1
|
Marsh JF, VanMeter PD, Rajendran K, Leng S, McCollough CH. Ex vivo coronary calcium volume quantification using a high-spatial-resolution clinical photon-counting-detector computed tomography. J Med Imaging (Bellingham) 2023; 10:043501. [PMID: 37408984 PMCID: PMC10319293 DOI: 10.1117/1.jmi.10.4.043501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is an important indicator of coronary disease. Accurate volume quantification of CAC is challenging using computed tomography (CT) due to calcium blooming, which is a consequence of limited spatial resolution. Ex vivo coronary specimens were scanned on an ultra-high-resolution (UHR) clinical photon-counting detector (PCD) CT scanner, and the accuracy of CAC volume estimation was compared with a state-of-the-art conventional energy-integrating detector (EID) CT, a previous-generation investigational PCD-CT, and micro-CT. Approach CAC specimens (n = 13 ) were scanned on EID-CT and PCD-CT using matched parameters (120 kV, 9.3 mGy CTDI vol ). EID-CT images were reconstructed using our institutional routine clinical protocol for CAC quantification. UHR PCD-CT data were reconstructed using a sharper kernel. An image-based denoising algorithm was applied to the PCD-CT images to achieve similar noise levels as EID-CT. Micro-CT images served as the volume reference standard. Calcification images were segmented, and their volume estimates were compared. The CT data were further compared with previous work using an investigational PCD-CT. Results Compared with micro-CT, CT volume estimates had a mean absolute percent error of 24.1 % ± 25.6 % for clinical PCD-CT, 60.1 % ± 48.2 % for EID-CT, and 51.1 % ± 41.7 % for previous-generation PCD-CT. Clinical PCD-CT absolute percent error was significantly (p < 0.01 ) lower than both EID-CT and previous generation PCD-CT. The mean calcification CT number and contrast-to-noise ratio were both significantly (p < 0.01 ) higher in clinical PCD-CT relative to EID-CT. Conclusions UHR clinical PCD-CT showed reduced calcium blooming artifacts and further enabled improved accuracy of CAC quantification beyond that of conventional EID-CT and previous generation PCD-CT systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey F. Marsh
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Radiology, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | | | - Kishore Rajendran
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Radiology, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Shuai Leng
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Radiology, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yang Z, Tang D, Luo Y, Xiang C, Huang L, Xia L. The relationship between epicardial adipose tissue thickness and arrhythmias in patients with hypertension: a 3.0T cardiac magnetic resonance study. Br J Radiol 2023; 96:20221030. [PMID: 36971695 PMCID: PMC10230399 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20221030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the relationship between epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) thickness using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) and arrhythmias in hypertensive patients. METHODS Fifty-four hypertensive patients with arrhythmias (HTN [arrhythmias+]), 79 hypertensive patients without arrhythmias (HTN [arrhythmias-]), and 39 normal controls were retrospectively enrolled. EAT thickness was measured on cine images. Analysis of covariance with Bonferroni's post hoc correction, Pearson or Spearman analysis, receiver operating characteristic curve, and intraclass correlation coefficient analysis were performed. RESULTS All hypertensive patients had impaired left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) myocardial deformation, and HTN (arrhythmias+) patients displayed higher LV myocardial native T1, LA volume index, and increased EAT thickness than HTN (arrhythmias-) patients and normotensive controls. The presence of LV late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) was higher in hypertensive patients with arrhythmias than in those without arrhythmias. EAT thickness metrics significantly correlated with age, systolic blood pressure, body mass index, triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein levels, LV mass index and native T1 (all p < 0.05). EAT thickness parameters were able to differentiate hypertensive patients with arrhythmias from those without arrhythmias and normal controls, and the right ventricular free wall had the highest diagnostic performance. CONCLUSION An accumulation of EAT thickness could further induce cardiac remodeling, promote myocardial fibrosis, and exaggerate function in hypertensive patients with arrhythmias. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE CMR-derived EAT thickness metrics could be a useful imaging marker for differentiating hypertensive patients with arrhythmias, which might be a potential target for the prevention of cardiac remodeling and arrhythmias.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxia Yang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Dazong Tang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yi Luo
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chunlin Xiang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lu Huang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Liming Xia
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Tsiogka A, Gregoriou S, Stratigos A, Soulaidopoulos S, Rompoti N, Panagakis P, Papoutsaki M, Kostakis P, Kontochristopoulos G, Tsioufis K, Campanati A, Offidani A, Vlachopoulos C, Rigopoulos D. The Impact of Treatment with IL-17/IL-23 Inhibitors on Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Patients with Plaque Psoriasis and/or Psoriatic Arthritis: A Systematic Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020318. [PMID: 36830855 PMCID: PMC9953668 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020318] [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: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence considers psoriasis a systemic inflammatory disorder that is associated with comorbidities such as psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome. Although the precise pathogenetic links between psoriasis and atherosclerosis warrants further investigation, it is believed that chronic systemic inflammation along with the T helper (Th)-1 and Th17 polarization are associated with endothelial dysfunction and subsequent acceleration of atherosclerosis. Considering the above, several studies have evaluated if optimal control of the inflammation in psoriasis by inhibiting interleukins targeting the Interleukin (IL)-23/Th17 axis could subsequently reduce the atherosclerotic process during anti-psoriatic treatment by using a variety of surrogate markers of subclinical atherosclerosis. This systematic review summarizes current knowledge on the pathogenetic mechanisms and diagnostic evaluation of atherosclerosis in the context of psoriasis and provides a systematic review of the literature on the impact of treatment with biologics targeting the IL-23/Th17 axis on subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with plaque psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Tsiogka
- First Department of Dermatology-Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, “A. Sygros” Hospital for Skin and Venereal Diseases, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 16121 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-210-9337315; Fax: +30-2107211122
| | - Stamatios Gregoriou
- First Department of Dermatology-Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, “A. Sygros” Hospital for Skin and Venereal Diseases, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 16121 Athens, Greece
| | - Alexander Stratigos
- First Department of Dermatology-Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, “A. Sygros” Hospital for Skin and Venereal Diseases, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 16121 Athens, Greece
| | - Stergios Soulaidopoulos
- First Cardiology Department, Hippokration General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Natalia Rompoti
- First Department of Dermatology-Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, “A. Sygros” Hospital for Skin and Venereal Diseases, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 16121 Athens, Greece
| | - Pantelis Panagakis
- First Department of Dermatology-Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, “A. Sygros” Hospital for Skin and Venereal Diseases, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 16121 Athens, Greece
| | - Marina Papoutsaki
- First Department of Dermatology-Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, “A. Sygros” Hospital for Skin and Venereal Diseases, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 16121 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Kostakis
- First Department of Dermatology-Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, “A. Sygros” Hospital for Skin and Venereal Diseases, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 16121 Athens, Greece
| | - George Kontochristopoulos
- First Department of Dermatology-Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, “A. Sygros” Hospital for Skin and Venereal Diseases, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 16121 Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Tsioufis
- First Cardiology Department, Hippokration General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Anna Campanati
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Dermatology Clinic, Polytechnic Marche University, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | - Annamaria Offidani
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Dermatology Clinic, Polytechnic Marche University, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | - Charalambos Vlachopoulos
- First Cardiology Department, Hippokration General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Rigopoulos
- First Department of Dermatology-Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, “A. Sygros” Hospital for Skin and Venereal Diseases, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 16121 Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
El-Gendy SAA, Alsafy MAM, Rutland CS, Ez Elarab SM, Abd-Elhafeez HH, Kamal BM. Ossa cordis and os aorta in the one-humped camel: Computed tomography, light microscopy and morphometric analysis. Microsc Res Tech 2023; 86:53-62. [PMID: 36354738 PMCID: PMC10100463 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The present study describes the morphological characteristics of the camel heart Ossa cordis, and os aorta using computed tomography soft tissue window (CT) alongside 3D render volume reconstructions and light microscopy. The current study techniques demonstrated the Ossa cordis and os aorta in the cardiac window with more precision than the black and white (ghost), and angiography images. Transverse and sagittal CT images additionally demonstrated the presence of Ossa cordis and os aorta. This study is the first to record two small Ossa cordis sinistrum and one os aorta in the camel heart, in addition to the more commonly observed singular, large, os cordis dextrum. The os cordis dextrum was always located in the upper part of the interventricular septum, near to its junction with the atrium, forming an elongated rectangular shape when observed transversally. The wider cranial part was composed from bone, whereas the caudal aspect was narrow and contained both bone and cartilage. Light microscopy identified that the os cordis dextrum consisted of trabecular bone, marrow spaces, and hyaline cartilage. Two Ossa cordis sinistrum were detected on the left side of the heart, one in the right fibrous ring and another in the interventricular septum, microscopy showed that both contained only trabecular bone with osteocytes, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts. At the level of ascending aorta, there was also trabecular bone containing osteocytes, an os aorta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samir A A El-Gendy
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A M Alsafy
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Catrin S Rutland
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Samar M Ez Elarab
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Hanan H Abd-Elhafeez
- Department of Cell and Tissues, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Asyut, Egypt
| | - Basma M Kamal
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jung S, Choi BH, Joo NS. Serum Homocysteine and Vascular Calcification: Advances in Mechanisms, Related Diseases, and Nutrition. Korean J Fam Med 2022; 43:277-289. [PMID: 36168899 PMCID: PMC9532189 DOI: 10.4082/kjfm.21.0227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying and preventing modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease is very important. Vascular calcification has been studied clinically as an asymptomatic preclinical marker of atherosclerosis and a risk factor for cardio-cerebrovascular disease. It is known that higher homocysteine levels are associated with calcified plaques and the higher the homocysteine level, the higher the prevalence and progression of vascular calcification. Homocysteine is a byproduct of methionine metabolism and is generally maintained at a physiological level. Moreover, it may increase if the patient has a genetic deficiency of metabolic enzymes, nutritional deficiencies of related cofactors (vitamins), chronic diseases, or a poor lifestyle. Homocysteine is an oxidative stress factor that can lead to calcified plaques and trigger vascular inflammation. Hyperhomocysteinemia causes endothelial dysfunction, transdifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells, and the induction of apoptosis. As a result of transdifferentiation and cell apoptosis, hydroxyapatite accumulates in the walls of blood vessels. Several studies have reported on the mechanisms of multiple cellular signaling pathways that cause inflammation and calcification in blood vessels. Therefore, in this review, we take a closer look at understanding the clinical consequences of hyperhomocysteinemia and apply clinical approaches to reduce its prevalence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susie Jung
- Department of Family Practice and Community Health, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | | | - Nam-Seok Joo
- Department of Family Practice and Community Health, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
- Corresponding Author: Nam-Seok Joo Tel: +82-31-219-5324, Fax: +82-31-219-5218, E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Svendsen CD, Kuiper KKJ, Ostridge K, Larsen TH, Nielsen R, Hodneland V, Nordeide E, Bakke PS, Eagan TM. Factors associated with coronary heart disease in COPD patients and controls. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265682. [PMID: 35476713 PMCID: PMC9045629 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COPD and coronary heart disease (CHD) frequently co-occur, yet which COPD phenotypes are most prone to CHD is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to see whether COPD patients did have a true higher risk for CHD than subjects without COPD, and to examine a range of potential factors associated with CHD in COPD patients and controls. Methods 347 COPD patients and 428 non-COPD controls, were invited for coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and pulmonary CT. Arterial blood gas, bioelectrical impedance and lung function was measured, and a detailed medical history taken. The CCTA was evaluated for significant coronary stenosis and calcium score (CaSc), and emphysema defined as >10% of total area <-950 Hounsfield units. Results 12.6% of the COPD patients and 5.7% of the controls had coronary stenosis (p<0.01), whereas 55.9% of the COPD patients had a CaSc>100 compared to 31.6% of the controls (p<0.01). In a multivariable model adjusting for sex, age, body composition, pack-years, CRP, cholesterol/blood pressure lowering medication use and diabetes mellitus, the OR (95% CI) for having significant stenosis was 1.80 (0.86–3.78) in COPD patients compared with controls. In a similar model, the OR (95% CI) for having CaSc>100 was 1.68 (1.12–2.53) in COPD patients compared with controls. Examining the risk of significant stenosis and CaSc>100 among COPD patients, no variable was associated with significant stenosis, whereas male sex [OR 2.85 (1.56–5.21)], age [OR 3.74 (2.42–5.77)], statin use [OR 2.23 (1.23–4.50)] were associated with CaSc>100, after adjusting for body composition, pack-years, C-reactive protein, use of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), diabetes, emphysema score, GOLD category, exacerbation frequency, eosinophilia, and hypoxemia. Conclusion COPD patients were more likely to have CHD, but neither emphysema score, lung function, exacerbation frequency, nor hypoxemia predicted presence of either coronary stenosis or CaSc>100.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina D. Svendsen
- Department of Thoracic Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- * E-mail:
| | - Karel K. J. Kuiper
- Department of Heart Disease, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Kristoffer Ostridge
- Faculty of Medicine, Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- Translational Science and Experimental Medicine, Research and Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Terje H. Larsen
- Department of Heart Disease, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Rune Nielsen
- Department of Thoracic Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Vidar Hodneland
- Department of Heart Disease, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Eli Nordeide
- Department of Thoracic Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Per S. Bakke
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Tomas M. Eagan
- Department of Thoracic Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Nagai R, Kubota S, Ogata M, Yamamoto M, Tanuma J, Gatanaga H, Hara H, Oka S, Hiroi Y. Unexpected high prevalence of severe coronary artery stenosis in Japanese hemophiliacs living with HIV-1. Glob Health Med 2020; 2:367-373. [PMID: 33409416 PMCID: PMC7780282 DOI: 10.35772/ghm.2020.01080] [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: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
To determine the prevalence of coronary artery stenosis (CAS) in Japanese hemophiliacs living with HIV- 1 (JHLH), a prospective study at AIDS Clinical Center, Tokyo, which provides care and treatment to nearly 10% of the JHLH was conducted. The study subjects were 76 JHLH who visited our clinic and received coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) between January through December 2019. CCTA with radiographic contrast media was used for CAS screening. Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) by CCTA, pulse wave velocity (PWV), electrocardiography, echocardiography, and chest radiography were also included to the screening process. Stenosis of 50% or more by CCTA was defined as moderate to severe CAS. All patients diagnosed with moderate to severe CAS were recommended to undergo coronary angiography (CAG). Among the 76 JHLH, 19 were excluded. Among the enrolled 57 patients, only 5 had complained of chest symptoms. Their median age was 47 years (interquartile range: 44-55 years), prevalence of hypertension 42.1%, diabetes mellitus 14.0%, dyslipidemia 38.6%, and smoking history 52.6%. Moderate to severe CAS was diagnosed in 14 patients by CCTA (24.6% of CCTA tested). Twelve patients agreed to undergo CAG. Seven patients were diagnosed as severe CAS by CAG (12.3% of CCTA received), although only 2 (28.6%) had chest symptoms. PWV and CACS were useful and significant non-invasive markers of moderate to severe CAS (p = 0.016, p < 0.001, respectively). In conclusions, our study identified high prevalence of severe CAS among JHLH. We recommend screening of all HIV-1-infected hemophiliacs with PWV and CACS, regardless of chest symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ran Nagai
- Department of Cardiology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuji Kubota
- Department of Cardiology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mikiko Ogata
- AIDS Clinical Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaya Yamamoto
- Department of Cardiology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junko Tanuma
- AIDS Clinical Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Gatanaga
- AIDS Clinical Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hisao Hara
- Department of Cardiology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Oka
- AIDS Clinical Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukio Hiroi
- Department of Cardiology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Discovery of os cordis in the cardiac skeleton of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes). Sci Rep 2020; 10:9417. [PMID: 32523027 PMCID: PMC7286900 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-66345-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases, especially idiopathic myocardial fibrosis, is one of the most significant causes of morbidity and mortality in captive great apes. This study compared the structure and morphology of 16 hearts from chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) which were either healthy or affected by myocardial fibrosis using X-ray microtomography. In four hearts, a single, hyperdense structure was detected within the right fibrous trigone of the cardiac skeleton. High resolution scans and histopathology revealed trabecular bones in two cases, hyaline cartilage in another case and a focus of mineralised fibro-cartilaginous metaplasia with endochondral ossification in the last case. Four other animals presented with multiple foci of ectopic calcification within the walls of the great vessels. All hearts affected by marked myocardial fibrosis presented with bone or cartilage formation, and increased collagen levels in tissues adjacent to the bone/cartilage, while unaffected hearts did not present with os cordis or cartilago cordis. The presence of an os cordis has been described in some ruminants, camelids, and otters, but never in great apes. This novel research indicates that an os cordis and cartilago cordis is present in some chimpanzees, particularly those affected by myocardial fibrosis, and could influence the risk of cardiac arrhythmias and sudden death.
Collapse
|
9
|
Gray G, Davenport ED, Bron D, Rienks R, d'Arcy J, Guettler N, Manen O, Syburra T, Nicol ED. The challenge of asymptomatic coronary artery disease in aircrew; detecting plaque before the accident. Heart 2019; 105:s17-s24. [PMID: 30425082 PMCID: PMC6256297 DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2018-313053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronary events remain a major cause of sudden incapacitation, including death, in both the general population and among aviation personnel, and are an ongoing threat to flight safety and operations. The presentation is often unheralded, especially in younger adults, and is often due to rupture of a previously non-obstructive coronary atheromatous plaque. The challenge for aeromedical practitioners is to identify individuals at increased risk for such events. This paper presents the NATO Cardiology Working Group (HFM 251) consensus approach for screening and investigation of aircrew for asymptomatic coronary disease.A three-phased approach to coronary artery disease (CAD) risk assessment is recommended, beginning with initial risk-stratification using a population-appropriate risk calculator and resting ECG. For aircrew identified as being at increased risk, enhanced screening is recommended by means of Coronary Artery Calcium Score alone or combined with a CT coronary angiography investigation. Additional screening may include exercise testing, and vascular ultrasound imaging. Aircrew identified as being at high risk based on enhanced screening require secondary investigations, which may include functional ischaemia, and potentially invasive coronary angiography. Functional stress testing as a stand-alone investigation for significant CAD is not recommended in aircrew. Aircrew identified with coronary disease require further clinical and aeromedical evaluation before being reconsidered for flying status.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gary Gray
- Canadian Forces Environmental Medical Establishment, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eddie D Davenport
- Aeromedical Consult Service, United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, Wright-PAtterson AFB, Ohio, USA
| | - Dennis Bron
- Aeromedical Centre, Swiss Air Force, Duebendorf, Switzerland
| | - Rienk Rienks
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht and Central Military Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joanna d'Arcy
- Royal Air Force Aviation Clinical Medicine Service, RAF Centre of Aviation Medicine, RAF Henlow, Bedfordshire, UK
| | - Norbert Guettler
- German Air Force Center for Aerospace Medicine, Fuerstenfeldbruck, Germany
| | - Olivier Manen
- Aviation Medicine Department, AeMC, Percy Military Hospital, Clamart, France
| | - Thomas Syburra
- Department of cardiothoracic surgery, Luzerner Kantonsspital, Luzern, Switzerland
| | - Edward D Nicol
- Royal Air Force Aviation Clinical Medicine Service, RAF Centre of Aviation Medicine, RAF Henlow, Bedfordshire, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hermansen ML, Sandholt B, Fuchs A, Sillesen H, Køber L, Kofoed KF, Faurschou M, Jacobsen S. Atherosclerosis and renal disease involvement in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a cross-sectional cohort study. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2018; 57:1964-1971. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/key201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Louise Hermansen
- Copenhagen Lupus and Vasculitis Clinic, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Benjamin Sandholt
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas Fuchs
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Sillesen
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Køber
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Klaus Fuglsang Kofoed
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Radiology, The Diagnostic Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikkel Faurschou
- Copenhagen Lupus and Vasculitis Clinic, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Jacobsen
- Copenhagen Lupus and Vasculitis Clinic, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cappabianca S, Belfiore MP, Reginelli A, Capasso R, Del Prete A, Petrillo M, Mascia P, Rossi C, Romano F, De Filippo M, Scialpi M, Gragnano F, Calabrò P, Belfiore G, Brunese L, Grassi R, Rotondo A. Mandatory Reporting of Coronary Artery Calcifications Incidentally Noted on Chest Multi-Detector Computed Tomography: A Multicentre Experience. Curr Vasc Pharmacol 2018; 17:92-98. [PMID: 29345585 DOI: 10.2174/1570161116666180117111856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronary Artery Calcifications (CACs) are associated with coronary atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular (CV) events. In "non-cardiovascular" settings, CACs can be easily detected on chest Multi-Detector Computed Tomography (MDCT). Their evaluation may help to better stratify CV risk in the general population, especially for primary prevention. AIMS We retrospectively evaluated the relationship between CAC distribution and CV risk, determined by Framingham Risk Score (FRS), in a cohort of patients who underwent chest MDCT performed for several clinical indications. METHOD We retrospectively recruited 305 patients (194 men, 111 women; mean age 70.5 years) from 3 different Italian centres. Patients with coronary stent, pacemaker and/or CV devices were excluded from the study. Circumflex Artery (LCX), Left Main Coronary Artery (LMCA), left Anterior Descending artery (LAD) and right coronary artery (RCA) were analysed. RESULTS From a total population of 305 patients, 119 (39%) had low FRS (<10%), 115 (38%) had intermediate FRS (10-20%), and 71 (23%) had high FRS (>20%). The study identified 842 CACs located in decreasing order as follows: RCA (34.5%), LAD (32.3%), LCX (28%) and LMCA (13%). Statistical two-step analysis subdivided patients into two clusters according to FRS (risk threshold = 12.38%): cluster I (mean 9.34) and cluster II (mean 15.09). A significant association between CAC distribution and cluster II was demonstrated. CACs were mostly detected in patients with intermediate FRS. All patients (100%) with the highest CV risk showed intermediate RCA and LMCA involvement. CONCLUSION Radiologists can note the distribution of CACs on a chest MDCT and should mandatorily record them in their reports. Depending on CAC presence and location, these findings may have important clinical implications, mostly in asymptomatic patients with intermediate FRS. This information may reclassify a patients' CV risk and improve clinical management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Cappabianca
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, "F. Magrassi-A. Lanzara", University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Belfiore
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, "F. Magrassi-A. Lanzara", University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Alfonso Reginelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, "F. Magrassi-A. Lanzara", University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaella Capasso
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, 86100, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Alessandra Del Prete
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, "F. Magrassi-A. Lanzara", University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Petrillo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, "F. Magrassi-A. Lanzara", University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Mascia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, "F. Magrassi-A. Lanzara", University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Rossi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, "F. Magrassi-A. Lanzara", University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Romano
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo De Filippo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Radiological Sciences, University Hospital of Parma, 43100, Parma, Italy
| | - Michele Scialpi
- Department of Surgical, Radiological and Odontostomatological Sciences, Division of Radiology 2, Perugia University, S. Maria della Misericordia Hospital, 06134, Perugia, Italy
| | - Felice Gragnano
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Respiratory Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Calabrò
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Respiratory Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Belfiore
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, "Sant'Anna and San Sebastiano" Hospital, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Luca Brunese
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, 86100, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Roberto Grassi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, "F. Magrassi-A. Lanzara", University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Rotondo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, "F. Magrassi-A. Lanzara", University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80131, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Rasmussen T, Køber L, Abdulla J, Pedersen JH, Wille MMW, Dirksen A, Kofoed KF. Coronary artery calcification detected in lung cancer screening predicts cardiovascular death. SCAND CARDIOVASC J 2015; 49:159-67. [PMID: 25919145 DOI: 10.3109/14017431.2015.1039572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES It remains unknown whether non-electrocardiogram-gated coronary artery calcium (CAC) score in lung cancer screening provides incremental prognostic value. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of CAC in the Danish Lung Cancer Screening Trial (DLCST), in addition to conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis including previously published studies regarding CAC in lung cancer screening. DESIGN In DLCST, we measured Agatston CAC scores in 1,945 current and former smokers. Causes of death were extracted from the Danish National Death Registry. We used Cox proportional hazards model to determine hazard ratios (HRs) of CAC scores. A weighted fixed-effects model was used for the meta-analysis. RESULTS Median follow-up in DLCST was 7.1 years, and 55% were men. Overall survival rates associated with CAC scores of 0, 1-400, and > 400 were 98%, 96%, and 92% (p < 0.001), respectively. Adjusted HR of cardiovascular death associated with CAC >400 was 3.8 (1.0-15) (p < 0.05). The meta-analysis included 28,045 asymptomatic participants. A high non-gated CAC score was associated with fatal or non-fatal cardiovascular events (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION Assessment of non-electrocardiogram-gated CAC in lung cancer screening programs is a robust prognostic measure of fatal or non-fatal cardiovascular events in current and former smokers independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Rasmussen
- Department of Cardiology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sequeira DI, Ebert LC, Flach PM, Ruder TD, Thali MJ, Ampanozi G. The correlation of epicardial adipose tissue on postmortem CT with coronary artery stenosis as determined by autopsy. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2015; 11:186-92. [PMID: 25711291 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-015-9659-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to assess whether epicardial and paracardial adipose tissue volumes, as determined by computed tomography (CT), correlate with coronary artery stenosis as determined by autopsy. The postmortem CT data and autopsy findings of 116 adult human decedents were retrospectively compared. Subjects were classified into three groups according to their degree of coronary artery stenosis: ≥50, <50%, and no stenosis. Epicardial and paracardial adipose tissue volumes were calculated based on manual segmentation after threshold based masking. In addition, epicardial adipose tissue thickness was measured using a caliper. All three parameters (thickness of epicardial fat and volumes of both epicardial and paracardial fat) were compared among the three groups and correlated with the degree of coronary artery stenosis. The group with no coronary artery stenosis showed the lowest mean values of epicardial adipose tissue volume, while the coronary artery stenosis ≥50 % group showed the highest volume. All measured variables (thickness of epicardial fat and volumes of both epicardial and paracardial fat) correlated significantly with the grade of coronary artery stenosis, even after controlling for BMI, however, epicardial adipose tissue volume exhibited the strongest correlation. This study reveals that there is an association between the degree of coronary artery stenosis and the amount of epicardial fat tissue: The larger the volume of epicardial fat, the higher the degree of coronary artery stenosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damien I Sequeira
- MedStar Union Memorial Hospital, Georgetown University, 200 E. University Parkway, 33rd Street Professional Bldg. Suite 631, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ramos LM. Cardiac diagnostic testing: what bedside nurses need to know. Crit Care Nurse 2014; 34:16-27; quiz 28. [PMID: 24882826 DOI: 10.4037/ccn2014361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Coronary artery disease affects more than 385000 persons annually and continues to be a leading cause of death in the United States. Recently, the number of available noninvasive cardiac diagnostic tests has increased substantially. Nurses should be knowledgeable about available noninvasive cardiac diagnostic testing. The common noninvasive cardiac diagnostic testing procedures used to diagnose coronary heart disease are transthoracic echocardiography, stress testing (exercise, pharmacological, and nuclear), multidetector computed tomography, coronary artery calcium scoring (with electron beam computed tomography or computed tomographic angiography), and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Objectives include (1) describing available methods for noninvasive assessment of coronary artery disease, (2) identifying which populations each test is most appropriate for, (3) discussing advantages and limitations of each method of testing, (4) identifying nursing considerations when caring for patients undergoing various methods of testing, and (5) describing outcome findings of various methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lupe M Ramos
- Lupe Ramos is a nurse practitioner in cardiac services at St Joseph Hospital in Orange, California.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Polfus LM, Smith JA, Shimmin LC, Bielak LF, Morrison AC, Kardia SLR, Peyser PA, Hixson JE. Genome-wide association study of gene by smoking interactions in coronary artery calcification. PLoS One 2013; 8:e74642. [PMID: 24098343 PMCID: PMC3789744 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0074642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 08/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Many GWAS have identified novel loci associated with common diseases, but have focused only on main effects of individual genetic variants rather than interactions with environmental factors (GxE). Identification of GxE interactions is particularly important for coronary heart disease (CHD), a major preventable source of morbidity and mortality with strong non-genetic risk factors. Atherosclerosis is the major cause of CHD, and coronary artery calcification (CAC) is directly correlated with quantity of coronary atherosclerotic plaque. In the current study, we tested for genetic variants influencing extent of CAC via interaction with smoking (GxS), by conducting a GxS discovery GWAS in Genetic Epidemiology Network of Arteriopathy (GENOA) sibships (N = 915 European Americans) followed by replication in Framingham Heart Study (FHS) sibships (N = 1025 European Americans). Generalized estimating equations accounted for the correlation within sibships in strata-specific groups of smokers and nonsmokers, as well as GxS interaction. Primary analysis found SNPs that showed suggestive associations (p≤10−5) in GENOA GWAS, but these index SNPs did not replicate in FHS. However, secondary analysis was able to replicate candidate gene regions in FHS using other SNPs (+/−250 kb of GENOA index SNP). In smoker and nonsmoker groups, replicated genes included TCF7L2 (p = 6.0×10−5) and WWOX (p = 4.5×10−6); and TNFRSF8 (p = 7.8×10−5), respectively. For GxS interactions, replicated genes included TBC1D4 (p = 6.9×10−5) and ADAMTS9 (P = 7.1×10−5). Interestingly, these genes are involved in inflammatory pathways mediated by the NF-κB axis. Since smoking is known to induce chronic and systemic inflammation, association of these genes likely reflects roles in CAC development via inflammatory pathways. Furthermore, the NF-κB axis regulates bone remodeling, a key physiological process in CAC development. In conclusion, GxS GWAS has yielded evidence for novel loci that are associated with CAC via interaction with smoking, providing promising new targets for future population-based and functional studies of CAC development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda M. Polfus
- Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Jennifer A. Smith
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Lawrence C. Shimmin
- Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Lawrence F. Bielak
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Alanna C. Morrison
- Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Sharon L. R. Kardia
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Patricia A. Peyser
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - James E. Hixson
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Rasmussen T, Køber L, Pedersen JH, Dirksen A, Thomsen LH, Stender S, Brodersen J, Groen J, Ashraf H, Kofoed KF. Relationship between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and subclinical coronary artery disease in long-term smokers. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2013; 14:1159-66. [PMID: 23639550 DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jet057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Cardiovascular conditions are reported to be the most frequent cause of death in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, it remains unsettled whether severity of COPD per se is associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between the presence and severity of COPD and the amount of coronary artery calcium deposit, an indicator of CAD and cardiac risk, in a large population of current and former long-term smokers. METHODS AND RESULTS In this cross-sectional study, long-term smokers without clinically manifested CAD were recruited from the Danish Lung Cancer Screening Trial and classified according to lung function by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria. Coronary artery calcium deposit as a measure of subclinical CAD and cardiac risk was evaluated with multi detector computed tomography and the Agatston coronary artery calcium score (CACS). Participants were categorized into five CACS risk classification groups according to the CACS. The population (n = 1535) consisted of 41% participants without COPD, 28% with mild, and 31% with moderate-to-severe COPD (n = 46 with severe COPD). In addition to age, male gender, hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia, and continued smoking, COPD according to GOLD classification were independent predictors of a higher CACS risk classification group in multivariable analysis [odds ratio (OR): 1.28 (1.01-1.63) and OR: 1.32 (1.05-1.67), for mild and moderate-to-severe COPD, respectively, compared with no COPD]. CONCLUSION COPD in long-term smokers is independently correlated with the CACS, while COPD severity per se does not show a dose-response relationship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Rasmussen
- Department of Cardiology, Section 2012, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Fu CP, Sheu WHH, Lee IT, Tsai IC, Lee WJ, Liang KW, Lee WL, Lin SY. Effects of weight loss on epicardial adipose tissue thickness and its relationship between serum soluble CD40 ligand levels in obese men. Clin Chim Acta 2013; 421:98-103. [PMID: 23499571 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2013.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2013] [Revised: 02/16/2013] [Accepted: 03/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) induces activated inflammatory cells secreting cytokines, including soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L). In turn, the serum sCD40L can trigger inflammatory responses. We examined the reduction of EAT in response to weight loss (WL) and its relationship with alterations in sCD40L in obese men. METHODS We prospectively provided dietary education and exercise intervention for 3 months for 32 non-diabetic obese men with metabolic syndrome. Twenty-five age-matched healthy men served as controls. Circulating sCD40L was measured, and EAT thickness (EATt) was determined by magnetic resonance imaging before and after WL. RESULTS EATt was increased in the obese individuals, but there were no significant differences in baseline serum sCD40L levels between the 2 groups. Serum concentrations of sCD40L were higher in individuals with high right atrioventricular groove (RAVG)-EATt. EATt was reduced significantly in individuals who completed the weight-loss program. In addition, a positive correlation was shown between changes in sCD40L and RAVG-EATt. Multiple linear regression analysis showed the change in sCD40L to be independently associated with the change in RAVG-EATt. CONCLUSION WL can significantly reduce epicardial fat thickness, and the reduced EATt after WL may provide a beneficial reduction in circulating levels of sCD40L in obese males.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Po Fu
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Huang YL, Wu FZ, Wang YC, Ju YJ, Mar GY, Chuo CC, Lin HS, Wu MT. Reliable categorisation of visual scoring of coronary artery calcification on low-dose CT for lung cancer screening: validation with the standard Agatston score. Eur Radiol 2012; 23:1226-33. [PMID: 23239060 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-012-2726-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2012] [Revised: 10/09/2012] [Accepted: 10/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To validate the reliability of the visual coronary artery calcification score (VCACS) on low-dose CT (LDCT) for concurrent screening of CAC and lung cancer. METHODS We enrolled 401 subjects receiving LDCT for lung cancer screening and ECG-gated CT for the Agatston score (AS). LDCT was reconstructed with 3- and 5-mm slice thickness (LDCT-3mm and LDCT-5mm respectively) for VCACS to obtain VCACS-3mm and VCACS-5mm respectively. After a training session comprising 32 cases, two observers performed four-scale VCACS (absent, mild, moderate, severe) of 369 data sets independently, the results were compared with four-scale AS (0, 1-100, 101-400, >400). RESULTS CACs were present in 39.6 % (146/369) of subjects. The sensitivity of VCACS-3mm was higher than for VCACS-5mm (83.6 % versus 74.0 %). The median of AS of the 24 false-negative cases in VCACS-3mm was 2.3 (range 1.1-21.1). The false-negative rate for detecting AS ≥ 10 on LDCT-3mm was 1.9 %. VCACS-3mm had higher concordance with AS than VCACS-5mm (k = 0.813 versus k = 0.685). An extended test of VCACS-3mm for four junior observers showed high inter-observer reliability (intra-class correlation = 0.90) and good concordance with AS (k = 0.662-0.747). CONCLUSIONS This study validated the reliability of VCACS on LDCT for lung cancer screening and showed that LDCT-3mm was more feasible than LDCT-5mm for CAD risk stratification. KEY POINTS • Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) rarely misses significant coronary artery calcification (CAC). • Visual scoring of CAC on LDCT is highly concordant with Agatston scoring. • LDCT-3mm is more feasible than LDCT-5mm for CAD risk stratification. • CAC assessment enriched the screening information for LDCT lung cancer screening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Luan Huang
- Department of Radiology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No. 386, Ta-Chung 1st Road, Kaohsiung 813, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Weininger M, Ritz KS, Schoepf UJ, Flohr TG, Vliegenthart R, Costello P, Hahn D, Beissert M. Interplatform Reproducibility of CT Coronary Calcium Scoring Software. Radiology 2012; 265:70-7. [DOI: 10.1148/radiol.12112532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
|
20
|
Bapat VN, Attia RQ, Thomas M. Distribution of Calcium in the Ascending Aorta in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation and Its Relevance to the Transaortic Approach. JACC Cardiovasc Interv 2012; 5:470-476. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcin.2012.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2012] [Revised: 03/13/2012] [Accepted: 03/14/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
|
21
|
Bazzocchi A, Ciccarese F, Diano D, Spinnato P, Albisinni U, Rossi C, Guglielmi G. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in the evaluation of abdominal aortic calcifications. J Clin Densitom 2012; 15:198-204. [PMID: 22321658 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocd.2011.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2011] [Revised: 11/03/2011] [Accepted: 11/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the new dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry equipment vs digital radiography (DR) in the detection and scoring of abdominal aortic calcifications (AACs). Seventy-five patients with indication for morphometric evaluation of the spine underwent vertebral fracture assessment (VFA) and spinal DR (gold standard). The radiographic and VFA images were analyzed to detect AAC using a previously validated 24-point scale (AAC-24) and a simplified 8-point scale (AAC-8). The evaluation was conducted by 2 expert radiologists and repeated by the more experienced of the 2 after 7d to verify the results. Patients with a score of 5 or more in AAC-24 and 3 or more in AAC-8 were considered at risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The aorta was not completely visible in 11 VFA and 1 DR images. DR detected AAC in 42 of the 63 patients (66.7%), whereas 15 patients (23.8%) were considered at risk for CVD. The VFA showed sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in the detection of AAC with values of 78.6%, 85.7%, and 81.0%, respectively, with both AAC-24 and AAC-8; in the identification of patients at risk for CVD, VFA demonstrated sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy, respectively, with values of 86.7%, 100%, and 96.8% using AAC-24 and 86.7%, 93.8%, and 92.1% using AAC-8. In the detection of AAC, intraobserver agreement was superimposable using both the techniques (κ=1.00), whereas in the identification of patients at risk for CVD, kappa values were 0.96 and 0.95 using AAC-24 and 1.00 and 0.96 using AAC-8 for DR and VFA, respectively. Interobserver agreement in the evaluation of the presence/absence of AAC showed a kappa value of 0.76 for DR and 0.71 for VFA, whereas kappa values of 0.91 and 0.87 for DR and 0.85 and 0.83 for VFA were achieved for CVD risk using AAC-24 and AAC-8, respectively. AAC can be easily and accurately diagnosed by VFA with satisfactory accuracy, reproducibility, and repeatability. VFA may be used in the assessment and monitoring of AAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Bazzocchi
- Imaging Division, Clinical Department of Radiological and Histocytopathological Sciences, University of Bologna, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Via Massarenti, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Liang KW, Tsai IC, Lee WJ, Lee IT, Lee WL, Lin SY, Wan CJ, Fu CP, Ting CT, Sheu WHH. MRI measured epicardial adipose tissue thickness at the right AV groove differentiates inflammatory status in obese men with metabolic syndrome. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2012; 20:525-32. [PMID: 21660082 DOI: 10.1038/oby.2011.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is a metabolically active visceral fat, which secretes inflammatory cytokines and adipokines. In this study, our aim was to examine which measurements of EAT thickness by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could best help differentiate inflammatory status, classified by levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), in obese men with metabolic syndrome (MetS). We prospectively enrolled 32 men with central obesity (waist circumference ≥90 cm) and at least two other MetS criteria. MRI examinations for measurements of EAT, subcutaneous fat, and abdominal visceral fat as well as recordings of anthropometric parameters and tests for serum inflammatory cytokines and adipokines were conducted. Subjects with MetS (N = 32) were divided into three subgroups: (i) low inflammatory status (hs-CRP < 0.1 mg/dl, N = 8), [corrected] (ii) intermediate inflammatory status (hs-CRP 0.1-0.3 mg/dl, N = 15), and (iii) high inflammatory status (hs-CRP >0.3 mg/dl, N = 9). EAT thickness at the right atrioventricular (AV) groove showed a significant linear trend among the three subgroups of MetS (P for trend = 0.004). High inflammatory status MetS subgroup had a significantly thicker right AV groove EAT than did the low inflammatory status MetS subgroup (19.3 ± 3.1 vs. 14.4 ± 3.3 mm, P = 0.015). In binary logistic regression analysis, right AV groove EAT thickness was an independent predictor for differentiating inflammatory status in MetS while abdominal visceral fat area and insulin-resistance index were not. In conclusion, MRI measured EAT thickness at the right AV groove could be a useful marker for differentiating the inflammatory status in obese men with MetS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kae-Woei Liang
- Cardiovascular Center, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Craiem D, Chironi G, Redheuil A, Casciaro M, Mousseaux E, Simon A, Armentano RL. Aging impact on thoracic aorta 3D morphometry in intermediate-risk subjects: looking beyond coronary arteries with non-contrast cardiac CT. Ann Biomed Eng 2011; 40:1028-38. [PMID: 22173558 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-011-0487-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2011] [Accepted: 12/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
An increasing number of intermediate risk asymptomatic subjects benefit from measures of atherosclerosis burden like coronary artery calcification studies with non-contrast heart computed tomography (CT). However, additional information can be derived from these studies, looking beyond the coronary arteries and without exposing the patients to further radiation. We report a semi-automatic method that objectively assesses ascending, arch and descending aorta dimension and shape from non-contrast CT datasets to investigate the effect of aging on thoracic aorta geometry. First, the segmentation process identifies the vessel centerline coordinates following a toroidal path for the curvilinear portion and axial planes for descending aorta. Then, reconstructing oblique planes orthogonal to the centerline direction, it iteratively fits circles inside the vessel cross-section. Finally, regional thoracic aorta dimensions (diameter, volume and length) and shape (vessel curvature and tortuosity) are calculated. A population of 200 normotensive men was recruited. Length, mean diameter and volume differed by 1.2 cm, 0.13 cm and 21 cm(3) per decade of life, respectively. Aortic shape uncoiled with aging, reducing its tortuosity and increasing its radius of curvature. The arch was the most affected segment. In conclusion, non-contrast cardiac CT imaging can be successfully employed to assess thoracic aorta 3D morphometry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damian Craiem
- Favaloro University, Av. Belgrano 1723, CP 1093 Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kones R. Primary prevention of coronary heart disease: integration of new data, evolving views, revised goals, and role of rosuvastatin in management. A comprehensive survey. Drug Des Devel Ther 2011; 5:325-80. [PMID: 21792295 PMCID: PMC3140289 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s14934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A recent explosion in the amount of cardiovascular risk and incipient, undetected subclinical cardiovascular pathology has swept across the globe. Nearly 70% of adult Americans are overweight or obese; the prevalence of visceral obesity stands at 53% and continues to rise. At any one time, 55% of the population is on a weight-loss diet, and almost all fail. Fewer than 15% of adults or children exercise sufficiently, and over 60% engage in no vigorous activity. Among adults, 11%-13% have diabetes, 34% have hypertension, 36% have prehypertension, 36% have prediabetes, 12% have both prediabetes and prehypertension, and 15% of the population with either diabetes, hypertension, or dyslipidemia are undiagnosed. About one-third of the adult population, and 80% of the obese, have fatty livers. With 34% of children overweight or obese, prevalence having doubled in just a few years, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and fatty livers in children are at their highest levels ever. Half of adults have at least one cardiovascular risk factor. Not even 1% of the population attains ideal cardiovascular health. Despite falling coronary death rates for decades, coronary heart disease (CHD) death rates in US women 35 to 54 years of age may now be increasing because of the obesity epidemic. Up to 65% of patients do not have their conventional risk biomarkers under control. Only 30% of high risk patients with CHD achieve aggressive low density lipoprotein (LDL) targets. Of those patients with multiple risk factors, fewer than 10% have all of them adequately controlled. Even when patients are titrated to evidence-based targets, about 70% of cardiac events remain unaddressed. Undertreatment is also common. About two-thirds of high risk primary care patients are not taking needed medications for dyslipidemia. Poor patient adherence, typically below 50%, adds further difficulty. Hence, after all such fractional reductions are multiplied, only a modest portion of total cardiovascular risk burden is actually being eliminated, and the full potential of risk reduction remains unrealized. Worldwide the situation is similar, with the prevalence of metabolic syndrome approaching 50%. Primordial prevention, resulting from healthful lifestyle habits that do not permit the appearance of risk factors, is the preferred method to lower cardiovascular risk. Lowering the prevalence of obesity is the most urgent matter, and is pleiotropic since it affects blood pressure, lipid profiles, glucose metabolism, inflammation, and atherothrombotic disease progression. Physical activity also improves several risk factors, with the additional potential to lower heart rate. Given the current obstacles, success of primordial prevention remains uncertain. At the same time, the consequences of delay and inaction will inevitably be disastrous, and the sense of urgency mounts. Since most CHD events arise in a large subpopulation of low- to moderate-risk individuals, identifying a high proportion of those who will go on to develop events with accuracy remains unlikely. Without a refinement in risk prediction, the current model of targeting high-risk individuals for aggressive therapy may not succeed alone, especially given the rising burden of risk. Estimating cardiovascular risk over a period of 10 years, using scoring systems such as Framingham or SCORE, continues to enjoy widespread use and is recommended for all adults. Limitations in the former have been of concern, including the under- or over-estimation of risk in specific populations, a relatively short 10-year risk horizon, focus on myocardial infarction and CHD death, and exclusion of family history. Classification errors may occur in up to 37% of individuals, particularly women and the young. Several different scoring systems are discussed in this review. The use of lifetime risk is an important conceptual advance, since ≥90% of young adults with a low 10-year risk have a lifetime risk of ≥39%; over half of all American adults have a low 10-year risk but a high lifetime risk. At age 50 the absence of traditional risk factors is associated with extremely low lifetime risk and significantly greater longevity. Pathological and epidemiological data confirm that atherosclerosis begins in early childhood, and advances seamlessly and inexorably throughout life. Risk factors in childhood are similar to those in adults, and track between stages of life. When indicated, aggressive treatment should begin at the earliest indication, and be continued for years. For those patients at intermediate risk according to global risk scores, C-reactive protein (CRP), coronary artery calcium (CAC), and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) are available for further stratification. Using statins for primary prevention is recommended by guidelines, is prevalent, but remains underprescribed. Statin drugs are unrivaled, evidence-based, major weapons to lower cardiovascular risk. Even when low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) targets are attained, over half of patients continue to have disease progression and clinical events. This residual risk is of great concern, and multiple sources of remaining risk exist. Though clinical evidence is incomplete, altering or raising the blood high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level continues to be pursued. Of all agents available, rosuvastatin produces the greatest reduction in LDL-C, LDL-P, and improvement in apoA-I/apoB, together with a favorable safety profile. Several recent proposals and methods to lower cardiovascular risk are reviewed. A combination of approaches, such as the addition of lifetime risk, refinement of risk prediction, guideline compliance, novel treatments, improvement in adherence, and primordial prevention, including environmental and social intervention, will be necessary to lower the present high risk burden.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Kones
- The Cardiometabolic Research Institute, Houston, TX 77054, USA.
| |
Collapse
|