Prognostic Immunohistochemistry for Ki-67 and OTP on Small Biopsies of Pulmonary Carcinoid Tumors: Ki-67 Index Predicts Progression-free Survival and Atypical Histology

Prognostic stratification of pulmonary carcinoids into "typical" and "atypical" categories requires examination of large tissue volume. However, there is a need for tools that provide similar prognostic information on small biopsy samples. Ki-67 and OTP immunohistochemistry have shown promising prognostic value in studies of resected pulmonary carcinoids, but prognostic value when using biopsy/cytology specimens is unclear. Ki-67 immunohistochemistry was performed on small biopsy/cytology specimens from pulmonary carcinoid tumors (n=139), and labeling index was scored via automated image analysis of at least 500 cells. OTP immunohistochemistry was performed on 70 cases with sufficient tissue and scored as positive or negative (<20% tumor nuclei staining). Higher Ki-67 index was associated with worse disease-specific progression-free survival (ds-PFS), with 3% and 4% thresholds having similarly strong associations with ds-PFS (P<0.001, hazard ratio ≥11). Three-year ds-PFS was 98% for patients with Ki-67 <3% and 89% for patients with Ki-67≥3% (P=0.0006). The optimal Ki-67 threshold for prediction of typical versus atypical carcinoid histology on subsequent resection was 3.21 (AUC 0.68). Negative OTP staining approached significance with atypical carcinoid histology (P=0.06) but not with ds-PFS (P=0.24, hazard ratio=3.45), although sample size was limited. We propose that Ki-67 immunohistochemistry may contribute to risk stratification for carcinoid tumor patients based on small biopsy samples. Identification of a 3% hot-spot Ki-67 threshold as optimal for prediction of ds-PFS is notable as a 3% Ki-67 threshold is currently used for gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumor stratification, allowing consideration of a unified classification system across organ systems.

Operative management of cardiac papillary fibroelastomas

OBJECTIVE

Papillary fibroelastomas are associated with an increased risk of embolic strokes. Excision of papillary fibroelastomas may be the primary indication for surgery (primary) or performed during other cardiac operations (secondary). The present study summarizes our experience with primary and secondary fibroelastoma surgery.

METHODS

We analyzed the medical records of patients who underwent surgical excision of papillary fibroelastoma between January 1998 and February 2020. Patient characteristics, indications for operation, tumor size and location, and operative and long-term outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

Among the 294 patients (median age: 66 years, 62% female), papillary fibroelastoma was the primary indication for surgery in 136 patients (46%), and 51% of patients had a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack. When papillary fibroelastoma was a secondary indication for surgery (158 patients, 54%), the lesion was identified preoperatively in 39%. Papillary fibroelastomas were located most commonly on the aortic valve and least commonly in the right side of the heart. For valvular papillary fibroelastoma resected from a normal valve, valve shave was sufficient in 96% (196/205). Operative mortality was low in both groups (primary, 0% vs secondary, 2.5%, P = .13), and early neurologic events occurred in 1.3%. Recurrence rate was 15.8% at 10 years. The estimated survival for patients with primary papillary fibroelastoma at 10 years was 78.4%, whereas for secondary papillary fibroelastoma removal it was 53.6% (log rank, P = .003).

CONCLUSIONS

Resection of papillary fibroelastomas can be performed safely, with preservation of the native valve, and with low rates of neurologic events. Operative and long-term outcomes after fibroelastoma resection are excellent.

A Multi-Omics Atlas of Sex-Specific Differences in Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Background

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common genetic heart disease. Women with HCM tend to have a later onset but more severe disease course. However, the underlying pathobiological mechanisms for these differences remain unknown.

Methods

Myectomy samples from 97 patients (53 males/44 females) with symptomatic obstructive HCM and 23 control cardiac tissues were included in this study. RNA-sequencing was performed on all samples. Mass spectrometry-based proteomics and phosphoproteomics was performed on a representative subset of samples.

Results

The transcriptome, proteome, and phosphoproteome was similar between sexes and did not separate on PCA plotting. Overall, there were 482 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between control females and control males while there were only 53 DEGs between HCM females and HCM males. There were 1963 DEGs between HCM females and control females compared to 1064 DEGs between HCM males and control males. Additionally, there was increased transcriptional downregulation of hypertrophy pathways in HCM females and in HCM males. HCM females had 119 differentially expressed proteins compared to control females while HCM males only had 27 compared to control males. Finally, the phosphoproteome showed females had 341 differentially phosphorylated proteins (DPPs) compared to controls while males only had 184. Interestingly, there was hypophosphorylation and inactivation of hypertrophy pathways in females but hyperphosphorylation and activation in males.

Conclusion

There are subtle, but biologically relevant differences in the multi-omics profile of HCM. This study provides the most comprehensive atlas of sex-specific differences in the transcriptome, proteome, and phosphoproteome present at the time of surgical myectomy for obstructive HCM.

[Summary: International consensus statement on nomenclature and classification of the congenital bicuspid aortic valve and its aortopathy, for clinical, surgical, interventional and research purposes]

This consensus of nomenclature and classification for congenital bicuspid aortic valve and its aortopathy is evidence-based and intended for universal use by physicians (both pediatricians and adults), echocardiographers, advanced cardiovascular imaging specialists, interventional cardiologists, cardiovascular surgeons, pathologists, geneticists, and researchers spanning these areas of clinical and basic research. In addition, as long as new key and reference research is available, this international consensus may be subject to change based on evidence-based data1.

A case-control autopsy series of liver pathology associated with novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

BACKGROUND

Although severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is most well-known for causing pulmonary injury, a significant proportion of patients experience hepatic dysfunction. The mechanism by which SARS-CoV2 causes liver injury is not fully understood. The goal of this study was to describe the hepatic pathology in a large cohort of deceased patients with COVID-19 as compared to a control group of deceased patients without COVID-19.

METHODS

Consented autopsy cases at two institutions were searched for documentation of COVID-19 as a contributing cause of death. A group of consecutive consented autopsy cases during the same period, negative for SARS-CoV-2 infection, was used as a control group. The autopsy report and electronic medical records were reviewed for relevant clinicopathologic information. H&E-stained liver sections from both groups were examined for pertinent histologic features. Select cases underwent immunohistochemical staining for CD 68 and ACE2 and droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) assay for evaluation of SARS-CoV2 RNA.

RESULTS

48 COVID-19 positive patients (median age 73, M:F 3:1) and 40 COVID-19 negative control patients (median age 67.5, M:F 1.4:1) were included in the study. The COVID-19 positive group was significantly older and had a lower rate of alcoholism and malignancy, but there was no difference in other comorbidities. The COVID-19 positive group was more likely to have received steroids (75.6 % vs. 36.1 %, p < 0.001). Hepatic vascular changes were seen in a minority (10.6 %) of COVID-19 positive cases. When all patients were included, there were no significant histopathologic differences between groups, but when patients with chronic alcoholism were excluded, the COVID-19 positive group was significantly more likely to have steatosis (80.9 % vs. 50.0 %, p = 0.004) and lobular inflammation (45.7 % vs. 20.7 %, p = 0.03). Testing for viral RNA by ddPCR identified 2 of the 18 (11.1 %) COVID-19 positive cases to have SARS-CoV-2 RNA detected within the liver FFPE tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

The most significant findings in the liver of COVID-19 positive patients were mild lobular inflammation and steatosis. The high rate of steroid therapy in this population may be a possible source of steatosis. Hepatic vascular alterations were only identified in a minority of patients and did not appear to play a predominant role in COVID-19 mediated hepatic injury. Low incidence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA positivity in liver tissue in our cohort suggests hepatic injury in the setting of COVID-19 may be secondary in nature.

Case Report: A myxoma with a far reach

A 73-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with a syncopal episode and a history of dizzy spells. A transthoracic echocardiogram demonstrated a large left atrial mass extending into the right upper pulmonary veins. Subsequently, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and coronary computed tomography angiography with three-dimensional reconstruction and printing of the heart and mass were performed, which demonstrated a high index of suspicion for an atypical left atrial myxoma. The mass was excised robotically, and the pathology report confirmed a diagnosis of myxoma.

Multimodal Imaging Findings Associated With Cardiac Oxalosis Cardiomyopathy

We report the case of a 50-year-old woman with secondary oxalosis following bowel resection resulting in restrictive cardiomyopathy and a diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis based on the initial workup. The case documented findings by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and technetium Tc 99m-labeled pyrophosphate scan in patients with cardiac oxalosis, which can mimic findings in cardiac amyloidosis, expanding the differential diagnosis.

Sudden Cardiac Death in National Collegiate Athletic Association Athletes: A 20-Year Study

BACKGROUND

Understanding the incidence, causes, and trends of sudden cardiac death (SCD) among young competitive athletes is critical to inform preventive policies.

METHODS

This study included National Collegiate Athletic Association athlete deaths during a 20-year time frame (July 1, 2002, through June 30, 2022). Athlete deaths were identified through 4 separate independent databases and search strategies (National Collegiate Athletic Association resolutions list, Parent Heart Watch database and media reports, National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research database, and insurance claims). Autopsy reports and medical history were reviewed by an expert panel to adjudicate causes of SCD.

RESULTS

A total of 143 SCD cases in National Collegiate Athletic Association athletes were identified from 1102 total deaths. The National Collegiate Athletic Association resolutions list identified 117 of 143 (82%), the Parent Heart Watch database or media reports identified 89 of 143 (62%), the National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research database identified 63 of 143 (44%), and insurance claims identified 27 of 143 (19%) SCD cases. The overall incidence of SCD was 1:63 682 athlete-years (95% CI, 1:54 065-1:75 010). Incidence was higher in male athletes than in female athletes (1:43 348 [95% CI, 1:36 228-1:51 867] versus 1:164 504 [95% CI, 1:110 552-1:244 787] athlete-years, respectively) and Black athletes compared with White athletes (1:26 704 [1:20 417-1:34 925] versus 1:74 581 [1:60 247-1:92 326] athlete-years, respectively). The highest incidence of SCD was among Division I male basketball players (1:8188 [White, 1:5848; Black, 1:7696 athlete-years]). The incidence rate for SCD decreased over the study period (5-year incidence rate ratio, 0.71 [95% CI, 0.61-0.82]), whereas the rate of noncardiovascular deaths remained stable (5-year incidence rate ratio, 0.98 [95% CI, 0.94-1.04]). Autopsy-negative sudden unexplained death (19.5%) was the most common postmortem examination finding, followed by idiopathic left ventricular hypertrophy or possible cardiomyopathy (16.9%) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (12.7%), in cases with enough information for adjudication (118 of 143). Eight cases of death were attributable to myocarditis over the study period (1 case from January 1, 2020, through June 30, 2022), with none attributed to COVID-19 infection. SCD events were exertional in 50% of cases. Exertional SCD was more common among those with coronary artery anomalies (100%) and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (83%).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of SCD in college athletes has decreased. Male sex, Black race, and basketball are associated with a higher incidence of SCD.

Characteristics of Lambl excrescences of aortic and pulmonary valves in healthy hearts

Lambl excrescences (LEs) were initially described in the mid-1800s during autopsies of human hearts, and their significance and biology have been debated ever since. LEs are typically found on aortic and pulmonary valve (semilunar) cusps. There is debate concerning whether LEs are a significant cause of thromboembolic events, or whether they are harmless growths. However, there have not been many reports discussing LEs, and fewer still have examined the prevalence and characteristics of LEs in healthy human hearts. Those who have examined LE prevalence have reported a very high incidence of LEs (85-90%). Herein, we examine LE prevalence and characteristics (size, location, number) in 403 healthy human hearts across all age groups. We find that the prevalence of LEs in healthy hearts is far lower than previously reported.

Resection of a Solitary Right Ventricular Metastasis in Oligorecurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), constituting the predominant manifestation of liver cancer, stands as a formidable medical challenge. The prognosis subsequent to surgical intervention, particularly for individuals presenting with a solitary tumor, relies heavily on the degree of invasiveness. The decision-making process surrounding therapeutic modalities in such cases assumes paramount importance. This case report illuminates a rather unusual clinical scenario. Here, we encounter a patient who, following a disease-free interval, manifested an atypical presentation of HCC, specifically, a solitary cardiac metastasis. The temporal interval of remission adds an additional layer of complexity to the case. Through a multidisciplinary planning process, the decision was made for surgical removal of the metastatic tumor.

Bicuspid aortic valve: long-term morbidity and mortality

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is the most common congenital heart anomaly. Lifetime morbidity and whether long-term survival varies according to BAV patient-sub-groups are unknown. This study aimed to assess lifetime morbidity and long-term survival in BAV patients in the community.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively identified all Olmsted County (Minnesota) residents with an echocardiographic diagnosis of BAV from 1 January 1980 to 31 December 2009, including patients with typical valvulo-aortopathy (BAV without accelerated valvulo-aortopathy or associated disorders), and those with complex valvulo-aortopathy (BAV with accelerated valvulo-aortopathy or associated disorders).

RESULTS

652 consecutive diagnosed BAV patients [median (IQR) age 37 (22-53) years; 525 (81%) adult and 127 (19%) paediatric] were followed for a median (IQR) of 19.1 (12.9-25.8) years. The total cumulative lifetime morbidity burden (from birth to age 90) was 86% (95% CI 82.5-89.7); cumulative lifetime progression to ≥ moderate aortic stenosis or regurgitation, aortic valve surgery, aortic aneurysm ≥45 mm or z-score ≥3, aorta surgery, infective endocarditis and aortic dissection was 80.3%, 68.5%, 75.4%, 27%, 6% and 1.6%, respectively. Survival of patients with typical valvulo-aortopathy [562 (86%), age 40 (28-55) years, 86% adults] was similar to age-sex-matched Minnesota population (P = .12). Conversely, survival of patients with complex valvulo-aortopathy [90 (14%), age 14 (3-26) years, 57% paediatric] was lower than expected, with a relative excess mortality risk of 2.25 (95% CI 1.21-4.19) (P = .01).

CONCLUSION

The BAV condition exhibits a high lifetime morbidity burden where valvulo-aortopathy is close to unavoidable by age 90. The lifetime incidence of infective endocarditis is higher than that of aortic dissection. The most common BAV clinical presentation is the typical valvulo-aortopathy with preserved expected long-term survival, while the complex valvulo-aortopathy presentation incurs higher mortality.

Age-related histopathological findings in temporal arteries

AIMS

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a systemic vasculitis affecting medium and large arteries in patients aged over 50 years. Involvement of temporal arteries (TA) can lead to complications such as blindness and stroke. While the diagnostic gold standard is temporal artery biopsy (TAB), comorbidities and age-related changes can make interpretation of such specimens difficult. This study aims to establish a baseline of TA changes in subjects without GCA to facilitate the interpretation of TAB.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Bilateral TA specimens were collected from 100 consecutive eligible postmortem examinations. Subjects were divided into four age groups and specimens semiquantitatively evaluated for eccentric intimal fibroplasia, disruption and calcification of the internal elastic lamina (IEL), medial attenuation and degree of lymphocytic inflammation of the peri-adventitia, adventitia, media and intima. The individual scores of intimal fibroplasia, IEL disruption and medial attenuation were added to yield a 'combined score (CS)'. Seventy-eight 78 decedents were included in the final analysis following exclusion of 22 individuals for either lack of clinical information or inability to collect TA tissue. A total of 128 temporal artery specimens (50 bilateral from individual decedents, 28 unilateral) were available for examination. Intimal proliferation, IEL loss, IEL calcification and CS increased with age in a statistically significant fashion. Comparison of the oldest age group with the others showed statistically significant differences, although this was not uniformly preserved in comparison between the three youngest groups.

CONCLUSION

Senescent arterial changes and healed GCA exhibit histological similarity and such changes increase proportionally with age. The CS demonstrates significant association with age overall and represents a potential avenue for development to 'normalise' TA biopsies from older individuals.

Consensus statement on the processing, interpretation and reporting of temporal artery biopsy for arteritis

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common systemic vasculitis in adults in Europe and North America, typically involving the extra-cranial branches of the carotid arteries and the thoracic aorta. Despite advances in noninvasive imaging, temporal artery biopsy (TAB) remains the gold standard for establishing a GCA diagnosis. The processing of TAB depends largely on individual institutional protocol, and the interpretation and reporting practices vary among pathologists. To address this lack of uniformity, the Society for Cardiovascular Pathology formed a committee tasked with establishing consensus guidelines for the processing, interpretation, and reporting of TAB specimens, based on the existing literature. This consensus statement includes a discussion of the differential diagnoses including other forms of arteritis and noninflammatory changes of the temporal artery.

Allowing Surgical Pathology Fellows to Release Preliminary Reports Increases Learner Independence and Satisfaction

CONTEXT.—

Progressive independence in medicine is critical to building confidence and decisiveness in trainees. However, this can be difficult to accomplish in the strict regulatory environment of pathology.

OBJECTIVE.—

To pilot and adopt a process whereby surgical pathology fellows independently manage a subset of cases and release preliminary reports.

DESIGN.—

Upon program approval, board-certified surgical pathology fellows were eligible for preliminary report sign-out at their discretion. Eligible cases were sent from outside institutions for confirmatory review. Preliminary reports were viewable in the electronic medical record. Safety measures were used to ensure timely release of final reports by attending pathologists.

RESULTS.—

Fellows participating in the pilot (n = 4) released 59 preliminary reports out of 101 cases reviewed (58%), with 1 potentially significant discrepancy between preliminary and final report. Turnaround time was not affected. The process was endorsed by all participants and adopted as standard practice. During the first year, eligible fellows (n = 8) released 123 preliminary reports out of 1260 cases reviewed (9.8%). There were no major diagnostic discrepancies and no effects on turnaround time. The number of preliminary reports released by each fellow was variable (range, 2-48; median, 8), likely a reflection of both external factors (number of trainees on service, volume) and trainee-specific factors (confidence, efficiency).

CONCLUSIONS.—

Fellows showed good judgment when independently managing cases, with just 1 potentially significant discrepancy out of 182 cases (<1%). No patients were adversely impacted. Use of this process varied widely among fellows and may require closer monitoring and encouragement for fellows who are tentative about releasing preliminary reports.

Characteristics of aortic and pulmonary valve cusp fenestrations in healthy hearts

Fenestrations in semilunar valves of human hearts have been incidentally described during autopsies since the 1800s, and were thought to be a degenerative process of the valve cusps. Due to the nature of autopsy, prior literature has primarily examined these fenestrations in pathologic hearts, and has implicated them in leading to valve insufficiency, regurgitation, and cusp rupture. More recent studies have predicted an increase in fenestration prevalence in the rapidly aging United States and have warned of a potential increase in fenestration-related valvular pathology. Herein, we analyze fenestration prevalence in 403 healthy human hearts and report findings that differ from these prior reports, and emphasize that fenestrations may not necessarily portend significant valvular dysfunction.

Foundations and guidelines for high-quality three-dimensional models using photogrammetry: A technical note on the future of neuroanatomy education

Hands-on dissections using cadaveric tissues for neuroanatomical education are not easily available in many educational institutions due to financial, safety, and ethical factors. Supplementary pedagogical tools, for instance, 3D models of anatomical specimens acquired with photogrammetry are an efficient alternative to democratize the 3D anatomical data. The aim of this study was to describe a technical guideline for acquiring realistic 3D anatomic models with photogrammetry and to improve the teaching and learning process in neuroanatomy. Seven specimens with different sizes, cadaveric tissues, and textures were used to demonstrate the step-by-step instructions for specimen preparation, photogrammetry setup, post-processing, and display of the 3D model. The photogrammetry scanning consists of three cameras arranged vertically facing the specimen to be scanned. In order to optimize the scanning process and the acquisition of optimal images, high-quality 3D models require complex and challenging adjustments in the positioning of the specimens within the scanner, as well as adjustments of the turntable, custom specimen holders, cameras, lighting, computer hardware, and its software. MeshLab® software was used for editing the 3D model before exporting it to MedReality® (Thyng, Chicago, IL) and SketchFab® (Epic, Cary, NC) platforms. Both allow manipulation of the models using various angles and magnifications and are easily accessed using mobile, immersive, and personal computer devices free of charge for viewers. Photogrammetry scans offer a 360° view of the 3D models ubiquitously accessible on any device independent of operating system and should be considered as a tool to optimize and democratize the teaching of neuroanatomy.

Proteomic and phosphoproteomic analyses of myectomy tissue reveals difference between sarcomeric and genotype-negative hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetically heterogenous condition with about half of cases remaining genetically elusive or non-genetic in origin. HCM patients with a positive genetic test (HCMSarc) present earlier and with more severe disease than those with a negative genetic test (HCMNeg). We hypothesized these differences may be due to and/or reflect proteomic and phosphoproteomic differences between the two groups. TMT-labeled mass spectrometry was performed on 15 HCMSarc, 8 HCMNeg, and 7 control samples. There were 243 proteins differentially expressed and 257 proteins differentially phosphorylated between HCMSarc and HCMNeg. About 90% of pathways altered between genotypes were in disease-related pathways and HCMSarc showed enhanced proteomic and phosphoproteomic alterations in these pathways. Thus, we show HCMSarc has enhanced proteomic and phosphoproteomic dysregulation observed which may contribute to the more severe disease phenotype.

Cardiac Masses Discovered by Echocardiogram; What to Do Next?

Cardiac tumors are rare conditions, typically diagnosed on autopsy, but with the advancement of imaging techniques they are now encountered more frequently in clinical practice. Echocardiography is often the initial method of investigation for cardiac masses and provides a quick and valuable springboard for their characterization. While some cardiac masses can be readily identified by echocardiography alone, several require incorporation of multiple data points to reach diagnostic certainty. Herein, we will provide an overview of the main clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic characteristics of cardiac masses within the framework of their location.

Deficiency of the CD155-CD96 immune checkpoint controls IL-9 production in giant cell arteritis

Loss of function of inhibitory immune checkpoints, unleashing pathogenic immune responses, is a potential risk factor for autoimmune disease. Here, we report that patients with the autoimmune vasculitis giant cell arteritis (GCA) have a defective CD155-CD96 immune checkpoint. Macrophages from patients with GCA retain the checkpoint ligand CD155 in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and fail to bring it to the cell surface. CD155^low antigen-presenting cells induce expansion of CD4⁺CD96⁺ T cells, which become tissue invasive, accumulate in the blood vessel wall, and release the effector cytokine interleukin-9 (IL-9). In a humanized mouse model of GCA, recombinant human IL-9 causes vessel wall destruction, whereas anti-IL-9 antibodies efficiently suppress innate and adaptive immunity in the vasculitic lesions. Thus, defective surface translocation of CD155 creates antigen-presenting cells that deviate T cell differentiation toward Th9 lineage commitment and results in the expansion of vasculitogenic effector T cells.

Cerebral and Retinal Infarction in Bicuspid Aortic Valve

Background Description of cerebral and retinal infarction in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is limited to case reports. We aimed to characterize cerebral and retinal infarction and examine outcomes in patients with BAV. Methods and Results Consecutive patients from 1975 to 2015 with BAV (n=5401) were retrospectively identified from the institutional database; those with confirmed cerebral or retinal infarction were analyzed. Infarction occurring after aortic valve replacement was not included. Patients were grouped according to infarction pathogenesis: embolism from a degenerative calcific BAV (BAVi); non-BAV, large artery atherosclerotic or lacunar infarction (LAi); and non-BAV, non-large artery embolic infarction (nLAi). There were 83/5401 (1.5%) patients, mean age 54±12 years and 28% female, with confirmed cerebral or retinal infarction (LAi 23/83 [28%]; nLAi 30/83 [36%]; BAVi 26/83 [31%]; other 4/83 [5%]). Infarction was embolic in 72/83 (87%), and 35/72 (49%) were cardioembolic. CHA₂DS₂-VASc score was 1.4±1.2 in BAVi (P=0.188 versus nLAi) and 2.3±1.2 in LAi (P=0.005). Recurrent infarction occurred in 41% overall (50% BAVi, P=0.164 and 0.803 versus LAi and nLAi). BAVi was more commonly retinal (39% BAVi versus 13% LAi, P=0.044 versus 0% nLAi, P=0.002). Patients with BAVi and LAi were more likely to have moderate-to-severe aortic stenosis and undergo aortic valve replacement compared with patients with nLAi. Conclusions Cardioembolism, often from degenerative calcification of the aortic valve, is a predominant cause of cerebral and retinal infarction in patients with BAV and is frequently recurrent. Cerebral and retinal infarction should be regarded as a complication of BAV.

Heart Transplantation from COVID-19-Positive Donors: A Word of Caution

BACKGROUND

During the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts to maintain solid-organ transplantation have continued, including the use of SARS-CoV-2-positive heart donors.

METHODS

We present our institution's initial experience with SARS-CoV-2-positive heart donors. All donors met our institution's Transplant Center criteria, including a negative bronchoalveolar lavage polymerase chain reaction result. All but 1 patient received postexposure prophylaxis with anti-spike monoclonal antibody therapy, remdesivir, or both.

RESULTS

A total of 6 patients received a heart transplant from a SARS-CoV-2-positive donor. One heart transplant was complicated by catastrophic secondary graft dysfunction requiring venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and retransplant. The remaining 5 patients did well postoperatively and were discharged from the hospital. None of the patients had evidence of COVID-19 infection after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Heart transplants from SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction-positive donors are feasible and safe with adequate screening and postexposure prophylaxis.

Sudden cardiac death in the young: A consensus statement on recommended practices for cardiac examination by pathologists from the Society for Cardiovascular Pathology

Sudden cardiac death is, by definition, an unexpected, untimely death caused by a cardiac condition in a person with known or unknown heart disease. This major international public health problem accounts for approximately 15-20% of all deaths. Typically more common in older adults with acquired heart disease, SCD also can occur in the young where the cause is more likely to be a genetically transmitted process. As these inherited disease processes can affect multiple family members, it is critical that these deaths are appropriately and thoroughly investigated. Across the United States, SCD cases in those less than 40 years of age will often fall under medical examiner/coroner jurisdiction resulting in scene investigation, review of available medical records and a complete autopsy including toxicological and histological studies. To date, there have not been consistent or uniform guidelines for cardiac examination in these cases. In addition, many medical examiner/coroner offices are understaffed and/or underfunded, both of which may hamper specialized examinations or studies (e.g., molecular testing). Use of such guidelines by pathologists in cases of SCD in decedents aged 1-39 years of age could result in life-saving medical intervention for other family members. These recommendations also may provide support for underfunded offices to argue for the significance of this specialized testing. As cardiac examinations in the setting of SCD in the young fall under ME/C jurisdiction, this consensus paper has been developed with members of the Society of Cardiovascular Pathology working with cardiovascular pathology-trained, practicing forensic pathologists.

Multi-Omic Architecture of Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is characterized by asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy. Currently, hypertrophy pathways responsible for HCM have not been fully elucidated. Their identification could serve as a nidus for the generation of novel therapeutics aimed at halting disease development or progression. Herein, we performed a comprehensive multi-omic characterization of hypertrophy pathways in HCM.

METHODS

Flash-frozen cardiac tissues were collected from genotyped HCM patients (n=97) undergoing surgical myectomy and tissue from 23 controls. RNA sequencing and mass spectrometry-enabled deep proteome and phosphoproteomic assessment were performed. Rigorous differential expression, gene set enrichment, and pathway analyses were performed to characterize HCM-mediated alterations with emphasis on hypertrophy pathways.

RESULTS

We identified transcriptional dysregulation with 1246 (8%) differentially expressed genes and elucidated downregulation of 10 hypertrophy pathways. Deep proteomic analysis identified 411 proteins (9%) that differed between HCM and controls with strong dysregulation of metabolic pathways. Seven hypertrophy pathways were upregulated with antagonistic upregulation of 5 of 10 hypertrophy pathways shown to be downregulated in the transcriptome. Most upregulated hypertrophy pathways encompassed the RAS-MAPK signaling cascade. Phosphoproteomic analysis demonstrated hyperphosphorylation of the RAS-MAPK system suggesting activation of this signaling cascade. There was a common transcriptomic and proteomic profile regardless of genotype.

CONCLUSIONS

At time of surgical myectomy, the ventricular proteome, independent of genotype, reveals widespread upregulation and activation of hypertrophy pathways, mainly involving the RAS-MAPK signaling cascade. In addition, there is a counterregulatory transcriptional downregulation of the same pathways. RAS-MAPK activation may serve a crucial role in hypertrophy observed in HCM.

Dataset for the reporting of neoplasms of the heart, pericardium, and great vessels: recommendations from the International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR)

The International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR) was founded by major pathology organizations from around the world to produce internationally standardized and evidence-based datasets for pathologists' reporting of cancer. Its goal is to improve cancer patient outcomes worldwide and to advance international benchmarking in cancer management. The ICCR cancer dataset development schedule is aligned with revisions of the WHO Classification of Tumours ("Blue Book") series, and in 2015 ICCR developed an initial series of thoracic datasets including a dataset for neoplasms of the heart, pericardium, and great vessels. This edition has now been updated to align with the 2021 WHO Blue Book series. An expert panel was convened to review and revise the dataset. While the majority of ICCR datasets are focused on malignant tumors, the scope of this dataset includes a number of benign tumors and tumor-like entities because of the rarity of cardiac malignancies and the serious implications of even histologically benign lesions. Due to the rarity of cardiac tumors, evidence in support of reporting elements is limited.

Underestimation of Aortic Stenosis Severity by Doppler Mean Gradient during Atrial Fibrillation: Insights from Aortic Valve Weight

BACKGROUND

Doppler mean gradient (MG) can underestimate aortic stenosis (AS) severity when obtained during atrial fibrillation (AF) compared with sinus rhythm (SR). Aortic valve weight (AVW) is a flow-independent measure of AS severity. The objective of this study was to determine whether AVW or AVW/MG ratio was increased in AF versus SR in patients with AS.

METHODS

Excised native aortic valves from 495 consecutive patients (median age, 77 years; interquartile range [IQR], 71-82 years; 40% women), with left ventricular ejection fractions ≥50% who underwent surgical aortic valve replacement for native valve severe AS (aortic valve area ≤ 1 cm² or indexed aortic valve area ≤ 0.6 cm²/m²) were weighed. Excised AVW/MG ratios were compared in AF versus SR in patients with high-gradient AS (aortic peak velocity ≥ 4 m/sec or MG ≥ 40 mm Hg) and low-gradient AS (aortic peak velocity < 4 m/sec and MG < 40 mm Hg) in sex-specific analyses.

RESULTS

AF was present in 51 patients (10%; 11 of 51 [22%] had low-gradient AS) and SR in 444 (90%; 23 of 444 [5%] had low-gradient AS). There was no difference in sex distribution between AF and SR. Aortic valve area was not different, but forward stroke volume index and transaortic valve flow rate were lower in AF (P ≤ .002 for all); MG was lower in AF versus SR (median, 46 mm Hg [IQR, 37-50 mm Hg] vs 50 mm Hg [IQR, 44-61 mm Hg]; P < .0001). Overall AVW was not different (median, 2,290 mg [IQR, 1,830-3,063 mg] vs 2,140 mg [IQR, 1,530-2,958 mg]; P = .31), but overall AVW/MG ratio was higher in AF (median, 55 [IQR, 41-67] vs 42 [IQR, 30-55]; P = .001). In sex- and MG-specific analyses, the AVW/MG ratio was higher in AF compared with SR in men with high-gradient AS (median, 58 [IQR, 41-75] vs 51 [IQR, 39-61]; P = .03), but the differences were not statistically significant between AF and SR in other groups.

CONCLUSIONS

AVW was discordant to Doppler MG in AF compared with SR in men with high-gradient AS. Additional studies of the relationship of MG to other measures of AS severity, such as leaflet fibrosis, are needed.

Malignant Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction: A Reason to Operate?

A 57-year-old man with high-grade synovial sarcoma was found to have cardiac involvement of his malignancy. Intracardiac tumor resulted in dynamic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and severe mitral regurgitation. He underwent mitral valve replacement and had no cardiovascular symptoms at 1-year follow-up. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.).

Amyloid Deposition in an Explanted Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Herein we present a case of an 80-year-old gentleman who presented with exertional dyspnea status post aortic valve replacement with #23 Trifecta pericardial St. Jude aortic bioprosthetic valve (BV) 12 years prior. He subsequently underwent valve re-replacement due cusp calcification. Histologically, the surgically explanted BV revealed Congophilic deposits with birefringence under cross-polarized light. Extensive work-up identified no systemic source of amyloid in this patient. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry-based (LC-MS/MS) proteomics showed the amyloid was composed of human-origin amyloid signature proteins (apolipoprotein A4, apolipoprotein E, serum amyloid P) and human-origin mu heavy chains. Background bovine collagen was also present. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed collections of 7.5-10 nm nonbranching fibrils, consistent with amyloid. Using these techniques, we classified the amyloid as Mu heavy chain, deposition of which is highly unusual in BV. Finally, we provide a review of the literature regarding isolated amyloid deposition in BV.

Embolized Hydrophilic Coating Polymers Found in Left Ventricular Assist Device Apical Core Specimen

Left ventricular assist devices are increasingly used in patients with advanced heart failure. Gross and histologic evaluation of myocardial apical core specimens, extracted during device placement, can provide important insights. Herein, we describe a case of hydrophilic polymer embolization with associated foreign-body giant cell reaction discovered during apical core evaluation. (Level of Difficulty: Advanced.)

BRG1 is a biomarker of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in human heart specimens

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic disease of the sarcomere that causes otherwise unexplained cardiac hypertrophy and is associated with sudden death. While previous studies showed the role of the epigenetic modifier Brg1 in mouse models of HCM, additional work is needed to identify its role in humans. We tested the hypothesis that BRG1 expression is increased in periods of cardiac remodeling during fetal growth and in development of HCM. We employed immunohistochemical staining to evaluate protein expression of BRG1 in 796 human cardiac specimens (81 from patients with HCM) and describe elevated BRG1 expression in human fetal hearts in early development. In addition, we not only demonstrate increased expression of BRG1 in HCM, but we also show that other diseases that lead to heart failure have similar BRG1 expression to healthy controls. Inhibition of BRG1 in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes significantly decreases MYH7 and increases MYH6, suggesting a regulatory role for BRG1 in the pathological imbalance of the two myosin heavy chain isoforms in human HCM. These data are the first demonstration of BRG1 as a specific biomarker for human HCM and provide foundation for future studies of epigenetics in human cardiac disease.

Prevalence and Outcomes of Bicuspid Aortic Valve in Patients With Aneurysmal Sub-Arachnoid Hemorrhage: A Prospective Neurology Registry Report

Background Intracranial aneurysms are reported in 6%-10% of patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), and routine intracranial aneurysm surveillance has been advocated by some. We assessed the prevalence and features of the most important patient-outcome: aneurysmal sub-arachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), as compared with controls without aSAH, and tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) with aSAH. Methods and Results Adult patients with accurate diagnosis of aSAH and at least one echocardiogram between 2000 and 2019 were identified from a consecutive prospectively maintained registry of aSAH admissions. Controls without a diagnosis of SAH were age- and sex-matched. BAV prevalence was confirmed echocardiographically. Severity of aSAH was categorized using modified Fisher and World Federation of Neurological Scale. Neurologic outcome was assessed using modified Rankin score. A total 488 aSAH cases and 990 controls were identified and BAV status was confirmed. Prevalence of BAV in patients with aSAH was 1.2% (6/488) versus 3.5% (35/990) in controls, P=0.01. BAV+aSAH were noted to be younger than TAV+aSAH (56±11 versus 68±14; P=0.03) with smaller aneurysms (5±2 versus 7±4; P=0.31). The severity of aSAH was lesser in BAV+aSAH than TAV (modified Fisher grade>2 50% versus 74%; P=0.19, World Federation of Neurological Scale grade>3 17% versus 36%; P=0.43). BAV+aSAH had less severe neurologic disability (modified Rankin score 3%-6 33% versus 49% in TAV; P=0.44) and comparable in-hospital mortality rates (P=0.93). BAV had lower odds for aSAH on multivariate analysis (odds ratio 0.23[CI 0.08-0.65]; P=0.01). Conclusions Prevalence of BAV was 3 times lower in the aSAH registry than in controls without aSAH. BAV+aSAH had clinically smaller aneurysms, clinically smaller bleeds, and better neurologic outcome as compared with TAV+aSAH, which needs to be confirmed in larger studies. These findings argue against routine surveillance for intracranial aneurysms in patients with BAV without aortic coarctation.

COVID-19-associated cardiac pathology at post-mortem evaluation: A Collaborative systematic Review

Background

Many postmortem studies address the cardiovascular effects of COVID-19 and provide valuable information, but are limited by their small sample size.

Objectives

The aim of this systematic review is to better understand the various aspects of the cardiovascular complications of COVID-19 by pooling data from a large number of autopsy studies.

Data sources

We searched the online databases Ovid EBM Reviews, Ovid Embase, Ovid Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science for concepts of autopsy or histopathology combined with COVID-19, published between database inception and February 2021. We also searched for unpublished manuscripts using the medRxiv services operated by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.

Study eligibility criteria

Articles were considered eligible for inclusion if they reported human postmortem cardiovascular findings among individuals with a confirmed SARS coronavirus type 2 (CoV-2) infection.

Participants

Confirmed COVID-19 patients with post-mortem cardiovascular findings.

Interventions

None.

Methods

Studies were individually assessed for risk of selection, detection, and reporting biases. The median prevalence of different autopsy findings with associated interquartile ranges (IQRs).

Results

This review cohort contained 50 studies including 548 hearts. The median age of the deceased was 69 years. The most prevalent acute cardiovascular findings were myocardial necrosis (median: 100.0%; IQR, 20%–100%; number of studies = 9; number of patients = 64) and myocardial oedema (median: 55.5%; IQR, 19.5%–92.5%; number of studies = 4; number of patients = 46). The median reported prevalence of extensive, focal active, and multifocal myocarditis were all 0.0%. The most prevalent chronic changes were myocyte hypertrophy (median: 69.0%; IQR, 46.8%–92.1%) and fibrosis (median: 35.0%; IQR, 35.0%–90.5%). SARS-CoV-2 was detected in the myocardium with median prevalence of 60.8% (IQR 40.4-95.6%).

Conclusions

Our systematic review confirmed the high prevalence of acute and chronic cardiac pathologies in COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 cardiac tropism, as well as the low prevalence of myocarditis in COVID-19.

Late Complications of COVID-19: A Morphologic, Imaging, and Droplet Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction Study of Lung Tissue

CONTEXT

Studies of lungs in patients with COVID-19 have focused on early findings.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically study histopathologic, imaging features and presence of SARSCoV-2 RNA in lung tissue from patients in later stages of COVID-19.

DESIGN

Autopsies, explants, surgical lung biopsies; and transbronchial, cryo, and needle biopsies were studied from patients with COVID-19, whose onset of symptoms/confirmed diagnosis was more than 28 days before the procedure. Available images were reviewed. Reverse transcription droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (RT-ddPCR) for SARS-CoV-2 RNA was performed on lung tissue.

RESULTS

Forty-four specimens (43 patients, median age 59.3 years, 26 [60.5%] male) showed features of acute lung injury (ALI) in 39 (88.6%), predominantly organizing pneumonia (OP) and diffuse alveolar damage (DAD), up to 298 days after onset of COVID-19. Fibrotic changes were found in 33 specimens (75%), most commonly fibrotic DAD (N=22) and cicatricial OP (N=12). Time between acquiring COVID-19 and specimen was shorter in patients with diffuse ALI (median 61.5 days) compared to patients with focal (140 days) or no ALI (130 days) (P=.009). Sixteen (of 20, 80%) SARS-CoV-2 RT-ddPCR tests were positive, up to 174 days after COVID-19 onset. Time between COVID-19 onset and most recent CT in patients with consolidation on imaging was shorter (median 43.0 days) versus patients without consolidation (87.5 days; P=.02). Reticulations were associated with longer time after COVID-19 onset to CT (median 82 days vs 23.5 days, P=.006).

CONCLUSIONS

ALI and SARS-CoV-2 RNA can be detected in patients with COVID-19 for many months. ALI may evolve into fibrotic interstitial lung disease.

Autologous Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mononuclear Cell Therapy Promotes Cardiac Proliferation and Adaptation in a Porcine Model of Right Ventricle Pressure Overload

Congenital heart diseases, including single ventricle circulations, are clinically challenging due to chronic pressure overload and the inability of the myocardium to compensate for lifelong physiological demands. To determine the clinical relevance of autologous umbilical cord blood-derived mononuclear cells (UCB-MNCs) as a therapy to augment cardiac adaptation following surgical management of congenital heart disease, a validated model system of right ventricular pressure overload due to pulmonary artery banding (PAB) in juvenile pigs has been employed. PAB in a juvenile porcine model and intramyocardial delivery of UCB-MNCs was evaluated in three distinct 12-week studies utilizing serial cardiac imaging and end-of-study pathology evaluations. PAB reproducibly induced pressure overload leading to chronic right ventricular remodeling including significant myocardial fibrosis and elevation of heart failure biomarkers. High-dose UCB-MNCs (3 million/kg) delivered into the right ventricular myocardium did not cause any detectable safety issues in the context of arrhythmias or abnormal cardiac physiology. In addition, this high-dose treatment compared with placebo controls demonstrated that UCB-MNCs promoted a significant increase in Ki-67-positive cardiomyocytes coupled with an increase in the number of CD31+ endothelium. Furthermore, the incorporation of BrdU-labeled cells within the myocardium confirmed the biological potency of the high-dose UCB-MNC treatment. Finally, the cell-based treatment augmented the physiological adaptation compared with controls with a trend toward increased right ventricular mass within the 12 weeks of the follow-up period. Despite these adaptations, functional changes as measured by echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging did not demonstrate differences between cohorts in this surgical model system. Therefore, this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled pre-clinical trial establishes the safety of UCB-MNCs delivered via intramyocardial injections in a dysfunctional right ventricle and validates the induction of cardiac proliferation and angiogenesis as transient paracrine mechanisms that may be important to optimize long-term outcomes for surgically repaired congenital heart diseases.

Prevalence and potential genetic determinants of young sudden unexplained death victims with suspected arrhythmogenic mitral valve prolapse syndrome

Background

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is largely considered a benign condition. However, MVP is over-represented consistently in sudden unexplained death in the young (SUDY) cohorts.

Objective

To determine the prevalence and potential genetic underpinnings of suspected arrhythmogenic MVP in a referral cohort of SUDY cases.

Methods

In this retrospective study, medical records/autopsy reports and whole exome molecular autopsy (WEMA) results for 77 SUDY victims (27 female; average age at death 20.6 ± 8.9 years) were reviewed for evidence of myxomatous MVP and left ventricle (LV) fibrosis. Variants detected in the prespecified 147 WEMA gene panel with a minor allele frequency ≤ 0.001 in public exomes/genomes were classified using the 2015 American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) guidelines.

Results

Overall, 6 of 77 (7.8%; 2 female; average age at death 20.7 ± 6.9 years) SUDY cases had MVP as the lone abnormal postmortem finding. The majority had bileaflet involvement (5/6; 83%) and microscopic LV fibrosis (5/6; 83%). In 2 SUDY cases (33%), subjects were diagnosed with MVP by echocardiography prior to death. Unexpectedly, an ACMG pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) was more likely to be detected in SUDY cases with MVP than those without (3/6 [50%] vs 9/71 [13%]; P < .05). Interestingly, the 3 variants identified in MVP-positive SUDY cases localized to genes associated previously with a cardiomyopathy/channelopathy predisposition (p.E1518fsX25-DMD, p.S285N-RYR2, and p.R109X-TTN).

Conclusion

This WEMA series provides additional evidence that the combination of MVP and LV fibrosis underlies an unexpected number of SUDY cases. Whether P/LP variants in cardiomyopathy/channelopathy-susceptibility genes contribute to the pathogenesis of arrhythmogenic MVP requires further investigation.

Acute Kidney Injury in Severe COVID-19 Has Similarities to Sepsis-Associated Kidney Injury: A Multi-Omics Study

OBJECTIVE

To compare coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) acute kidney injury (AKI) to sepsis-AKI (S-AKI). The morphology and transcriptomic and proteomic characteristics of autopsy kidneys were analyzed.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Individuals 18 years of age and older who died from COVID-19 and had an autopsy performed at Mayo Clinic between April 2020 to October 2020 were included. Morphological evaluation of the kidneys of 17 individuals with COVID-19 was performed. In a subset of seven COVID-19 cases with postmortem interval of less than or equal to 20 hours, ultrastructural and molecular characteristics (targeted transcriptome and proteomics analyses of tubulointerstitium) were evaluated. Molecular characteristics were compared with archived cases of S-AKI and nonsepsis causes of AKI.

RESULTS

The spectrum of COVID-19 renal pathology included macrophage-dominant microvascular inflammation (glomerulitis and peritubular capillaritis), vascular dysfunction (peritubular capillary congestion and endothelial injury), and tubular injury with ultrastructural evidence of mitochondrial damage. Investigation of the spatial architecture using a novel imaging mass cytometry revealed enrichment of CD3⁺CD4⁺ T cells in close proximity to antigen-presenting cells, and macrophage-enriched glomerular and interstitial infiltrates, suggesting an innate and adaptive immune tissue response. Coronavirus disease 2019 AKI and S-AKI, as compared to nonseptic AKI, had an enrichment of transcriptional pathways involved in inflammation (apoptosis, autophagy, major histocompatibility complex class I and II, and type 1 T helper cell differentiation). Proteomic pathway analysis showed that COVID-19 AKI and to a lesser extent S-AKI were enriched in necroptosis and sirtuin-signaling pathways, both involved in regulatory response to inflammation. Upregulation of the ceramide-signaling pathway and downregulation of oxidative phosphorylation in COVID-19 AKI were noted.

CONCLUSION

This data highlights the similarities between S-AKI and COVID-19 AKI and suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction may play a pivotal role in COVID-19 AKI. This data may allow the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets.

Sporadic superficial angiomyxomas demonstrate loss of PRKAR1A expression

Superficial angiomyxomas are cutaneous mesenchymal tumors that typically present clinically as slow-growing, solitary, asymptomatic nodules that can occur at any age. Histopathologically, these dermal and subcutaneous tumors are characterized by abundant myxoid stroma, numerous thin-walled and often arborizing blood vessels, and spindled to stellate fibroblast-like cells. While usually sporadic, superficial angiomyxomas can occasionally be associated with Carney complex (CNC), an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by inactivating germline mutations in the 1-alpha regulatory subunit of protein kinase A (PRKAR1A) and various clinical manifestations, including: cardiac myxomas, facial lentigines, epithelioid blue nevi, endocrinopathies, and psammomatous melanotic schwannomas. In this study, we sought to characterize the presence or absence of PRKAR1A expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in sporadic superficial angiomyxomas based on our observations in an index case. In total, PRKAR1A immunohistochemical expression was determined in 15 sporadic superficial angiomyxoma cases retrieved from the surgical pathology archives. IHC demonstrated that the lesional cells in 12 cases (80%) were non-reactive to antibodies against PRKAR1A. This study provides evidence in support of a role for PRKAR1A in the development of clinically non-syndromic superficial angiomyxomas. Along with previous studies, this report demonstrates that PRKAR1A may play an important role in the development of a variety of myxomatous mesenchymal tumors.

International Consensus Statement on Nomenclature and Classification of the Congenital Bicuspid Aortic Valve and Its Aortopathy, for Clinical, Surgical, Interventional and Research Purposes

This International Consensus Classification and Nomenclature for the congenital bicuspid aortic valve condition recognizes 3 types of bicuspid valves: 1. The fused type (right-left cusp fusion, right-non-coronary cusp fusion and left-non-coronary cusp fusion phenotypes); 2. The 2-sinus type (latero-lateral and antero-posterior phenotypes); and 3. The partial-fusion (forme fruste) type. The presence of raphe and the symmetry of the fused type phenotypes are critical aspects to describe. The International Consensus also recognizes 3 types of bicuspid valve-associated aortopathy: 1. The ascending phenotype; 2. The root phenotype; and 3. Extended phenotypes. ©  2021 Jointly between the RSNA, the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, The Society of Thoracic Surgeons, and the American Association for Thoracic Surgery. The articles are identical except for minor stylistic and spelling differences in keeping with each journal's style. All rights reserved. Keywords: Bicuspid Aortic Valve, Aortopathy, Nomenclature, Classification.