Trends in incidence and clinical outcome of non-ST elevation myocardial infarction in patients with amyloidosis in the United States, 2010-2020

Study objective

To assess temporal changes in clinical profile and in-hospital outcome of patients with amyloidosis presenting with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction, NSTEMI.

Design/setting

We conducted a retrospective observational study using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2020.

Main outcomes

Primary outcome of interest was trend in adjusted in-hospital mortality in patients with amyloidosis presenting with NSTEMI from 2010 to 2020. Our secondary outcomes were trend in rate of coronary revascularization, and trend in duration of hospitalization.

Results

We identified 272,896 hospitalizations for amyloidosis. There was a temporal increase in incidence of NSTEMI among patients aged 18-44 years from 15.5 % to 28.0 %, a reverse trend was observed in 45-64 years: 22.1 % to 17.7 %, p = 0.043. There was no statistically significant difference in rate of coronary revascularization from 2010 to 2020; 16.3 % to 14.2 %, p = 0.86. We observed an increased odds of all-cause in-hospital mortality in patients with NSTEMI compared to those without NSTEMI (aOR = 2.2, 95 % CI: 1.9-2.6, p < 0.001) but there was a decrease trend in mortality from 21.5 % to 11.3 %, p = 0.013 for trend. Hospitalization duration was also observed to decreased from 14.1 days to 10.9 days during the study period (p = 0.055 for trend).

Conclusion

In patients with amyloidosis presenting with NSTEMI, there was increased incidence of NSTEMI among young adults, a steady trend in coronary revascularization, and a decreasing trend of adjusted all-cause in-hospital mortality and length of hospitalization from 2010 to 2020 in the United States.

Beyond the Norm: A Case of Multiorgan Injury Triggered by Ibuprofen

We report the case of a 71-year-old African American male with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart failure, vitiligo, penicillin allergy, and cocaine use, who presented with respiratory symptoms and was diagnosed with sepsis, COVID-19 pneumonia, exacerbation of COPD, and acute kidney injury (AKI). Treatment included antibiotics and high-dose steroids. The patient developed thrombocytopenia, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, acute liver failure, and interstitial nephritis associated with prolonged ibuprofen use. High-dose steroids and ibuprofen discontinuation led to significant improvement. This case highlights the rare occurrence of multiorgan injury from ibuprofen use, possibly aggravated by COVID-19, emphasizing the need for cautious non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use and close patient monitoring.

Comparison of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention-Related Adverse Cardiac Outcomes in Patients With in-stent vs de novo Chronic Total Occlusion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Contemporary literature reveals a range of cardiac complications in patients who receive the percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for chronic total occlusion (CTO). This study compared the adverse cardiac outcomes and procedural/technical success rates between the patients groups of in-stent (IS) CTO PCI and de novo CTO PCI. This systematic review and meta-analysis compared odds for primary (all-cause mortality, MACE, cardiac death post PCI, stroke) and secondary (bleeding requiring blood transfusion, ischemia-driven target-vessel revascularization, PCI procedural success, PCI technical success, and target-vessel MI) endpoints between 2734 patients who received PCI for IS CTO and 17,808 for de novo CTO. Odds ratios for outcome variables were calculated within 95% confidence intervals (CIs) via the Mantel-Haenszel method. The pooled analysis was undertaken for observational (retrospective/prospective) single- and multicentered studies published between January 2005 and December 2021. We found 57% higher, 166% higher, 129% higher, and 57% lower odds for MACE (OR: 1.57, 95% CI 1.31, 1.89, P < 0.001), ischemia-driven target-vessel revascularization (OR: 2.66, 95% CI 2.01, 3.53, P < 0.001), target-vessel myocardial infarction (MI) (OR: 2.29, 95% CI 1.70, 3.10, P < 0.001), and bleeding requiring blood transfusion (OR: 0.43, 95% CI 0.19, 1.00, P = 0.05), respectively, in patients with IS CTO PCI as compared to that of the de novo CTO PCI. No statistically significant differences between the study groups were recorded for the other primary/secondary outcome variables. The findings from this study indicated a high predisposition for MACE, ischemia-driven target-vessel revascularization, target vessel MI, and a lower incidence of bleeding episodes among IS CTO PCI patients as compared to those with de novo CTO PCI. The prognostic outcomes in CTO PCI cases require further investigation with randomized controlled trials.

Type I Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI) Followed by Type II in a Young Patient With Fibromuscular Dysplasia (FMD) Presented With Hypertensive Emergency: A Case Report

This article presents a case report highlighting the association between fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) and acute myocardial infarction in a 25-year-old female patient with multiple cardiovascular comorbidities. Initially presenting with a hypertensive emergency, the patient subsequently developed acute coronary syndrome. MRI revealed irregular narrowing of the bilateral renal arteries, consistent with a diagnosis of FMD. Further evaluation through cardiac catheterization confirmed 95% stenosis of the mid-circumflex artery, necessitating percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Fibromuscular dysplasia has been frequently reported in conjunction with coronary artery dissection leading to acute coronary syndrome, especially in young females. Here, we describe the case of FMD without any coronary artery dissection. The presence of FMD highlights the need for comprehensive evaluation and management in patients with multiple cardiovascular risk factors. The recognition of FMD as an underlying pathology in acute myocardial infarction is crucial for appropriate intervention strategies. In this particular case, PCI was successfully performed to address the significant stenosis of the mid-circumflex artery. These findings emphasize the importance of considering FMD as a potential contributing factor in young patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome, particularly in the context of renal artery involvement. Increased awareness among healthcare providers regarding the association between FMD and acute myocardial infarction can aid in prompt diagnosis, appropriate management, and improved patient outcomes.

Possible Isolated Pulmonic Valve Endocarditis in a Patient With Sickle Cell Disease: A Case Report

Pulmonic valve endocarditis is a rare and clinically elusive identity, commonly associated with congenital heart malformations and intravenous (IV) drug abuse. We describe a case of a 40-year-old male who has established sickle cell disease and presented with pain crisis, febrile episodes, and oxygen desaturation on room air. The clinical presentation and echocardiographic findings of a pulmonic mass were consistent with the diagnosis of pulmonic valve endocarditis. Due to the small size of the pulmonic valve vegetation, the patient was treated with antibiotics and discharged home on antibiotics and home oxygen.

Match Outcomes for Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Training: 2010 to 2021

Background This study elucidates recent trends in application and match rates in the Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Match. We hypothesized that (1) match rates have increased with time; (2) match rates are highest for US allopathic graduates; and (3) most candidates match at 1 of their top 3 ranked fellowship choices. Methods and Results This was a retrospective cohort study of all applicants in the Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Match from 2010 to 2021 (n=14 674). Chi-square tests were used to compare trends over time and match rates by applicant archetype (US allopathic graduates and non-US allopathic graduates). The annual number of applicants increased from 1184 to 1575 (33% increase) while training positions increased 718 to 1045 (46% increase) over the study period. The percentage of applicants that matched increased from 61% in 2010 to 66% in 2021 (P=0.090). The average match rate was 70% over the study period. During each year, US allopathic graduates had higher match rates than non-US allopathic graduates (P<0.001), but this disparity narrowed with time (83% versus 41% in 2010 and 83% versus 54% in 2021). Most applicants matched at 1 of their top 3 choices (first, 37%; second, 12%; third, 7%). Applicants matching at 1 of their top 3 choices decreased from 51% in 2010 to 48% in 2021 (P=0.704). Conclusions The Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Match has remained equally competitive over the past decade. US allopathic graduates have an advantage over non-US allopathic graduates. Most applicants match at 1 of their top 3 ranked fellowship choices.

In-Hospital Outcomes of Coronary Artery Stenting in Patients With ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) and Metabolic Syndrome: Insights From the National Inpatient Sample

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been recognized as a global health problem. Concurrent MetS diagnosis in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is becoming increasingly common. Given the paucity of studies on the impact of MetS on treatment outcomes in STEMI patients, the purpose of this study was to evaluate in-hospital mortality in STEMI patients with a concurrent MetS diagnosis undergoing a stenting procedure to treat their underlying coronary artery disease.

Method

Patients with or without MetS who underwent coronary stenting following STEMI between 2005 and 2014 were identified from the National Inpatient Sample database. Patients' demographics, comorbidities, and outcomes were compared using a t-test and Pearson's Chi-square test. In addition, 1:1 propensity score matching was performed for age, gender, and race.

Results

Out of 1,938,097 STEMI patients, 5,817 patients with MetS underwent coronary stenting following STEMI and were matched with 5,817 patients with no Mets. MetS group had significantly higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, chronic kidney disease, and obstructive sleep apnea than the no MetS group but lower rates of heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In-hospital mortality following STEMI was significantly lower in patients with MetS (2.5% vs. 7.1%, p<0.001) and remained significant after adjusting for potential confounders (odds ratio (OR) 0.34, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.28-0.42, p<0.0001).

Conclusion

Concurrent diagnosis of MetS among patients undergoing coronary stenting is associated with a decreased in-hospital mortality risk. The impact of specific MetS components on the observed reduction in mortality remains unclear and warrants evaluation in future studies.

Effects of Substance Use Disorder on In-Hospital Outcomes of Young Patients Presenting With a Cardiovascular Event: A Nationwide Analysis

Background

Substance use is widely prevalent among young adults and is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality such as sudden cardiac arrest, acute coronary syndrome, arrhythmias, and cardiomyopathy. However, they are limited studies analyzing the impact of substance use disorder on in-hospital outcomes among young patients with cardiovascular events.

Methods

All patients aged 18-39 years admitted primarily for major cardiovascular events including acute myocardial infarction (AMI), arrhythmia, cardiac arrest, acute ischemic stroke, and venous thromboembolic events in 2019 were identified in the National Inpatient Sample database. They were then categorized into those with and without concomitant substance use disorder (SUD). The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Unadjusted and adjusted analysis was performed on appropriate variables of interest.

Results

Of 57,985 hospitalizations with cardiac events, 12,115 (20%) of young adults had concomitant SUD. SUD was significantly associated with cardiac arrest (OR 3.3; CI 2.4-4.4), atrial fibrillation (OR 1.5; CI 1.3-1.7), AMI (OR 1.3; CI 1.2-1.6), heart failure (OR 2.6; CI 2.4-3.0) (all p<0.05) despite a lower prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors than non-users. Logistic regression showed acute kidney injury (aOR 1.5; CI 1.3-1.8; p<0.001) and inpatient mortality (aOR 1.6; CI 1.2-2.2; p<0.001) were also significantly higher in young patients presenting with cardiac events and concomitant SUD. There was no difference in the length of stay or incidence of gastrointestinal bleed between the two groups.

Conclusion

In young patients presenting with a cardiovascular event, concurrent substance use disorder was associated with increased in-hospital mortality despite significantly lower comorbidities.

Impact of stent types on in-hospital outcomes of patients with cancer undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: A nationwide analysis

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease and cancer frequently coexist, and patients with cancer are at increased risk of cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction and stroke. However, the impact of stent types on in-hospital outcomes of patients with malignancy is largely unknown.

METHODS

Patients with concomitant diagnosis of cancer undergoing PCI between January 2005 and December 2014 were identified in the National Inpatient Sample. They were then categorized into those who have undergone coronary stenting with bare-metal stent (BMS) or drug-eluting stent (DES). Primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and stent thrombosis. Adjusted and unadjusted analysis was employed on appropriate variables of interest.

RESULTS

8755 patients were included in the BMS group and 11,611 patients in the DES group. Following propensity matching, 4313 patients were randomly selected in both groups using a 1:1 ratio. There was high use of BMS stent in cancer patient (BMS 43.0%, DES 57.0%) compared to general population (BMS 23.2%, DES 76.8%). When comparing BMS to DES group, there was no statistically significant difference in mortality (4.7% vs. 3.8%, p = 0.097), acute kidney injury (11.3% vs. 10.6%, p = 0.425), bleeding complications (3.50% vs. 3.45%, p = 0.914), and length of hospital stay (5.4% vs. 5.2%, p = 0.119). However, an increased incidence of stent thrombosis was observed in the DES group (4.26% vs. 3.01%, p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

A higher incidence of BMS placement was noted in patients with cancer than in the general population. Paradoxically there was a high incidence of stent thrombosis in the DES group without increasing mortality.

Pulmonary Embolism and Chronic Superior Vena Cava Occlusion Complicating Central Line-Associated Venous Thromboembolism in a Sickle Cell Disease Patient

Sickle cell disease (SCD), the most common genetic disorder globally, is often associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolic events (VTE). Many of these patients have central lines placed for the purposes of repeated medication administration, blood transfusions, and blood draw, further increasing the risk of VTE. Given the non-specific presentation of VTE and pulmonary embolism, as well as the risk of mortality if interventions are delayed, a high index of suspicion is required for early diagnosis of the condition. We report the case of a 35-year-old woman with SCD and a port-a-cath in place who presented with extensive upper extremity and intrathoracic VTE with associated pulmonary embolism and chronic superior vena cava (SVC) occlusion. We also discuss the peculiarities of the clinical manifestations and management of VTE and pulmonary embolism in the setting of SCD based on the evidence from existing literature.

Impact of Obstructive Sleep Apnea On In-Hospital Outcomes in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: A Retrospective Analysis of the National Inpatient Sample

Background Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is frequently seen with atrial fibrillation (AF) and is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity, including hypertension, congestive heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and stroke. However, the impact of OSA on in-hospital outcomes of patients with AF is unclear. Methodology All patients aged ≥18 admitted primarily for AF between January 2016 and December 2017 were identified in the National Inpatient Sample database. They were then categorized into those with OSA and those without OSA. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Unadjusted and adjusted analysis was performed on appropriate variables of interest. Results Of 156,521 primary AF hospitalizations, 15% of the patients had OSA. Baseline characteristics revealed no race disparity between the two groups. However, compared to those without OSA, the OSA group was younger and had a significantly higher proportion of males, obesity, heart failure, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Long-term anticoagulation and inpatient cardioversion were also higher in the OSA group. Following propensity matching, inpatient mortality was similar between the two groups [0.54% in OSA vs. 0.51% in non-OSA; adjusted odds ratio = 1.06 (95% confidence interval = 0.82-1.35)]. Similarly, OSA was not significantly associated with acute kidney injury, cardiac arrest, gastrointestinal bleed, acute stroke, or length of stay. However, the OSA group was less anemic and required fewer in-hospital blood transfusions. Conclusions Although OSA is highly prevalent in AF patients, inpatient mortality and cardiovascular outcomes such as cardiac arrest, stroke, or major bleeding were similar in AF patients with or without concomitant OSA with no significant differences in length of stay.