1
|
Li C, Yu H, Li Y, Deng W, Jia Z, Xue Y, Wang Z, Xu H, Yu Y, Zhao R, Han Y, Zhu Y, Li X. The Association of Epicardial Adipose Tissue Volume and Atrial Fibrillation in Patients With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: As Assessed by Cardiac MR. J Magn Reson Imaging 2024. [PMID: 38979719 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.29525] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is a metabolically active visceral fat linked to cardiovascular disease. Prior studies demonstrated the predictive value of EAT volume (EATV) in atrial fibrillation (AF) among hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy patients. PURPOSE To investigate the association between EATV and AF in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). STUDY TYPE Retrospective. POPULATION Two hundred and twenty-four HCM patients (including 79 patients with AF and 145 patients without AF, 154 men) and 80 healthy controls (54 men). FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE 3.0 T scanner; balanced steady-state free precession (SSFP) cine sequence, gradient echo. ASSESSMENT EAT thickness was assessed in the 4-chamber and basal short-axis planes. EAT volume was calculated by outlining the epicardial border and visceral pericardium layer on short-axis cine images. STATISTICAL TESTS Shapiro-Wilk test, Student's t test or the Mann-Whitney U test, chi-square test or Fisher's exact test, Multivariate linear regression analyses, Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis. Intraclass correlation coefficient. Significance was determined at P < 0.05. RESULTS EATV and EAT volume index (EATVI) were significantly greater in HCM patients with AF than those without AF (126.6 ± 25.9 mL vs. 90.5 ± 24.5 mL, and 73.0 ± 15.9 mL/m2 vs. 51.3 ± 13.4 mL/m2). EATVI was associated with AF in multivariable linear regression analysis among HCM patients (β = 0.62). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that compared to other indicators, the area under curve (AUC) of EATVI was 0.86 (cut-off, 53.9 mL/m2, 95% CI, 0.80-0.89), provided a better performance, with the sensitivity of 96.2% and specificity of 58.6%. The combined model exhibited superior association with AF presence compared to the clinical model (AUC 0.96 vs. 0.76) and the imaging model (AUC 0.96 vs. 0.93). DATA CONCLUSION EATVI was associated with AF. EATVI was significantly correlated with incident AF, and provided a better performance in HCM patients compared to other indicators. EVIDENCE LEVEL 3 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chensi Li
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Research Center of Clinical Medical Imaging, Anhui Province Clinical Image Quality Control Center, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Honglin Yu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Research Center of Clinical Medical Imaging, Anhui Province Clinical Image Quality Control Center, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuguo Li
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Research Center of Clinical Medical Imaging, Anhui Province Clinical Image Quality Control Center, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Wei Deng
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Research Center of Clinical Medical Imaging, Anhui Province Clinical Image Quality Control Center, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zhuoran Jia
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yangcheng Xue
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Research Center of Clinical Medical Imaging, Anhui Province Clinical Image Quality Control Center, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Huimin Xu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Research Center of Clinical Medical Imaging, Anhui Province Clinical Image Quality Control Center, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yongqiang Yu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Research Center of Clinical Medical Imaging, Anhui Province Clinical Image Quality Control Center, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Ren Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuchi Han
- Cardiovascular Division, Wexner Medical Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Yinsu Zhu
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaohu Li
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Research Center of Clinical Medical Imaging, Anhui Province Clinical Image Quality Control Center, Hefei, Anhui, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kaler IGBPS, Wibhuti IBR, Wiryawan IN, Lestari AAW. Predischarge Peak Atrial Longitudinal Strain and Plasma N-terminal Pro-hormone Brain Natriuretic Peptide as a Predictor of Short-term Rehospitalization and Cardiovascular Mortality in Patients with Acute Heart Failure. J Cardiovasc Echogr 2024; 34:63-71. [PMID: 39086695 PMCID: PMC11288303 DOI: 10.4103/jcecho.jcecho_70_23] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Context The postacute heart failure (AHF) rehospitalization rate is attributed to persistent hemodynamic congestion despite clinical improvement. Peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS), utilizing speckle tracking echocardiography technology, shows potential in post-AHF prognosis. Meanwhile, N-terminal pro-hormone brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) remains a known biomarker of intracardiac congestion. Aims This study aimed to determine the relationship between predischarge PALS and NT-proBNP as predictors of major adverse cardiac event (MACE) in patients after AHF hospitalization. Settings and Design This study is a prospective cohort study, conducted in Prof. Dr. I G.N.G Ngoerah Hospital, Bali, Indonesia. Subjects and Methods The study included hospitalized AHF patients, collecting demographic data, comorbidities, therapies, and echocardiographic measures before discharge. Predischarge PALS and NT-proBNP were taken within 24 h before discharge. The main outcome was MACE, defined as rehospitalization and cardiovascular mortality within 90 days. Statistical Analysis Used Comparative statistical analyses was done using independent t-test for continuous variables (Mann-Whitney U test for variables with abnormal distribution) and Chi-squared tests. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) used in determining optimal threshold values of predischarge PALS and NT-proBNP as a predictor of MACE. Kaplan-Meier curves were employed to gauge event-free survival differences between these cohorts. Then, independent Cox regression was used to identify the predictors of MACE. Results The study enrolled 67 patients with varying ejection fraction (EF) (16 - heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, 10 - heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction, and 41 - heart failure with reduced ejection fraction; mean age: 56.88 ± 14.57 years). Over the 90-day follow-up, 21 patients (31.3%) encountered MACE. Both PALS (area under the curve [AUC] 0.816) and NT-proBNP (AUC 0.856) before discharge served as predictors of MACE. There was no significant AUC difference between ROC curves (area difference: 0.039, P = 0.553). The regression model highlighted that PALS and NT-proBNP level before discharge acted as independent predictors of MACE, irrespective of EF, average E/e', or estimated predischarge pulmonary capillary wedge pressure. Conclusions Predischarge PALS is comparable to NT-proBNP levels as independent predictors of short-term MACE after AHF hospitalization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ida Bagus Rangga Wibhuti
- Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| | - I. Nyoman Wiryawan
- Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| | - A. A. Wiradewi Lestari
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
López-Galvez R, Rivera-Caravaca JM, Roldán V, Orenes-Piñero E, Esteve-Pastor MA, López-García C, Saura D, González J, Lip GYH, Marín F. Imaging in atrial fibrillation: A way to assess atrial fibrosis and remodeling to assist decision-making. Am Heart J 2023; 258:1-16. [PMID: 36526006 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2022.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The 2020 ESC atrial fibrillation (AF) guidelines suggest the novel 4S-AF scheme for the characterization of AF. Imaging techniques could be helpful for this objective in everyday clinical practice, and information derived from these techniques reflects basic aspects of the pathophysiology of AF, which may facilitate treatment decision-making, and optimal management of AF patients. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the mechanisms associated with atrial fibrosis and to describe imaging techniques that may help the management of AF patients in clinical practice. Transthoracic echocardiography is the most common procedure given its versatility, safety, and simplicity. Transesophageal echocardiography provides higher resolution exploration, and speckle tracking echocardiography can provide incremental functional and prognostic information over conventional echocardiographic parameters. In addition, LA deformation imaging, including LA strain and strain rate, are related to the extent of fibrosis. On the other hand, multidetector-row computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance provide higher resolution data and more accurate assessment of the dimensions, structure, and spatial relationships of the LA. Imaging is central when deciding on catheter ablation or cardioversion, and helps in selecting those patients who will really benefit from these procedures. Moreover, imaging enhances the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of atrial remodeling and might assists in refining the risk of stroke, which help to select the best medical therapies/interventions. In summary, evaluation of LA enlargement, LA remodeling and fibrosis with imaging techniques adds clinical and prognostic information and should be assessed as a part of routine comprehensive AF evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raquel López-Galvez
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB-Arrixaca), CIBERCV, Murcia, Spain
| | - José Miguel Rivera-Caravaca
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB-Arrixaca), CIBERCV, Murcia, Spain; School of Nursing, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain; Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom.
| | - Vanessa Roldán
- Department of Hematology and Clinical Oncology, Hospital General Universitario Morales Meseguer, University of Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Esteban Orenes-Piñero
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB-Arrixaca), CIBERCV, Murcia, Spain
| | - María Asunción Esteve-Pastor
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB-Arrixaca), CIBERCV, Murcia, Spain
| | - Cecilia López-García
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB-Arrixaca), CIBERCV, Murcia, Spain
| | - Daniel Saura
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB-Arrixaca), CIBERCV, Murcia, Spain
| | - Josefa González
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB-Arrixaca), CIBERCV, Murcia, Spain
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Francisco Marín
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB-Arrixaca), CIBERCV, Murcia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tan W, Wang K, Yang X, Wang K, Wang N, Jiang TB. LncRNA HOTAIR promotes myocardial fibrosis in atrial fibrillation through binding with PTBP1 to increase the stability of Wnt5a. Int J Cardiol 2022; 369:21-28. [PMID: 35787431 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2022.06.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common arrhythmia in clinical practice, and atrial fibrosis is the important mediator in AF. LncRNA HOTAIR was reported to be up-regulated in AF, while the underlying mechanism of HOTAIR in AF remains unclear. METHODS In vitro and in vivo AF model was established. qRT-PCR and Western blotting were used to assess the mRNA expression (HOTAIR, Wnt5a and PTBP1) and protein levels (Wnt5a, collagen I/III, α-SMA, CTGF, p-ERK, ERK, p-JNK, and JNK), respectively. MTT, CCK8, transwell assay was used to test cell viability, proliferation and migration, respectively. RIP assay assessed the correlation among HOTAIR, PTBP1 and Wnt5a. The level of α-SMA was detected by immunofluorescence. HE and Masson staining detected the histological changes and fibrosis in mouse heart tissues. RESULTS Ang II significantly increased the viability of atrial fibroblasts. The levels of HOTAIR and Wnt5a in fibroblasts were up-regulated by Ang II. HOTAIR silencing or Wnt5a significantly inhibited Ang II-induced proliferation, migration and fibrosis in fibroblasts. HOTAIR silencing repressed Wnt5a-mediated ERK and JNK signaling pathway, and Wnt5a partially abolished the effect of HOTAIR silencing on cell proliferation, migration and fibrosis. Meanwhile, HOTAIR could increase the mRNA stability of Wnt5a via recruiting PTBP1. Furthermore, HOTAIR knockdown notably inhibited the fibrosis in heart tissues of AF mice via regulation of Wnt signaling. CONCLUSION HOTAIR could promote atrial fibrosis in AF through binding with PTBP1 to increase Wnt5a stability. Our study might shed new insights on exploring new strategies against AF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Tan
- Department of Cardiovascular, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215000, Jiangsu Province, PR China; Department of Cardiovascular, Suqian First Hospital, Suqian 223800, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Kun Wang
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery, Suqian First Hospital, Suqian 223800, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Xue Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular, Suqian First Hospital, Suqian 223800, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Kun Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular, Suqian First Hospital, Suqian 223800, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Ning Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular, Suqian First Hospital, Suqian 223800, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Ting-Bo Jiang
- Department of Cardiovascular, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215000, Jiangsu Province, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Li M, Ning Y, Tse G, Saguner AM, Wei M, Day JD, Luo G, Li G. Atrial cardiomyopathy: from cell to bedside. ESC Heart Fail 2022; 9:3768-3784. [PMID: 35920287 PMCID: PMC9773734 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.14089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial cardiomyopathy refers to structural and electrical remodelling of the atria, which can lead to impaired mechanical function. While historical studies have implicated atrial fibrillation as the leading cause of cardioembolic stroke, atrial cardiomyopathy may be an important, underestimated contributor. To date, the relationship between atrial cardiomyopathy, atrial fibrillation, and cardioembolic stroke remains obscure. This review summarizes the pathogenesis of atrial cardiomyopathy, with a special focus on neurohormonal and inflammatory mechanisms, as well as the role of adipose tissue, especially epicardial fat in atrial remodelling. It reviews the current evidence implicating atrial cardiomyopathy as a cause of embolic stroke, with atrial fibrillation as a lagging marker of an increased thrombogenic atrial substrate. Finally, it discusses the potential of antithrombotic therapy in embolic stroke with undetermined source and appraises the available diagnostic techniques for atrial cardiomyopathy, including imaging techniques such as echocardiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging as well as electroanatomic mapping, electrocardiogram, biomarkers, and genetic testing. More prospective studies are needed to define the relationship between atrial cardiomyopathy, atrial fibrillation, and embolic stroke and to establish a prompt diagnosis and specific treatment strategies in these patients with atrial cardiomyopathy for the secondary and even primary prevention of embolic stroke.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Li
- Stroke Centre and Department of NeurologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Yuye Ning
- Stroke Centre and Department of NeurologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina,Department of NeurologyShaanxi People's HospitalXi'anChina
| | - Gary Tse
- Kent and Medway Medical SchoolCanterburyUK,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic‐Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of CardiologySecond Hospital of Tianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Ardan M. Saguner
- Arrhythmia Division, Department of Cardiology, University Heart CentreUniversity Hospital ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Meng Wei
- Stroke Centre and Department of NeurologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| | - John D. Day
- Department of CardiologySt. Mark's HospitalSalt Lake CityUTUSA
| | - Guogang Luo
- Stroke Centre and Department of NeurologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Guoliang Li
- Department of Cardiovascular MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Cunha PS, Laranjo S, Heijman J, Oliveira MM. The Atrium in Atrial Fibrillation - A Clinical Review on How to Manage Atrial Fibrotic Substrates. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:879984. [PMID: 35859594 PMCID: PMC9289204 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.879984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia in the population and is associated with a significant clinical and economic burden. Rigorous assessment of the presence and degree of an atrial arrhythmic substrate is essential for determining treatment options, predicting long-term success after catheter ablation, and as a substrate critical in the pathophysiology of atrial thrombogenesis. Catheter ablation of AF has developed into an essential rhythm-control strategy. Nowadays is one of the most common cardiac ablation procedures performed worldwide, with its success inversely related to the extent of atrial structural disease. Although atrial substrate evaluation remains complex, several diagnostic resources allow for a more comprehensive assessment and quantification of the extent of left atrial structural remodeling and the presence of atrial fibrosis. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the pathophysiology, etiology, and electrophysiological aspects of atrial substrates promoting the development of AF. We also describe the risk factors for its development and how to diagnose its presence using imaging, electrocardiograms, and electroanatomic voltage mapping. Finally, we discuss recent data regarding fibrosis biomarkers that could help diagnose atrial fibrotic substrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Silva Cunha
- Arrhythmology, Pacing and Electrophysiology Unit, Cardiology Service, Santa Marta Hospital, Central Lisbon Hospital University Center, Lisbon, Portugal
- Lisbon School of Medicine, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Laranjo
- Arrhythmology, Pacing and Electrophysiology Unit, Cardiology Service, Santa Marta Hospital, Central Lisbon Hospital University Center, Lisbon, Portugal
- Lisbon School of Medicine, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jordi Heijman
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Mário Martins Oliveira
- Arrhythmology, Pacing and Electrophysiology Unit, Cardiology Service, Santa Marta Hospital, Central Lisbon Hospital University Center, Lisbon, Portugal
- Lisbon School of Medicine, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Boriani G, Vitolo M, Imberti JF. Atrial cardiomyopathy: a derangement in atrial volumes, geometry, function, and pathology with important clinical implications. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2022; 23:359-362. [PMID: 35645026 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Boriani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena
| | - Marco Vitolo
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena.,Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Jacopo F Imberti
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena.,Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Arnăutu SF, Morariu VI, Arnăutu DA, Tomescu MC, Dan TF, Dragos Jianu C. Left Atrial Strain Helps Identifying the Cardioembolic Risk in Transient Ischemic Attacks Patients with Silent Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2022; 18:213-222. [PMID: 35299625 PMCID: PMC8922319 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s359490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Patients with transient ischemic attacks often present asymptomatic and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Since atrial fibrillation initiates in the atria, we aimed to identify whether the abnormalities in left atrial structure and function could identify the cardioembolic etiology of the transient ischemic attacks in patients at sinus rhythm. Patients and Methods A total of 190 patients over 50 years old with sinus rhythm discharged after a transient ischemic attack were included in the study and divided into two groups according to the presence (group I) or absence (group II) of documented paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The documentation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation was based on the examination of medical registers. Cardiac ultrasound assessment was performed at a minimum of 14 days after the onset of the transient ischemic attack, to avoid assessment of atrial stunning. Results The group I patients were older, more frequent women, with a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack and a higher CHA2DS2-VASc score. They also presented larger left atrial volumes, lower left atrial emptying fraction, and significantly impaired left atrial deformation patterns. Multivariate logistic regression identified three variables that were independently associated with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: age, left atrial reservoir strain, and left atrial emptying fraction (P < 0.0001). The cut-off levels for the variables were age > 55 years, reservoir strain < −17%, and emptying fraction < 51%. Conclusion The present study demonstrates that the LA strain is independently associated with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in transient ischemic attack patients and might be of great help in identifying their cardioembolic etiology and preventing subsequent strokes by the initiation of anticoagulant therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergiu Florin Arnăutu
- Neurology Department, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Neurology Clinic, Pius Brînzeu County Clinical Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Vlad Ioan Morariu
- Multidisciplinary Heart Research Center, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Cardiology Clinic, Timisoara Municipal Clinical Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Diana Aurora Arnăutu
- Multidisciplinary Heart Research Center, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Cardiology Clinic, Timisoara Municipal Clinical Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: Diana Aurora Arnăutu; Mirela Cleopatra Tomescu, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, Timisoara, 300041, Romania, Tel +40 734600550; +40722979516, Fax +40 256220636, Email ;
| | - Mirela Cleopatra Tomescu
- Multidisciplinary Heart Research Center, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Cardiology Clinic, Timisoara Municipal Clinical Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Traian Flavius Dan
- Neurology Department, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Neurology Clinic, Pius Brînzeu County Clinical Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cătălin Dragos Jianu
- Neurology Department, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Neurology Clinic, Pius Brînzeu County Clinical Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ble M, Benito B, Cuadrado-Godia E, Pérez-Fernández S, Gómez M, Mas-Stachurska A, Tizón-Marcos H, Molina L, Martí-Almor J, Cladellas M. Left Atrium Assessment by Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Cryptogenic Stroke: Seeking Silent Atrial Fibrillation. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10163501. [PMID: 34441797 PMCID: PMC8397042 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10163501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Silent atrial fibrillation (AF) may be the cause of some cryptogenic strokes (CrS). The aim of the study was to analyse atrial size and function by speckle tracking echocardiography in CrS patients to detect atrial disease. Patients admitted to the hospital due to CrS were included prospectively. Echocardiogram analysis included left atrial ejection fraction (LAEF) and atrial strain. Insertable cardiac monitor was implanted, and AF was defined as an episode of ≥1 min in the first year after stroke. Left atrial enlargement was defined as indexed volume > 34 mL/m2. Seventy-five consecutive patients were included, aged 76 ± 9 years (arterial hypertension 75%). AF was diagnosed in 49% of cases. The AF group had higher atrial volume and worse atrial function: peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALs) 19.6 ± 5.7% vs. 29.5 ± 7.2%, peak atrial contraction strain (PACs) 8.9 ± 3.9% vs. 16.5 ± 6%, LAEF 46.8 ± 11.5% vs. 60.6 ± 5.2%; p < 0.001. AF was diagnosed in 20 of 53 patients with non-enlarged atrium, and in 18 of them, atrial dysfunction was present. The multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated an independent association between detection of AF and atrial volume, LAEF, and strain. Cut-off values were obtained: LAEF < 55%, PALs < 21.4%, and PACs < 12.9%. In conclusion, speckle tracking echocardiography in CrS patients improves silent atrial disease diagnosis, with or without atrial enlargement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mireia Ble
- Medicine Department, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
- Cardiology Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.M.-S.); (H.T.-M.); (L.M.); (J.M.-A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-932-483-018
| | - Begoña Benito
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (B.B.); (E.C.-G.); (S.P.-F.)
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Vall d’Hebron, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisa Cuadrado-Godia
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (B.B.); (E.C.-G.); (S.P.-F.)
- Neurology Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sílvia Pérez-Fernández
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (B.B.); (E.C.-G.); (S.P.-F.)
- CIBER of Cardiovascular Diseases (CIBERCV), 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miquel Gómez
- Cardiology Department, Hospital de Barcelona, 08034 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Aleksandra Mas-Stachurska
- Cardiology Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.M.-S.); (H.T.-M.); (L.M.); (J.M.-A.)
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (B.B.); (E.C.-G.); (S.P.-F.)
| | - Helena Tizón-Marcos
- Cardiology Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.M.-S.); (H.T.-M.); (L.M.); (J.M.-A.)
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (B.B.); (E.C.-G.); (S.P.-F.)
| | - Lluis Molina
- Cardiology Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.M.-S.); (H.T.-M.); (L.M.); (J.M.-A.)
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (B.B.); (E.C.-G.); (S.P.-F.)
- Cardiology Department, Hospital de Barcelona, 08034 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Julio Martí-Almor
- Cardiology Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.M.-S.); (H.T.-M.); (L.M.); (J.M.-A.)
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (B.B.); (E.C.-G.); (S.P.-F.)
| | - Mercè Cladellas
- Medicine Department, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
- Cardiology Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.M.-S.); (H.T.-M.); (L.M.); (J.M.-A.)
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (B.B.); (E.C.-G.); (S.P.-F.)
| |
Collapse
|