dixon J, Esler M, Schlaich M, Lambert G. Dyslipidemia is associated with sympathetic nervous activation and impaired endothelial function in young females. Am J Hypertens 2013; 26:250-6. [PMID: 23382410 DOI: 10.1093/ajh/hps016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dyslipidemia is one the most well-established risk factors for cardiovascular disease development. Moreover, hypercholesterolemia and plasma cholesterol level in the high to normal range are established triggers for impairment in endothelial function. Evidence indicates that endothelial function is closely linked with sympathetic nervous activity in healthy individuals. We therefore investigated whether both endothelial and sympathetic functions may be impaired in young females with abnormal plasma cholesterol levels. METHODS Baseline endothelial function (digital pulse amplitude) and muscle sympathetic nervous activity (microneurography) were retrospectively analyzed in 14 young healthy females with dyslipidemia as indicated by total cholesterol ≥197mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein ≤39mg/dL, or low-density lipoprotein >116mg/dL, and in 13 females with lipids in the healthy range. RESULTS Subjects with dyslipidemia had significantly impaired endothelial function compared to those with a normal cholesterol profile (reactive hyperemia index; 1.61±0.10 vs. 2.32±0.14, P < 0.001), increased muscle sympathetic nervous activity (after adjusting for body mass and age, 36±3 vs. 27±3 bursts per 100 heartbeats, P = 0.049) and elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (4.13±0.77 vs. 1.92±0.61mg/L, P = 0.03). DISCUSSION Our results indicate that young healthy females with dyslipidemia present with a strong impairment of endothelial function and increased sympathetic drive. The sympathetic activation observed in the subjects with an elevated cholesterol profile may play a role in the development of cardiovascular disease development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Lambert
- Human Neurotransmitters Laboratory, Baker IDI Heart & Diabetes Institute, Australia.
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Corcoran SJ, Lambert EA. Vasovagal syncope--the electricity, the pump or the input pressure? J Physiol 2012; 590:1775-6. [PMID: 22532643 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2012.231282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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Abstract
Sympathetic circulatory control is key to the rapid cardiovascular adjustments that occur within seconds of standing upright (orthostasis) and which are required for bipedal stance. Indeed, patients with ineffective sympathetic adrenergic vasoconstriction rapidly develop orthostatic hypotension, prohibiting effective upright activities. One speaks of orthostatic intolerance (OI) when signs, such as hypotension, and symptoms, such as lightheadedness, occur when upright and are relieved by recumbence. The experience of transient mild OI is part of daily life. However, many people experience episodic acute OI as postural faint or chronic OI in the form of orthostatic tachycardia and orthostatic hypotension that significantly reduce the quality of life. Potential mechanisms for OI are discussed including forms of sympathetic hypofunction, forms of sympathetic hyperfunction, and OI that results from regional blood volume redistribution attributable to regional adrenergic hypofunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian M Stewart
- Departments of Physiology, Pediatrics and Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA. mail:
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Fu Q, Verheyden B, Wieling W, Levine BD. Cardiac output and sympathetic vasoconstrictor responses during upright tilt to presyncope in healthy humans. J Physiol 2012; 590:1839-48. [PMID: 22331415 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2011.224998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Syncope is a common clinical condition occurring even in healthy people without manifest cardiovascular disease. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of cardiac output and sympathetic vasoconstriction in neurally mediated (pre)syncope. Twenty-five subjects (age 15–51) with no history of recurrent syncope but who had presyncope during 60 deg upright tilt were studied; 10 matched controls who completed 45 min tilting were analysed retrospectively. Beat-to-beat haemodynamics (Modelflow), muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) and sympathetic baroreflex sensitivity (MSNA–diastolic pressure relation) were measured. MSNA, haemodynamic responses and baroreflex sensitivity during early tilting were not different between presyncopal subjects and controls. Hypotension was mediated by a drop in cardiac output in all presyncopal subjects, accompanied by a decrease in total peripheral resistance in 16 of them (64%, group A). In the other 9 subjects, total peripheral resistance was well maintained even at presyncope (36%, group B). Cardiac output was smaller (3.26 ± 0.34 (SEM) vs. 5.02 ± 0.40 l min(−1), P = 0.01), while total peripheral resistance was greater (1327 ± 117 vs. 903 ± 80 dyn s cm(−5), P < 0.01) in group B than group A at presyncope. The steeper fall in cardiac output in group B was due to a drop in heart rate. MSNA decreased rapidly at presyncope after the onset of hypotension. Thus, a moderate fall in cardiac output with coincident vasodilatation or a marked fall in cardiac output with no changes in peripheral vascular resistance may contribute to (pre)syncope. However, an intrinsic impairment of vasomotor responsiveness and sympathetic baroreflex function is not the cause of neurally mediated (pre)syncope in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Fu
- Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, Dallas, TX 75231, USA
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