Assessment of subclinical left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus under follow-up at Tikur Anbessa specialized hospital, Ethiopia: a case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Individuals with diabetes mellitus are at increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, which in turn are the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in the diabetic population. A peculiar feature of cardiovascular diseases in this population is that they can have significant cardiac disease while remaining asymptomatic. There is a paucity of data regarding subclinical cardiac imaging features among diabetic adults in Africa, particularly in Ethiopia. This study was conducted to compare the magnitude and spectrum of left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction among asymptomatic type 2 diabetic adults versus a normotensive, non-diabetic control group and to evaluate the determinants of left ventricular diastolic and systolic dysfunction. METHODS: This was a case-control study conducted at Tikur Anbessa specialized hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A standard transthoracic echocardiography was done for all study participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus and their normotensive and non-diabetic controls. Structured questionnaires were used to collect demographic and clinical characteristics and laboratory test results. Statistical analysis was done using the SPSS 25.0 software. The data was summarized using descriptive statistics. Bivariate and multivariate analysis was performed to determine the association between variables and echocardiographic parameters. The strength of statistical association was measured by adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, with significant differences taken at p < 0.05. RESULTS: We analyzed age- and sex-matched 100 participants in the study (diabetic) group and 200 individuals in the control group. Left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction were significantly more prevalent among diabetic adults than their sex and age matched controls. Among diabetic individuals, ages of 60 years and above, dyslipidemia, use of Metformin and Glibenclamide, high serum triglyceride level, presence of neuropathy and use of statins correlated significantly with the presence of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction. Chronic kidney disease and neuropathy were determinants of left ventricular systolic dysfunction. CONCLUSION: Left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction were significantly more prevalent among diabetic patients than their sex- and age-matched controls in our study. We recommend early screening for subclinical left ventricular dysfunction, especially in the elderly and in those with chronic kidney disease, dyslipidemia, and microvascular complications such as neuropathy.

Left ventricular structural abnormalities in the assessment of diastolic function in the elderly: source of discrepancies between the 2009 and 2016 criteria.

Diastolic dysfunction (DD) is routinely evaluated in echocardiography to support diagnosis, prognostication, and management of heart failure, a condition highly prevalent in elderly patients. Clinical guidelines were published in 2009, and updated in 2016, pursuing to standardize and improve DD categorization. We aimed to assess the concordance of DD between these two documents in an elderly population and to investigate how left ventricular structural abnormalities (LVSA) impact the reclassification. To evaluate this we analyzed the 308 consecutive transthoracic echocardiograms in patients older than 60 years (70.4 ± 7.7 years-old, 59% women) that fulfilled the inclusion criteria out of the 1438 echocardiograms performed in a tertiary hospital. We found that the prevalence of DD was lower according to the 2016 criteria (64% vs. 91%; p < 0.001), with 207 (67.2%) patients changing category, indicating poor agreement between the guidelines (kappa = 0.21). There were 188 (61%) patients with LVSA, which drove most of the reclassifications in 2016 Grade I DD cases. The prevalence of elevated filling pressures by Doppler halved in this elderly population using the updated recommendations (20.9% vs. 39.2%; p < 0.001). In conclusion the prevalence of DD was lower applying the 2016 guidelines, with a poor agreement with 2009 guidelines in all DD grades. The role of LVSA in reclassifications was particularly evident in Grade I DD, while Doppler parameters drove reclassifications among the more severe grades. If not properly addressed, these discrepancies may undermine the reliance on DD as a diagnostic and prognostic tool, particularly in an elderly population at a higher risk of heart failure.

Sex-related Differences in Left Ventricular Deformation in Patients With Hypertensive Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction: Assessment by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Tissue Tracking.

We aimed to investigate sex-related differences in left ventricular (LV) deformation in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patients with comorbid hypertension (HTN) by cardiac MRI. A total of 281 patients with HFrEF who underwent cardiac MRI were enrolled in this study. Sex-related differences in LV structure, function and strains derived from cardiac cine MRI in the context of HTN were measured and compared. The clinical variables associated with LV strains in HFrEF patients with comorbid HTN and determinants of impaired LV strains were investigated for both sexes. The prevalence of HTN did not differ between the sexes (P > 0.05). Despite having a similar LVEF, hypertensive men displayed decreased LV deformation in all 3 directions compared with hypertensive women (all P < 0.05). Male sex and its interaction with HTN were associated with higher LV mass index, reduced LV GCPS and GLPS compared with hypertensive women (all P < 0.05). Male sex was associated with LV deformation impairment in hypertensive HFrEF patients (all P < 0.05). After adjustment for covariates in HFrEF patients, HTN was found to be an independent determinant of impaired LV GCPS [ß = 0.17; P = 0.022] and GLPS [ß = 0.25; P < 0.001]) in men but not in women (all P > 0.05). Sex had a modifying effect on LV deformation in hypertensive HFrEF patients, with greater adverse effects on LV strains in men than in women. Sex-tailored treatment approaches may be considered in the future for HFrEF patients with comorbid HTN.

Effects of diabetes mellitus on left ventricular function and remodeling in hypertensive patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: assessment with 3.0 T MRI feature tracking.

BACKGROUND: Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is a major health burden worldwide with high morbidity and mortality. Comorbidities of HFrEF complicate treatment and lead to poor prognosis, among which hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are common and frequently cooccur. DM was found to have additive effects on cardiac function and structure in hypertensive patients, while its effects on the HFrEF cohort in the context of HTN remain unclear. METHODS: A total of 171 patients with HFrEF were enrolled in our study, consisting of 51 HFrEF controls, 72 hypertensive HFrEF patients (HTN-HFrEF [DM-]) and 48 hypertensive HFrEF patients with comorbid DM (HTN-HFrEF [DM+]). Cardiac MRI-derived left ventricular (LV) strains, including global radial (GRPS), circumferential (GCPS) and longitudinal (GLPS) peak strain, and remodeling parameters were measured and compared among groups. The determinants of impaired LV function and LV remodeling in HFrEF patients were investigated by multivariable linear regression analyses. RESULTS: Despite a similar LV ejection fraction, patients in the HTN-HFrEF (DM+) and HTN-HFrEF (DM-) groups showed a higher LV mass index and LV remodeling index than those in the HFrEF control group (all p < 0.05). Compared with the HTN-HFrEF (DM-) and HFrEF control groups, the HTN-HFrEF (DM+) group exhibited the most severe GLPS impairment (p < 0.001). After adjustment for covariates in HFrEF patients, DM was found to be an independent determinant of impaired LV strains in all three directions (GRPS [ß = - 0.189; p = 0.011], GCPS [ß = 0.217; p = 0.005], GLPS [ß = 0.237; p = 0.002]). HTN was associated with impaired GLPS (ß = 0.185; p = 0.016) only. However, HTN rather than DM was associated with LV remodeling in HFrEF patients in the multivariable regression analysis (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: DM aggravated LV longitudinal dysfunction in hypertensive HFrEF patients without further changes in LV remodeling, indicating that HFrEF patients with comorbid HTN and DM may have a hidden high-risk phenotype of heart failure that requires more advanced and personalized management.

Systematic assessment of heart valves and cardiac function by echocardiography in axial spondyloarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Axial Spondyloarthritis (ax-SpA) is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD)-specific deaths. We aimed to assess the prevalence of left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic dysfunction and valvular heart disease (VHD) by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in ax-SpA patients without history of CVD. METHODS: A systematic literature review was performed in PUBMED, Embase, Cochrane Library databases published before April 2020. We included all controlled studies assessing myocardial function and heart valve by TTE in ax-SpA without history of CVD. A meta-analysis was performed with random or fixed effects model estimating mean differences (MD) and odds ratio (OR). RESULTS: Literature search selected 189 abstracts and 28 articles were included (1471 ax-SpA and 1115 controls). ax-SpA had a statistically slight alteration of LV ejection fraction (MD=0.64%, 95%CI: 0.14-1.14). ax-SpA had more frequently LV diastolic dysfunction (OR=3.43, 95%CI: 1.78-6.59) and an alteration of E/A ratio (MD=0.15, 95%CI: 0.08-0.21), deceleration time (MD=13.07ms, 95%CI: 7.75-18.40), isovolumetric relaxation time (MD=7.90ms, 95%CI: 4.50-11.30), left-ventricular end diastolic (MD=0.57mm, 95%CI: 0.19-0.95) and systolic (MD=0.77mm, 95%CI: 0.36-1.17) diameters. Three studies (15%) used a combination of TTE parameters to diagnose LV diastolic dysfunction. Prevalence of mitral regurgitation and aortic regurgitation were similar in ax-SpA patients and healthy individuals. CONCLUSION: ax-SpA have a non-clinically relevant alteration of LV ejection fraction and similar prevalence of VHD compared to healthy individuals. LV diastolic TTE parameters are altered in ax-SpA. However, most studies do not combine set of parameters to recognize diastolic dysfunction. The clinical relevance of diastolic dysfunction observed by TTE remains to be determined in future longitudinal studies.

Assessment of Cardiovascular Health of Children Ages 6 to 10 Years Conceived by Assisted Reproductive Technology.

Importance: Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has been widely used for treatment of infertility and has brought millions of births worldwide. The health of offspring conceived by ART has been of much concern, and adverse cardiovascular health outcomes have been reported by previous studies. Objective: To assess the cardiovascular health of children conceived by ART. Design, Setting, and Participants: This cohort study was conducted among participants recruited from November 2017 to February 2019. Participants were 382 children conceived by ART who were selected from a single reproductive center and 382 children who were naturally conceived, randomly selected from a primary school, and matched by sex, age, and maternal age at the child's birth (2 years older or younger). Data were analyzed from March 2019 through December 2019. Exposures: Conception by ART. Main Outcomes and Measures: Blood pressure was measured, and echocardiography was performed to determine left ventricular structural and functional parameters. Adjusted relative wall thickness (aRWT) was found for age, with high RWT defined as an aRWT of 0.375 or more. Results: Among 764 children aged 6 to 10 years, 382 children were conceived by ART (mean [SD] age, 7.20 [1.21] years; 201 [52.6%] boys) and 382 children were naturally conceived (mean [SD] age, 7.20 [1.21] years; 201 [52.6%] boys). Children conceived by ART had statistically significantly increased mean (SD) height (130.2 [9.5] cm vs 128.5 [8.1] cm; P = .007) and body mass index (17.6 [3.6] vs 17.1 [2.7]; P = .03). Those conceived by ART, compared with children in the matched control group, had statistically significantly increased blood pressure (mean [SD] systolic blood pressure, 105.5 [6.9] mm Hg vs 103.5 [8.4] mm Hg; adjusted P < .001; mean [SD] diastolic blood pressure, 67.2 [5.6] mm Hg vs 62.2 [6.3] mm Hg ; adjusted P < .001), left ventricular systolic dysfunction (mean [SD] left ventricular ejection fraction, 64.61% [3.20%] vs 66.70% [3.89%]; adjusted P < .001), and diastolic dysfunction (mean [SD] early/late mitral/tricuspid diastolic velocities ratio, 1.66 [0.28] vs 2.21 [0.36]; adjusted P < .001). They also had statistically significantly increased parameters of left ventricular structure, including mean (SD) left ventricular mass index (31.97 [5.04] g/m2.7 vs 28.28 [3.54] g/m2.7; adjusted P < .001) and RWT (3.30 [0.41] mm vs 2.98 [0.14] mm; adjusted P < .001). Additionally, children conceived by ART had statistically significantly increased prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy (9 children [2.4%] vs 2 children [0.5%]; P = .03), high RWT (61 children [16.0%] vs 0 children; P < .001), and left ventricle remodeling patterns, including concentric remodeling (60 children [15.7%] vs 0 children), eccentric hypertrophy (8 children [2.1%] vs 2 children [0.5%]), and concentric hypertrophy (1 child [0.3%] vs 0 children) (P for left ventricle remodeling < .001). Conclusions and Relevance: This study found that children conceived by ART had increased blood pressure and unfavorable changes in left ventricular structure and function compared with children who were naturally conceived. These findings suggest that further studies are needed to investigate the potential mechanisms and long-term outcomes associated with these differences.

Incidence and Risk Factors of Future Need for Long-Term Care Insurance in Japanese Elderly Patients With Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction.

BACKGROUND: Heart failure in elderly people causes physical and cognitive dysfunction and often requires long-term care insurance (LTCI); however, among patients with left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction, the incidence and risk factors of future LTCI requirements need to be elucidated.Methods and Results:The study included 1,852 patients aged ≥65 years with an echocardiographic LV ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤50%; we referred to their LTCI data and those of 113,038 community-dwelling elderly people. During a mean 1.7-year period, 332 patients newly required LTCI (incidence 10.7 per 100 person-years); the incidence was significantly higher than that for the community-dwelling people (hazard ratio [HR], 1.47; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.32-1.64). On multivariate analysis, the risk factors at the time of echocardiography leading to future LTCI requirement were atrial fibrillation (HR, 1.588; 95% CI, 1.279-1.971), history of stroke (HR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.583-2.576), osteoporosis (HR, 1.738; 95% CI, 1.253-2.41), dementia (HR, 2.804; 95% CI, 2.075-3.789), hypnotics (HR, 1.461; 95% CI, 1.148-1.859), and diuretics (HR, 1.417; 95% CI, 1.132-1.773); however, the LVEF was not a risk factor (HR, 0.997; 95% CI, 0.983-1.011). CONCLUSIONS: In elderly patients with LV systolic dysfunction, the incidence of LTCI requirement was more common than that for community-dwelling people; its risk factors did not include LVEF, but included many other non-cardiac comorbidities and therapies, suggesting the need for interdisciplinary cooperation to prevent disabilities.

External validation of a claims-based model to predict left ventricular ejection fraction class in patients with heart failure.

BACKGROUND: Ejection fraction (EF) is an important prognostic factor in heart failure (HF), but administrative claims databases lack information on EF. We previously developed a model to predict EF class from Medicare claims. Here, we evaluated the performance of this model in an external validation sample of commercial insurance enrollees. METHODS: Truven MarketScan claims linked to electronic medical records (EMR) data (IBM Explorys) containing EF measurements were used to identify a cohort of US patients with HF between 01-01-2012 and 10-31-2019. By applying the previously developed model, patients were classified into HF with reduced EF (HFrEF) or preserved EF (HFpEF). EF values recorded in EMR data were used to define gold-standard HFpEF (LVEF ≥45%) and HFrEF (LVEF<45%). Model performance was reported in terms of overall accuracy, positive predicted values (PPV), and sensitivity for HFrEF and HFpEF. RESULTS: A total of 7,001 HF patients with an average age of 71 years were identified, 1,700 (24.3%) of whom had HFrEF. An overall accuracy of 0.81 (95% CI: 0.80-0.82) was seen in this external validation sample. For HFpEF, the model had sensitivity of 0.96 (95%CI, 0.95-0.97) and PPV of 0.81 (95% CI, 0.81-0.82); while for HFrEF, the sensitivity was 0.32 (95%CI, 0.30-0.34) and PPV was 0.73 (95%CI, 0.69-0.76). These results were consistent with what was previously published in US Medicare claims data. CONCLUSIONS: The successful validation of the Medicare claims-based model provides evidence that this model may be used to identify patient subgroups with specific EF class in commercial claims databases as well.

Prospective multicentre cohort study of transthoracic echocardiography provision in the South West of the UK during the first wave of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

AIMS: It was predicted internationally that transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) would be vital during the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak. We therefore, designed a study to report the demand for TTE in two large District General Hospitals during the rise in the first wave of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in the UK. A primary clinical outcome of 30-day mortality was also assessed. METHODS: The TTE service across two hospitals was reconfigured to maximise access to inpatient scanning. All TTEs of suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 patients over a 3-week period were included in the study. All patients were followed up until at least day 30 after their scan at which point the primary clinical outcome of mortality was recorded. Comparative analysis based on mortality was conducted for all TTE results, biochemical markers and demographics. RESULTS: 27 patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 had a TTE within the inclusion window. Mortality comparative analysis showed the deceased group were significantly older (mean 68.4, SD 11.9 vs 60.5, SD 13.0, p=0.03) and more commonly reported fatigue in their presenting symptoms (29.6% vs 71.4%, p=0.01). No other differences were identified in the demographic or biochemical data. Left ventricular systolic dysfunction was noted in 7.4% of patients and right ventricular impairment or dilation was seen in 18.5% patients. TTE results were not significantly different in mortality comparative analysis. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates an achievable approach to TTE services when under increased pressure. Data analysis supports the limited available data suggesting right ventricular abnormalities are the most commonly identified echocardiographic change in SARS-CoV-2 patients. No association can be demonstrated between mortality and TTE results.

Implications of Left Ventricular Dysfunction at Presentation for Infants with Coarctation of the Aorta.

Infants with aortic coarctation may present with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction which may complicate the postoperative course and lead to increased healthcare costs. We aimed to define the prevalence of moderate to severe left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction, evaluate time to recovery, and compare health care costs. Single-center retrospective cohort study at a tertiary care hospital was conducted. Infants < 6 months old at diagnosis with aortic coarctation were identified using surgical codes for coarctation repair between January 2010 and May 2018. Moderate to severe dysfunction was defined as ejection fraction (EF) < 40%. Of 160 infants studied, 18 (11%) had moderate to severe LV dysfunction at presentation. Compared to those with better LV function, infants with moderate to severe LV dysfunction were older at presentation (12 vs. 6 days, p = 0.004), had more postoperative cardiac intensive care unit (ICU) days (5 vs. 3, p < 0.001), and more ventilator days (3.5 vs. 1, p < 0.001). The median time to normal LV EF (≥ 55%) was 6 days postoperatively (range 1-230 days). Infants presenting with moderate to severe LV dysfunction had higher index hospitalization costs ($90,560 vs. $59,968, p = 0.02), but no difference in cost of medical follow-up for the first year following discharge ($3,078 vs. $2,568, p = 0.46). In the current era, > 10% of infants with coarctation present with moderate to severe LV dysfunction that typically recovers. Those with moderate to severe dysfunction had longer duration of mechanical ventilation and postoperative cardiac ICU stays, likely driving higher costs of index hospitalization.

Sex-specific associations of obesity with exercise capacity and diastolic function in Koreans.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Women with obesity are highly predominant among patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). We aimed to elucidate sex-specific associations of obesity with exercise capacity and diastolic function. METHODS AND RESULTS: Healthy individuals without known cardiovascular diseases undergoing cardiopulmonary exercise test and echocardiography (n = 736) were included and categorized into 4 groups according to their sex and obesity. Exercise capacity was lower in women than men. Obesity was associated with a lower exercise capacity in women (23.5 ± 7.3 vs. 21.3 ± 5.4 ml/kg/min, p < 0.05) but not in men (28.2 ± 7.8 vs. 28.0 ± 6.6 ml/kg/min, p > 0.10). Overall, women had a higher E/e' than men. Women without obesity had a similar E/e' to men with obesity (8.2 ± 1.8 vs. 8.4 ± 2.1, p > 0.10), and women with obesity had the highest E/e'. Among 5 risk factors (aging, obesity, elevated blood pressure, elevated heart rate, and elevated fasting glucose), obesity was a significant determinant of exercise intolerance in women but not men. Furthermore, obesity was associated with a greater risk of diastolic dysfunction in women than men (women, adjusted odds ratio 4.35 [95% confidence interval 2.44-7.74]; men, adjusted odds ratio 2.91 [95% confidence interval 1.42-5.95]). CONCLUSION: Obesity had a more deleterious effect on exercise capacity and diastolic function in women than men, even in a healthy cohort. These subclinical changes might contribute to the development of a female predominance among HFpEF patients, particularly among individuals with obesity.

Prevalence of diastolic dysfunction (DD) according to the diagnostic guidelines of 2009 and 2016. Relationship with non-invasive hemodynamic assessment. / Prevalencia de disfunción diastólica de acuerdo con las guías diagnósticas de 2009 y 2016. Relación con la valoración hemodinámica no invasiva.

Objetivos: Evaluar la prevalencia de DD de acuerdo con los criterios de las guías del 2009 y 2016, y su relación con la distensibilidad arterial sistémica (DAS) y la resistencia vascular periférica (RVP). Material y métodos: Se analizó a 306 pacientes ≥ 40 años de edad, con fracción de expulsión ≥ 50%. Se calcularon en todos DAS y RVP. Resultados: La prevalencia de DD fue de 32.7% y 22.9% según las guías de 2009 y 2016, respectivamente (p = < 0.0001). De acuerdo con las guías del 2009, los pacientes con DD presentaron una media de DAS menor que aquéllos con función normal (p = 0.0001), de modo similar a las guías del 2016 (p = 0.0007). La DD, según las guías de 2009 y 2016, mostró valores más altos de RVP que los normales (p = 0.005 y p = 0.018, respectivamente). Asimismo, la DD fue predictora, en el análisis univariado, de DAS < 0.60 ml.mm Hg-1 y RVP > 1,400 mmHg.min.l-1 según ambas guías. En el análisis multivariado, la DD, de acuerdo con las guías del 2009, persistió como predictor independiente de RVP > 1,400 mmHg.min.l-1. Conclusión: Las guías del 2016 reducen la prevalencia de DD. Ésta, tanto en las guías del 2009 como en las del 2106, fue predictor univariado de DAS < 0.60 ml.mmHg-1 y RVP > 1,400 mmHg.min.l-1. La DD, de acuerdo con las guías de 2009, resultó predictora independiente de RVP > 1,400 mmHg.min.l-1. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of developmental disabilities (DD) according to the criteria of the 2009 and 2016 guidelines, and its association with systemic arterial compliance (DAS) and peripheral vascular resistance (RVP). Material and methods: 306 patients aged ≥ 40 years, with ejection fraction ≥ 50% were analyzed. It was estimated in all DAS and RVP. Results: The prevalence of DD was 32.7% and 22.9% according to the 2009 and 2016 guidelines, respectively (p ≤ 0.0001). Patients with DD according to the 2009 guideline had a lower average of DAS than those with normal function (p = 0.0001). Similar with the 2016 guide (p = 0.0007). The presence of DD according to the 2009 and 2016 guideline showed higher RVP values than normal values (p = 0.005 and p = 0.018, respectively). The DD according to both guidelines was a predictor, in the univariate analysis, of DAS < 0.60 ml.mmHg−1 and RVP > 1400 mmHg.min.l−1. The DD according to the 2009 guideline persisted as an independent predictor, in the multivariate analysis, of RVP > 1400 mmHg.min.l−1. Conclusion: The 2016 guide decreases the prevalence of DD. The DD, both from the 2009 and 2106 guidelines, were univariate predictors of DAS <0.60 ml.mmHg−1 and RVP > 1400 mmHg.min.l−1. The DD according to the 2009 guide, was an independent predictor of RVP > 1400 mmHg.min.l−1.

Prevalencia de disfunción diastólica de acuerdo con las guías diagnósticas de 2009 y 2016. Relación con la valoración hemodinámica no invasiva / Prevalence of diastolic dysfunction (DD) according to the diagnostic guidelines of 2009 and 2016. Relationship with non-invasive hemodynamic assessment

Resumen Objetivos: Evaluar la prevalencia de DD de acuerdo con los criterios de las guías del 2009 y 2016, y su relación con la distensibilidad arterial sistémica (DAS) y la resistencia vascular periférica (RVP). Material y métodos: Se analizó a 306 pacientes ≥ 40 años de edad, con fracción de expulsión ≥ 50%. Se calcularon en todos DAS y RVP. Resultados: La prevalencia de DD fue de 32.7% y 22.9% según las guías de 2009 y 2016, respectivamente (p = < 0.0001). De acuerdo con las guías del 2009, los pacientes con DD presentaron una media de DAS menor que aquéllos con función normal (p = 0.0001), de modo similar a las guías del 2016 (p = 0.0007). La DD, según las guías de 2009 y 2016, mostró valores más altos de RVP que los normales (p = 0.005 y p = 0.018, respectivamente). Asimismo, la DD fue predictora, en el análisis univariado, de DAS < 0.60 ml.mm Hg-1 y RVP > 1,400 mmHg.min.l-1 según ambas guías. En el análisis multivariado, la DD, de acuerdo con las guías del 2009, persistió como predictor independiente de RVP > 1,400 mmHg.min.l-1. Conclusión: Las guías del 2016 reducen la prevalencia de DD. Ésta, tanto en las guías del 2009 como en las del 2106, fue predictor univariado de DAS < 0.60 ml.mmHg-1 y RVP > 1,400 mmHg.min.l-1. La DD, de acuerdo con las guías de 2009, resultó predictora independiente de RVP > 1,400 mmHg.min.l-1.

Abstract Objectives: To assess the prevalence of developmental disabilities (DD) according to the criteria of the 2009 and 2016 guidelines, and its association with systemic arterial compliance (DAS) and peripheral vascular resistance (RVP). Material and methods: 306 patients aged ≥ 40 years, with ejection fraction ≥ 50% were analyzed. It was estimated in all DAS and RVP. Results: The prevalence of DD was 32.7% and 22.9% according to the 2009 and 2016 guidelines, respectively (p ≤ 0.0001). Patients with DD according to the 2009 guideline had a lower average of DAS than those with normal function (p = 0.0001). Similar with the 2016 guide (p = 0.0007). The presence of DD according to the 2009 and 2016 guideline showed higher RVP values than normal values (p = 0.005 and p = 0.018, respectively). The DD according to both guidelines was a predictor, in the univariate analysis, of DAS < 0.60 ml.mmHg−1 and RVP > 1400 mmHg.min.l−1. The DD according to the 2009 guideline persisted as an independent predictor, in the multivariate analysis, of RVP > 1400 mmHg.min.l−1. Conclusion: The 2016 guide decreases the prevalence of DD. The DD, both from the 2009 and 2106 guidelines, were univariate predictors of DAS <0.60 ml.mmHg−1 and RVP > 1400 mmHg.min.l−1. The DD according to the 2009 guide, was an independent predictor of RVP > 1400 mmHg.min.l−1.

Covariables of Myocardial Function in Women and Men with Increased Body Mass Index.

INTRODUCTION: Sex-difference in types of cardiac organ damage has been reported in subjects with increased body mass index (BMI). However less is known about sex-differences in left ventricular (LV) myocardial function assessed by global longitudinal strain (GLS) in these subjects. METHODS: 493 subjects (mean age 47 ± 9 years, 61% women) with BMI > 27.0 kg/m2 and without known cardiac disease underwent 24-hour (24h) ambulatory blood pressure (BP) recording, body composition analysis, carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) measurement and echocardiography. LV peak systolic GLS was measured by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography and LV ejection fraction (EF) by biplane Simpson's method. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by homeostatic model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). RESULTS: Women had higher prevalence of increased waist circumference (99% vs. 82%), lower prevalence of hypertension (59 vs. 74%), and lower serum triglycerides (1.3 ± 0.7 vs. 1.7 ± 0.9 mmol/L) and carotid-femoral PWV (7.3 ± 1.6 vs. 7.7 ± 1.6 m/s) compared to men (all p < 0.05). Women also had higher (more negative) GLS compared to men (- 19.9 ± 3.0 vs. - 18.6 ± 3.0%, p < 0.001), while EF did not differ between sexes. In multivariable linear regression analyses, lower GLS in women was associated with higher waist circumference and PWV and with lower EF (all p < 0.05). In men, lower GLS was associated with higher waist circumference and HOMA-IR, and with lower EF (all p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Among subjects with increased BMI, GLS was higher in women than men. Lower GLS was associated with abdominal obesity in both sexes, and with impaired glucose metabolism in men, and with higher arterial stiffness in women. TRIAL REGISTRATION: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT02805478, first registered 20.06.16.

Assessment of Global Longitudinal Strain in Patients Receiving Renal Replacement Therapy With Preserved Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction.

BACKGROUND: Patients with chronic kidney disease, including those on renal replacement therapy (RRT), have higher cardiovascular mortality. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) detects subtle changes in the left ventricle (LV) and constitutes a more sensitive predictor of cardiovascular mortality than the LV ejection fraction (LVEF). The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of impaired GLS among patients on RRT with preserved LVEF. We also aimed to identify the possible clinical factors responsible for GLS impairment. METHODS: A total of 108 patients on RRT with preserved LVEF and no history of cardiac disease were evaluated. We assessed echocardiogram parameters with a calculation of GLS, laboratory parameters, presence of diabetes, hypertension, duration of hemodialysis (HD), and the time after kidney transplantation (KTx). An impaired GLS value was set at ≥-18%. The multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors related to impaired GLS. RESULTS: Among 108 patients aged 58.5 ± 13.5 on RRT with preserved LVEF, 45% had GLS ≥-18% (62% on HD, 39% after KTx). The ROC analysis revealed that the cutoff point for the predicted GLS ≥-18% by HD duration was more than 28 months (0.75 [95% CI 0.66-0.84]; P < .001). In multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis, a duration of HD longer than 28 months was associated with GLS ≥-18%. CONCLUSIONS: About 45% patients on RRT, despite preserved LVEF and no history of heart diseases, had LV systolic dysfunction defined as GLS ≥-18%. HD longer than 28 months significantly increases the risk of GLS impairment in patients on RRT.

Echocardiographic Assessment of Cardiac Function in Pediatric Survivors of Anthracycline-Treated Childhood Cancer.

BACKGROUND: Anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in childhood cancer survivors (CCSs). Echocardiographic myocardial strain imaging is recommended in adult patients with cancer, but its role in pediatric CCSs has not been well established. Aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of abnormalities in left ventricular strain in pediatric CCSs, to compare strain with other echocardiographic measurements and blood biomarkers, and to explore risk factors for reduced strain. METHODS: CCSs ≥3 years from their last anthracycline treatment were enrolled in this multicenter study and underwent a standardized functional echocardiogram and biomarker collection. Regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with longitudinal strain (LS). RESULTS: Five hundred forty-six pediatric CCSs were compared with 134 healthy controls. Abnormal left ventricular ejection fraction (<50%) and mean LS (Z score, <-2) was found in 0.8% and 7.7% of the CCSs, respectively. LS was significantly lower in CCSs than in controls, but the absolute difference was small (0.7%). Lower LS in CCSs was associated with older current age and higher body surface area. Sex, cumulative anthracycline dose, radiotherapy, and biomarkers were not independently associated with LS. Circumferential strain, diastolic parameters, and biomarkers were not significantly different in pediatric CCSs. CONCLUSIONS: Global systolic function and LS are only mildly reduced in pediatric CCSs, and most LS values are within normal range. This makes single LS measurements of limited added value in identifying CCSs at risk for cardiac dysfunction. The utility of strain imaging in the long-term follow-up of CCS remains to be demonstrated.

Echocardiographic assessment of cardiac structure and function in chronic renal disease.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health problem and is independently associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). The presence and severity of CKD is strongly related to the progression of coronary atherosclerosis, ventricular hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, valvular calcification, and cardiac conduction system abnormalities. Echocardiography plays a major role in the assessment of structural and functional cardiac abnormalities in CKD including abnormal left-ventricular (LV) geometry, LV diastolic dysfunction, valvular disease, and left atrial dilatation, which are very frequently present especially in patients with end-stage renal disease.

Systolic Blood Pressure and Outcomes in Patients With Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction.

BACKGROUND: National guidelines recommend that systolic blood pressure (SBP) in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and hypertension be maintained below 130 mm Hg. OBJECTIVES: This study sought to determine associations of SBP <130 mm Hg with outcomes in patients with HFrEF. METHODS: Of the 25,345 patients in the Medicare-linked OPTIMIZE-HF registry, 10,535 had an ejection fraction (EF) ≤40%. Of these, 5,615 had stable SBP (≤20 mm Hg admission to discharge variation), and 3,805 (68%) had a discharge SBP <130 mm Hg. Propensity scores for SBP <130 mm Hg, estimated for each of the 5,615 patients, were used to assemble a matched cohort of 1,189 pairs of patients with SBP <130 versus ≥130 mm Hg, balanced on 58 baseline characteristics (mean age 76 years; mean EF 28%, 45% women, 13% African American). This process was repeated in 3,946 patients, after excluding 1,669 patients (30% of 5,615) with a discharge SBP <110 mm Hg and assembled a second matched balanced cohort of 1,099 pairs of patients with SBP 110 to 129 mm Hg versus ≥130 mm Hg. RESULTS: Thirty-day all-cause mortality occurred in 7% and 4% of matched patients with SBP <130 mm Hg versus ≥130 mm Hg, respectively (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.76; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.24 to 2.48; p = 0.001). HRs (95% CIs) for all-cause mortality, all-cause readmission, and HF readmission at 1 year, associated with SBP <130 mm Hg, were 1.32 (1.15 to 1.53; p < 0.001), 1.11 (1.01 to 1.23; p = 0.030), and 1.24 (1.09 to 1.42; p = 0.001), respectively. HRs (95% CIs) for 30-day and 1-year all-cause mortality associated with SBP 110 to 129 mm Hg (vs. ≥130 mm Hg) were 1.50 (1.03 to 2.19; p = 0.035), and 1.19 (1.02 to 1.39; p = 0.029), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Among hospitalized older patients with HFrEF, SBP <130 mm Hg is associated with poor outcomes. This association persisted when the analyses were repeated after excluding patients with SBP <110 mm Hg. There is an urgent need for randomized controlled trials to evaluate optimal SBP reduction goals in patients with HFrEF.

A risk score for predicting atrial fibrillation in individuals with preclinical diastolic dysfunction: a retrospective study in a single large urban center in the United States.

BACKGROUND: Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction has been shown to associate with increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). We aimed to examine the predictors of AF in individuals with preclinical diastolic dysfunction (PDD) - diastolic dysfunction without clinical heart failure - and develop a risk score in this population. METHODS: Patients underwent echocardiogram from December 2009 to December 2015 showing left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥ 50% and grade 1 diastolic dysfunction, without clinical heart failure, valvular heart disease or AF were included. Outcome was defined as new onset AF. Cumulative probabilities were estimated and multivariable adjusted competing-risks regression analysis was performed to examine predictors of incident AF. A predictive score model was constructed. RESULTS: A total of 9591 PDD patients (mean age 66, 41% men) of racial/ethnical diversity were included in the study. During a median follow-up of 54 months, 455 (4.7%) patients developed AF. Independent predictors of AF included advanced age, male sex, race, hypertension, diabetes, and peripheral artery disease. A risk score including these factors showed a Wolber's concordance index of 0.65 (0.63-0.68, p <  0.001), suggesting a good discrimination. CONCLUSIONS: Our study revealed a set of predictors of AF in PDD patients. A simple risk score predicting AF in PDD was developed and internally validated. The scoring system could help clinical risk stratification, which may lead to prevention and early treatment strategies.

Myocardial Scar But Not Ischemia Is Associated With Defibrillator Shocks and Sudden Cardiac Death in Stable Patients With Reduced Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction.

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to investigate the association of myocardial scar and ischemia with major arrhythmic events (MAEs) in patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤35%. BACKGROUND: Although myocardial scar is a known substrate for ventricular arrhythmias, the association of myocardial ischemia with ventricular arrhythmias in stable patients with left ventricular dysfunction is less clear. METHODS: A total of 439 consecutive patients (median age, 70 years; 78% male; 55% with implantable cardioverter defibrillator [ICD]) referred for stress/rest positron emission tomography (PET) and resting LVEF ≤35% were included. Primary outcome was time-to-first MAE defined as sudden cardiac death, resuscitated sudden cardiac death, or appropriate ICD shocks for ventricular tachyarrhythmias ascertained by blinded adjudication of hospital records, Social Security Administration's Death Masterfile, National Death Index, and ICD vendor databases. RESULTS: Ninety-one MAEs including 20 sudden cardiac deaths occurred in 75 (17%) patients during a median follow-up of 3.2 years. Transmural myocardial scar was strongly associated with MAEs beyond age, sex, cardiovascular risk factors, beta-blocker therapy, and resting LVEF (adjusted hazard ratio per 10% increase in scar, 1.48 [95% confidence interval: 1.22 to 1.80]; p < 0.001). However, non transmural scar/hibernation or markers of myocardial ischemia on PET including global or peri-infarct ischemia, coronary flow reserve, and resting or hyperemic myocardial blood flows were not associated with MAEs in univariable or multivariable analysis. These findings remained robust in subgroup analyses of patients with ICD (n = 223), with ischemic cardiomyopathy (n = 287), and in patients without revascularization after the PET scan (n = 365). CONCLUSIONS: Myocardial scar but not ischemia was associated with appropriate ICD shocks and sudden cardiac death in patients with LVEF ≤35%. These findings have implications for risk-stratification of patients with left ventricular dysfunction who may benefit from ICD therapy.