Associations Between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Metabolic Traits, and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A Cross-Ethnic Mendelian Randomization Analysis

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that type 2 diabetes mellitus may protect from abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). However, it is unclear whether a causal relationship exists between these two conditions and, if so, whether it remains consistent among racial groups.

METHODS

Cross-ethnic Mendelian randomization was used to examine the causal relationships between type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic traits, and AAA. Inverse variance weighted was the primary analysis tool, supplemented by MR-Egger, weighted median, and Mendelian randomization Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier. Heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy were assessed using the Cochran's Q test and MR-Egger intercept, respectively.

RESULTS

According to inverse variance weighted, an inverse correlation between type 2 diabetes mellitus and AAA was detected in Europeans (odds ratio [OR] 0.91, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.84-0.99; p = 0.034) and East Asians (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.77-0.99; p = 0.038). Fasting glucose was inversely associated with AAA in Europeans (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.33-0.96; p = 0.034) but not in East Asians. In Europeans, fasting insulin was a risk factor for AAA (OR 3.03, 95% CI 1.53-6.01; p = 0.001), while 2-hour glucose was protective (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.49-0.91; p = 0.011). Glycated hemoglobin had no effect. Insufficient instrumental variables prevented the evaluation of the relationships of fasting insulin, glycated hemoglobin, and 2-hour glucose with AAA in East Asians.

CONCLUSIONS

Type 2 diabetes mellitus protects against AAA in Europeans and East Asians. The effects of different glucose metabolism characteristics on AAA may inform AAA treatment.

Totally percutaneous endovascular renal allograft salvage for common iliac artery pseudoaneurysm

Delayed presentation of recipient artery pseudoaneurysms following kidney transplantation is a rare, yet critical, complication. Although the precise etiology remains unclear, factors such as chronic steroid use, iatrogenic injuries (including vascular clamp damage during index surgery), or infections could contribute. Timely surgical intervention is imperative to prevent arterial rupture and life-threatening bleeding. Open repair, although commonly used, is associated with notable mortality rates and graft loss. Endovascular repair for delayed presentations of native iliac artery pseudoaneurysms has seen limited documentation in the literature. We present a case involving salvage of a kidney graft through innovative application of an endovascular technique using a modified stent graft with fenestration for the transplanted renal artery. The pseudoaneurysm, discovered 4 years after transplantation, was situated in proximity to the anastomosis site of the kidney graft's renal artery to recipient common iliac artery. Traditional open repair posed significant risks of graft loss due to its location near the kidney allograft. Our approach successfully resolved the issue, preserving graft function and resulting in a short length of hospital stay. This case contributes to the limited body of knowledge on delayed presentation of pseudoaneurysms after kidney transplantation. Successful application of an endovascular approach underscores its potential as a safe and effective alternative to open repair, offering favorable outcomes in terms of patient morbidity, mortality, and graft salvage.

Exploring Drug Re-Purposing for Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Large abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) present a significant mortality risk. While numerous medical interventions have been proposed, no drugs have convincingly reduced AAA progression, rupture rates, or repair risk. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the impact of re-purposed drugs or dietary supplements on slowing expansion rates, reducing the risk of rupture, or minimising the risk of repair for individuals with AAA.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in five databases. Both observational studies and randomised controlled trials were included. Unpublished data from two screening trials were incorporated. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale and revised Cochrane risk of bias tool. Meta-analyses were performed for each identified drug subclass and were stratified by overall risk of bias. Results were reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

RESULTS

Of 7 484 screened studies, 39 met the inclusion criteria. No studies on dietary supplements were included. A total of 84 cohorts were derived from the included studies, and twelve distinct drug groups underwent meta-analyses. Two drug groups, metformin and statins, were statistically significant in slowing AAA growth. No low risk of bias studies were included for these two drug groups, and the results had very high heterogeneity (I2 > 80%). Both groups had a GRADE certainty of very low. Metformin, excluding high risk of bias studies, presented an estimated mean growth difference of AAA diameter between users and non-users of -0.73 mm/year, whilst statins had an overall estimated mean difference of -0.84 mm/year.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that metformin and statins may provide some effect in slowing AAA progression. However, no definitive evidence was found for any of the investigated drugs included in this study. Further research is needed to identify effective medical treatments for AAA progression with more robust methodology.

Editor's Choice - Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Contemporary Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Growth Rates

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the contemporary growth rate of small abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) in view of recent epidemiological changes, such as decreasing smoking rates and establishment of population screening programmes.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, Web of Science Core Collection, and OpenGrey databases.

REVIEW METHODS

Systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines. In October 2021, databases were queried for studies reporting on AAA growth rates published from 2015 onwards. The primary outcome was contemporary AAA growth rates in mm/year. Data were pooled in a random effects model meta-analysis, and heterogeneity was assessed through the I2 statistic. GRADE assessment of the findings was performed. The protocol was published in PROSPERO (CRD42022297404).

RESULTS

Of 8 717 titles identified, 43 studies and 28 277 patients were included: 1 241 patients from randomised controlled trials (RCTs), 23 941 from clinical observational studies, and 3 095 from radiological or translational research studies. The mean AAA growth rate was 2.38 mm/year (95% CI 2.16 - 2.60 mm/year; GRADE = low), with meta-regression analysis adjusted for baseline diameter showing an increase of 0.08 mm/year (95% CI 0.024 - 0.137 mm/year; p = .005) for each millimetre of increased baseline diameter. When analysed by study type, the growth rate estimated from RCTs was 1.88 mm/year (95% CI 1.69 - 2.06 mm/year; GRADE = high), while it was 2.31 mm/year (95% CI 1.95 - 2.67 mm/year; GRADE = moderate) from clinical observational studies, and 2.85 mm/year (95% CI 2.44 - 3.26 mm/year; GRADE = low) from translational and radiology based studies (p < .001). Heterogeneity was high, and small study publication bias was present (p = .003), with 27 studies presenting a moderate to high risk of bias. The estimated growth rate from low risk studies was 2.09 mm/year (95% CI 1.87 - 2.32; GRADE = high).

CONCLUSION

This study estimated a contemporaneous AAA growth rate of 2.38 mm/year, being unable to demonstrate any clinically meaningful AAA growth rate reduction concomitant with changed AAA epidemiology. This suggests that the RESCAN recommendations on small AAA surveillance are still valid. However, sub-analysis results from RCTs and high quality study data indicate potential lower AAA growth rates of 1.88 - 2.09 mm/year, findings that should be validated in a high quality prospective registry.

Association of steroid administration with larger coronary artery abnormalities in patients with Kawasaki disease

We sought to elucidate the risk profiles of patients with Kawasaki disease who developed coronary artery abnormalities through a retrospective analysis with special reference to steroid treatment. Demographics of the patients were obtained from medical records, and characteristics of the coronary artery abnormalities were evaluated by echocardiography and coronary angiography, which included number, location, size, and length of coronary artery abnormalities (we evaluated by cardiac catheterisation with the American Heart Association classification with segments). We divided the patients into two groups based on steroid use and compared their characteristics and the complications of coronary artery abnormalities and cardiac events. A total of 29 patients were diagnosed with coronary artery abnormalities by echocardiography and coronary angiography during the study period (24 male; median age, 24 months [range: 2-84 months]). Eighteen patients were treated with aspirin and intravenous immunoglobulin (63%, non-steroid group), whereas 11 received aspirin and intravenous immunoglobulin plus steroids (37%, steroid group). No significant differences were found in the number and location of coronary artery abnormalities between the steroid and non-steroid groups. However, the size and number of segments for coronary artery abnormalities were significantly larger and shorter, respectively, in the steroid group (z-score: non-steroid group 6.3 versus steroid group 8.7; p < 0.01). The coronary artery abnormality segments under steroid use were also shorter (non-steroid group versus steroid group, two segments versus one segment; p = 0.02). Coronary artery abnormality size was larger in patients who used steroids than that of non-steroids. This study showed that steroid use significantly affected coronary artery abnormality size in patients with Kawasaki disease. However, cardiac complications from coronary artery abnormalities and cardiac events were comparable between the steroid and non-steroid groups. Further prospective, multicentre studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Pathogenesis and management of abdominal aortic aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) causes ∼170 000 deaths annually worldwide. Most guidelines recommend asymptomatic small AAAs (30 to <50 mm in women; 30 to <55 mm in men) are monitored by imaging and large asymptomatic, symptomatic, and ruptured AAAs are considered for surgical repair. Advances in AAA repair techniques have occurred, but a remaining priority is therapies to limit AAA growth and rupture. This review outlines research on AAA pathogenesis and therapies to limit AAA growth. Genome-wide association studies have identified novel drug targets, e.g. interleukin-6 blockade. Mendelian randomization analyses suggest that treatments to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol such as proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors and smoking reduction or cessation are also treatment targets. Thirteen placebo-controlled randomized trials have tested whether a range of antibiotics, blood pressure-lowering drugs, a mast cell stabilizer, an anti-platelet drug, or fenofibrate slow AAA growth. None of these trials have shown convincing evidence of drug efficacy and have been limited by small sample sizes, limited drug adherence, poor participant retention, and over-optimistic AAA growth reduction targets. Data from some large observational cohorts suggest that blood pressure reduction, particularly by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, could limit aneurysm rupture, but this has not been evaluated in randomized trials. Some observational studies suggest metformin may limit AAA growth, and this is currently being tested in randomized trials. In conclusion, no drug therapy has been shown to convincingly limit AAA growth in randomized controlled trials. Further large prospective studies on other targets are needed.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm growth rates are not correlated to body surface area in screened men

BACKGROUND

Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in 65-year-old males reduces aneurysm related mortality. Infrarenal aortic diameter (IAD) has been shown to correlate to body surface area (BSA) which could influence diagnostic criteria for AAA. This study investigates whether AAA growth rates are also dependent on BSA, as that might have potential effects on surveillance of small AAAs.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, single center cohort study of 301 men with screening detected AAA between 2010-2017 with surveillance to 2021. AAA growth rates were analyzed in relation to the subject's BSA, smoking habits, and diabetic disease using a linear mixed-effects model. All men were offered smoking cessation program, optimized medical treatment, and advice on physical activity.

RESULTS

The screening program included 28,784 men. Of the 22,819 (79%) attending the examinations, 374 men (1.6%) were found to have an AAA out of which 301 men had undergone two or more examinations during surveillance and were included with a median follow-up of 1846 days (IQR: 1 399). Mean unadjusted AAA growth rate was 1.60 mm/year (95% CI: 1.41-1.80). Diabetes mellitus had a statistically significant negative impact, smoking had a statistically significant positive impact on AAA growth rates whereas no correlation between AAA growth rate and BSA could be found.

CONCLUSIONS

Body surface area could not be found to have a statistically significant correlation to AAA growth rates. The impact of smoking and diabetes on AAA growth rates remains similar to previously reported.

Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blocker Prevents Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Progression in Osteoprotegerin-Deficient Mice via Upregulation of Angiotensin (1-7)

Background Angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockers (ARBs) have been shown to limit the growth of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), but their efficacy is controversial. This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the protective effect of ARBs against AAA progression. Methods and Results Olmesartan, an ARB, was administered to wild-type and osteoprotegerin-knockout (Opg-KO) mice starting 2 weeks before direct application of CaCl₂ to aortas to induce AAA. The protective effect of olmesartan against AAA in wild-type and Opg-KO mice was compared at 6 weeks after AAA induction. Olmesartan prevented AAA progression in Opg-KO mice, including excessive aortic dilatation and collapse of tunica media, but not in wild-type mice. Deficiency of the Opg gene is known to cause excessive activation of the tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand-induced c-Jun N-terminal kinase/matrix metalloproteinase 9 pathway, resulting in prolonged AAA progression. Olmesartan attenuated the upregulation of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase and matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression in the aortic wall of Opg-KO mice. In cultured vascular smooth muscle cells, tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand-induced c-Jun N-terminal kinase phosphorylation and matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression were inhibited by angiotensin (1-7), the circulating levels of which are increased by ARBs. Furthermore, administering an angiotensin (1-7) antagonist to Opg-KO mice diminished the protective effect of olmesartan against AAA progression. Conclusions Olmesartan prevented AAA progression in Opg-KO mice by upregulating angiotensin (1-7), suggesting that angiotensin (1-7) may be a key factor that mediates the protective effect of ARBs.

Multidisciplinary diagnosis and management of inflammatory aortic aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysms (IAAAs) are a variant involving a distinct immunoinflammatory process, with nearly one half believed to be associated with IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD).

METHODS

MEDLINE and Google Scholar searches were conducted for English-language publications relevant to inflammatory aortic aneurysms from January 1970 onward. The search terms included inflammatory aortic aneurysms, aortitis, periaortitis, IgG4-related disease, and retroperitoneal fibrosis. Relevant studies were selected for review based on their relevance.

RESULTS

Morphologically, IAAAs are characterized by a thickened aneurysm wall often displaying contrast enhancement and elevated metabolic activity on fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography imaging. A strong association exists with perianeurysmal and retroperitoneal fibrosis. Although the rupture risk appears lower with IAAAs than with noninflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), the currently recommended diameter threshold for operative management is the same. Open repair has been associated with increased morbidity compared with noninflammatory AAAs, and a retroperitoneal approach or minimal dissection transperitoneal approach has been recommended to avoid duodenal and retroperitoneal structural injuries. Endovascular aneurysm repair has been increasingly used, especially for patients unfit for open surgery. It is important to exclude an infectious etiology before the initiation of immunosuppressive therapy or operative repair. Multimodality imaging follow-up is critical to monitor disease activity and secondary involvement of retroperitoneal structures by the associated fibrotic process. Maintenance of immunosuppressive therapy will be needed postoperatively for most patients with active systemic disease, especially those with IgG4-RD and those with persistent symptoms. Additional interventions aimed at ureteral decompression could also be required, and lifelong follow-up is mandatory.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative multimodality imaging is a diagnostic cornerstone for assessment of the disease extent and activity. IgG4-RD is an increasingly recognized category of IAAAs, with implications for tailoring adjunctive medical therapy. Open surgical repair remains the procedure of choice, although endovascular aneurysm repair is increasingly being offered. Maintenance immunosuppressive therapy can be offered according to the disease activity as assessed by follow-up imaging studies.

Immunosuppressive drugs for nontransplant comorbidities are not associated with abdominal aortic aneurysm growth

Background

In the present study, we examined the association of immunosuppressant drug prescriptions with the growth of small abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs).

Methods

Participants with an AAA measuring between 30 and 50 mm were recruited from four Australian centers. AAA growth was monitored by ultrasound. The immunosuppressant drugs included conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (eg, methotrexate, sulfasalazine, leflunomide), steroids, hydroxychloroquine, other immunosuppressant drugs (eg, cyclosporine, azacitidine), or a combination of these drugs. Linear mixed effects modeling was performed to examine the independent association of an immunosuppressant prescription with AAA growth. A subanalysis examined the association of steroids with AAA growth.

Results

Of the 621 patients, 34 (5.3%) had been prescribed at least one (n = 26) or more (n = 8) immunosuppressant drug and had been followed up for a median period of 2.1 years (interquartile range, 1.1-3.5 years), with a median of three ultrasound scans (interquartile range, two to five ultrasound scans). No significant difference was found in AAA growth when stratified by a prescription of immunosuppressant drugs on either unadjusted (mean difference, 0.2 mm/y; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.4 to 0.7; P = .589) or risk factor-adjusted (mean difference, 0.2 mm/y; 95% CI, -0.3 to 0.7; P = .369) analyses. The findings were similar for the unadjusted (mean difference, 0.0 mm/y; 95% CI, -0.7 to 0.7; P = .980) and risk factor-adjusted (mean difference, 0.1 mm/y; 95% CI, -0.6 to 0.7; P = .886) subanalyses focused on steroid use.

Conclusions

The results from this study suggest that AAA growth is not affected by immunosuppressant drug prescription. Studies with larger sample sizes are needed before reliable conclusions can be drawn.

Radiation and chemotherapeutics are associated with altered aortic aneurysm growth in cancer patients

INTRODUCTION

Co-prevalence of aorto-iliac aneurysm (i.e. AAA) and cancer confronts patients and physicians with two life-threatening diseases. Modern chemotherapeutics and target therapies might impact the aneurysm wall integrity and subsequently affect growth. The purpose of this study was to assess associations between malignancy, therapeutic regimens and the growth rates of aorto-iliac aneurysms.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective single-center analysis identified patients with aneurysm + cancer. Patients with ≥2 CT angiograms over ≥6 months and additional malignancy were included. Clinical data and aneurysm diameters were analyzed. AAA growth under cancer therapy (chemotherapy/radiation) was compared to a non-cancer AAA control cohort and to meta-analysis data. Statistics included t-tests and a linear regression model with correction for initial aortic diameter and type of treatment.

RESULTS

From 2003 - 2020, 217 patients (median age 70 years; 92% male) with 246 aneurysms (58.8% AAA) and 238 malignancies were identified. Prostate (27%) and lung (16%) cancer were most frequently seen, 157 patients (72%) received chemotherapy and 105 patients (48%) radiation, thereof 79 (36.4%) both. Annual AAA growth was not significantly different for cancer and non-cancer patients (2.0±2.3 vs. 2.8±2.1mm/y, p=0.20). However, subgroup analyses revealed that radiation was associated with a significantly reduced aneurysm growth rate compared to cancer patients without radiation (1.1±1.3 vs. 1.6±2.1 mm/y, p=0.046) and to the non-cancer control cohort (1.7±1.9 vs. 2.8±2.1 mm/y, p=0.007). Administration of antimetabolites showed significantly increased AAA growth (+0.9mm/year, p=0.011), while e.g. topoisomerase inhibitors (-0.8mm/year, p=0.17) and anti-androgens (-0.5mm/year, p=0.27) showed a possible trend for reduced growth. Similar was observed for iliac aneurysms (n=85). Additionally, effects were persistent in combinations of chemotherapies (2.6±1.4 substances/patient).

CONCLUSION

Cancer patients with concomitant aortic aneurysms may require intensified monitoring when undergoing specific therapies, such as antimetabolites, since they may experience an increased aneurysm growth rate. Radiation may be associated with reduced aneurysm growth.

Epicardial adipose tissue volume is associated with abdominal aortic aneurysm expansion

BACKGROUND

Epicardial adipose tissue volume (EATV) is associated with cardiovascular diseases such as coronary artery disease. However, no information is available regarding the relationship between EATV and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) expansion. This study aimed to evaluate the association between EATV and the growth of AAA, and to identify predictors of AAA expansion.

METHODS

Between June 2009 and December 2019, a total of 906 patients underwent endovascular or open repair of AAA at our institution. Patients with previous cardiac surgery, previous ascending thoracic aortic surgery, ruptured AAA, infected AAA, inflammatory AAA, saccular aneurysm, solitary iliac aneurysm, or reintervention after treatment for AAA were excluded. Two hundred and thirty-seven patients with at least two preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans performed more than 180 days apart were included in this study. EATV within the pericardium was retrospectively quantified from preoperative non-contrast CT images using a 3D workstation. The EATV index was defined as EATV divided by body surface area. The AAA expansion rate was defined as the increase in AAA diameter per year, and patients were divided into the slow-expansion group, with an expansion rate < 5 mm/year, and the fast-expansion group, with an expansion rate ≥ 5 mm/year. The correlation between expansion rate and the EATV index was analyzed, and the cut-off value of the EATV index was determined using a receiver operating characteristics curve. Multivariate analysis was used to assess predictors of the AAA expansion rate.

RESULTS

The expansion rate of AAA was positively correlated with the EATV index (R = .237, P < .001). The initial aneurysm diameter (P < .001) and EATV index (P = .009) differed significantly between the two groups. The cut-off value of the EATV index was 60.3 cm³/m² (area under the curve, .658; 95% confidence interval [CI], .568-.749; sensitivity, 1.000; specificity, .309). Multivariate analysis revealed that the initial aneurysm diameter and an EATV index > 60.3 cm³/m² were significantly associated with the AAA expansion rate.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that the EATV index was associated with AAA expansion.

Ascending Aneurysms in Heart Transplant Patients: A Rare Opportunity to Assess Heredity Versus Biological Environment

Three patients developed severe ascending aortic aneurysm requiring surgical resection after heart transplantation. In all 3 cases, the donor aorta of the transplant remained normal in caliber, despite the development of a large aneurysm in the native upper ascending aorta. The aneurysmal disease did not cross the suture line. (Level of Difficulty: Advanced.)

Angiographic patterns and temporal changes of arterial lesions in Behcet's disease

BACKGROUND

Behcet's disease (BD) can entail vascular involvement in various forms including aneurysm. We evaluated the angiographic patterns and changes in arterial lesions over time in BD patients with arterial involvement.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of BD patients diagnosed with arterial lesions between 1995 and 2018. Angiographic patterns were categorized as stenosis, occlusion, dilatation, or aneurysm. Patients were divided according to symptom duration (<5, 5-10, >10 years). Cox proportional-hazards model was used to evaluate the risk factors for vascular progression.

RESULTS

47 BD patients had arterial involvement in the following patterns: aneurysm (n = 31), stenosis (n = 17), dilatation (n = 13), and occlusion (n = 8). Aneurysm (70.8%) was the most common pattern in 24 patients with short (<5 years) symptom duration. Stenosis was more common (50.0%) in 12 patients with longer symptom durations (>10 years). In 23 patients with follow-up imaging (median, 5.7 years), eight (34.8%) developed 11 new lesions: stenosis (n = 5), dilatation (n = 1), and aneurysm (n = 5). One stenotic lesion progressed to occlusion, and two dilated lesions progressed to aneurysms. Lower extremity involvement and methotrexate use were associated with arterial progression, with hazard ratios of 5.716 (p = 0.029) and 0.101 (p = 0.049), respectively.

CONCLUSION

In BD patients with arterial involvement, aneurysm was the most common pattern in earlier stages of BD, while stenosis was more common in later stages of BD. Methotrexate use was associated with lower risk of arterial lesion progression.

Endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair in a patient with previous history of simultaneous orthotopic liver kidney transplantation

Management of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) tends to be an issue in patients with a previous history of abdominal transplantation surgeries. Open surgery poses the risk of ischemia to the grafted tissue. Additionally, these patients have comorbidities that make them unable to endure such procedures. As a result, endovascular repair is becoming the accepted procedure in the transplanted population. Herein, we describe a patient with a previous history of simultaneous orthotopic liver-kidney transplantation who successfully underwent EVAR for AAA correction.

Case Report: Disappearance of Coronary Anastomotic Aneurysm by Steroid Therapy in Takayasu Arteritis: Pseudorepair of Pseudoaneurysm?

Background: Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a large vessel vasculitis of unknown etiology characterized by chronic inflammatory changes of the aorta and its major branches. Complications such as anastomotic aneurysm and valve detachment have been reported in active TA patients who received aortic valve replacement and graft replacement of aorta.

Case Summary:A 61-year-old man with a history of emergency aortic valve replacement and patch closure of the noncoronary sinus of Valsalva due to acute heart failure induced by acute aortic regurgitation and ruptured sinus of Valsalva 4 years ago was referred for exertional dyspnea. Dilatation of the sinus of Valsalva together with protrusion of the right sinus of Valsalva and ostial stenosis of the left coronary artery were newly found by computed tomography (CT). A Bentall operation with concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting was successfully performed with a composite graft. Diagnosis of TA was made on the basis of histological analyses of the resected sinus of Valsalva, though other arterial manifestations were not detected by ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (¹⁸F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography. Three months later, a follow-up study revealed left coronary ostial pseudoaneurysm at the anastomotic site together with strong ¹⁸F-FDG uptake, leading to commencement of steroid therapy. Eight months later, disappearance of left coronary ostial pseudoaneurysm was found by a follow-up CT scan.

Conclusion: This is a rare TA case in whom spontaneous resolution of coronary anastomotic aneurysm by steroid therapy was found without reconstructive surgery.

Evaluating Growth Patterns of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Diameter With Serial Computed Tomography Surveillance

Importance

Small abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are common in the elderly population. Their growth rates and patterns, which drive clinical surveillance, are widely disputed.

Objective

To assess the growth patterns and rates of AAAs as documented on serial computed tomography (CT) scans.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Cohort study and secondary analysis of the Non-Invasive Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Clinical Trial (N-TA3CT), a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted from 2013 to 2018, with CT imaging every 6 months for 2 years. The trial was a multicenter, observational secondary analysis, not related to treatment hypotheses of data collected in the N-TA3CT. Participants included 254 patients with baseline AAA diameter between 3.5 and 5.0 cm.

Exposures

Patients received serial CT scan measurements, analyzed for maximum transverse diameter, at 6-month intervals.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary study outcome was AAA annual growth rate. Secondary analyses included characterizing AAA growth patterns, assessing likelihood of AAA diameter to exceed sex-specific intervention thresholds over 2 years.

Results

A total of 254 patients, 35 women with baseline AAA diameter 3.5 to 4.5 cm and 219 men with baseline diameter 3.5 to 5.0 cm, were included. Yearly growth rates of AAA diameters were a median of 0.17 cm/y (interquartile range [IQR], 0.16) and a mean (SD), 0.19 (0.14) cm/y. Ten percent of AAAs displayed minimal to no growth (<0.05 cm/y), 62% displayed low growth (0.05-0.25 cm/y), and 28% displayed high growth (>0.25 cm/y). Baseline AAA diameter accounted for 5.4% of variance of growth rate (P < .001; R2, 0.054). Most AAAs displayed linear growth (70%); large variations in interval growth rates occurred infrequently (3% staccato growth and 4% exponential growth); and some patients' growth patterns were not clearly classifiable (23% indeterminate). No patients with a maximum transverse diameter less than 4.25 cm exceeded sex-specific repair thresholds at 2 years (men, 0 of 92; 95% CI, 0.00-0.055; women, 0 of 25 ; 95% CI, 0.00-0.247). Twenty-six percent of patients with a maximum transverse diameter of at least 4.25 cm exceeded sex-specific repair thresholds at 2 years (n = 12 of 83 men with diameter ranging from 4.25 to <4.75 cm; 95% CI, 0.091-0.264; n = 21 of 44 men with diameter ranging from 4.75-5.0 cm; 95% CI, 0.362-0.669; n = 3 of 10 women with diameter ≥4.25 cm; 95% CI, 0.093-0.726).

Conclusions and Relevance

Most small AAAs showed linear growth; large intrapatient variations in interval growth rates were infrequently observed over 2 years. Linear growth modeling of AAAs in individual patients suggests smaller AAAs (<4.25 cm) can be followed up with a CT scan in at least 2 years with little chance of exceeding interventional thresholds.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01756833.

Primary brachial artery aneurysm with associated basilic vein aneurysm

There are but a handful of reported brachial artery aneurysms, the majority of which are pseudoaneurysms or false aneurysms caused by trauma or fistula creation. True or primary brachial artery aneurysms are even more rare, and if they occur, they often do so in isolation. In this case report, we discuss the interesting finding of a large primary brachial aneurysm together with an adjacent aneurysmal basilic vein identified intra-operatively. This presentation was 21 years after the renal transplant and ligation of an arteriovenous fistula in that same arm. It is noteworthy that the fistula was in the forearm and far away from the site of the untouched brachial area.

Epidemiology and management of aortic disease: aortic aneurysms and acute aortic syndromes

The aorta is the 'greatest artery', through which oxygenated blood is delivered from the left ventricle to end organs with each cardiac cycle (200 million litres of blood transported in an average lifetime). The aorta can be affected by a wide spectrum of acute factors (such as cocaine use, weight lifting and trauma) and chronic acquired and/or genetic conditions (such as systemic arterial hypertension and phaeochromocytoma), which variously lead to increased aortic wall stress. The medial layer of the aorta can also be subject to abnormalities (such as Marfan syndrome, bicuspid aortic valve, inflammatory vasculitis, atherosclerosis and infections). Despite important advances in diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, data derived from registries and population-based studies highlight that the burden of aortic diseases remains high. Therefore, specific resources need to be allocated to design and implement preventive strategies (healthy lifestyles, modifications to cardiovascular risk factors, and educational and screening programmes) at individual and community levels. In this Review, we discuss the epidemiology, management and outcomes of the most common aortic diseases, namely, aortic aneurysms and acute aortic syndromes.

Lupus Aortitis Successfully Treated with Moderate-dose Glucocorticoids: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Lupus aortitis is a rare and potentially life-threatening disorder. Previous studies have reported the utility of high-dose systemic glucocorticoids or surgery as the treatment, although there have been no related controlled trials. We herein report a 49-year-old woman with a 35-year history of systemic lupus erythematosus who was diagnosed with aortitis. Her symptoms and laboratory and imaging abnormalities rapidly resolved upon the administration of moderate-dose glucocorticoids. We subsequently performed a literature review of similar cases to identify the appropriate treatment and discuss these cases. A study of further cases will be needed to identify the characteristics of patients who would benefit from moderate-dose glucocorticoid therapy.

Detection of Macrophage Localization in the Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Wall Using Ex Vivo Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging

BACKGROUND

Macrophages in the aneurysmal wall play an important role in the pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) is a macrophage-specific contrast agent that results in negative enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). SPIO-enhanced MRI targeting the intraluminal thrombus of AAAs has been previously reported. However, macrophages in the media and adventitia of AAA wall have not been investigated in detail. This study aimed to evaluate macrophage localization using SPIO-enhanced MRI in the media and adventitia of AAA wall, as macrophages play a crucial role in AAA pathogenesis.

METHODS

Here, we included study and control patients planning to undergo open surgery for AAA. The study patients received SPIO injection 2 days preoperatively (the SPIO group, n = 7), whereas the control patients did not receive this injection (the control group). Ex vivo MRI was performed on the harvested AAA wall in the SPIO group during the surgery. The concordance between the number of macrophages and berlin blue (BB)-stained areas was histologically evaluated in both groups. Moreover, the concordance between regions of interest in MR images and BB-stained areas was evaluated.

RESULTS

The proportion of BB-stained macrophages was higher in the SPIO group (0.93; interquartile range [IQR], 0.83-0.95) than in the control group (0.03; IQR, 0.026-0.11) (P < 0.05), indicating uptake of SPIO by macrophages in the AAA wall. A significant positive correlation was found between the number of BB-stained macrophages and BB-stained areas using Kendall rank correlation coefficient in the SPIO group (τ = 0.58; P < 0.05). Significant correlations were found in the distributions of the region of interest of SPIO-enhanced MRI and BB-stained areas in the media and adventitia in 5 of 7 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Macrophages present in the media and adventitia of the AAA wall showed an uptake of the SPIO contrast agent injected 2 days prior, which were then detected by ex vivo MRI. This suggests that SPIO-enhanced MR images help detect the localization of macrophages on the AAA wall, indicating its potential to serve as a novel index for AAA pathogenesis.

Clinical and Pathological Characteristics of IgG4-Related Periaortitis/Periarteritis and Retroperitoneal Fibrosis Diagnosed Based on Experts' Diagnosis

IgG4-related disease is a systemic disease, characterized by elevation of serum IgG4 and, histopathologically, massive infiltration of IgG4+ lymphocyte and plasma cell infiltration, storiform fibrosis, causing enlargement, nodules or thickening. It may affect various organs simultaneously or metachronously. Here we analyzed the clinical and pathological characteristics of 99 patients diagnosed with IgG4-related periaortitis/periarteritis and retroperitoneal fibrosis. Of 99 patients (women/men, 15/84; mean age 67.3±9.5 years), 33 were diagnosed based on the histopathological findings of perivascular/retroperitoneal lesions, 50 were diagnosed based on the characteristic imaging findings of perivascular/retroperitoneal lesions and the presence of definitive IgG4-related disease in other organ(s), and the remaining 16 patients were diagnosed by experts based on the characteristic imaging findings of perivascular/retroperitoneal legions, serological findings, response to glucocorticoid treatment, and/or the presence of suspected IgG4-related disease in other organ(s). According to the new organ-specific criteria proposed by experts, 73 (73.7%) diagnoses were categorized to be definitive, and 6 (6.1%) and 17 (17.2%) diagnoses were categorized to be probable and possible, respectively. Further analyses are needed to clarify the optimal diagnostic and therapeutic strategy of IgG4-related periaortitis/periarteritis and retroperitoneal fibrosis. (This is a translation of J Jpn Coll Angiol 2018; 58: 117–129.)

True brachial artery aneurysm after arteriovenous fistula closure following renal transplantation: a case report and literature review

Background

A brachial artery aneurysm (BAA) is a rare condition accounting for 5% of all peripheral arterial aneurysms. More cases of true BAAs after arteriovenous fistula (AVF) closure have been reported in the past two decades.

Case presentation

A 60-year-old man who underwent AVF closure after renal transplantation had a true BAA on his left elbow that had grown within the past 6 months. We successfully performed an open repair with end-to-end anastomosis. No complications occurred for 1 year.

Conclusions

High flow due to AVF and some collateral factors such as the use of steroids and immunosuppressants after renal transplantation, arteriosclerosis, and chronic mechanical stimulation might contribute to BAA formation.

Characteristics and outcomes in a prospective cohort of patients with histologically diagnosed aortitis

Objectives

Our aim was to evaluate characteristics and prospective adverse aortic outcomes in a cohort of patients with non-infectious histological aortitis.

Methods

Patients with histological aortitis, diagnosed at the Ottawa Hospital after surgical repair of thoracic aortic aneurysms or dissections, consented to enrolment in a prospective observational cohort. Patients were assessed for an underlying inflammatory condition and followed prospectively with periodic clinical, laboratory and radiographic assessments. Aortic outcomes during follow-up included significant events, defined as new thoracic or abdominal aortic aneurysms, dissections, ruptures or other complications requiring aortic intervention, in addition to aortic branch ectasias, aneurysms and stenosis.

Results

Sixteen patients with histological aortitis from surgical procedures performed between 2010 and 2017 were included; nine had idiopathic and seven had secondary aortitis. Idiopathic patients were more likely to have smoked (100 vs 43%, P = 0.02) and had more associated arch or descending aortic aneurysms on pre-operative baseline imaging compared with secondary aortitis (6 vs 0, P = 0.01). At the median 3.6 years of follow-up, eight patients (50%) had 10 significant aortic events. The incidence of aortic dissection was higher in the first year post-surgery, compared with subsequent years, whereas incident aneurysms occurred throughout follow-up. Elevated inflammatory markers during follow-up trended towards association with accumulation of severe aortic damage.

Conclusion

This is the first reported prospective study in patients with histological aortitis. Within the limitations of a small cohort, we report a high incidence of aortic complications. Studies with a larger sample size and longer follow-up are needed to corroborate these findings.

Successful Bridge Therapy with Initial Endovascular Repair for Arterioenteric Fistula Resulting from Pseudoaneurysm Rupture with Massive Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage after Pancreas Transplantation

Pseudoaneurysm after pancreas transplantation has a reported incidence of 1.4 to 8.0% and may be caused by perioperative infection. Subsequent pseudoaneurysm rupture is a rare cause of arterioenteric fistula. Only 28 cases of arterioenteric fistula after pancreas transplantation have been reported in the past 20 years. We experienced a rare case of arterioenteric fistula resulting from pseudoaneurysm rupture after pancreas transplantation. We successfully treated the arterioenteric fistula with multistaged bridge therapy composed of initial endovascular aneurysm repair, secondary isolation of the fistula, and definitive open repair with extraanatomic bypass. No complications occurred in 1 year of follow-up; this staged therapy seems feasible for patients with arterioenteric fistula.

The reassuring CT scan with a lethal diagnosis

We discuss an interesting case of a patient who presented with symptoms of abdominal and worsening chronic back pain with a known history of abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Risk Factor Analyses of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Growth in Japanese Patients

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to retrospectively demonstrate the growth rate (mm/year) of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) diameters (ADs) and to analyze risk factors for AAA expansion.

METHODS

We retrospectively investigated the clinical data of 319 patients with AAAs who were followed up as outpatients for >2 years after their initial visit and who underwent computed tomography >4 times.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 3.7 ± 1.5 years. The annual average growth rates according to varying ADs were as follows: 1.9 ± 0.8 (AD 30-34 mm), 2.6 ± 1.2 (AD 35-39 mm), 2.8 ± 1.1 (AD 40-44 mm), 3.1 ± 1.3 (AD 45-49 mm), 3.4 ± 1.6 (AD 50-54 mm), and 3.5 ± 1.4 mm (AD ≥55 mm). Factors associated with AAA expansion were smoking (P = 0.017), hypertension (P < 0.001), and ADs (P < 0.001). In the subgroup analysis, data regarding growth rates of ≥3 mm were extracted, and a statistically significant difference between smoking status and ADs of ≥40 mm was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Factors associated with AAA expansion in Japanese patients included smoking, hypertension, and ADs, and a statistically significant difference was observed between smoking status and ADs of ≥40 mm.