Systemic lupus erythematosus and glycation process.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a disease of unclear causes, which leads to major immunological disorders. It is characterized by an abnormal immune system activity resulting in the production of autoantibodies. In patients, antibodies targeting normal nuclear components, double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), and phospholipids (cardiolipin) can be detected. The inflammatory process occurs in various tissues and organs, damaging their functions and structure. Disease's course includes stages of acute symptoms and remissions, and there is no known cure. Pathogenesis and biochemical pathways accompanying systemic lupus erythematosus are widely studied, as existing medication can only bring temporary relief to patients. The recent findings suggest that occurrence of SLE depends on interactions between genetic background of the disease and environmental risk factors such as exposure to tobacco smoke, chemical factors, and hormonal therapy. In the addition, chronic inflammation accompanying SLE disturbs oxidative/antioxidative balance. These processes are linked to intensified advanced glycation end products (AGEs) formation, thus level of AGEs themselves and their receptors (RAGE, sRAGE) are gaining researches attention.

The multiple systemic artery to pulmonary artery fistulas resulting in severe irreversible pulmonary arterial hypertension in patient with previous history of pneumothorax.

BACKGROUND: Systemic artery to pulmonary artery fistulas (SA-PAFs), are extremely rare in people without congenital heart disease. In this group of patients pulmonary arterial hypertension was reported in the single case. Then, we describe a case of multiple SA-PAFs, which were the cause of severe nonreversible arterial pulmonary hypertension in a patient who had a right-sided pneumothorax 35 years earlier. CASE PRESENTATION: 52-year-old male Caucasian patient with echocardiographically confirmed pulmonary hypertension (PH) was admitted to cardiology department due to exertional dyspnea and signs of right ventricle failure. Routine screening for causes of secondary PH was negative. Right heart catheterization (RHC) confirmed a high degree arterial PH [mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP); 50,6 mmHg, pulmonary wedge pressure (PWP); 11,3 mmHg, pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR); 11,9 Wood's units (WU)] irreversible in the test with inhaled nitric oxide. Oxygen saturation (SaO2) of blood samples obtained during the first RHC ranged from 69.3 to 73.2%. Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension was diagnosed. Treatment with inhaled iloprost and sildenafil was initiated. Control RHC, performed 5 months later showed values of mPAP (59,7 mmHg) and PVR (13,4 WU) higher in comparison to the initial measurement, SaO2 of blood obtained during RHC from upper lobe artery of the right lung was elevated and amounted 89.7%. Then, pulmonary arteriography was performed. Lack of contrast in the right upper lobe artery with the evidence of retrograde blood flow visible as a negative contrast in the right pulmonary artery was found. Afterwards, right subclavian artery arteriography detected a huge vascular malformation communicating with right upper lobe artery. Following computed tomography angiogram (angio-CT) additionally revealed the enlargement of bronchial arteries originated fistulas to pulmonary artery of right upper lobe. In spite of intensive pharmacological treatment, including the therapy of pulmonary hypertension and percutaneous embolisation of the fistulas, the patient's condition continued to deteriorate further. He died three months after embolisation due to severe heart failure complicated by pneumonia. CONCLUSION: Non-congenital SA-PAFs are extremely rare, however, they should be excluded in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension and history of inflammatory or infectious disease of the lung and pleura, pneumothorax, cancer or Takayashu's disease and after chest trauma.

Prognostic Factors in Patients with an Implanted Pacemaker after 80 Years of Age in a 4-Year Follow-Up.

BACKGROUND: The controversy over electrotherapy for patients aged >80 years occurs already at the stage of qualification for this treatment type and concerns optimal device selection, the implantation strategy, and the overall benefit from pacemaker therapy. The group also has a considerable number of cardiovascular risk factors, and the data from the literature on the impact of the pacing mode on the remote prognosis of this group are ambiguous. OBJECTIVE: Assessment of the risk factors for death among patients with implanted pacemakers >80 years of age in a 4-year follow-up. METHODS: The study group consisted of 140 consecutive patients (79 women) aged 84.48 ± 3.65 years with single- or dual-chamber pacemakers implanted >80 years of age because of symptomatic bradycardia. In univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, demographic, echocardiographic, and laboratory parameters, pharmacotherapy, and factors related to the implanted device - i.e., indications, pacemaker type, and the implantation position of the tip of the right ventricular lead - were included. The endpoint was death for any reason in a 4-year follow-up. RESULTS: During follow-up, 68 patients (48.6%) died. Although atrial fibrillation with a slow ventricular response constituted 20% of the indications for implantation, 60.8% of the patients received a single-chamber system (VVI/VVIR). In the whole group, the multivariate Cox regression analysis showed both a favourable prognostic significance of DDD pacing system implantation (HR = 0.507; 95% CI: 0.294-0.876) and coexisting hypertension (HR = 0.520; 95% CI: 0.299-0.902). The risk factors were fasting glycaemia (HR = 1.180; 95% CI: 1.038-1.342) and, potentially, female sex (HR = 1.672; 95% CI: 0.988-2.830; p = 0.056). In the female subgroup a more favourable prognosis was related to the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (HR = 0.435; 95% CI: 0.202-0.933) and DDD pacemaker implantation (HR = 0.381; 95% CI: 0.180-0.806). In the male subgroup a more favourable prognosis was related to concerned patients with coexisting hypertension (HR = 0.349; 95% CI: 0.079-0.689). CONCLUSIONS: DDD mode pacing seems to serve as a factor which decreases mortality among patients aged >80 years in long-term follow-up. The potentially poorer prognosis for the female patients in this group may result from a combination of the dominant VVI pacing mode, potential propagation of atrial fibrillation, a low proportion of antithrombotic therapy, and sex-related predispositions to thromboembolic complications.

Second-generation drug-eluting stents in the elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome: the in-hospital and 12-month follow-up of the all-comer registry.

BACKGROUND: Katowice-Zabrze registry provides data that can be used to evaluate clinical outcomes of percutaneous coronary interventions in elderly patients (≥70 y/o) treated with either first- (DES-I) or second-generation (DES-II) drug-eluting stents (DES). METHODS: The registry consisted of data from 1916 patients treated with coronary interventions using either DES-I or DES-II stents. For our study, we defined patients ≥70 years of age as elderly. We evaluated any major adverse cardiac and cerebral events (MACCE) at 12-month follow-up. RESULTS: Coronary angiography revealed a higher incidence of multivessel coronary artery disease in this elderly patient population. There were no differences in acute and subacute stent thrombosis (0.4 vs. 0.6%, p = 0.760; 0.4 vs. 0.4%; p = 0.712). Elderly patients experienced more in-hospital bleeding complications requiring blood transfusion (2.0 vs. 0.9%; p = 0.003). Resuscitated cardiac arrests (2.0 vs. 0.9%; p = 0.084) were observed more often in this elderly patients during hospitalization. The composite in-hospital MACCE rates did not differ statistically between both groups (1.4 vs. 1.1%; p = 0.567). Data from a twelve-month follow-up disclosed that mortality was higher (7.1 vs. 1.8%; p < 0.001) in the elderly, with no difference in TVR (7.2 vs. 9.9%, p = 0.075), MI (6.0 vs. 4.8%, p = 0.300), stroke (0.8 vs. 0.6%, p = 0.600) and composite MACCE (15.0 vs. 13.4%, p = 0.324). The age of 70 years or over was an independent predictor of death [HR = 2.55 (95% CI 1.49-4.37); p < 0.001]. The use of DES-II reduced the risk of MI [HR = 0.40 (95% CI 0.19-0.82); p = 0.012] in the elderly. CONCLUSION: This elderly patient population had an increased risk of in-hospital bleeding complications requiring blood transfusion and a higher risk of death at 12-month follow-up. The use of new-generation DES reduced the risk of MI in the elderly population.

[Parathormone and vitamin d in heart failure - theoretical influence on disease development and potential therapy targets].

Vitamin D and parathormone (PTH) are hormones regulating calcium and phosphorus homeostasis. The aim of the article is to summarize the current knowledge in the field and to assess its impact on heart failure (HF) pathogenesis. PTH serum concentration being frequently elevated in patients with HF has negative impact on circulatory system stimulating myocardial fibrosis, wall thickening and reninangiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) activity. PTH reacts with smooth muscle cells receptors mediating adrenergic and chronotropic activation resulting in increased oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, intracellular calcium overload and has negative influence on prognosis in chronic HF patients. Vitamin D, which deficiency is common in developed countries, has widely distributed receptors including myocardium, endothelium and smooth muscle cells. Being an antiproliferative agent vitamin D modulates RAAS, regulates natriuretic peptides and myosine expression, suppresses inflammatory cytokines activity, has antiarrhytmic properties and increases myocardial contractility. It decreases arterial pressure, inhibits atherosclerosis progression and plays a protective role against inflammation including viral infections of cardiotropic potential. Optimal vitamin D serum concentration has potential protective impact on cardiovascular system.

The impact of gender on the frequency of syncope provoking factors and prodromal signs in patients with vasovagal syncope.

Introduction: According to the ESC guidelines, syncope is a transient loss of consciousness caused by transient, general cerebral hypoperfusion, characterized by rapid onset, short duration and spontaneous recovery. Objectives: The aim of the study was a comparative analysis of syncope provoking factors and prodromal signs in patients with vasovagal syncope with consideration given to gender. Materials and Methods: We investigated 80 patients, aged 18-74 years with previously diagnosed vasovagal cause of syncope. Special attention was paid to the frequency of triggering factors and prodromal signs. Results: In the studied group the mean age at first syncope was significantly lower in women (23.2±10.7) as compared to men (30.7±17.4). The mean total number of syncopal and presyncopal episodes was significantly higher in women (13.3±11.0 vs. 7.8±6.6; 26.6±12.9 vs. 13.8±6.9). In the group of men syncopal episodes were more frequent after urination and defecation. The remaining circumstances related to syncope were more prevalent in women, but only the occurrence of a syncopal episode during walking achieved statistical significance. All the prodromal signs that were analysed occurred more frequently in the group of women compared to men. Statistical significance was achieved for the analysed signs such as generalized weakness, dyspnea, heart palpitations, cold sweats, feeling of cold or heat, visual disturbances, tinnitus, headache. Conclusions: Syncope provoking factors and prodromal signs occur more frequently in women.

[Night work and shift work - effects on the health of workers].

Number of shift workers increases in developed as well as in developing countries every year and equals 15- 20% of total amount of working people in Europe, 20% of total count of workers in United States of America, 6-32% in Asian countries and 8.1% workers in Poland. This type of employment is connected with such sectors of economy as medical care, industry, mining, transportation, communication and hospitality. The literature review analyses health effects of shift work and night work in the area of gastroenterology, circulatory system, oncologic diseases, neuropsychiatric and sleep disorders. In summary shift and night work have negative impact on human health. Further investigations analyzing impact of shift and night work are needed.

Clinical Significance of Viral Genome Persistence in the Myocardium of Patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy.

BACKGROUND: The impact of myocardial viral persistence on the clinical outcome of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is still open to question. METHODS: Fifty-two patients with DCM were enrolled and followed for a median of 3.8 years with respect to death or heart transplantation. Studied patients were clinically stable for at least 6 months before hospitalization. They underwent coronary angiography and endomyocardial biopsy. Specimens were examined by histo- and immunohistochemistry, and the viral genomes of parvovirus B19, cytomegalovirus (CMV), Coxsackie B virus (CVB), and hepatitis B and C viruses were studied by real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: Forty-two out of 52 patients were available for clinical follow-up. The viral genome was detected in the myocardium of 32 out of 42 patients. Among the viruses studied, CMV and CVB were the most frequently found. Nine out of 42 patients achieved the predefined study end point. No statistically significant correlation was found between the presence of a persistent viral genome and study end point. No statistically significant relationship between viral genomes studied and immunohistology results was detected. CONCLUSIONS: High prevalence of a viral genome in the myocardium of patients with DCM did not have an influence on their long-term clinical outcome.

Comparison of First- and Second-Generation Drug-Eluting Stents in an All-Comer Population of Patients with Diabetes Mellitus (from Katowice-Zabrze Registry).

BACKGROUND: This study compared safety and efficacy of first- and second-generation DES in an unrestricted, real-life population of diabetic patients undergoing PCI. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was a subanalysis of diabetic patients from the all-comer Katowice-Zabrze Registry of patients undergoing PCI with the implantation of either first- (Paclitaxel-, Sirolimus-eluting stents) or second-generation DES (Zotarolimus-, Everolimus-, Biolimus-eluting stents). Efficacy defined as major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE: death, myocardial infarction, target vessel revascularization, stroke) and safety defined as stent thrombosis (ST) were evaluated at 1 year. RESULTS: From the total of 1916 patients, 717 were diabetics. Among them, 257 (36%) were treated with first-generation DES (230 [89%] Paclitaxel-eluting stents, 27 [11%] Sirolimus-eluting stents), 460 with second-generation DES (171 [37%] Zotarolimus-eluting stents, 243 [53%] Everolimus-eluting stents, 46 [10%] Biolimus-eluting stents). Rate of MACCE was equal in both groups (p=0.54). Second-generation DES had a better safety profile than first-generation DES (log-rank for cumulative ST at 1 year p<0.001). First-generation DES was a risk factor for ST (HR 5.75 [1.16-28.47], p=0.03) but not for MACCE (HR 0.89 [0.6-1.32], p=0.57). CONCLUSIONS: In a real-life setting of diabetic patients undergoing PCI, second-generation DES had lower risk of ST and similar MACCE rate compared to first-generation DES.

Diagnostic contribution of cardiac magnetic resonance in patients with acute coronary syndrome and culprit-free angiograms.

BACKGROUND: In spite of robust knowledge about underlying ischemic myocardial damage, acute coronary syndromes (ACS) with culprit-free angiograms raise diagnostic concerns. The present study aimed to evaluate the additional value of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) over commonly available non-CMR standard tests, for the differentiation of myocardial injury in patients with ACS and non-obstructed coronary arteries. MATERIAL/METHODS: Patients with ACS, elevated hs-TnT, and a culprit-free angiogram were prospectively enrolled into the study between January 2009 and July 2013. After initial evaluation with standard tests (ECG, echocardiography, hs-TnT) and provisional exclusion of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in coronary angiogram, patients were referred for CMR with the suspicion of myocarditis or Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC). According to the result of CMR, patients were reclassified as having myocarditis, AMI, TTC, or non-injured myocardium as assessed by late gadolinium enhancement. RESULTS: Out of 5110 patients admitted with ACS, 75 had normal coronary angiograms and entered the study; 69 of them (92%) were suspected for myocarditis and 6 (8%) for TTC. After CMR, 49 patients were finally diagnosed with myocarditis (65%), 3 with TTC (4%), 7 with AMI (9%), and 16 (21%) with non-injured myocardium. The provisional diagnosis was changed or excluded in 23 patients (31%), with a 9% rate of unrecognized AMI. CONCLUSIONS: The study results suggest that the evaluation of patients with ACS and culprit-free angiogram should be complemented by a CMR examination, if available, because the initial work-up with non-CMR tests leads to a significant proportion of misdiagnosed AMI.

[Cardiomyopathies and pregnancy--how often, when to decide to terminate?]. / Kardiomiopatie a ciaza--jak czesto, kiedy podjac decyzje o rozwiazaniu?

Cardiomyopathies are a small percentage of heart disease in pregnant women, but usually cause severe complications. It is not know the exact incidence of cardiomyopathy associated with pregnancy in Europe. In these patients, there is a higher probability of death due to changes in hemodynamic, metabolic and hemostatic that occur in pregnancy. Pregnant mortality is 2.4% vs. 0.007%--in the normal population. The most common cause of severe maternal complications is peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM). In dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and restrictive (RCM) is usually observed significant clinical deterioration during pregnancy. On the other hand, in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), pregnancy and childbirth are often associated with a low risk of complications. There is a greater risk in women presenting symptoms before and on pregnancy and in women with large inrtaventricular and subaortic pressure gradient. There are only a few case reports of pregnancy in patients with rare storage diseases and infiltrative phenotype of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. For these patients the pregnancy is contraindicated. In patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is sometimes the severity of arrhythmia in the third trimester of pregnancy, and childbirth (natural or cesarean section) is usually safe. Remember to informing women with various cardiomyopathies both the risks of pregnancy and about the possibility of transferring the disease to offspring. Contraception should be advised in many cases.

[Pathogenesis of tricuspid valve regurgitation in patients with implanted of right-ventricular electrode]. / Patogeneza niedomykalnosci zastawki trójdzielnej u pacjentów po implantacji elektrody prawokomorowej.

Permanent pacemakers could provoke or enhance preexisting tricuspid valve regurgitation. Pacemaker electrode implantation provokes local inflammatory process and subsequent permanent tissue remodeling, particularly in area of neighboring valve apparatus. As a consequence valve regurgitation may occur. It is supposed that valve perforation and right ventricle contraction asynchrony caused by right ventricle apex stimulation may lead to tricuspid valve regurgitation. Presented work shows current literature review according this topic.

Oxidative stress markers and C-reactive protein are related to severity of heart failure in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.

BACKGROUND: The aim of study was to determine relationships between functional capacity (NYHA class), left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF), hemodynamic parameters, and biomarkers of redox state and inflammation in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). METHODS: DCM patients (n = 109, aged 45.97 ± 10.82 years), NYHA class IIV, and LVEF 2.94 ± 7.1% were studied. Controls comprised age-matched healthy volunteers (n = 28). Echocardiography and right heart catheterization were performed. Serum activities of superoxide dismutase isoenzymes (MnSOD and CuZnSOD), concentrations of uric acid (UA), malondialdehyde (MDA), and C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were measured. RESULTS: MnSOD, UA, hs-CRP, and MDA were significantly higher in DCM patients compared to controls. Except MDA concentration, above parameters were higher in patients in III-IV NYHA class or with lower LVEF. hsCRP correlated with of MnSOD (P < 0.05) and CuZnSOD activity (P < 0.01). Both isoenzymes positively correlated with mPAP and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (MnSOD, resp., P < 0.01 and P < 0.05 and CuZnSOD P < 0.05; P < 0.05). UA positively correlated with MnSOD (P < 0.05), mPAP (P < 0.05), and PVRI (P < 0.05). The negative correlation between LVEF and UA (P < 0.01) was detected. CONCLUSION: There are relationships among the severity of symptoms of heart failure, echocardiographic hemodynamic parameters, oxidative stress, and inflammatory activation. Increased MnSOD activity indicates the mitochondrial source of ROS in patients with advanced heart failure.

Neopterin and beta-2 microglobulin relations to immunity and inflammatory status in nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy patients.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to assess the relationships among serum neopterin (NPT), ß2-microglobulin (ß2-M) levels, clinical status, and endomyocardial biopsy results of dilated cardiomyopathy patients (DCM). METHODS: Serum NPT and ß-2 M were determined in 172 nonischaemic DCM patients who underwent right ventricular endomyocardial biopsy and 30 healthy subjects (ELISA test). The cryostat biopsy specimens were assessed using histology, immunohistology, and immunochemistry methods (HLA ABC, HLA DR expression, CD3 + lymphocytes, and macrophages counts). RESULTS: The strong increase of HLA ABC or HLA DR expression was detected in 27.2% patients-group A-being low in 72.8% patients-group B. Neopterin level was increased in patients in group A compared to healthy controls 8.11 (4.50-12.57) versus 4.99 (2.66-8.28) nmol/L (P < 0.05). ß-2 microglobulin level was higher in DCM groups A (2.60 (1.71-3.58)) and B (2.52 (1.51-3.72)) than in the control group 1.75 (1.28-1.96) mg/L, P < 0.001. Neopterin correlated positively with the number of macrophages in biopsy specimens (P < 0.05) acute phase proteins: C-reactive proteins (P < 0.05); fibrinogen (P < 0.01); and NYHA functional class (P < 0.05) and negatively with left ventricular ejection fraction (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Neopterin but not ß-2 microglobulin concentration reflected immune response in biopsy specimens. Neopterin correlated with acute phase proteins and stage of heart failure and may indicate a general immune and inflammatory activation in heart failure.

[Imaging studies in arrhythmias]. / Badania obrazowe w zaburzeniach rytmu serca.

Imaging studies play a very important role in the diagnosis of cardiac arrhythmias. They are able to answer many questions relating to the diagnosis and treatment of patients. Not all types of arrhythmias require you to perform imaging studies. Diagnosis require above all: ventricular tachycardia and supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular extrasystoles requiring treatment, atrialfibrillation, individuals who are at genetically diseases leading to severe arrhythmia, patients before ablation procedures and cardioversion, arrhythmias in athletes and people performing specific professions (eg pilots). The primary non-invasive imaging technique for the diagnosis of arrhythmias is the ECHO, also safe in pregnant women. Other imaging studies should be performed in case of inability to obtain sufficient diagnostic information in ECHO, because of the cost, availability and worse side effects (class of recommendation IIaB by AHA/ACC/ESC). Among these studies is the study of magnetic resonance imaging "gold standard" for assessing the anatomy and function of the heart, allows the assessment of myocardial structure and can significantly supplement the information obtained in the study of ECHO, is also safe in pregnant women.

[Signification of NT-proBNP in the differential diagnosis of syncope in adults]. / Znaczenie NT-proBNP w diagnostyce róznicowej omdlen u osób doroslych.

Syncope is a transient loss of consciousness, which is the result of global brain hypoperfusion, characterized by rapid onset, short duration, and spontaneous complete resolution. Syncope is a common clinical problem due to its complex, multi-causal etiology, not completely understood pathogenesis and potential complications. Diagnosis of syncope is often associated with the implementation of many medical tests. In the recent years, the role of determining the concentration of NT-proBNP in the differential diagnosis of syncope has been highlighted. Aims of the study was analysis of NT-proBNP concentrations in patients with cardiogenic syncope in comparison to patients with neurogenic syncope and determination of the threshold value of NT-proBNP to differentiate cardiac and neurogenic syncope and to determine its sensitivity and specificity. The study included 160 pts (64 man, 96 women), aged 18 - 77 yrs (mean age 50,6) with a reflex syncope (group I) or cardiac syncope (group II). To determine the etiology of syncope, collected were: medical history for symptoms and circumstances of the syncope, measurements of blood pressure, resting ECG recording, cardiac echocardiography, and the concentration of NT-proBNP levels. Results: the group I included 80 pts (29 men, 51 women), aged 18 - 72 yrs (mean age 41.2). Group II included 80 pts (35 man, 45 women), aged 38 - 77 yrs (mean age 62.1). The assessment of concentrations of NT-proBNP showed significantly higher levels in group II than group I (467.6 +/- 227.4 vs 64.1 +/- 59.1; p <0.0001). In patients with arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities, the levels of NT-proBNP were higher in comparison to those without such disorders (364 +/- 249 vs. 171 +/- 209 pg/ml, p < 0.001). It was found that the concentration of NT-proBNP at 230.6 pg/ml might be a cut-off point that allows the prediction of cardiogenic cause of syncope with 96% specificity, 92% sensitivity and 93% negative predictive value. Conclusions: 1. The concentration of peptide NT-proBNP patients with reflex syncope. 2. It was shown that the cut off concentration of the NT-proBNP equal 230.6 pg/ml is characterized by the high sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive value in determining the etiology of syncope.

[Influence of right ventricular pacing on tricuspid regurgitation grade--the current state of knowledge]. / Wplyw stymulacji prawokomorowej na stopien niedomykalnosci zastawki trójdzielnej--aktualny stan wiedzy.

Tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR) caused by permanent pacemaker implantation was first described in the eight decade of XX century, however dynamical increase in frequency of pacemaker implantation makes this topic of growing importance. Pacemaker electrode in the right part of the heart could intensify TR, but this dependence is still not clearly understood. Available studies in the most of cases are not related on uniform criteria of TR, what provides difficulties in the analyses. Additional difficulty provides the fact that TR occurs in a high percentage of healthy people. Current literature shows, that risk factors for TR worsening are patients' older age and previously diagnosed valve pathologies. Results of studies concerning influence of number, type, or location of the electrode in the heart on the TR severity are unclear. This article presents current literature review regarding influence of right-sided pacing on the frequency of TR.

In Vitro Comparison of Several Thrombus Removal Tools.

BACKGROUND: Although the routine use of thrombus aspiration is not recommended, the thrombectomy technique still might be considered for a selected population of patients. Therefore, the assessment of the effectiveness of commercially available thrombectomy devices is still clinically relevant. AIM: Here, we present an in vitro comparison of several different types of catheters that can be used for thrombus aspiration or removal. METHODS: Through the removal of 6 h and 24 h human blood clots in an in vitro model, four catheters were compared: the Launcher, Pronto V4, Vasco+ and the stent-retriever Catchview. The aspiration efficacy was expressed as a percentage of the initial thrombus weight. The effectiveness of the patient's aspiration was dependent on the time of thrombus formation and was significantly higher for a thrombus formed over 24 h (58.5 ± 26.5%) than for one formed over 6 h (48.0 ± 22.5%; p < 0.001). In the presented in vitro model, Pronto V4 and Launcher showed the highest efficiency. CONCLUSIONS: Large-bore aspiration catheters were found to be more effective than narrow-bore catheters or stent-retrievers in an in vitro model of thrombus removal. The thrombus aspiration efficacy increases with longer thrombus formation times.

Low Quantitative Blush Evaluator score predicts larger infarct size and reduced left ventricular systolic function in patients with STEMI regardless of diabetes status.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and diminished myocardial perfusion increase the risk of heart failure (HF) and/or all-cause mortality during 6-year follow up following primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) for ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of myocardial perfusion on infarct size and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with T2DM and STEMI treated with pPCI. This is an ancillary analysis of an observational cohort study of T2DM patients with STEMI. We enrolled 406 patients with STEMI, including 104 with T2DM. Myocardial perfusion was assessed with the Quantitative Myocardial Blush Evaluator (QUBE) and infarct size with the creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB) maximal activity and troponin area under the curve. LVEF was measured with biplane echocardiography using Simpson's method at admission and hospital discharge. Analysis of covariance was used for modeling the association between myocardial perfusion, infarct size and left ventricular systolic function. Patients with T2DM and diminished perfusion (QUBE below median) had the highest CK-MB maximal activity (252.7 ± 307.2 IU/L, P < 0.01) along with the lowest LVEF (40.6 ± 10.0, P < 0.001). Older age (p = 0.001), QuBE below median (p = 0.026), and maximal CK-MB activity (p < 0.001) were independent predictors of LVEF. Diminished myocardial perfusion assessed by QuBE predicts significantly larger enzymatic infarct size and lower LVEF among patients with STEMI treated with pPCI, regardless of diabetes status.

[The diagnostic value of virus serology in patients with non-ischemic systolic heart failure and parvovirus B19 infection]. / Wartosc diagnostyczna testów serologicznych u chorych ze skurczowa nie-niedokrwienna niewydolnoscia serca i zakazeniem parwowirusem B19.

INTRODUCTION: We determined retrospective analysis of the diagnostic value of virus serology in patients with non-ischemic systolic heart failure and parvovirus B19 infection. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Virus serology and endomyocardial biopsy were performed in 31 patients with non-ischemic systolic heart failure hospitalized from 2001 to 2006 in our clinic. RESULTS: The serum specimens from 31 patients were tested for IgM and IgG antibody against parvovirus B19. IgM antibodies were identified in 3 patients and IgG antibodies were identified in 23 patients. All of the patients underwent endomyocardial biopsy which revealed chronic active myocarditis in 10 patients (32.4%), chronic persistent myocarditis in 14 patients (45.1%) and no myocarditis in 7 patients (22.5%). CONCLUSIONS: Virus serology has no relevance for the diagnosis of non-ischemic systolic heart failure caused by parvovirus B19 infection. The result of serological tests are positive more frequently than the biopsy specimens results.