Surface modification of halide perovskite using EDTA-complexed SnO2 as electron transport layer in high performance solar cells

The long-term performance of metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) can be significantly improved by tuning the surface characteristics of the perovskite layers. Herein, low-temperature-processed ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-complexed SnO2 (E-SnO2) is successfully employed as an electron transport layer (ETL) in PSCs, enhancing the efficiency and stability of the devices. The effects of EDTA treatment on SnO2 are investigated for different concentrations: comparing the solar cells' response with 15%-2.5% SnO2 and E-SnO2 based ETLs, and it was found that 7.5% E-SnO2 provided the best results. The improved surface properties of the perovskite layer on E-SnO2 are attributed to the presence of small amount of PbI2 which contributes to passivate the defects at the grain boundaries and films' surface. However, for the excess PbI2 based devices, photocurrent dropped, which could be attributed to the generation of shallow traps due to excess PbI2. The better alignment between the Fermi level of E-SnO2 and the conduction band of perovskite is another favorable aspect that enables increased open-circuit potential (VOC), from 0.82 V to 1.015 V, yielding a stabilized power conversion efficiency of 15.51%. This complex ETL strategy presented here demonstrates the enormous potential of E-SnO2 as selective contact to enhance the perovskite layer properties and thereby allow stable and high-efficiency PSCs.

Exploring the electrical robustness of conductive textile fasteners for wearable devices in different human motion conditions

Conventional snap fasteners used in clothing are often used as electrical connectors in e-textile and wearable applications for signal transmission due to their wide availability and ease of use. Nonetheless, limited research exists on the validation of these fasteners, regarding the impact of contact-induced high-amplitude artefacts, especially under motion conditions. In this work, three types of fasteners were used as electromechanical connectors, establishing the interface between a regular sock and an acquisition device. The tested fasteners have different shapes and sizes, as well as have different mechanisms of attachment between the plug and receptacle counterparts. Experimental evaluation was performed under static conditions, slow walking, and rope jumping at a high cadence. The tests were also performed with a test mass of 140 g. Magnetic fasteners presented excellent electromechanical robustness under highly dynamic human movement with and without the additional mass. On the other hand, it was demonstrated that the Spring snap buttons (with a spring-based engaging mechanism) presented a sub-optimal performance under high motion and load conditions, followed by the Prong snap fasteners (without spring), which revealed a high susceptibility to artefacts. Overall, this work provides further evidence on the importance and reliability of clothing fasteners as electrical connectors in wearable systems.

Determinants of HIV late presentation among men who have sex with men in Portugal (2014-2019): who's being left behind?

Introduction

HIV late presentation (LP) remains excessive in Europe. We aimed to analyze the factors associated with late presentation in the MSM population newly diagnosed with HIV in Portugal between 2014 and 2019.

Methods

We included 391 newly HIV-1 diagnosed Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), from the BESTHOPE project, in 17 countrywide Portuguese hospitals. The data included clinical and socio-behavioral questionnaires and the viral genomic sequence obtained in the drug resistance test before starting antiretrovirals (ARVs). HIV-1 subtypes and epidemiological surveillance mutations were determined using different bioinformatics tools. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between predictor variables and late presentation (LP).

Results

The median age was 31 years, 51% had a current income between 501-1,000 euros, 28% were migrants. 21% had never been tested for HIV before diagnosis, with 42.3% of MSM presenting LP. 60% were infected with subtype B strains. In the multivariate regression, increased age at diagnosis, higher income, lower frequency of screening, STI ever diagnosed and higher viral load were associated with LP.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that specific subgroups of the MSM population, such older MSM, with higher income and lower HIV testing frequency, are not being targeted by community and clinical screening services. Overall, targeted public health measures should be strengthened toward these subgroups, through strengthened primary care testing, expanded access to PrEP, information and promotion of HIV self-testing and more inclusive and accessible health services.

Real-World Effectiveness and Safety of Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir for the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C: A Prospective Cohort Study in Portugal

INTRODUCTION

Information about pan-genotypic treatments for hepatitis in Portugal is scarce. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of glecaprevir plus pibrentasvir (GLE/PIB) treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in real-world clinical practice.

METHODS

An observational prospective study was implemented in six hospitals with 121 adult HCV patients who initiated treatment with GLE/PIB between October 2018 and April 2019, according to clinical practice. Eligible patients had confirmed HCV infection genotype (GT) 1 to 6 and were either treatment-naïve or had experience with interferon-, ribavirin- or sofosbuvir-based regimens, with or without compensated cirrhosis. Baseline sociodemographic and safety data are described for the total population (N = 115). Effectiveness [sustained virologic response 12 weeks after treatment (SVR12)] and patient-reported outcomes are presented for the core population with sufficient follow-up data (n = 97).

RESULTS

Most patients were male (83.5%), aged < 65 years (94.8%), with current or former alcohol consumption (77.3%), illicit drug use (72.6%), and HCV acquisition through intravenous drug use (62.0%). HIV co-infection occurred in 22.6% of patients. The prevalence of each GT was: GT1 51.3%, GT2 1.7%, GT3 30.4%, GT4 16.5%, and GT5.6 0%. Most patients were non-cirrhotic (80.9%) and treatment-naïve (93.8%). The SVR12 rates were 97.9% (95% CI: 92.8 - 99.4), and > 95% across cirrhosis status, GT, illicit drug use, alcohol consumption, and HCV treatment experience. The adverse event rate was 2.6%, and no patient discontinued treatment due to adverse events related to GLE/PIB.

CONCLUSION

Consistent with other real-world studies and clinical trials, treatment with GLE/PIB showed high effectiveness and tolerability overall and in difficult-to-treat subgroups (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03303599).

Safety and Efficacy of Triple Therapy With Dolutegravir Plus 2 Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors in Treatment-Naive Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 2 Patients: Results From a 48-Week Phase 2 Study

BACKGROUND

Integrase strand transfer inhibitor-based regimens are recommended for first-line therapy in human immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV-2). Nonetheless, dolutegravir (DTG) clinical trial data are lacking.

METHODS

We conducted a phase 2, single-arm, open-label trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a triple therapy regimen that included DTG in persons with HIV-2 (PWHIV-2) in Portugal. Treatment-naive adults receive DTG in combination with 2 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Treatment efficacy was evaluated by the proportion of patients who achieved a plasma viral load (pVL) <40 copies/mL and/or by the change from baseline in CD4+ T-cell count and in CD4/CD8 ratio at week 48.

RESULTS

A total of 30 patients were enrolled (22 women; median age, 55 years). At baseline, 17 (56.7%) individuals were viremic (median, pVL 190 copies/mL; interquartile range [IQR], 99-445). The median CD4 count was 438 cells/μL (IQR, 335-605), and the CD4/CD8 ratio was 0.8. Three patients discontinued the study. At week 48, all participants (27) had pVL <40 copies/mL. No virological failures were observed. Mean changes in CD4 count and CD4/CD8 ratio at week 48 were 95.59 cells/µL (95% confidence interval [CI], 28-163) and 0.32 (95% CI, .19 to .46). The most common drug-related adverse events were headache and nausea. One participant discontinued due to central nervous system symptoms. No serious adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

DTG plus 2 NRTIs is safe and effective as first-line treatment for PWHIV-2 with a tolerability profile previously known. No virological failures were observed that suggest a high potency of DTG in HIV-2 as occurs in HIV-1.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

M NCT03224338.

Charting the Path: Navigating Embryonic Development to Potentially Safeguard against Congenital Heart Defects

Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) are structural or functional defects present at birth due to improper heart development. Current therapeutic approaches to treating severe CHDs are primarily palliative surgical interventions during the peri- or prenatal stages, when the heart has fully developed from faulty embryogenesis. However, earlier interventions during embryonic development have the potential for better outcomes, as demonstrated by fetal cardiac interventions performed in utero, which have shown improved neonatal and prenatal survival rates, as well as reduced lifelong morbidity. Extensive research on heart development has identified key steps, cellular players, and the intricate network of signaling pathways and transcription factors governing cardiogenesis. Additionally, some reports have indicated that certain adverse genetic and environmental conditions leading to heart malformations and embryonic death may be amendable through the activation of alternative mechanisms. This review first highlights key molecular and cellular processes involved in heart development. Subsequently, it explores the potential for future therapeutic strategies, targeting early embryonic stages, to prevent CHDs, through the delivery of biomolecules or exosomes to compensate for faulty cardiogenic mechanisms. Implementing such non-surgical interventions during early gestation may offer a prophylactic approach toward reducing the occurrence and severity of CHDs.

Measuring healthy ageing: current and future tools

Human ageing is a complex, multifactorial process characterised by physiological damage, increased risk of age-related diseases and inevitable functional deterioration. As the population of the world grows older, placing significant strain on social and healthcare resources, there is a growing need to identify reliable and easy-to-employ markers of healthy ageing for early detection of ageing trajectories and disease risk. Such markers would allow for the targeted implementation of strategies or treatments that can lessen suffering, disability, and dependence in old age. In this review, we summarise the healthy ageing scores reported in the literature, with a focus on the past 5 years, and compare and contrast the variables employed. The use of approaches to determine biological age, molecular biomarkers, ageing trajectories, and multi-omics ageing scores are reviewed. We conclude that the ideal healthy ageing score is multisystemic and able to encompass all of the potential alterations associated with ageing. It should also be longitudinal and able to accurately predict ageing complications at an early stage in order to maximize the chances of successful early intervention.

Feasibility of Electrodermal Activity and Photoplethysmography Data Acquisition at the Foot Using a Sock Form Factor

Wearable devices have been shown to play an important role in disease prevention and health management, through the multimodal acquisition of peripheral biosignals. However, many of these wearables are exposed, limiting their long-term acceptability by some user groups. To overcome this, a wearable smart sock integrating a PPG sensor and an EDA sensor with textile electrodes was developed. Using the smart sock, EDA and PPG measurements at the foot/ankle were performed in test populations of 19 and 15 subjects, respectively. Both measurements were validated by simultaneously recording the same signals with a standard device at the hand. For the EDA measurements, Pearson correlations of up to 0.95 were obtained for the SCL component, and a mean consensus of 69% for peaks detected in the two locations was obtained. As for the PPG measurements, after fine-tuning the automatic detection of systolic peaks, the index finger and ankle, accuracies of 99.46% and 87.85% were obtained, respectively. Moreover, an HR estimation error of 17.40±14.80 Beats-Per-Minute (BPM) was obtained. Overall, the results support the feasibility of this wearable form factor for unobtrusive EDA and PPG monitoring.

Challenges in Fabry disease: the combination of two individually amenable GLA variants may be nonamenable to migalastat

Fabry disease is a rare lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in the GLA gene, resulting in reduced or absent α-Gal A activity. Migalastat is an oral chaperone therapy for Fabry patients with amenable GLA variants. We previously reported a case of a 60-year-old male patient with a classic phenotype of Fabry disease, presenting with two GLA variants: p.R356Q and p.G360R. Herein, we report that, although these two missense variants are individually classified as amenable to migalastat in the validated in vitro human embryonic kidney-293 cell-based assay, their combination precludes the patient to be treated with this oral chaperone. This case illustrates how therapeutic decisions may be challenging and how a good genotypic characterization of Fabry patients is critical for the selection of the correct therapeutic strategy.

Premature acute coronary syndrome: understanding the early onset

INTRODUCTION

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is less frequent in young adults, but it has become a significant health problem, associated with the increasing prevalence of modifiable risk factors.

OBJECTIVES

To characterize patients admitted with premature ACS, comparing with those with nonpremature ACS.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study encompassing patients of the Portuguese Registry (ProACS), comparing two groups: one composed of men less than 55 and women less than 65 years old; and other with men ≥55 and women ≥65 years old at the ACS admission. The primary endpoint was the composite of in-hospital mortality, stroke and myocardial reinfarction (re-MI).

RESULTS

A total of 29 870 patients were enrolled and 25% had premature ACS, with a mean age of 50 ± 7 years old. They had a larger prevalence of smoking habits, obesity and dyslipidemia. ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI) was the main admission diagnosis in young patients and coronary angiogram mainly revealed one vessel disease in this subgroup. They had a lower Killip-Kimball (KK) class and mostly preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Composite endpoint was more frequent in nonpremature ACS patients. Nonpremature age, presentation with syncope or cardiac arrest, KK class >1, multivessel disease and LVEF <40% were independent predictors of the primary endpoint ( P  < 0.001). Younger patients had lower rates of in-hospital all-cause mortality, re-MI and stroke. One-year all-cause mortality and 1-year cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular readmissions were also lower.

CONCLUSIONS

Premature ACS affects 25% of the ACS population, mostly presenting with STEMI, but generally associated with better clinical evolution. Nevertheless, prevention measures are essential to correct modifiable cardiovascular risk factors and reduce coronary events.

HIV-1-Transmitted Drug Resistance and Transmission Clusters in Newly Diagnosed Patients in Portugal Between 2014 and 2019

Objective

To describe and analyze transmitted drug resistance (TDR) between 2014 and 2019 in newly infected patients with HIV-1 in Portugal and to characterize its transmission networks.

Methods

Clinical, socioepidemiological, and risk behavior data were collected from 820 newly diagnosed patients in Portugal between September 2014 and December 2019. The sequences obtained from drug resistance testing were used for subtyping, TDR determination, and transmission cluster (TC) analyses.

Results

In Portugal, the overall prevalence of TDR between 2014 and 2019 was 11.0%. TDR presented a decreasing trend from 16.7% in 2014 to 9.2% in 2016 (p _for-trend = 0.114). Multivariate analysis indicated that TDR was significantly associated with transmission route (MSM presented a lower probability of presenting TDR when compared to heterosexual contact) and with subtype (subtype C presented significantly more TDR when compared to subtype B). TC analysis corroborated that the heterosexual risk group presented a higher proportion of TDR in TCs when compared to MSMs. Among subtype A1, TDR reached 16.6% in heterosexuals, followed by 14.2% in patients infected with subtype B and 9.4% in patients infected with subtype G.

Conclusion

Our molecular epidemiology approach indicates that the HIV-1 epidemic in Portugal is changing among risk group populations, with heterosexuals showing increasing levels of HIV-1 transmission and TDR. Prevention measures for this subpopulation should be reinforced.

Is bilateral hallux valgus chevron osteotomy a safe procedure for ambulatory surgery?

INTRODUCTION

Several osteotomies of the first metatarsal have been described for treatment of hallux valgus but chevron osteotomy is one of the most common and well-established procedure for treating this deformity. Although there is a trend towards considering bilateral surgery there is lack of publications addressing bilateral treatment in ambulatory units. The aim of this study is to analyze results of bilateral and unilateral distal chevron osteotomies associated with lateral soft tissue release as ambulatory procedures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review was made about the patients treated at our ambulatory unit over a period of five years. Initially, general information as patient's satisfaction's rate and return to normal activity's time and evaluation of standardized follow-up charts and records made by the surgeon were recorded. Secondly, the hallux metatarsophalangeal interphalangeal scale developed by the American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society was used.

RESULTS

A total of 194 patients with 230 feet operated were included in this study. We found 29 patients that didn't meet the inclusion criteria and were excluded. The unilateral group was composed by 139 feet and the bilateral group by 52 feet. The improvement between preoperative and discharge clinical and radiographic results was significant independently in both groups. A total of 14% of complications were found in our study, 19% in the unilateral group and 12% at the bilateral group. None of them required revision surgery.

CONCLUSION

Bilateral distal chevron osteotomies, associated with lateral soft tissue release, are safe and effective ambulatory procedures. It was found a satisfactory deformity correction in moderate HV. Both patients that underwent unilateral and bilateral procedures had similar clinical and radiological outcomes with no increase in complications or return to normal activity time. With this study it was demonstrated that bilateral chevron osteotomies can be performed as ambulatory procedures.

The complexity of neuropsychiatric manifestations of COVID-19 in South Africa

SARS-CoV-2 was first identified in Wuhan City, China, in 2019. Initially it was associated with the development of pulmonary disease, but research over the past 2 years has identified effects on multiple systems. Neuropsychiatric manifestations of COVID-19 have been reported in countries around the world, including new-onset psychosis in patients with no personal or family psychiatric history. We present the first case series describing neuropsychiatric manifestations of patients in Johannesburg, South Africa (SA). All four patients presented with their index-episode psychosis, and evidence of COVID-19 infection. The patients had varied psychiatric presentations, from delirium and psychosis to mania, and all responded well to low doses of antipsychotics. One patient had newly diagnosed HIV in addition to COVID-19. Further research is needed to determine the prevalence of neuropsychiatric manifestations in acute SARS-CoV-2 infections in SA.

Real-World Characterization of the Portuguese Population Living with HIV who Initiated Raltegravir Based-Regimens: The REALITY Study

INTRODUCTION

Although raltegravir has been available since 2007, data are lacking on the Portuguese population living with HIV who initiated this antiretroviral therapy. Hence, this study aimed to characterize the patients who initiated raltegravir-based regimens between January 2015 and December 2017, on sociodemographics, clinical features, and treatment satisfaction.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Observational, retrospective, multicentre study conducted at 11 reference sites. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected retrospectively from hospital medical records. For participants continuing raltegravir at study inclusion, the HIV Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire was administered to assess satisfaction with raltegravir-based therapy. Descriptive statistics were performed. Treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced subgroups were compared for demographic and clinical variables.

RESULTS

A total of 302 patients were included; mostly men (69.5%) with a mean age of 49 years old. Approximately half of the patients had at least one non-AIDS-related comorbidity at baseline (53.3%), such as hypercholesterolemia, arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and depression. Moreover, 52.3% were treatment-experienced patients with up to two treatments prior to raltegravir. Across the study time points, there was a reduction in the viral load and improvement in CD4 counts in both the treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced subgroups. Continuing users of raltegravir reported high treatment satisfaction (55.4 ± 7.2 points).

CONCLUSION

Raltegravir-based regimens seem like a valid therapeutic option in heterogeneous populations of HIV-infected patients, in patients with previous ART experience and as part of first-line therapeutic options alongside with the latest generation of drugs from its class.

Microplastics, bisphenols, phthalates and pesticides in odontocete species in the Macaronesian Region (Eastern North Atlantic)

The gastrointestinal contents of twelve individuals from six odontocete species that stranded between 2018 and 2019 in the Macaronesian Region (Eastern North Atlantic) were examined for the presence of marine debris. In addition, concentrations of eleven organic persistent contaminants (nonylphenols, bisphenols, phthalates and pesticides) were analysed in muscle samples by liquid chromatography. No particles larger than 5 mm were found, except for two plastic labels that were found on the same dolphin. On the contrary, all animals contained microplastics of diverse sizes, most of them being fibres (98.06%, n = 708). The predominant detected pollutants were bisphenols (4-984 ng/g) and DEHP (102-1533 ng/g). Also, except for two individuals, all animals had pesticide levels in their tissues. This work has allowed the establishment of a protocol for the study of microplastic ingestion in cetaceans, and tests the potential of microRaman to improve the understanding of microplastic alteration processes.

Intraocular lens power calculation formulas accuracy in combined phacovitrectomy: an 8-formulas comparison study

Background

Our study aimed to assess and compare the accuracy of 8 intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation formulas (Barrett Universal II, EVO 2.0, Haigis, Hoffer Q, Holladay 1, Kane and PEARL-DGS) in patients submitted to combined phacovitrectomy for vitreomacular (VM) interface disorders.

Methods

Retrospective chart review study including axial-length matched patients submitted to phacoemulsification alone (Group 1) and combined phacovitrectomy (Group 2). Using optimized constants in both groups, refraction prediction error of each formula was calculated for each eye. The optimised constants from Group 1 were also applied to patients of Group 2 – Group 3. Outcome measures included the mean prediction error (ME) and its standard deviation (SD), mean (MAE) and median (MedAE) absolute errors, in diopters (D), and the percentage of eyes within ± 0.25D, ± 0.50D and ± 1.00D.

Results

A total of 220 eyes were included (Group 1: 100; Group 2: 120). In Group 1, the difference in formulas absolute error was significative (p = 0.005). The Kane Formula had the lowest MAE (0.306) and MedAE (0.264). In Group 2, Kane had the overall best performance, followed by PEARL-DGS, EVO 2.0 and Barrett Universal II. The ME of all formulas in both Groups 1 and 2 were 0.000 (p = 0.934; p = 0.971, respectively). In Group 3, a statistically significant myopic shift was observed for each formula (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Surgeons must be careful regarding IOL power selection in phacovitrectomy considering the systematic myopic shift evidenced—constant optimization may help eliminating such error. Moreover, newly introduced formulas and calculation methods may help us achieving increasingly better refractive outcomes both in cataract surgery alone and phacovitrectomy.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40942-021-00315-7.

COVID-19 Preparedness and Perceived Safety in Nursing Homes in Southern Portugal: A Cross-Sectional Survey-Based Study in the Initial Phases of the Pandemic

(1) Background: Nursing homes’ preparedness in managing a public health emergency has been poor, with effects on safety culture. The objective of this study was to assess nursing homes’ COVID-19 preparedness in southern Portugal, including staff’s work experiences during the pandemic. (2) Methods: We used a COVID-19 preparedness checklist to be completed by management teams, followed by follow-up calls to nursing homes. Thereafter, a survey of staff was applied. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, and thematic analysis of open-end questions. (3) Results: In total, 71% (138/195) of eligible nursing homes returned the preparedness checklist. We conducted 83 follow-up calls and received 720 replies to the staff survey. On average, 25% of nursing homes did not have an adequate decision-making structure to respond to the pandemic. Outbreak capacity and training were areas for improvement among nursing homes’ contingency plans. We identified teamwork as an area of strength for safety culture, whereas compliance with procedures and nonpunitive response to mistakes need improvement. (4) Conclusions: To strengthen how nursing homes cope with upcoming phases of the COVID-19 pandemic or future public health emergencies, nursing homes’ preparedness and safety culture should be fostered and closely monitored.

Generation and cardiac differentiation of a human induced pluripotent stem cell line UALGi002-A from a female patient with Left-Ventricular Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy

Left Ventricular Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy (LVNC) is characterized by abnormal number and prominence of trabeculations of the left ventricle of the heart. Although LVNC has been associated with mutations in several genes encoding for transcriptional regulators, ion channels, sarcomeric and mitochondrial proteins, approximately 60% of LVNC patients do not present these genetic alterations. Here, we describe an induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) line (UALGi002-A) originated from a LVNC female patient (LVNC-hiPSC) who does not present any previously known mutations associated to LVNC. The LVNC-hiPSC exhibited full pluripotency and differentiation potential and retained a normal karyotype after reprogramming. Moreover, the LVNC-hiPSC differentiated into contracting cardiomyocytes. This cellular model will be useful to study the molecular, genetic and functional aspects of LVNC in vitro.

Surviving cardiac arrest: What happens after admission to the intensive care unit?

INTRODUCTION

Patients successfully resuscitated from cardiac arrest (CA) are admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for post-resuscitation care. These patients' prognosis remains dismal, with only a minority surviving to hospital discharge. Understanding the clinical factors involved in the management of these patients is essential to improve their prognosis.

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the population admitted after successful reanimation from CA, and to analyze the factors associated with their outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective descriptive study of patients admitted to an ICU after CA over a five-year period from January 2014 to December 2018. Demographic factors, CA characteristics, early management, mortality and neurologic outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 187 patients, median age 67 years, were admitted after CA, of whom 39% suffered out-of-hospital CA; 87% had an initial non-shockable rhythm and the most frequent presumed cause was cardiac (31%). In-hospital mortality was 63%. Significant neurologic dysfunction (cerebral performance category 3 or 4) was seen in 31% of survivors at hospital discharge. Non-immediate initiation of basic life support (BLS), higher Simplified Acute Physiology Score II score and longer relative duration of vasopressor support were independent predictors of in-hospital mortality, while shockable rhythms were associated with improved survival. Higher Glasgow coma scale at ICU discharge and shorter length of ICU stay were predictors of better neurologic outcome.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the positive prognostic impact of shockable rhythms, and confirms the importance of immediate initiation of BLS and prompt defibrillation, supporting the need for better training both outside and inside hospitals.

Validation of the Ottawa ankle rules: Strategies for increasing specificity

INTRODUCTION

The majority of patients with ankle injuries undergo radiological examinations of the foot, ankle or both. The objective of this study was in the first place to validate the Ottawa Ankle Rules (OARs) for the population of our centre. Secondly, an attempt was made to identify parameters that contribute to improve the specificity of the method, with a view to reduce the need for patients to be exposed to radiation as well as optimizing the expenses of the Emergency Ward (EW).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective study conducted during a 9-month period. The study population included 148 patients, in 54 (36%) of the patients a fracture was present on the exams performed. Patients were submitted to a sequential protocol in the EW with a form completion, evaluation of OARs, application of the Visual Analog Pain Scale (VAS) and radiographic exams.

RESULTS

We found a sensitivity of OARs in ankle injuries of 100%, specificity of 26% and in midfoot injuries of 100% and 62% respectively. All patients with fractures had a VAS of 5 or more points in any of the tested sites. With the VAS criterium, we found a significant increase of global specificity (38% vs 15%), as well as when applied only to the ankle (26% to 47%) or to midfoot trauma (62% to 67%). In both, there would have been a 100% reduction of CT scans. Patients with a fracture or with fractures who required surgical treatment had a mean VAS significantly higher than patients with no fracture or fractures submitted to conservative treatment respectively. Although there was a lower percentage of fractures in the group of injuries in Work Accidents (31% vs 37% Sports Activity and 38% Leisure Activity), there was a statistically significant increase in the sum of average VAS in Accidents at Work vs Leisure Activities and vs Sports Activities.

CONCLUSION

We seek to confirm the usefulness of OARs for our population and we investigated strategies to further reduce the need for unnecessary radiographs. The introduction of parameters for grading pain and adapting to the context of the accident seem promising.

Surviving cardiac arrest: What happens after admission to the intensive care unit?

INTRODUCTION

Patients successfully resuscitated from cardiac arrest (CA) are admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for post-resuscitation care. These patients' prognosis remains dismal, with only a minority surviving to hospital discharge. Understanding the clinical factors involved in the management of these patients is essential to improve their prognosis.

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the population admitted after successful reanimation from CA, and to analyze the factors associated with their outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective descriptive study of patients admitted to an ICU after CA over a five-year period from January 2014 to December 2018. Demographic factors, CA characteristics, early management, mortality and neurologic outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 187 patients, median age 67 years, were admitted after CA, of whom 39% suffered out-of-hospital CA; 87% had an initial non-shockable rhythm and the most frequent presumed cause was cardiac (31%). In-hospital mortality was 63%. Significant neurologic dysfunction (cerebral performance category 3 or 4) was seen in 31% of survivors at hospital discharge. Non-immediate initiation of basic life support (BLS), higher Simplified Acute Physiology Score II score and longer relative duration of vasopressor support were independent predictors of in-hospital mortality, while shockable rhythms were associated with improved survival. Higher Glasgow coma scale at ICU discharge and shorter length of ICU stay were predictors of better neurologic outcome.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the positive prognostic impact of shockable rhythms, and confirms the importance of immediate initiation of BLS and prompt defibrillation, supporting the need for better training both outside and inside hospitals.

A giant hand lipoma as a rare cause of secondary carpal tunnel syndrome - A case report

•

Space-occupying lesions like lipoma are a rare cause of secondary compression neuropathies of the upper extremity.

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Atypical symptomatology should raise suspicion of local causes and regular work-up should be extended.

•

Images studies leads to successful diagnosis and guidance of the best surgical treatment.

•

Monobloc resection is still the best treatment to reduce the risk of iatrogenic lesions and disease recurrence.

Introduction

Lipomas are a rare cause of compressive neuropathy and they lead to atypical clinical presentation that can mimic carpal tunnel syndrome.

Case Presentation

The authors describe a rare presentation of a carpal tunnel syndrome recurrence after a hand giant lipoma, presenting with rapidly compression neuropathy of the median nerve, 6 months after de primary surgery.

Discussion

Lipomas are common benign soft tumours. Their occurrence in the hand remains rare and they rarely cause secondary entrapment neuropathies. Carpal tunnel syndrome is mostly idiopathic and bilateral. Local factors should be suspected when these neuropathies present with atypical symptomatology or even when they recur after primary conventional surgical release. Investigation should consider images studies as this correct preoperative assessment leads to successful diagnosis and treatment.

Trapeziectomy and Suture-Button Suspensionplasty for Basilar Thumb Arthritis: Is It Enough to Prevent First Ray Subsidence?

Introduction  Trapeziectomy and suture-button suspensionplasty (SBS) are a novel option to treat end-stage trapeziometacarpal (TMC) osteoarthritis. Our purpose is to evaluate our outcomes with this technique and in this setting, with a minimum of 18 months of follow-up. Materials and Methods  Twenty-eight patients were included, operated between 2016 and 2018. We recorded demographic data, preoperative Eaton stage, follow-up and operative times. The patients completed the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire and tip pinch, key pinch, and grip strength were measured. First metacarpal subsidence was calculated, and postoperative complications were documented. Results  The average follow-up was 34 months. The mean QuickDASH was 32 at the final follow-up. The average strength results were 20 kg for grip, 3.6 kg for tip pinch, and 4.2 kg for key pinch. The rate of first ray subsidence was 10.7%. We encountered three complications: a hardware intolerance, a second metacarpal fracture, and a suture rupture. There was one reoperation to remove an implant. Conclusion  Trapeziectomy and SBS functional results are similar to other techniques, with less subsidence of the first ray and allowing for early mobilization and fast recovery. This procedure is a safe and promising option in the treatment of TMC osteoarthritis, with good medium-term outcomes.

Evolution of in-hospital management in ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction in Portuguese hospitals over the years

Objectives

To assess the evolution of in-hospital management of ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) over the years in Portuguese hospitals and its impact on in-hospital complications and mortality

Methods

A nationwide electronic prospective registry that included all patients admitted to Portuguese hospitals with a diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome since 2002 until 2019 was used to collect all data relative to patients admitted with a STEMI diagnosis during that time frame. Data on demographic data, clinical data, revascularization strategy, medication during hospitalization. We compared the data and its evolution over the years to assess for trends. For statistical analysis, Qui-square tests were used to assess tendencies in categorical variables, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to assess tendencies in numerical variables. A p-value &lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

During the study, a total of 24425 patients were admitted for STEMI in Portuguese hospitals, 74.3% were male and average age of 63.9±13.6 years.

We report a progressive increase in patients treated with aspirin, P2Y12 inhibitors (from 22.2% to 97.6% – p&lt;0.001), beta blockers 62.% to 72.4% – p&lt;0.001), ACE inhibitors (68.9% to 78.2% – p&lt;0.001) and statins (72.1% to 88.4% – p&lt;0.001), a progressive decrease in GP 2a3b inhibitors (20.9 to 14.6% – p&lt;0.001), enoxaparin (55.2% to 29.9% – p&lt;0.001), nitrates (82.7% to 16.1% – p&lt;0.001), calcium channel blockers (5.0% to 3.1% – p&lt;0.001) and inotropes (12.0% to 5.6% – p&lt;0.001).

There was an increase of the use primary coronary angioplasty (36.4% to 73.2% – p&lt;0.001), and of drug eluting stents (0% to 70.1% – p&lt;0.001) a decrease in the use of fibrinolysis (75.7% to 1.6% – p&lt;0.001), bare metal stents (88.1% to 0.3% – p&lt;0.001) and intra-aortic balloon pump (1.8% to 0% – p=0.009), but not in invasive mechanical ventilation (2.5% to 1.9% – p=0.142).

Less patients had moderate to severely impaired left ventricle ejection fraction (28.8% to 14.9% – p&lt;0.001), and there was a significant reduction in almost all in-hospital complications: re-infarction (2.0% to 1.0% – p&lt;0.001); heart failure (36.2% to 9.9% – p&lt;0.001); cardiogenic shock (10.8% to 3.9% – p&lt;0.001); AV block (5.8% to 2.5% – p&lt;0.001); mechanical complications (2.8% to 0.4% – p&lt;0.001); stroke (1.3% to 0.4% – p&lt;0.001); in-hospital mortality (9.9% to 3.8% – p&lt;0.001); as well as length of stay ([4–10] days to [3–6] days – p&lt;0.001). Exceptions were and increase in major bleeding (0.9% to 1.8% – p&lt;0.001) and resuscitated cardiac arrest (3.9% to 4.5%, p=0.001).

Conclusion

In 17 years, we report a progressive evolution of the in-hospital treatment of STEMI patients in Portuguese hospitals, with a higher prescription of guideline recommended medications, use of invasive reperfusion techniques and last generation stents, resulting in a lower rate of in-hospital complications and mortality.

In-hospital outcomes over the years

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Registo Nacional de Síndromes Coronárias Agudas - Sociedade Portuguesa de Cardiologia

Clinical characteristics and natural history of PRKAG2 syndrome

Purpose

Mutations in the PRKAG2 gene cause a syndrome characterized by hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, conduction disease and ventricular preexcitation. Only a small number of cases have been reported, and the natural history of the disease is poorly understood. The aim of this study is to describe phenotype and natural history of PRKAG2 mutation in a large multicenter international cohort.

Methods

We retrospectively studied clinical, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic data from 90 individuals with PRKAG2 mutations (53% males, 33±21 years) from 27 centers.

Results

At baseline evaluation, 93% of patients were in NYHA functional class I-II. Maximum left ventricular (LV) wall thickness was 18±8 mm and LV hypertrophy (LVH) was present in 60 (67%) subjects at baseline. LV ejection fraction was 61±12%. Seventeen pactients (19%) had a pacemaker (mean age at implantation 37±15and 16 (18%) had atrial fibrillation (AF) (mean age 41±23 years) and 33% had ventricular preexcitation or had undergone an accessory pathway ablation. After a median follow-up of 6 years (IQR:2.3–13.9), 71% of individuals had LVH, 29% had AF, 21% a de novo pacemaker (mean age at implantation 38±18 years), 14% required admission for heart failure (HF), 8% experienced sudden cardiac death or equivalent, 4% required a heart transplant and 13% died.

Conclusions

PRKAG2 syndrome is a severe, progressive cardiomyopathy characterized by high rates of AF, conduction disease, advanced HF and life-threatening arrhythmias. Outcome is not clearly related to the classical features of preexcitation and severe LVH, which are not always present.

Natural history of PRKAG2 syndrome

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII)

Premature acute coronary syndrome

Introduction

The prevalence of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) at an early age is rising, resulting in higher morbidity and mortality rates.

Purpose

To characterize patients admitted with premature ACS, comparing with those with non-premature ACS.

Methods

A retrospective study encompassing patients of a National Registry of ACS was performed. We compared two groups: one composed of men &lt;55 and women &lt;65 years-old; and other with men ≥55 and women ≥65 years-old at the ACS admission. Clinical characteristics, in-hospital evolution and 1-year clinical outcomes were analysed. Primary endpoint was the composite of in-hospital mortality, stroke and re-myocardial infarction (MI). Secondary endpoints were re-MI, stroke, in-hospital and 1-year mortality, 1-year cardiovascular (CV) and non-CV readmissions.

Results

A total of 26523 patients were enrolled and 6637 (25%) had premature ACS, with a mean age of 49±7 years-old. It was found a larger prevalence of smoking habits, obesity and dyslipidemia, but not diabetes. ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI) was the main admission diagnosis (51,2% vs 40,3%), with more frequent activations of the STEMI network (17,1% vs 12,8%) and a consequently shorter time from symptom onset to admission (483 vs 584 min). Coronary angiogram was largely performed in younger patients (91,4% vs 82,1%), mainly revealing one-vessel disease (49,3% vs 34,3%). They had lower Killip-Kimbal (KK) class (6% vs 18,1% with KK class &gt;1) and mostly preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (67,3% vs 58,6%). Major bleeding (0,9% vs 1,7%), sustained ventricular tachycardia (1,1% vs 1,5%) and mechanical complications (0,2% vs 0,7%) were uncommon. Composite endpoint was more frequent in non-premature ACS patients (6,2% vs 1,9%). Non-premature age, KK class &gt;1, multivessel disease and depressed LVEF were independent predictors of primary endpoint (each with p&lt;0,001). Younger patients had inferior rates of in-hospital mortality (1% vs 4,7%), re-MI (0,5% vs 1%) and stroke (0,4% vs 0,7%). One-year mortality (1,7% vs 9,1%), and 1-year CV (9,7% vs 15,5%) and non-CV readmissions (3,7% vs 8,2%) were also lower. All comparative data presented have a statistically significant p-value (p&lt;0,012).

Conclusions

Premature ACS affects 25% of the ACS population, mostly presenting with STEMI, but generally associated with better clinical evolution. Nevertheless, primary prevention is essential to correct modifiable CV risk factors and reduce coronary events in these patients.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Mechanical Dispersion as a powerful echocardiographic predictor of outcomes after Myocardial Infarction

Introduction

Several studies have addressed the importance of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in risk prediction of subsequent adverse events after ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). While several traditional echo parameters have a well-established prognostic value, data derived from 2D-Speckle Tracking Echocardiography (2DSTE) needs further investigation.

Objectives

To determine if 2DSTE parameters provide additional information beyond conventional echocardiography to predict long-term adverse outcomes in patients admitted with STEMI

Methods

Retrospective, single-center study, that included all patients without previous cardiovascular events admitted with STEMI (who underwent primary coronary angioplasty) between 2015 and 2017. Patients with poor acoustic windows, severe valvular disease, irregular heart rhythm, and those who died during hospital stay were excluded. We reviewed all pre-discharge TTE to assess conventional parameters of LV systolic and diastolic function and data obtained by 2DSTE: global longitudinal strain (GLS) and peak strain dispersion (PSD), an index that is the standard deviation from time to peak strain of all segments over the entire cardiac cycle. Demographic and clinical data was obtained through electronic hospital records. Minimum follow-up was 2 years. The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular re-admission at follow-up. Survival analysis was used to determine independent predictors of the primary endpoint.

Results

377 patients were included, mean age 62±13 years, 72% male. Mean LVEF was 50±10% with 19% of patients having LVEF &lt;40%. Mean indexed left atrium volume (LAVi) was 33±10 ml/m2, mean GLS was −14±4%, and PSD was 60±22 msec. Average follow-up was 36±11 months, with a combined endpoint of mortality and hospitalization of 27% (n=102)

Univariate analysis of echocardiographic variables revealed an association between heart rate, LVEF, indexed LV end-systolic volume, indexed stroke volume, LAVi, GLS and PSD with the endpoint. However, on multivariate analysis only LAVi [HR 1.030 (95% CI 1.009 - 1.051), p-value = 0.005] and PSD [HR 1.011 (95% CI 1.002 - 1.020), p-value = 0.012] remained independent predictors of the primary endpoint.

We determined that a PSD value higher than 52 msec has a sensitivity of 76% and a negative predictive value of 83% for mortality and hospitalization, and that this cut-off point discriminates patients at a higher risk of events in Kaplan-Meier Survival analysis with a Log-Rank p-value=0.001.

Conclusion

PSD derived by longitudinal strain analysis is a promising prognostic predictor after STEMI. PSD outperformed conventional echocardiographic parameters in the risk stratification of STEMI patients at discharge.

Kaplan-Meier Survival Curves

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Evolution of hospital discharge medication and 6 months outcomes of ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction patients in Portugal over the years

Objectives

To assess the evolution of hospital discharge management, 6 months hospitalization and mortality over the years of all patients admitted with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in Portugal.

Methods

A nationwide electronic prospective registry that included all patients admitted to Portuguese hospitals with a diagnosis of Acute Coronary Syndrome since 2002 until 2018 was used to collect all data relative to patients admitted with a STEMI diagnosis during that time frame. Data on demographic data, clinical status, revascularization strategy, discharge medication and 6 months hospitalization and mortality were obtained. We compared the data and its evolution over the years to assess for trends. For statistical analysis, Qui-square tests were used to assess trends in categorical variables, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to assess trends in numerical variables. A p-value &lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

During the study, a total of 23807 patients were admitted for STEMI in Portuguese hospitals, 74.3% were male and average age of 63.9±13.6 years.

We report a progressive and significant increase the use of primary angioplasty versus fibrinolysis (24.3% to 98.4%, p&lt;0.001), in coronary angioplasties (36.4% to 73.2%, p&lt;0.001), in the use of drug-eluting stents (0% to 70.1%, p&lt;0.001), and a decrease in the patients that underwent surgery (6.8% to 1.3%, p&lt;0.001) and intra-aortic balloon pump (1.8% to 0%, p=0.009), resulting in a decrease in in-hospital mortality from 9.9% to 6.1% (p&lt;0.001).

At discharge, we report a progressive increase in the prescription of P2Y12 inhibitors (21.1% to 95.2%, p&lt;0.001), beta-blockers (68.8% to 83.8%, p&lt;0.001), RAAS inhibitors (69.5% to 86.7%, p&lt;0.001) and statins (79.6% to 94.9%, p&lt;0.001), while the prescription of aspirin (94.1% para 94.8%, p=0.428), calcium channel blockers (5.3% to 5.6%, p&lt;0.684) stayed stable, and there was a decrease in the prescription of nitrates (52.9% to 5.8%, p&lt;0.001). Hospital admissions at 6 months consistently and progressively reduced over time (18.6% to 8.5%, p&lt;0.001) as well as mortality (6.7% para 4.3%, p&lt;0.001).

Conclusion

Post discharge treatment of STEMI patients in Portuguese hospitals has evolved according to guidelines, with higher prescription of medication proven to reduce outcomes, resulting in lower hospitalization rates and mortality.

6 Month Outcomes over the years

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Sociedade Portuguesa de Cardiologia

Recurrent syncope, which patient should we follow more closely

Introduction

The importance of education is well recognized in patients presenting with syncope, in order to reduce the recurrence rate.

Purpose

To determine a predictive score of recurrent syncopal episodes after the first medical assessment.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study enrolling patients followed in our Syncope Consultation from January 2015 to November 2019. Clinical and episodes characteristics, as well as diagnostic studies were analysed. Correlation between variables was performed by the Chi-square and T-Student tests, with a significance level of 95%. Independent predictors of recurrent syncope were identified through a binary logistic regression analysis, considering p=0.05. Then, a discriminatory function was applied using the Wilks lambda test to determine the discriminant score of the analysed groups. SPSS 24.0 was used for statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 694 patients were included, and 420 (60.5%) had recurrent syncope at the first evaluation. After educational approach, 97 (14%) maintained recurrent episodes. In this subgroup, the mean age was 63.7±22.8 years-old and 88.7% already had previous recurrent syncope (vs 56.1%; p&lt;0.001). The prodrome of malaise was common (40.2% vs 26.8%; p=0.008), but 32% of these patients had syncope without prodromes (vs 21.8%; p=0.032). They also had frequently first-degree atrioventricular (AV) block (22.5% vs 6.8%; p&lt;0.001) and 51.7% had a final diagnosis of reflex syncope. No previous medication with calcium channel blockers (CCB) (p&lt;0.001), malaise (p=0.011), not having Q-waves in the electrocardiogram (p=0.022) and the presence of first-degree AV block (p&lt;0.001) were independent predictors of recurrent syncope. A predictive score of recurrence was determined using the formula: 0.108 − 1.556 x (medication with CCB) + 0.989 x (malaise) − 1.031 x (Q-waves) + 2.406 x (first degree AV block). Variables should be replaced by 1 or 0, depending on whether the condition is present or not. A cut-off of 0.283 was obtained with a specificity of 96.1% and a discriminative power of 81.2%.

Conclusion

In our patients presenting with syncope, recurrence rate reduced from 60,5% to 14% just with educational measures. To help identify patients who maintain recurrence, we determined a predictive score using clinical data from the first visit, with a good discriminative power and excellent specificity. It could be used to strengthen education, to direct diagnostic studies and to shorten follow-up visits, but it still needs validation to be used in clinical practice.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Specific Therapy for Transthyretin Cardiac Amyloidosis: A Systematic Literature Review and Evidence-Based Recommendations

Background

The emergence of specific therapies for transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (CA) warrants the need for a systematic review of the literature.

Methods and Results

A systematic review of the literature was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A systematic search was performed on MEDLINE, PubMed, and Embase databases on November 29, 2019. Studies were selected based on the following predefined eligibility criteria: English‐language randomized controlled trials (RCTs), non‐RCTs, or observational studies, which included adult patients with variant/wild‐type transthyretin‐CA, assessed specific therapies for transthyretin‐CA, and reported cardiovascular outcomes. Relevant data were extracted to a predefined template. Quality assessment was based on National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommendations (RCTs) or a checklist by Downs and Black (non‐RCTs). From 1203 records, 24 publications were selected, describing 4 RCTs (6 publications) and 16 non‐RCTs (18 publications). Tafamidis was shown to significantly improve all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular hospitalizations and reduce worsening in 6‐minute walk test, Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire—Overall Summary score, and NT‐proBNP (N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide) in variant/wild‐type transthyretin‐CA. Patisiran showed promising results in a subgroup analysis of patients with variant transthyretin‐CA, which have to be confirmed in RCTs. Inotersen showed conflicting results on cardiac imaging parameters. The one study on AG10 had only a 1‐month duration and cardiovascular end points were exploratory and limited to cardiac biomarkers. Limited evidence from noncomparative single‐arm small non‐RCTs existed for diflunisal, epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (green tea extract), and doxycycline+tauroursodeoxycholic acid/ursodeoxycholic acid.

Conclusions

This systematic review of the literature supports the use of tafamidis in wild‐type and variant transthyretin‐CA. Novel therapeutic targets including transthyretin gene silencers are currently under investigation.

P2Y12 inhibitor loading dose before catheterization in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: Is this the best strategy?

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

In ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) the benefit of dual antiplatelet therapy is unequivocal, but the optimal time to administer the loading dose (LD) of a P2Y₁₂ inhibitor is the subject of debate and disagreement. The main aim of this study was characterize current practice in Portugal and to assess the prognostic impact of P2Y₁₂ inhibitor LD administration strategy, before versus during or after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

This multicenter retrospective study based on the Portuguese National Registry on Acute Coronary Syndromes included patients with STEMI and PCI performed between October 1, 2010 and September 19, 2017. Two groups were established: LD before PCI (LD-PRE) and LD during or after PCI (LD-CATH).

RESULTS

A total of 4123 patients were included, 66.3% in the LD-PRE group and 32.4% in the LD-CATH group. Prehospital use of a P2Y₁₂ inhibitor was a predictor of the composite bleeding endpoint (major bleeding, need for transfusion or hemoglobin [Hb] drop >2g/dl), Hb drop >2g/dl and reinfarction. There were no differences between groups in major adverse events (MAE) (in-hospital mortality, reinfarction and stroke) or in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Prehospital use of a P2Y₁₂ inhibitor was associated with an increased risk of bleeding, predicting the composite bleeding outcome and Hb drop >2g/dl, with no differences in mortality or MAE, calling into question the benefit of this strategy.

Giant Left Ventricular (Pseudo?) Aneurysm Complicating Anterior Myocardial Infarction

The differential diagnosis of true aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms is challenging, and multimodality cardiac imaging is often necessary. We report a case in which the limitations of these techniques are exposed, showing that post-operative evaluation of tissue layers remains the gold standard in establishing this diagnosis. (Level of Difficulty: Beginner.)

Predictors of Fabry disease in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: How to guide the diagnostic strategy?

BACKGROUND

Fabry disease (FD) is a treatable cause of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). We aimed to determine the independent predictors of FD and to define a clinically useful strategy to discriminate FD among HCM.

METHODS

Multicenter study including 780 patients with the ESC definition of HCM. FD screening was performed by enzymatic assay in males and genetic testing in females. Multivariate regression analysis identified independent predictors of FD in HCM. A discriminant function analysis defined a score based on the weighted combination of these predictors.

RESULTS

FD was found in 37 of 780 patients with HCM (4.7%): 31 with p.F113L mutation due to a founder effect; and 6 with other variants (p.C94S; p.M96V; p.G183V; p.E203X; p.M290I; p.R356Q/p.G360R). FD prevalence in HCM adjusted for the founder effect was 0.9%. Symmetric HCM (OR 3.464, CI95% 1.151-10.430), basal inferolateral late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) (OR 10.677, CI95% 3.633-31.380), bifascicular block (OR 10.909, CI95% 2.377-50.059) and ST-segment depression (OR 4.401, CI95% 1.431-13.533) were independent predictors of FD in HCM. The score ID FABRY-HCM [-0.729 + (2.781xBifascicular block) + (0.590xST depression) + (0.831xSymmetric HCM) + (2.130xbasal inferolateral LGE)] had a negative predictive value of 95.8% for FD, with a cut-off of 1.0, meaning that, in the absence of both bifascicular block and basal inferolateral LGE, FD is a less probable cause of HCM, being more appropriate to perform HCM gene panel than targeted FD screening.

CONCLUSION

FD prevalence in HCM was 0.9%. Bifascicular block and basal inferolateral LGE were the most powerful predictors of FD in HCM. In their absence, HCM gene panel is the most appropriate step in etiological study of HCM.

Disseminated infection by Mycobacterium genavense in an HIV-1 infected patient

•

Mycobacterium genavenseinfection, a non-tuberculous mycobacteria, should be considered in immunosuppressed patients.

•

Disseminated infection by Mycobacterium genavense is a clinical and microbiological diagnostic challenge.

•

There are no standardized treatment guidelines for Mycobacterium genavense, but schemes with clarithromycin are favoured.

Opportunistic infections are an important cause of death and morbidity among HIV infected patients. Disseminated infections by nontuberculous mycobacteria are a diagnostic to consider among these patients with a high level of immunosuppression.

A 64 year old Caucasian man, born in Angola, living in Portugal since 1975, presented in the emergency room with generalized malaise, weight loss, vesperal temperatures of around 37.5 °C with night sweats for two months, and epigastric abdominal pain with liquid stools in the 2 previous weeks. Laboratory study revealed a previously undiagnosed HIV-1 infection with 42 Lymphocytes CD4+/uL and viremia of 61,249 copies/mL. The abdominal-pelvic CT scan showed multiple necrotic ganglia in the mesenterium and mesenteric vases, which were biopsied revealing positive PCR for a nontuberculous mycobacteria; duodenal biopsies showed similar results. The bone marrow blood culture yeald the growth of Mycobacterium genavense. Antimicobacterial treatment was started and after six months he showed imagiological deterioration and the antibiogram revealed resistance to all antimycobacterial agents. The therapeutic scheme was empirically changed and the patient kept under vigilance with chronic therapy.

This rare clinical case is both a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.

The Lisbon patient: exceptional longevity with HIV suggests healthy aging as an ultimate goal for HIV care

In the context of global aging, HIV infection has become a new chronic disease and requires innovative models of care. Treating isolated comorbidities represents a useless and potentially harmful practice at advanced age. Therefore, a patient-centered approach, in which the interventions are focused on the biology and function of the individual, with understanding of the importance of securing social and home environment that provides psychosocial support, better suits unmet health needs. We present a paradigmatic case of healthy aging: the first reported HIV-infected patient who achieved 100th of life - the Lisbon patient. The construct of healthy aging, recently introduced by the World Health Organization, is the best example of this comprehensive model and could represent the fourth target of UNAIDS agenda of the end of AIDS.

Scrofula Caused by Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) occurs when at the minimum there is resistance to isoniazid and rifampin. Prevention of new infections of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and progression to TB disease is critical to reduce the burden and mortality of this disease. We present the case of a 73-year-old human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative female who presented with cervical lymphadenopathy and who was diagnosed with MDR-TB.

Screening for Fabry disease in patients with left ventricular noncompaction

INTRODUCTION AND AIM

It is unclear whether left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is a distinct cardiomyopathy or a morphologic manifestation of different cardiomyopathies. We previously reported a case of LVNC in a Fabry disease (FD) patient, but it remains to be clarified whether LVNC is a cardiac manifestation of FD, a coincidental finding or an overdiagnosis, which has major therapeutic implications. This study aims to determine the prevalence of FD among patients with LVNC.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study including all patients diagnosed with LVNC in eight hospital centers. Diagnosis of LVNC was based on at least one echocardiographic or cardiac magnetic resonance criterion. FD screening was performed by combined enzyme and genetic testing.

RESULTS

The study included 78 patients diagnosed with LVNC based on the Jenni (84.6%), Stöllberger (46.2%), Chin (21.8%), Petersen (83.8%) and Jacquier (16.2%) criteria. Left ventricular systolic dysfunction was present in 48.7%. Heart failure was found in 60.3%, ventricular dysrhythmias in 21.6% and embolic events in 11.5%. FD screening found no additional cases among patients with LVNC, besides the previously described case.

CONCLUSION

No additional FD cases were found among patients with LVNC, which argues against the hypothesis that LVNC is a cardiac manifestation of FD.

P871 Giant left ventricular (pseudo?)aneurysm complicating anterior myocardial infarction

Introduction

Clinical approach of cardiac aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms is significantly distinct. Therefore, it is crucial to accurately differentiate these two entities, which could be a real challenge.

Case report

We describe a case of a 55-year-old woman, with hypertension and previous smoking habits. She was admitted in our Cardiology Department with the diagnosis of anterior acute myocardial infarction, and was submitted to emergent coronariography, unveiling an occlusion of the middle segment of the anterior descending artery. She underwent successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) 1h45 after the chest pain onset. Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) revealed depressed left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF 30%), with akinesia of anterior and septal walls and all apical segments. She evolved in Killip-Kimbal class 2 and was discharged clinically stable. One week later, the patient performed a control TTE that showed an apical thrombus, with a small pericardial effusion, and she initiated warfarin. Three weeks later, a reevaluation TTE demonstrated a severe increase of the left ventricle dimensions, with LVEF 32%, and a small pericardial effusion. In apical 4-chambers incidence, it was visualized a linear structure (42 mm x 5 mm) attached to the endocardial border of the anterolateral apical segment and to the apical segment of the interventricular septum, of undefined nature. The apical segments were dyskinetic and had a very thin wall, which could correspond to aneurysm versus pseudoaneurysm. To clarify these findings, the patient performed a cardiac magnetic resonance revealing a large anterior myocardial infarction complicated with extensive myocardial necrosis, severe depression of LV systolic function (LVEF 25%) and septum rupture distal to the right ventricle apex (without connecting with it), compatible with a large apical pseudoaneurysm. The clinical case was discussed in the Heart Team and it was decided to perform cardiac surgery. However, surgical findings showed integrity of septal and free walls, and she underwent an aneurysmectomy, without further complications. Histological examination confirmed the presence of a thin myocardial wall with marked fibrosis and, consequently, the diagnosis of ventricular aneurysm. She was discharged clinically stable and maintains follow-up in Cardiology consultation of our Hospital.

Conclusion

In this patient, initially admitted with an anterior myocardial infarction submitted to primary PCI, follow-up with advanced imaging modalities pointed to the diagnosis of pseudoaneurysm. Despite the preoperative diagnosis, surgical findings were compatible with a giant left ventricular aneurysm. Even with high spatial resolution exams, postoperative evaluation of tissue layers remains the gold standard for this differential diagnosis.

Abstract P871 Figure. Apical pseudoaneurysm vs aneurysm

p.G360R Is a Pathogenic GLA Gene Mutation Responsible for a Classic Phenotype of Fabry Disease

The authors report the case of a classic phenotype of Fabry disease in a 60-year-old male patient presenting with left ventricular hypertrophy and stroke. Genetic analysis revealed 2 GLA-gene variants, i.e., p.R356Q and p.G360R. This clinical case highlights that the finding of 2 or more GLA gene variants in a Fabry patient should lead to a careful evaluation in order to determine their exact role in the condition. This case also provides the first clinical evidence that the p.G360R mutation is pathogenic and responsible for a classic phenotype of Fabry disease. The clinical improvement following the initiation of enzyme replacement therapy reinforces the importance of Fabry disease awareness and diagnosis in patients exhibiting red flags, such as left ventricular hypertrophy and stroke.

P879Discharge medication and 1-year outcomes in patients with myocardial infarction and nonobstructive coronary artery disease: a nationwide registry-based study

Introduction

Myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) occurs in 5% to 10% of all patients with myocardial infarction. Although these patients are often treated as if they had obstructive coronary artery disease (OCAD), optimal medical therapy for secondary prevention in MINOCA patients have not been prospectively studied. We hypothesize that the same treatment strategy as for OCAD is unlikely to be beneficial in MINOCA patients due to their heterogeneous nature.

Purpose

Characterize and assess the impact of discharge medication on 1-year mortality or hospitalization in patients with MINOCA.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) recorded in the Portuguese Registry of Acute Coronary Syndromes (ProACS) between 2010 and 1017. All patients who underwent coronary angiography and had no obstructive lesions (defined as <50% diameter stenosis) were included for analysis (n=829, 4.8% of a total of 17213). Patient demographics, clinical characteristics and medication at discharge were analyzed. The association between treatment and outcome was estimated by comparing treated and untreated groups using Cox proportional hazard models. The exposures considered were treatment at discharge with statins, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers (ACEi/ARBs), beta-blockers (BB), aspirin (ASA) or dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). The outcomes evaluated were 1-year all-cause mortality and 1-year hospitalization due to cardiovascular disease (CVD)

Results

829 patients (54% male, mean age 65±13 years) were included. 67% had hypertension, 20% diabetes mellitus, 45% hyperlipidemia, 66% were overweight, 23% were current smokers, 5.5% had history of heart failure, 4.3% valvular heart disease, 8% cerebrovascular disease and 4.7% chronic kidney disease. The admission diagnosis was most frequently non-ST elevation MI (79.3%) and mean left ventricular ejection fraction (%) was 56±12. 4 patients died during hospitalization (0.5%). At discharge, aspirin was prescribed in 85.7% patients, clopidogrel in 54.8%, ticagrelor in 7.5%, DAPT in 57.7%, ACEi/ARB in 79.2%, beta-blocker in 69% and statins in 90.2%. 1-year mortality and 1-year CVD hospitalization was 3.8% and 9%, respectively. After adjusting for covariates in Cox regression analysis, we found no association between any medication at discharge and 1-year outcomes.

Conclusion

A high proportion of patients are prescribed antiplatelet therapy, including DAPT. We found no significant 1-year beneficial effect of treatment with statins, ACEi/ARBs, BB, aspirin or DAPT in MINOCA. This may be partially explained by the highly heterogenous population and relative short-term follow-up. In MINOCA patients, treatment should be individualized after an exhaustive diagnostic workup to identify the underlying cause (e.g. CAD with spontaneous autolysis of an intracoronary thrombus, myocarditis or takotsubo syndrome).

P1721Determination of a predictive score of cardiogenic shock in acute coronary syndrome

Introduction

Cardiogenic shock is one of the leading causes of death in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), reaching in-hospital mortality rates of 50%.

Purpose

To identify a predictive score of cardiogenic shock in patients with ACS.

Methods

We performed a retrospective, descriptive and correlational study encompassing patients admitted with ACS in a Cardiology service from 1st October 2010 to 1st October 2018. Demographic factors, risk factors, antecedents and clinical characteristics were analyzed. The correlation between the categorical variables was performed by the Chi-square test, while the T-Student test was applied to the continuous variables, with a significance level of 95%. Independent predictors of cardiogenic shock were identified through a binary logistic regression analysis, considering p=0,05. Then, a discriminatory function was applied using the Wilks lambda test to determine the discriminant score of the analized groups. Statistical analysis was conducted with SPSS 24.0.

Results

During this period, 4458 patients were admitted with ACS and 74 (1,7%) developed cardiogenic shock. In this subgroup, 59,5% were over 65 years of age, 63,5% were male and 93,2% presented with acute myocardial infarction with ST segment elevation. Also, 83,8% were in sinus rhythm at admission, 22,7% had creatinine>1,5 mg/dL and 17,9% had left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <30%. The in-hospital mortality rate was 51,4%. LVEF <30% (p=0,018), creatinine>1,5 mg/dL (p=0,044) and absence of sinus rhythm at admission (p=0,041) were independent predictors of cardiogenic shock. A predictive score of this complication in patients with ACS was determined using the formula: 1,723 + 1,505 x (creatinine>1,5) + 4,483 x (LVEF <30%) – 2,094 x (sinus rhythm at admission). A cutoff of 0,58 was obtained with 44,4% sensitivity, 85,2% specificity and 85% discriminative power.

Conclusion

Cardiogenic shock occurred in 1,7% of patients admitted with ACS and was associated with a high mortality rate. We determined a predictive score of this complication with a good discriminative power, which included LVEF <30%, creatinine >1,5 mg/dL and the rhythm on admission's electrocardiogram. By taking into account clinical variables, this score can be used at a very early stage of admission, allowing risk stratification of developing cardiogenic shock in each patient. However, it needs validation to be applied in clinical practice.

P844NAS2H score, a novel predictive score of 1-year all cause mortality in Acute Coronary Syndromes

Introduction

In patients admitted for Acute Coronary Syndromes (ACS), mortality is influenced by several clinical and therapeutical factors, and management of these patients should be guided by an estimate of individual risk.

Objective

To develop a simple predictive model of 1-year mortality in patients admitted for ACS.

Methods

The authors present a retrospective, descriptive and correlational study including all patients admitted for ACS in a Cardiology department between the 1st of October 2010 and the 1st of October 2017. A 1-year (1y) follow-up was made through registry consultation and phone call by a Cardiologist. Patients with 1y mortality (1yM) events were studied regarding baseline demographic and clinical characteristics, risk factors and hospitalization data, and a correlational analysis with Chi-square test for categorical variables and t-Student test for continuous variables (confidence level of 95%) was performed. Independent predictors of 1yM were identified through binary logistic regression analysis, using a significance level of 0,05. A discriminatory function was applied, and the Wilks lambda test was used to determine the discriminant score for the studied groups. The authors used SPSS 24,0 for statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 3251 patients were included, 826 (25,4%) of which were female, with a mean age of 65,5±13,4 years. In the studied sample, 268 patients (8,2%) died in the year following hospital discharge; this group had a mean age of 65,6±13,2 years, and 80 (29,9%) were female patients. There was a significant association between 1yM and multiple clinical, therapeutical and laboratorial variables, but after multivariate analysis only age greater than 65 years old (yo) [p=0,001], previous stroke [p=0,005], haemoglobin (Hb) <10mg/dL [p<0,001], brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) >100pg/mL [p=0,001], and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <50% [p <0,001] proved to be independent predictors of the studied outcome. Using these variables, the authors developed a scoring model to predict 1yM in patients admitted for ACS with the following formula = 0,002 + (0,736 x Age >65yo) + (0,91 x previous stroke) + (2,562 x Hb <10) + (0,63 x BNP >100) - (1,207 x FEVE >50%). In this function, variables should be substituted by 1 or 0, depending on wheter they are present or not. The discrimination cutoff was 0,57, with a 70,6% sensibility and 75,9% specificity, and a discriminant power of 75,4%.

Conclusion

Defining the mortality risk of ACS patients after discharge represents a real challenge and demands a careful evaluation of multiple factors in an attempt to achieve an accurate estimation of risk. The authors developed a predicting model for 1yM in ACS patients, with a good discriminant power, based on simple variables. The present score will require validation in a larger cohort of ACS patients before it can be applied in a clinical context.

P1698Age shock index is a simple bedside clinical risk stratification tool in patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

Introduction

Shock index (SI), (heart rate (HR)/systolic blood pressure (SBP)), has been reported to predict worse outcomes in different acute settings. Two derivatives, named modified SI (MSI), defined as HR/mean BP; and Age SI, defined as SI multiplied by age, were later developed, but only the former was tested for short-term outcomes in patients with myocardial infarction (MI). We hypothesize that Age SI may demonstrate higher prognostic accuracy than SI and MSI due to the added prognostic value of age in this population.

Purpose

Compare the prognostic performance of admission age SI, MSI and SI for predicting in-hospital mortality in patients with NSTEMI.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients admitted to the Cardiology department of a tertiary care hospital with the diagnosis of NSTEMI between October 2010 and September 2018. Very high-risk patients in need of emergent treatment were excluded. Of the initial cohort of 2476 patients, we excluded 5 who presented cardiac arrest before or at hospital admission, 4 with cardiogenic shock, 95 with acute pulmonary oedema, 10 with SBP <80 mmHg, 1 with HR <40bpm and 1 with HR >160bpm. The primary outcome was all-cause in-hospital mortality. The discriminatory capacity of Age SI, MSI, SI for the primary outcome was assed using the ROC-AUC and compared with the DeLong method, and the value with highest Youden-index was considered the optimal cut-off point. Calibration was assessed using the Hosmer-Lemeshow (HL) test and adjustment for confounding variables was performed using logistic regression analysis.

Results

2359 patients were included [mean age 66±13 years; 1732 (73.4%) men], of whom 40 (1.7%) died during hospitalization. Discrimination by ROC-AUC was highest for Age SI (0.78 [95% CI 0.71–0.86)], compared to MSI (0.69 [95% CI 0.61–0.78]) and SI (0.69 [95% CI 0.61–0.78)], p<0.01 for comparison. All indexes demonstrated adequate calibration (HL: Age SI 7.4; MSI 4.5; SI 6.4; p>0.5). The optimal cut-off for Age SI was 40, which was present in 684 patients (29%) and had 75% sensitivity, 72% specificity, 4.5% positive and 99.5% negative predictive value (NPV) for in-hospital mortality (4.4% vs 0.6%, p<0.001). After adjusting for covariates, an Age SI higher than 40 was associated with increased in-hospital mortality (adjusted OR 3.2, 95% IC 1.06–9.55), p=0.039).

Mortality and Age Shock Index

Conclusion

Age SI demonstrated better discriminatory capacity and equal calibration, compared to SI and MSI for in-hospital mortality. An age SI higher than 40 was associated with a 3-fold increased risk of in-hospital death. This cut-off demonstrated excellent negative predictive value (99.5%) and may allow very early risk assessment in patients with non-ST-segment elevation MI (NSTEMI), before laboratorial values are available for GRACE calculation. This may guide initial therapy and help select the most appropriate initial site of care.

P4579Prediction of CABG indication in patients admitted for NSTEMI with the new CABG DAPE2S score

Introduction

A significant number of patients admitted for Non-ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI) have multivessel complex coronary artery disease (CAD) and benefit from Coronary Artery Bypass Graft surgery (CABG). These patients frequently present high-risk surgical profiles, constituting a challenging group when it comes to balancing ischemic and haemorrhagic risk.

Objective

To develop a simple predictive risk model of referral to CABG in patients admitted for NSTEMI.

Methods

The authors present a retrospective, descriptive and correlational study including all patients admitted for NSTEMI in a Cardiology department between the 1st of October 2010 and the 1st of October 2018. Demographic profile, clinical characteristics, risk factors and hospitalization data of NSTEMI patients referred to CABG were studied, and a correlational analysis was performed with Chi-square test for categorical variables and t-Student test for continuous variables (confidence level of 95%). Independent predictors of CABG in patients with NSTEMI were identified through Binary logistic regression analysis, using a significance level of 0,05. A discriminatory function was subsequently applied, and the Wilks lambda test was used to determine the discriminant score for the studied groups. The authors used SPSS 24,0 for statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 2476 patients were included, 668 (27%) of which were female, with a mean age of 68,5±13,4 years. In the studied sample, 273 patients (11%) were proposed to CABG. The authors found a significant association between CABG and multiple clinical, laboratorial and therapeutical variables, but after multivariate analysis only male sex, previous Diabetes Mellitus, previous angina, previous Percutaneous coronary intervention, absence of a normal EKG, ST segment depression at admission, sinus rythm and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) >100pg/mL proved to be independent predictors of referral. Using these variables, the authors developed a risk model to predict CABG referral in NSTEMI patients: −0,614 − (0,756 x female sex) + (0,305 x diabetes) + (0,631 x angina) − (1,513 x previous PCI) + (1,216 x sinus rythm) + (0,672 x ST depression) − (0,806 x normal EKG) + (0,562 x BNP>100). In this function, variables should be substituted by 1 or 0, depending on wheter the condition they specify is present or absent. The optimal discrimination cutoff was 0,23, with a 64% sensibility and 59% specificity, and a discriminant power of 60%.

Conclusion

Being able to predict referral to surgical revascularization in NSTEMI may help physicians to optimize a specific approach in each patient, in particular with regard to anti-thrombotic strategies. The authors developed a risk predicting model for CABG in NSTEMI patients based on simple clinical and laboratory variables, which will require validation in a larger cohort, before it can be applied in a clinical context.

3036Identifying low-risk patients eligible for early discharge after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

Introduction

Early discharge after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) should be considered in low-risk patients after successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to reduce healthcare costs and improve resource utilization. The Zwolle criteria is recommended by current guidelines for the identification of low-risk patients but a new score, the FASTEST score, has recently demonstrated to add prognostic value over Zwolle score in small and unicentric studies.

Purpose

Assess if FASTEST score could better identify low-risk patients compared to Zwolle in a contemporary nationwide cohort of patients with STEMI who underwent primary PCI and complete revascularization.

Methods

Multicentric observational study of consecutive patients with ACS recorded in the Portuguese Registry of Acute Coronary Syndromes (ProACS) between October 2010 and January 2019. Patients who underwent primary PCI and received complete revascularization were included, and those with missing data for score calculation were excluded. The FASTEST score awards 1 point for each: femoral access, age>65, LVEF<50, TIMI<3; creatinine >1.5 mg/dl; stenosis of the left main coronary artery; and Killip≥2. The Zwolle score was calculated for comparison. The rate of hospital mortality and a composite of serious adverse events (heart failure, cardiogenic shock, re-infarction, mechanical complication, ventricular arrhythmia and major hemorrhage) was compared between low-risk patients as classified by FASTEST (score=0) or Zwolle (score≤3). One-year mortality and cardiovascular rehospitalization was compared between the two groups.

Results

We included 3322 patients (77.4% male, mean age 62±13 years, 49.5% with anterior STEMI). The FASTEST score identified 855 (25.8%) and Zwolle 2353 (70.7%) low-risk patients. Discrimination by AUC for hospital mortality was 0.92 (95% CI 0.91–0.93) for FASTEST score, significantly higher than Zwolle (0.83 (95% CI 0.82–0.84), p<0.001 for comparison) (Fig.1). Overall hospital mortality was 2.8%. 1 patient died in low-risk FASTEST compared to 24 (1%) in low-risk Zwolle (p=0.01). Low-risk Zwolle patients were more likely to suffer serious hospital adverse events compared with FASTEST score low-risk (19.5% vs 8.5%, p<0.001).

At one-year, 1384 patients had follow-up data. Mortality was significantly lower in low-risk FASTEST than Zwolle (1.5% vs 4.6%, p<0.001) and a tendency for less cardiovascular rehospitalization was also noted (5.4% vs 7.5%, p=0.08).

Figure 1. ROC-AUC for hospital mortality

Conclusion

Approximately one in every four patients were classified as low-risk according to FASTEST score, in contrast with 70% for Zwolle score. Low-risk FASTEST score patients exhibited significantly less hospital mortality (1 patient), hospital serious adverse events and 1-year mortality compared with low-risk Zwolle patients. FASTEST score demonstrated better discriminatory capacity for hospital mortality than Zwolle score and its use for risk stratification should be preferred.