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Dimitroglou Y, Aggeli C, Alexopoulou A, Tsartsalis D, Patsourakos D, Koukos M, Tousoulis D, Tsioufis K. The Contemporary Role of Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:179. [PMID: 38398688 PMCID: PMC10890501 DOI: 10.3390/life14020179] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) is characterized by elevated cardiac output at rest, an inability to further increase contractility under stress, and diastolic dysfunction. The diagnosis of CCM is crucial as it can lead to complications during liver transplantation. However, its recognition poses challenges with conventional echocardiography techniques. Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), particularly global longitudinal strain (GLS), is a novel index that enhances the diagnostic efficacy of echocardiography for both ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathies. GLS proves more sensitive in identifying early systolic dysfunction and is also influenced by advanced diastolic dysfunction. Consequently, there is an expanding scope for GLS utilization in cirrhotic cases, with newly updated diagnostic criteria for CCM incorporating GLS. Specifically, systolic dysfunction is now defined as either a left ventricular ejection fraction below 50% or an absolute GLS below 18%. However, conflicting data on GLS alterations in liver cirrhosis patients persist, as many individuals with advanced disease and a poor prognosis exhibit a hyperdynamic state with preserved or increased GLS. Consequently, the presence of CCM, according to the updated criteria, does not exhibit a significant association-in the majority of studies-with the severity of liver disease and prognosis. Furthermore, information on other indices measured with STE, such as left atrial and right ventricular strain, is promising but currently limited. This review aims to offer a critical assessment of the existing evidence concerning the application of STE in patients with liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannis Dimitroglou
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (C.A.); (D.T.); (D.P.); (M.K.); (K.T.)
| | - Constantina Aggeli
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (C.A.); (D.T.); (D.P.); (M.K.); (K.T.)
| | - Alexandra Alexopoulou
- Second Department of Medicine & Research Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
| | - Dimitrios Tsartsalis
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (C.A.); (D.T.); (D.P.); (M.K.); (K.T.)
| | - Dimitrios Patsourakos
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (C.A.); (D.T.); (D.P.); (M.K.); (K.T.)
| | - Markos Koukos
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (C.A.); (D.T.); (D.P.); (M.K.); (K.T.)
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (C.A.); (D.T.); (D.P.); (M.K.); (K.T.)
| | - Konstantinos Tsioufis
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (C.A.); (D.T.); (D.P.); (M.K.); (K.T.)
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Liu H, Naser JA, Lin G, Lee SS. Cardiomyopathy in cirrhosis: From pathophysiology to clinical care. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:100911. [PMID: 38089549 PMCID: PMC10711481 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) is defined as systolic or diastolic dysfunction in the absence of prior heart disease or another identifiable cause in patients with cirrhosis, in whom it is an important determinant of outcome. Its underlying pathogenic/pathophysiological mechanisms are rooted in two distinct pathways: 1) factors associated with portal hypertension, hyperdynamic circulation, gut bacterial/endotoxin translocation and the resultant inflammatory phenotype; 2) hepatocellular insufficiency with altered synthesis or metabolism of substances such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, bile acids and hormones. Different criteria have been proposed to diagnose CCM; the first in 2005 by the World Congress of Gastroenterology, and more recently in 2019 by the Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy Consortium. These criteria mainly utilised echocardiographic evaluation, with the latter refining the evaluation of diastolic function and integrating global longitudinal strain into the evaluation of systolic function, an important addition since the haemodynamic changes that occur in advanced cirrhosis may lead to overestimation of systolic function by left ventricular ejection fraction. Advances in cardiac imaging, such as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and the incorporation of an exercise challenge, may help further refine the diagnosis of CCM. Over recent years, CCM has been shown to contribute to increased mortality and morbidity after major interventions, such as liver transplantation and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt insertion, and to play a pathophysiologic role in the genesis of hepatorenal syndrome. In this review, we discuss the pathogenesis/pathophysiology of CCM, its clinical implications, and the role of cardiac imaging modalities including MRI. We also compare diagnostic criteria and review the potential diagnostic role of electrocardiographic QT prolongation. At present, no definitive medical therapy exists, but some promising potential treatment strategies for CCM are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongqun Liu
- Liver Unit, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jwan A. Naser
- Division of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Grace Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Samuel S. Lee
- Liver Unit, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Nguyen VA, Nguyen DT, Ong LTT, Tran AV, Tran BLT, Tran CM. Early detection of reduced left ventricular systolic function by 2D speckle tracking echocardiography in patients with primary mitral regurgitation in a Vietnamese cohort. Glob Cardiol Sci Pract 2023; 2023:e202326. [PMID: 38623555 PMCID: PMC11017305 DOI: 10.21542/gcsp.2023.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Mitral regurgitation (MR) is a common heart valve disease, causing many serious complications in several organ systems, especially the cardiovascular system. The 2D speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) is a new technique for detecting potential cardiac dysfunction when only tissue function abnormalities are present. The study aimed to assess left ventricular (LV) systolic function early by STE in patients with primary MR through global LV deformity along the global longitudinal strain (GLS). Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was performed on 46 patients with moderate to severe primary MR as recommended by the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) 2017. Results: The prevalence of patients with GLS reduction with ejection fraction (EF) >60%, New York Heart Association (NYHA) I, and left ventricular internal diameter systolic (LVIDs) <40 mm was 38.1%, 35.7%, and 39.5%, respectively. 100% of patients with EF<60% and LVIDs ≥40 mm had reduced GLS (<16%). The GLS index strongly correlates with the NYHA classification, degree of MR, EF, and echocardiographic parameters. Conclusion: GLS index gives a significant sign in the early detection of cardiac function abnormalities before symptoms or other echocardiographic parameters in patients with MR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vu Anh Nguyen
- Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue, Viet Nam
| | - Diem Thi Nguyen
- Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Can Tho, Viet Nam
| | | | - An Viet Tran
- Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Can Tho, Viet Nam
| | | | - Chau Minh Tran
- Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Can Tho, Viet Nam
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Echocardiography in the Liver Transplant Patient. Curr Cardiol Rep 2021; 23:110. [PMID: 34216273 DOI: 10.1007/s11886-021-01531-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this study is to review current echocardiographic modalities utilized in the assessment of the preoperative liver transplant candidate with an emphasis on newer techniques. We sought to assess if newer methods imparted additional diagnostic or prognostic accuracy compared to prior methods based on existing studies. RECENT FINDINGS Standard dobutamine stress echocardiography offers important information regarding operative risk and post-operative survival in liver transplant candidates; however, technologies such as speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) and evaluation of diastolic function have emerged as useful tools as well. 2D-STE and diastolic echocardiography offer additional parameters such as global longitudinal strain and measures of diastolic dysfunction that can better predict peri-operative and post-operative complications in liver transplant candidates. If able, practitioners should utilize these methods routinely in their assessment of liver transplant candidates.
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Interplay of cardiovascular mediators, oxidative stress and inflammation in liver disease and its complications. Nat Rev Cardiol 2020; 18:117-135. [PMID: 32999450 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-020-0433-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The liver is a crucial metabolic organ that has a key role in maintaining immune and endocrine homeostasis. Accumulating evidence suggests that chronic liver disease might promote the development of various cardiac disorders (such as arrhythmias and cardiomyopathy) and circulatory complications (including systemic, splanchnic and pulmonary complications), which can eventually culminate in clinical conditions ranging from portal and pulmonary hypertension to pulmonary, cardiac and renal failure, ascites and encephalopathy. Liver diseases can affect cardiovascular function during the early stages of disease progression. The development of cardiovascular diseases in patients with chronic liver failure is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, and cardiovascular complications can in turn affect liver function and liver disease progression. Furthermore, numerous infectious, inflammatory, metabolic and genetic diseases, as well as alcohol abuse can also influence both hepatic and cardiovascular outcomes. In this Review, we highlight how chronic liver diseases and associated cardiovascular effects can influence different organ pathologies. Furthermore, we explore the potential roles of inflammation, oxidative stress, vasoactive mediator imbalance, dysregulated endocannabinoid and autonomic nervous systems and endothelial dysfunction in mediating the complex interplay between the liver and the systemic vasculature that results in the development of the extrahepatic complications of chronic liver disease. The roles of ageing, sex, the gut microbiome and organ transplantation in this complex interplay are also discussed.
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Nikoo MH, Naeemi R, Moaref A, Attar A. Global longitudinal strain for prediction of ventricular arrhythmia in patients with heart failure. ESC Heart Fail 2020; 7:2956-2961. [PMID: 32710602 PMCID: PMC7524120 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.12910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Currently, the ejection fraction [left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)] is the main criterion used for implanting implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) for primary prevention. However, many of ICD receivers would not have an event and do not have any gains from the device. Consequently, improving the discrimination strategies is needed. Here, we aimed at assessing the role of global longitudinal strain (GLS) for such purpose. METHODS AND RESULTS Seventy ischaemic or dilated cardiomyopathy cases characterized by LVEF ≤ 40% with a previously implanted ICD were enrolled. LVEF and GLS amounts were evaluated using 3D echocardiography. The occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias was checked by analysing the ICD history. Mean follow-up period of patients was 1.8 ± 0.6 years. There was a significant difference in the amount of GLS in arrhythmic cases compared with non-arrhythmic ones (-6.97 ± 3.06 vs -11.82 ± 4.25; P < 0.001). This difference was found in both ischaemic and dilated cardiomyopathy groups. A GLS below -10 cm/s could predict the occurrence of a ventricular event by 90% specificity and 72.2% sensitivity (area under the curve = 0.84, P < 0.001). While 27.39 (69.2%) patients with GLS below -10 cm/s had a ventricular event, only 3.31 (9.6%) of the patients with GLS above -10 had an event) P < 0.001). Those patients with a GLS ≥ 17 cm/s never experienced a ventricular arrhythmia. CONCLUSIONS Global longitudinal strain is a more accurate predictor of ventricular arrhythmias in patients with reduced LVEF. Whether it may help in selecting more appropriate patients for ICD implantation or not should be evaluated within a randomized trial in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Nikoo
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Cardiovascular Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Razieh Naeemi
- Students' Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alireza Moaref
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Cardiovascular Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Armin Attar
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Singh AD, Mian A. Letter to the Editor: Some TIPS for Future Decompensations! Hepatology 2020; 71:2170. [PMID: 31841218 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31066] [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: 12/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Agrima Mian
- Department of Internal Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Dimitroglou Y, Aggeli C, Alexopoulou A, Mavrogeni S, Tousoulis D. Cardiac Imaging in Liver Transplantation Candidates: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives. J Clin Med 2019; 8:E2132. [PMID: 31817014 PMCID: PMC6947158 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8122132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular dysfunction in cirrhotic patients is a recognized clinical entity commonly referred to as cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. Systematic inflammation, autonomic dysfunction, and activation of vasodilatory factors lead to hyperdynamic circulation with high cardiac output and low peripheral vascular resistance. Counter acting mechanisms as well as direct effects on cardiac cells led to systolic or diastolic dysfunction and electromechanical abnormalities, which are usually masked at rest but exposed at stress situations. While cardiovascular complications and mortality are common in patients undergoing liver transplantation, they cannot be adequately predicted by conventional cardiac examination including transthoracic echocardiography. Newer echocardiography indices and other imaging modalities such as cardiac magnetic resonance have shown increased diagnostic accuracy with predictive implications in cardiovascular diseases. The scope of this review was to describe the role of cardiac imaging in the preoperative assessment of liver transplantation candidates with comprehensive analysis of the future perspectives anticipated by the use of newer echocardiography indices and cardiac magnetic resonance applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannis Dimitroglou
- Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Hippokration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (C.A.); (D.T.)
| | - Constantina Aggeli
- Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Hippokration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (C.A.); (D.T.)
| | - Alexandra Alexopoulou
- Department of Internal Medicine and Research Laboratory, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Hippokration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Sophie Mavrogeni
- Onassis Cardiac Center and National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 176 74 Athens, Greece;
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Hippokration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (C.A.); (D.T.)
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