Morbimortality and determinants of reperfusion in ischemic stroke

SUMMARY BACKGROUND: Cerebrovascular accident (or stroke) and ischemic heart disease are the the major causes of death in the world. It is estimated that about 85% of strokes are ischemic in origin. Reperfusion therapy in the acute phase of ischemic stroke with a recombinant human tissue plasminogen activator is effective, but some factors influence the success of this treatment. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical aspects and possible determinants for reperfusion after venous thrombolysis. METHODS: This is a retrospective, cross-sectional, observational study based on a review of hospital records of inpatients diagnosed with ischemic stroke treated with intravenous thrombolysis, the main outcome being reperfusion or not. RESULTS: Data from this study revealed a predominance of females in the group of reperfused patients and males in the non-reperfused group, both maintaining moderate severity on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and admission without statistical significance (p>0.18). In addition, the mean admission severity score was 13.2 for the group of reperfused patients and 14.2 for those not reperfused, and the mean ejection fraction of both groups was within normal functionality, with a mean of 0.50 for reperfused patients and 0.62 for non-reperfused patients. CONCLUSION: We found an association between successful venous chemical thrombolysis reperfusion and lower mortality in patients with acute stroke.

Flutter Atrial na Síndrome do PRKAG2: Características Clínicas e Eletrofisiológicas / Atrial Flutter in PRKAG2 Syndrome: Clinical and Electrophysiological Characteristics

Resumo Fundamento A síndrome do PRKAG2 é uma rara doença genética autossômico dominante, fenocópia da miocardiopatia hipertrófica, caracterizada pelo acúmulo intracelular de glicogênio. Manifestações clínicas incluem pré-excitação ventricular, hipertrofia ventricular, distúrbio de condução cardíaca e arritmias atriais. Objetivo Comparar características clínicas e eletrofisiológicas observadas em pacientes com flutter atrial, com e sem síndrome do PRKAG2. Métodos Estudo observacional, comparativo de pacientes com flutter atrial: grupo A, cinco pacientes de família com síndrome do PRKAG2; e grupo B, 25 pacientes sem fenótipo da síndrome. O nível de significância foi de 5%. Resultados Todos os pacientes do grupo A apresentaram pré-excitação ventricular e bloqueio de ramo direito; quatro tinham marca-passo (80%). Pacientes do grupo A tinham menor idade (39±5,4 vs. 58,6±17,6 anos, p=0,021), e maior espessura de septo interventricular (mediana=18 vs. 10 mm; p<0,001) e parede posterior (mediana=14 vs. 10 mm; p=0,001). Quatro do grupo A foram submetidos a estudo eletrofisiológico, sendo observada via acessória fascículo-ventricular; em três foi realizada ablação do flutter atrial. Todos os do grupo B foram submetidos à ablação do flutter atrial, sem evidência de via acessória. Observado maior prevalência no grupo B de hipertensão arterial, diabetes mellitus, doença coronariana e apneia do sono, sem diferença estatisticamente significante. Conclusão Portadores da síndrome do PRKAG2 apresentaram flutter atrial em idade mais precoce, e menos comorbidades, quando comparados a pacientes com flutter atrial sem fenótipo da mutação. Importante suspeitar de miocardiopatia geneticamente determinada, como síndrome do PRKAG2, em jovens com flutter atrial, especialmente na presença de pré-excitação ventricular e hipertrofia ventricular familiar.

Abstract Background PRKAG2 syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant disease, a phenocopy of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy characterized by intracellular glycogen accumulation. Clinical manifestations include ventricular preexcitation, cardiac conduction disorder, ventricular hypertrophy, and atrial arrhythmias. Objective To compare the clinical and electrophysiological characteristics observed in patients with atrial flutter, with and without PRKAG2 syndrome. Methods An observational study comparing patients with atrial flutter: group A consisted of five patients with PRKAG2 syndrome from a family, and group B consisted of 25 patients without phenotype of PRKAG2 syndrome. The level of significance was 5%. Results All patients in group A had ventricular preexcitation and right branch block, and four had pacemakers (80%). Patients in group A were younger (39±5.4 vs 58.6±17.6 years, p=0.021), had greater interventricular septum (median=18 vs 10 mm; p<0.001) and posterior wall thickness (median=14 vs 10 mm; p=0.001). In group A, four patients were submitted to an electrophysiological study, showing a fasciculoventricular pathway, and atrial flutter ablation was performed in tree. All patients in group B were submitted to ablation of atrial flutter, with no evidence of accessory pathway. Group B had a higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease and sleep apnea, with no statistically significant difference. Conclusion Patients with PRKAG2 syndrome presented atrial flutter at an earlier age and had fewer comorbidities when compared to patients with atrial flutter without mutation phenotype. The occurrence of atrial flutter in young individuals, especially in the presence of ventricular preexcitation and familial ventricular hypertrophy, should raise the suspicion of PRKAG2 syndrome.

Variabilidade da Pressão Arterial em Única Visita e Risco Cardiovascular em Participantes do ELSA-Brasil / Within-Visit Blood Pressure Variability and Cardiovascular Risk in ELSA-Brasil Study Participants

Resumo Fundamento A variabilidade da pressão arterial (VPA) tem valor prognóstico para desfechos cardiovasculares fatais e não fatais. Objetivos Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a associação entre a VPA em uma única visita e o risco cardiovascular em participantes do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (ELSA-Brasil). Métodos O presente estudo transversal foi conduzido com dados basais (2008-2010) de 14.357 participantes do ELSA-Brasil, sem história de doença cardiovascular. A VPA foi quantificada pelo coeficiente de variação de três medidas padronizadas da pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) realizadas com um oscilômetro. Medidas antropométricas e exames laboratoriais também foram realizados. O risco cardiovascular foi avaliado pelo estimador de risco de doença cardiovascular aterosclerótica (ASCVD), e se empregou a análise de regressão logística multivariada com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados Um risco cardiovascular significativamente maior foi determinado por uma VPA elevada para ambos os sexos. Uma prevalência significativamente maior de alto risco foi observada mais em homens que em mulheres em todos os quartis, com a maior diferença observada no quarto quartil de variabilidade (48,3% vs. 17,1%). Comparações entre quartis por sexo revelaram um risco significativamente mais alto para homens no terceiro (OR=1,20; IC95%: 1,02 - 1,40) e no quarto quartis OR=1,46; IC95%: 1,25 -1,71), e para mulheres no quarto quartil (OR=1,27; IC95%: 1,03 - 1,57). Conclusão Análises de dados basais de participantes do ELSA-Brasil revelaram que a variabilidade da pressão arterial se associou com risco cardiovascular aumentado, especialmente nos homens.

Abstract Background Blood pressure variability (BPV) is of prognostic value for fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular outcomes. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the association between within-visit BPV and cardiovascular risk among participants of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). Methods The present cross-sectional study was carried out using baseline data (2008-2010) of 14,357 ELSA-Brasil participants with no prior history of cardiovascular disease. Within-visit BPV was quantified by the coefficient of variation of three standardized systolic blood pressure (SBP) measurements using an oscillometer. Anthropometric measurements and laboratory tests were also performed. Cardiovascular risk was assessed using the atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk estimator (ASCVD) and multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed with a significance level of 5%. Results Significantly higher cardiovascular risk was determined by increased BPV for both sexes. A significantly higher prevalence of high risk was found in men than women across all quartiles, with the highest difference observed in the fourth quartile of variability (48.3% vs. 17.1%). Comparisons among quartiles in each sex revealed a significantly higher cardiovascular risk for men in the third (OR=1.20; 95%CI: 1.02 - 1.40) and fourth quartiles (OR=1.46; 95%CI: 1.25 -1.71), and for women in the fourth quartile (OR=1.27; 95%CI: 1.03 - 1.57). Conclusion Analysis of baseline data of the ELSA-Brasil participants revealed that blood pressure variability was associated with increased cardiovascular risk, especially in men.

Hormone therapy and Hypertension in Postmenopausal Women: Results from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). / Terapia Hormonal e Hipertensão em Mulheres na Pós-Menopausa: Resultados do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (ELSA-Brasil).

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in post-menopausal women. Although menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is a very effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms during this period, the influence of this therapy on blood pressure is not yet clear. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the relationship between the use of MHT and hypertension in participants of the ELSA-Brasil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study using the baseline ELSA-Brasil data in a cohort of 2,138 women who had experienced natural menopause. This study analyzed hypertension, defined as arterial pressure ≥140/90 mmHg or previous antihypertensive use, and use of MHT, with participants being classified into never, past, and current users. Associations were assessed using an adjusted logistic regression model, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. RESULTS: Overall, 1,492 women (69.8%) had never used MHT, 457 (21.4%) had used it in the past, and 189 (8.8%) were current users. The use of MHT was more common in women who had a body mass index (BMI) <25 kg/m2and triglyceride levels <150 mg/dl, and who were physically less inactive, non-smokers, and non-diabetics. Current MHT users were less likely to have hypertension (OR=0.59; 95% CI: 0.41-0.85) compared to those who had never used MHT. In most cases, MHT was started at or before 59 years of age, within 10 years of becoming menopausal, and its use lasted for up to five years. CONCLUSION: Current MHT use was not related to hypertension, particularly in healthy women and in those under 60 years of age.

FUNDAMENTO: A hipertensão arterial é considerada um importante fator de risco de morbidade e mortalidade cardiovascular em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Embora a terapia hormonal da menopausa (THM) seja um tratamento muito eficiente para sintomas vasomotores nesse período, a influência dessa terapia na pressão arterial ainda não está clara. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a relação entre o uso de THM e a hipertensão em participantes do ELSA-Brasil. MÉTODOS: Um estudo transversal usando dados da linha de base da coorte ELSA-Brasil, com 2.138 mulheres que passaram por menopausa natural. Neste estudo, foi analisado a hipertensão, definida como pressão arterial ≥140/90 mmHg ou uso anterior de anti-hipertensivo, e o uso da THM, com participantes sendo classificadas em grupos daquelas que nunca usaram, que já usaram e que estavam em uso atual. As associações foram avaliadas usando-se um modelo de regressão logística multivariada com uma significância estatística definida em p<0,05. RESULTADOS: No total, 1.492 mulheres (69,8%) nunca tinham usado a THM, 457 (21,4%) tinham usado no passado, e 189 (8,8%) estavam em uso atual. O uso de THM foi mais comum em mulheres que tinham índice de massa corporal <25 kg/m2 e níveis de triglicérides <150 mg/dl, que eram fisicamente menos inativas, não fumantes e não diabéticas. As mulheres em uso atual da THM apresentaram menores chances de ter hipertensão (OR=0,59; IC 95%: 0,41-0,85), em comparação com as que nunca a usaram. Na maioria dos casos, a THM foi iniciada com idade até 59 anos, com menos de 10 anos de menopausa e o uso durou até cinco anos. CONCLUSÃO: O uso atual da THM não esteve relacionado à hipertensão, especialmente em mulheres saudáveis e que tinham menos de 60 anos de idade.

Terapia Hormonal e Hipertensão em Mulheres na Pós-Menopausa: Resultados do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (ELSA-Brasil) / Hormone therapy and Hypertension in Postmenopausal Women: Results from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)

Resumo Fundamento A hipertensão arterial é considerada um importante fator de risco de morbidade e mortalidade cardiovascular em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Embora a terapia hormonal da menopausa (THM) seja um tratamento muito eficiente para sintomas vasomotores nesse período, a influência dessa terapia na pressão arterial ainda não está clara. Objetivo Avaliar a relação entre o uso de THM e a hipertensão em participantes do ELSA-Brasil. Métodos Um estudo transversal usando dados da linha de base da coorte ELSA-Brasil, com 2.138 mulheres que passaram por menopausa natural. Neste estudo, foi analisado a hipertensão, definida como pressão arterial ≥140/90 mmHg ou uso anterior de anti-hipertensivo, e o uso da THM, com participantes sendo classificadas em grupos daquelas que nunca usaram, que já usaram e que estavam em uso atual. As associações foram avaliadas usando-se um modelo de regressão logística multivariada com uma significância estatística definida em p<0,05. Resultados No total, 1.492 mulheres (69,8%) nunca tinham usado a THM, 457 (21,4%) tinham usado no passado, e 189 (8,8%) estavam em uso atual. O uso de THM foi mais comum em mulheres que tinham índice de massa corporal <25 kg/m2 e níveis de triglicérides <150 mg/dl, que eram fisicamente menos inativas, não fumantes e não diabéticas. As mulheres em uso atual da THM apresentaram menores chances de ter hipertensão (OR=0,59; IC 95%: 0,41-0,85), em comparação com as que nunca a usaram. Na maioria dos casos, a THM foi iniciada com idade até 59 anos, com menos de 10 anos de menopausa e o uso durou até cinco anos. Conclusão O uso atual da THM não esteve relacionado à hipertensão, especialmente em mulheres saudáveis e que tinham menos de 60 anos de idade.

Abstract Background Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in post-menopausal women. Although menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is a very effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms during this period, the influence of this therapy on blood pressure is not yet clear. Objective To evaluate the relationship between the use of MHT and hypertension in participants of the ELSA-Brasil. Methods A cross-sectional study using the baseline ELSA-Brasil data in a cohort of 2,138 women who had experienced natural menopause. This study analyzed hypertension, defined as arterial pressure ≥140/90 mmHg or previous antihypertensive use, and use of MHT, with participants being classified into never, past, and current users. Associations were assessed using an adjusted logistic regression model, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results Overall, 1,492 women (69.8%) had never used MHT, 457 (21.4%) had used it in the past, and 189 (8.8%) were current users. The use of MHT was more common in women who had a body mass index (BMI) <25 kg/m2and triglyceride levels <150 mg/dl, and who were physically less inactive, non-smokers, and non-diabetics. Current MHT users were less likely to have hypertension (OR=0.59; 95% CI: 0.41-0.85) compared to those who had never used MHT. In most cases, MHT was started at or before 59 years of age, within 10 years of becoming menopausal, and its use lasted for up to five years. Conclusion Current MHT use was not related to hypertension, particularly in healthy women and in those under 60 years of age.

Estratificação da Insuficiência Cardíaca Clínica através do Mapa T1 Nativo: Experiência de um Serviço de Referência / Clinical Heart Failure Stratification Through Native T1 Mapping: Experience of a Referral Service

Resumo Fundamento: Fibrose cardíaca difusa é fator importante na avaliação prognóstica dos pacientes com disfunção ventricular. Mapeamento T1 nativo pela ressonância magnética cardíaca (RMC) apresenta elevada sensibilidade e é considerado preditor independente de mortalidade por todas as causas e desenvolvimento de insuficiência cardíaca (IC) nos pacientes com cardiomiopatia. Objetivos: Avaliar aplicabilidade da avaliação com mapa T1 nativo em pacientes com IC em um hospital de referência de cardiologia e sua associação com parâmetros estruturais e perfil funcional. Métodos: Estudo transversal com pacientes adultos com IC classes funcionais NYHA I e II, isquêmicos e não isquêmicos, acompanhados em hospital de referência, que realizaram RMC. Os valores de T1 nativo foram analisados em relação a parâmetros estruturais, comorbidades, etiologia e categorização da IC pela fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE). Análises foram realizadas com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: Analisados 134 pacientes. Valores de T1 nativo elevados foram encontrados em pacientes com maior dilatação (1004,9 vs 1042,7ms, p=0,001), volume (1021,3 vs 1050,3ms, p<0,01) e disfunção ventricular (1010,1 vs 1053,4ms, p<0,001), mesmo quando analisados isoladamente os não isquêmicos. Pacientes classificados com IC com fração de ejeção reduzida apresentaram maiores valores T1 em relação aos com IC e fração de ejeção preservada (ICFEP) (992,7 vs 1054,1ms, p<0,001). Dos com ICFEP, 55,2% apresentavam T1 elevado. Conclusões: Mapeamento T1 por RMC é factível para avaliação da IC clínica. Houve associação direta entre maior valor nativo de T1 e menor fração de ejeção, maiores diâmetros e volumes do VE, independentemente da etiologia da IC.

Abstract Background: Diffuse cardiac fibrosis is an important factor in the prognostic assessment of patients with ventricular dysfunction. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) native T1 mapping is highly sensitive and considered an independent predictor of all-cause mortality and heart failure (HF) development in patients with cardiomyopathy. Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility of native T1 mapping assessment in patients with HF in a cardiology referral hospital and its association with structural parameters and functional profile. Methods: Cross-sectional study with adult patients with HF NYHA functional classes I and II, ischemic and non-ischemic, followed in a referral hospital, who underwent CMR. Native T1 values were analyzed for structural parameters, comorbidities, etiology, and categorization of HF by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Analyses were performed with a significance level of 5%. Results: Enrollment of 134 patients. Elevated native T1 values were found in patients with greater dilation (1004.9 vs 1042.7ms, p = 0.001), ventricular volumes (1021.3 vs 1050.3ms, p <0.01) and ventricular dysfunction (1010.1 vs 1053.4ms, p <0.001), also present when the non-ischemic group was analyzed separately. Patients classified as HF with reduced ejection fraction had higher T1 values than those with HF and preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF) (992.7 vs 1054.1ms, p <0.001). Of those with HFPEF, 55.2% had higher T1. Conclusions: CMR T1 mapping is feasible for clinical HF evaluation. There was a direct association between higher native T1 values and lower ejection fraction, and with larger LV diameters and volumes, regardless of the etiology of HF.

Demographic and professional profile of Brazilian women in vascular surgery: final results.

BACKGROUND: Gender diversity in health teams is associated with better productivity. As women's participation in surgery has been growing, it is important to improve knowledge about the elements that guide their professional development. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to outline the demographic and professional features of female vascular surgeons in Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was designed, in which a questionnaire was made available online for 60 days. Invitations to participate were distributed by institutional e-mail sent from the Brazilian Society of Angiology and Vascular Surgery (SBACV) to associate women surgeons. Results are presented as numbers and percentages. Odds ratios and chi-square tests were used for analysis. RESULTS: From a total of 810 invitations sent out, 281 questionnaires were completed. The most prevalent age groups were 25-35 years (n = 115) and 36-45 years (n = 114). Among those who worked exclusively in the private sector, 79.8% had at least one board certification (OR: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.65-0.89; p = 0.001). Regarding workload distribution, 64.4% and 34.2% reported that they spend more time in the clinic and hospital, respectively. Respondents with more years of experience reported a predominance of office practice (p = 0.002). Although 67.3% (n = 189) had published scientific papers, 68% (n = 191) had never held leadership roles. CONCLUSIONS: The study respondents consisted of highly qualified women surgeons with respect to training, certification, and scientific engagement, but they remain underrepresented in professional management positions. Surgical societies and health institutions should act to promote inclusive and diverse leadership.

CONTEXTO: A diversidade de gênero em equipes médicas está associada a uma melhor produtividade. Com o aumento da participação feminina na cirurgia, é importante conhecer melhor os elementos que orientam o desenvolvimento dessas profissionais. OBJETIVOS: Delinear as características demográficas e profissionais das cirurgiãs vasculares no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Estudo de caráter transversal, em que foi disponibilizado um questionário on-line por 60 dias. O convite foi enviado pelo e-mail institucional da Sociedade Brasileira de Angiologia e Cirurgia Vascular (SBACV) às cirurgiãs associadas. Os resultados são apresentados como números e porcentagens. Os testes de odds ratio (OR) e do qui-quadrado foram utilizados para a análise. RESULTADOS: De 810 convites enviados, 281 questionários foram respondidos. Os grupos etários predominantes foram 25-35 anos (n = 115) e 36-45 anos (n = 114). Entre as que trabalhavam exclusivamente no setor privado, 79,8% possuíam ao menos um Título de Especialista (OR: 0,76; intervalo de confiança de 95% 0,65-0,89; p = 0,001). Em relação à distribuição da carga horária, 64,4% e 34,2% relataram que passavam mais tempo no ambulatório e no hospital, respectivamente. Entre as com mais anos de experiência, houve predomínio da prática em consultório (p = 0,002). Embora 67,3% (n = 189) tenham publicado artigos científicos, 68% (n = 191) nunca ocuparam cargos de liderança. CONCLUSÕES: As participantes do estudo consistiram em cirurgiãs altamente qualificadas em relação a treinamento, certificação e engajamento científico. No entanto, permanecem pouco representadas em cargos de gestão profissional. As sociedades cirúrgicas e as instituições de saúde devem agir para promover uma liderança inclusiva e diversa.

Clinical Characteristics and Therapeutic Adherence of Women in a Referral Outpatient Clinic for Severe Hypertension

Abstract Background Cardiovascular disease is the main cause of death worldwide. There is a lack of studies addressing this issue in women and its risk factors, such as hypertension. Objective To evaluate the clinical and therapeutic profile of women with hypertension and to determine which factors are related to treatment adherence and blood pressure control. Methods Cross-sectional study of 181 hypertensive women treated at an outpatient referral clinic. Data were obtained from medical records, face-to-face interviews, and physical examination, using a standardized form. Statistical analysis was performed with prevalence ratio, chi-square and Student's t test. Significance was accepted at p<0.05. Results Most patients were mixed-race or black (91.7%) and the mean age was 66.09 years. Only 44.2% of patients had controlled blood pressure. The prevalence of stroke was 14.9%, whereas the prevalence of coronary artery disease was 19.3%. The mean number of oral antihypertensive drugs prescribed to each individual was 3.41. A history of stroke was more often found in patients with uncontrolled blood pressure (p=0.013) and in those using three or more antihypertensives (p=0.023). Eighty patients (44.2%) had high treatment adherence. Depression was more frequently reported by patients with poorer adherence to treatment (p=0.026). Conclusion Women with hypertension presented a high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular events, including a significantly higher prevalence of stroke in those with uncontrolled hypertension. Self-reported depression may help identify patients at risk of nonadherence to treatment.

Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-1 Is Increased in Chagasic Cardiomyopathy.

Chagas disease (CD) mainly conveys stroke risk through structural cardiac disease. However, stroke and cognitive impairment are seen in CD independently of cardiac disease severity. Chronic inflammation may be an explanation for this association, because inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of acute ischemic stroke and dementia. In the present study, we selected five candidate biomarkers for Chagas disease: interleukin-6, membrane metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP1), orosomucoid, and neprilysin. We sought to determine if mean levels of proinflammatory biomarkers are higher in patients with heart failure (HF) associated with Chagas disease when compared with other etiologies of HF. Patients were consecutively enrolled from subspecialty HF outpatient clinics at two university-based hospitals. Serum biomarker levels from blood samples were analyzed by ELISA. Severity of HF on echocardiography was worse in non-CD when compared with CD patients. No significant difference was observed in the levels of candidate biomarkers between the CD and non-CD groups. We found a significantly 2.2 ng/mL higher level of TIMP1 in CD when compared with non-CD patients with HF after adjustment for age and gender (95% confidence interval = 0.1 to 4.5, P = 0.037). In patients with heart failure, serum TIMP1 is increased in Chagas patients despite a lower myocardial disease severity on echocardiography when compared with non-Chagas patients. TIMP1 is probably one of multiple mediators of inflammatory injury.

Drug Profile and Therapeutic Adherence of African-Brazilians with Apparent Resistant Hypertension

Abstract Background Resistant hypertension (RH) is manifested by the presence of blood pressure values resistant to antihypertensive therapy. RH is highly prevalent among black individuals, increasing cardiovascular risk in this population and requiring effective control of this comorbidity. Objectives To investigate the medication profile and therapeutic adherence in black people with apparent RH. Methods This is a cross-sectional study, with a convenience sample of individuals with apparent RH. Data were obtained from medical records. Therapeutic adherence was assessed using the Morisky Therapeutic Adherence Scale of 8 items (MMAS-8) and statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS, version 23. Significance was set at p <0.05. Results Of the 120 individuals, 90 (75%) were women and 72 (60%) were black. Mean SBP was 153.09 (SD 25.59) mm Hg and mean DBP, 90.82 (SD 16.91) mm Hg, with a statistical difference in relation to the target pressure for SBP. Regarding the medication profile, 79.2% of the individuals used the recommended regimen for RH (ACEI / ARB + Diuretic + CCB), with the fourth most used drug being beta-blockers. The average score in MMAS-8 was 6.62 (SD 1.38) points, with 19.2%, 50.0%, and 30.8% showing low, medium, and high adherence, respectively. Conclusions It was evidenced that two-thirds of the individuals did not have high therapeutic adherence and not all used the ideal regimen for the management of RH, nor full doses. Thus, most individuals were probably affected by pseudoresistance, which was initially diagnosed as apparent RH. (Int J Cardiovasc Sci. 2021; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Estilo de vida e nível de atividade física de indivíduos portadores de miocardiopatia chagásica / Lifestyle and level of physical activity in individuals with chagasic myocardiopathy

INTRODUÇÃO: A doença de Chagas (DC) constitui uma infecção parasitária causada pelo protozoário flagelado Tripanosoma cruzi. Estimativas apontam a existência de, aproximadamente, cinco milhões de indivíduos infectados, principalmente na América Latina, com o Brasil datando entre 1,9 a 4,6 milhões de indivíduos sob o mesmo aspecto infeccioso. O desfecho cardíaco configura um dos aspectos mais importantes, com manifestações condizentes à disfunção ventricular sistólica ou diastólica, disfunção autonômica cardíaca e morte súbita. OBJETIVO: correlacionar o estilo de vida e o nível de atividade física de indivíduos portadores de miocardiopatia chagásica (MC). MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Realizou-se um estudo analítico, de corte transversal, em ambulatório de referência para Miocardiopatias, com abrangência estadual. Utilizou-se formulário próprio construído pelas autoras, o qual contemplava além das variáveis clínicas e demográficas, variáveis relativas à análise do estilo de vida e atividade física dos participantes, sendo esse aplicado em sala de espera, enquanto os sujeitos aguardavam atendimento médico. RESULTADOS: Foram selecionados 74 indivíduos portadores de MC. A média de idade da amostra foi de 61,2 ± 8,5 anos, sendo que 50 (68,0%) indivíduos eram do sexo feminino. Em relação ao nível de atividade física, houve predomínio da categoria "não ativo", correspondendo a 60 indivíduos (71,0%). O estilo de vida foi classificado como "muito bom" para 41 (55,0%) participantes e "bom" para 22 (30,0%) participantes, não havendo indivíduos alocados na categoria "necessita melhorar" do questionário. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados obtidos permitem concluir que, de modo geral, o estilo de vida e o nível de atividade física de indivíduos portadores de MC caracterizaram-se como "bom" / "muito bom" e não ativos, respectivamente.

INTRODUCTION: Chagas disease (CD) is a parasitic infection caused by the flagellated protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. Estimates point to the existence of approximately five million infected individuals, mainly in Latin America, with Brazil dating between 1.9 and 4.6 million individuals under the same infectious aspect. The cardiac outcome is one of the most important aspects with manifestations consistent with systolic or diastolic ventricular dysfunction, cardiac autonomic dysfunction, and sudden death. OBJECTIVE: To correlate the lifestyle and physical activity level of individuals with Chagas cardiomyopathy (CM). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional analytical study was carried out in a reference outpatient clinic for cardiomyopathies, with state coverage. A form was created by the authors, which included, in addition to the clinical variables and demographic, variables related to the analysis of the participants' lifestyle and physical activity, this being applied in the waiting room, while the subjects waited for medical care. RESULTS: Seventy-four individuals with CM were selected. The mean age of the sample was 61.2 ± 8.5 years, with 50 (68.0%) individuals being female. Regarding the level of physical activity, the "not active" category was predominant, corresponding to 60 individuals (71.0%). The lifestyle was classified as "very good" for 41 (55.0%) participants and "good" for 22 (30.0%) participants, with no individuals allocated to the "need to improve" category of the questionnaire. CONCLUSION: The results obtained allow us to conclude that, in general, the lifestyle and the level of physical activity of individuals with CM were characterized as "good" / "very good" and not active, respectively.

Episódios de Alta Frequência Atrial e sua Associação com Eventos Isquêmicos Cerebrais em Pacientes Chagásicos / Atrial High-Rate Episodes and Their Association with Cerebral Ischemic Events in Chagasic Patients

Resumo Fundamento Episódios de alta frequência atrial (EAFAs) estão associados a um risco elevado de eventos isquêmicos cerebrais, porém não existem estudos relacionados com a presença de EAFAs e eventos isquêmicos cerebrais em pacientes chagásicos. Objetivo Investigar a associação entre a presença de EAFAs ≥ 6 minutos e eventos isquêmicos cerebrais em pacientes chagásicos. Métodos Estudo de coorte com pacientes chagásicos, portadores de dispositivos cardíacos eletrônicos implantáveis (DCEIs), acompanhados no ambulatório de arritmias de um hospital universitário, na cidade de Salvador/BA, entre maio de 2016 e junho de 2017. Pacientes com diagnóstico de flutter atrial/fibrilação atrial, com DCEI unicameral e em uso de anticoagulação oral foram excluídos. Foram considerados EAFAs com frequência atrial ≥ 190 batimentos por minuto e duração ≥ 6 minutos (min), e os eventos isquêmicos cerebrais foram identificados por meio de tomografia computadorizada (TC) de crânio. Resultados Os 67 participantes da pesquisa (67,2% do sexo feminino, com idade média de 63,6 ± 9,2 anos) foram acompanhados por 98 ± 28,8 dias e 11,9% dos pacientes apresentaram EAFAs ≥ 6 minutos. A TC de crânio evidenciou eventos isquêmicos cerebrais silenciosos em 16,4% dos pacientes, sendo que, destes, 63,6% haviam apresentado os EAFAs ≥ 6 minutos na análise dos DCEIs. A idade avançada (OR 1,12 [IC 95% 1,03-1,21; p=0,009) e a presença de EAFAs ≥ 6 minutos (OR 96,2 [IC 95% 9,4-987,4; p<0,001]) foram preditores independentes para eventos isquêmicos. Conclusão EAFAs detectados por DCEIs estavam associados à presença de eventos isquêmicos cerebrais silenciosos em pacientes chagásicos. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Abstract Background Atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) are associated with an increased risk of cerebral ischemic events; however, there are no studies related to the presence of AHREs and cerebral ischemic events in Chagasic patients. Objective To investigate the association between the presence of AHREs ≥ 6 minutes and cerebral ischemic events in Chagasic patients. Methods Cohort study with Chagasic patients with implantable electronic cardiac devices (IECDs), followed at the Arrhythmia Outpatient Clinic of a University Hospital, in the city of Salvador, state of Bahia, Brazil, between May 2016 and June 2017.. Patients diagnosed with atrial flutter / atrial fibrillation, with unicameral IECD and using oral anticoagulation were excluded. AHREs with atrial frequency ≥ 190 beats per minute and duration ≥ 6 minutes (min) were considered, and cerebral ischemic events were identified by computed tomography (CT) of the skull. Results The 67 research participants (67.2% females, mean age 63.6 ± 9.2 years) were followed for 98 ± 28.8 days and 11.9% of the patients had AHREs ≥ 6 min. Skull CT showed silent cerebral ischemic events in 16.4% of the patients, 63.6% of whom had AHREs ≥ 6 min in the analysis of IECDs. Advanced age [OR 1.12 (95% CI 1.03-1.21; p=0.009] and the presence of AHREs ≥ 6 minutes [OR 96.2 (95% CI 9.4-987.4; p <0.001)] were independent predictors for ischemic events. Conclusion AHREs detected by IECDs were associated with the presence of silent cerebral ischemic events in Chagasic patients. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Silent Cerebral Infarctions with Reduced, Mid-Range and Preserved Ejection Fraction in Patients with Heart Failure / Infartos Cerebrais Silenciosos com Fração de Ejeção Reduzida, Intermediária e Preservada em Pacientes com Insuficiência Cardíaca

Abstract Heart failure predisposes to an increased risk of silent cerebral infarction, and data related to left ventricular ejection fraction are still limited. Our objective was to describe the clinical and echocardiographic characteristics and factors associated with silent cerebral infarction in patients with heart failure, according to the left ventricular ejection fraction groups. A prospective cohort was performed at a referral hospital in Cardiology between December 2015 and July 2017. The left ventricular ejection fraction groups were: reduced (≤ 40%), mid-range (41-49%) and preserved (≥ 50%). All patients underwent cranial tomography, transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography. Seventy-five patients were studied. Silent cerebral infarction was observed in 14.7% of the study population (45.5% lacunar and 54.5% territorial) and was more frequent in patients in the reduced left ventricular ejection fraction group (29%) compared with the mid-range one (15.4%, p = 0.005). There were no cases of silent cerebral infarction in the group of preserved left ventricular ejection fraction. In the univariate analysis, an association was identified between silent cerebral infarction and reduced (OR = 8.59; 95%CI: 1.71 - 43.27; p = 0.009) and preserved (OR = 0.05; 95%CI: 0.003-0.817, p = 0.003) left ventricular ejection fraction and diabetes mellitus (OR = 4.28, 95%CI: 1.14-16.15, p = 0.031). In patients with heart failure and without a clinical diagnosis of stroke, reduced and mid-range left ventricular ejection fractions contributed to the occurrence of territorial and lacunar silent cerebral infarction, respectively. The lower the left ventricular ejection fraction, the higher the prevalence of silent cerebral infarction.

Resumo A insuficiência cardíaca predispõe a um risco aumentado de infarto cerebral silencioso, e dados relacionados com a fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo ainda são limitados. Nosso objetivo foi descrever as características clínicas e ecocardiográficas, e os fatores associados com infarto cerebral silencioso, em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca, de acordo com os grupos de fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo. Realizou-se uma coorte prospectiva, em um hospital referência em Cardiologia, entre dezembro de 2015 e julho de 2017. Os grupos da fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo foram: reduzida (≤ 40%), intermediária (41-49%) e preservada (≥ 50%). Todos os pacientes realizaram tomografia de crânio, ecocardiograma transtorácico e transesofágico. Foram estudados 75 pacientes. Infarto cerebral silencioso foi observado em 14,7% da população do estudo (45,5% lacunar e 54,5% territorial), tendo sido mais frequente nos pacientes do grupo de fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo reduzida (29%) em comparação com a intermediária (15,4%; p = 0,005). Não ocorreram casos de infarto cerebral silencioso no grupo de fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo preservada. Na análise univariada, identificou-se associação de infarto cerebral silencioso com fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo reduzida (OR = 8,59; IC95% 1,71- 43,27; p = 0,009), preservada (OR = 0,05; IC95% 0,003-0,817; p = 0,003) e diabetes melito (OR = 4,28; IC95% 1,14-16,15; p = 0,031). Em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca e sem diagnóstico clínico de acidente vascular cerebral, as frações de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo reduzida e intermediária contribuíram para ocorrência de infarto cerebral silencioso territoriais e lacunares, respectivamente. Quanto menor foi a fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo, maior a prevalência de infarto cerebral silencioso.

Comparação da força e resistência dos músculos inspiratórios entre ativos e sedentários / Comparison of the strength and resistance of inspirational muscles between assets and sedentary

Introdução: A prática regular de atividade física está associada com melhora do estado de saúde, aumento da capacidade funcional, aumento da força muscular e redução da mortalidade por doenças cardíacas. Apesar dos benefícios de a prática regular de exercício físico estarem consolidados na literatura, as adaptações na força e resistência dos músculos inspiratórios são controversas. Objetivo: Testar a hipótese que não há diferença da força e resistência dos músculos inspiratórios entre indivíduos ativos e sedentários. Métodos:Estudo observacional de corte transversal. Avaliou-se indivíduos entre 18 e 30 anos, ambos os sexos e saudáveis. Os voluntários foram divididos em ativos e sedentários de acordo a classificação da American College of Sports Medicine (ACMS). Os indivíduos tiveram a força máxima dos músculos inspiratórios (FMI) determinada através do dispositivo POWERbreathe® K5 inspiratory muscle trainer, que intula esta variável como Sindex. A resistência dos músculos inspiratórios foi avaliada través de um teste incremental. Para comparação das médias foi aplicada o teste t de student para distribuição simétrica, p< 0,05. O estudo foi aprovado pelo comitê de ética em pesquisa com CAAE : 37781014.4.0000.5544. Resultados: Foram avaliados 92 indivíduos, destes 55 (60%) foram classificados como ativos e 57 (62%) do sexo masculino. Ao realizar a comparação do Sindex entre ativos e sedentários (128±26; 119±24 cmH2O; p=0,85) e da exaustão no teste incremental (6516% e 6016%;p=0,095), respctivamente. Conclusão: Os indivíduos ativos não apresentam músculos inspiratórios mais fortes e resistentes quando comparados com sedentários. [AU]

Introduction: The regular practice of physical activity is associated with improved health status, increased functional capacity, increased muscle strength and reduced mortality from heart disease. Although the benefits of regular exercise are well established in the literature, adaptations in inspiratory muscle strength and endurance are controversial. Objective: To test the hypothesis that there is no difference in the strength and resistance of the inspiratory muscles between active and sedentary individuals. Methods: Cross-sectional observational study. It was evaluated individuals between 18 and 30 years old, both sexes and healthy. The volunteers were divided into active and sedentary according to the classification of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACMS). Individuals had maximal inspiratory muscle strength (IMS) determined through the POWERbreathe® K5 inspiratory muscle trainer, which injects this variable as Sindex. The inspiratory muscle strength was evaluated through an incremental test. For the comparison of the means the student's t-test was applied for symmetrical distribution, p <0.05. The study was approved by the research ethics committee with CAAE: 37781014.4.0000.5544. Results: A total of 92 individuals were evaluated. Of these, 55 (60%) were classified as active and 57 (62%) were male. When comparing Sindex between active and sedentary (128 ± 26/119 ± 24 cmH2O, p = 0.85) and exhaustion in the incremental test (63.2 ± 16.1%. p = 0.095), respectively. Conclusion: Active individuals do not present stronger and stronger inspiratory muscles when compared to sedentary ones. [AU]

Risk factors for Charcot foot

Objective Diabetes mellitus is the main cause of Charcot neuroarthropathy and is clinically classified as follows: Charcot foot, acute Charcot foot (ACF) when there is inflammation, and inactive Charcot foot when inflammatory signs are absent. The aim of this study was to identify the risk factors for ACF in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.Materials and methods A matched case-control study was conducted to assess the factors associated with acute Charcot foot from February 2000 until September 2012. Four controls for each case were selected 47 cases of ACF and 188 controls without ACF were included. Cases and controls were matched by year of initialization of treatment. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate matched odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).Results In multivariate analysis, patients having less than 55 years of age (adjusted OR = 4.10, 95% CI = 1.69 – 9.94), literate education age (adjusted OR = 3.73, 95% CI = 1.40 – 9.92), living alone (adjusted OR = 5.84, 95% CI = 1.49 – 22.86), previous ulceration (adjusted OR = 4.84, 95% CI = 1.62 – 14.51) were at increased risk of ACF. However, peripheral arterial disease (adjusted OR = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.05 – 0.52) of 6.25 (1.92 – 20.0) was a protective factor.Discussion The results suggest that PCA in type 2 diabetes primarily affects patients under 55 who live alone, are literate, and have a prior history of ulcers, and that peripheral arterial disease is a protective factor. Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2015;59(3):226-30.

Influence of valve prosthesis type on early mortality in patients undergoing valve surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of the type of prosthesis in-hospital mortality in the post-operative period in patients who had valve replacement. METHODS: A cross-sectional data, such as gender, origin, age, etiology, echocardiograph data, the type of surgery performed and the prosthesis used in cases of valve replacement were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: We reviewed 353 charts of patients who underwent valve replacement surgery. The mean age was 41.87±17.9 years. Regarding gender, 52.8% were female. As for the origin, 61.1% came from small cities within the state. Of all patients, 58.5% suffered from rheumatic disease. Assessing the type of prosthesis implanted, 70% held replace by bioprosthesis and 30% metallic. The hospital mortality in this study was 11%, with no significant difference between the types of prosthesis utilized. CONCLUSION: The type of implant used had no effect on in-hospital mortality.

Estratégia antitrombótica nos três meses iniciais após implante de bioprótese valvar cardíaca / Antithrombotic strategy in the three first months following bioprosthetic heart valve implantation

A prótese valvar cardíaca indiscutivelmente melhora a qualidade de vida e a sobrevida de pacientes com valvulopatias severas, mas a necessidade de uma terapia antitrombótica para prevenir complicações tromboembólicas promove grandes desafios aos clínicos e aos seus pacientes. Dos artigos pesquisados, a maioria foi composta de séries retrospectivas de casos ou de coortes históricas extraídas de banco de dados. Os raros estudos randomizados publicados não apresentaram poder estatístico para se avaliar o desfecho primário de morte ou evento tromboembólico. Neste artigo, optamos por realizar uma revisão sistemática da literatura, tentando responder a seguinte pergunta: qual a melhor estratégia antitrombótica nos três primeiros meses após implante de bioprótese valvar cardíaca (mitral e aórtica)? Após aplicar-se os critérios de extração por dois revisores, encontrou-se 1968 referências, selecionando-se 31 artigos (foram excluídos artigos truncados, que combinaram prótese mecânica, ou sem follow-up). Baseado nesta revisão de literatura, observou-se um baixo nível de evidência para qualquer estratégia terapêutica antitrombótica avaliada. Sendo assim, é interessante utilizar aspirina 75 a 100 mg/dia como estratégia antitrombótica após implante de bioprótese na posição aórtica, independente da etiologia, para pacientes sem outros fatores de risco, como fibrilação atrial ou evento tromboembólico anterior. Já para o implante de bioprótese na posição mitral, o risco de embolia, apesar de baixo, é mais relevante do que na posição aórtica, segundo as séries publicadas e coortes retrospectivas composta principalmente de pacientes idosos não reumáticos.

Heart valve prosthesis unquestionably improve quality of life and survival of patients with severe valvular heart disease, but the need for antithrombotic therapy to prevent thromboembolic complications is a major challenge to clinicians and their patients. Of the articles analyzed, most were retrospective series of cases or historical cohorts obtained from the database. The few published randomized trials showed no statistical power to assess the primary outcome of death or thromboembolic event. In this article, we decided to perform a systematic literature review, in an attempt to answer the following question: what is the best antithrombotic strategy in the first three months after bioprosthetic heart valve implantation (mitral and aortic)? After two reviewers applying the extraction criteria, we found 1968 references, selecting 31 references (excluding papers truncated, which combined bioprosthesis with mechanical prosthesis, or without follow-up). Based on this literature review, there was a low level of evidence for any antithrombotic therapeutic strategy evaluated. It´s therefore interesting to use aspirin 75 to 100 mg / day as antithrombotic strategy after bioprosthesis replacement in the aortic position, regardless of etiology, for patients without other risk factors such as atrial fibrillation or previous thromboembolic event. In the mitral position, the risk of embolism, although low, is more relevant than in the aortic position, according to published series and retrospective cohorts comprised mostly of elderly non-rheumatic patients.