A rapid review of telehealth in women with recent de novo hypertensive disease of pregnancy.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy pose significant risks to both maternal and fetal health. Postpartum hypertension, a common complication, often leads to emergency room (ER) visits or hospital readmissions. Despite the prevalence of these complications, there is a paucity of studies that focus on blood pressure monitoring in postpartum patients with de novo hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. This review aimed to address the gap by evaluating available evidence to compare telehealth monitoring with in-person visits in preventing ER visits and hospital readmissions among postpartum patients with de novo hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. The study identified relevant studies by conducting a rigorous search strategy (Medline/OVID, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, and research registries such as the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform [ICTRP] and clinical trials) directed by the clinical information specialist. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts, resolving discrepancies with the assistance of a third reviewer. Data extraction followed standardized protocols, and risk of bias assessments were conducted using appropriate tools. This rapid review synthesized evidence from 11 studies on telehealth for women with recent de novo hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Findings highlighted that telemonitoring led to earlier blood pressure documentation and intervention, reduced disparities in blood pressure measurement, decreased hypertension-related readmissions, higher rates of postpartum antihypertensive treatment initiation, and increased patient satisfaction. Telehealth emerges as a promising tool for managing postpartum hypertension among women with recent de novo hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

Olanzapine-induced cardiomyopathy: A mimicker of obesity cardiomyopathy?

Olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic medication, has gained prominence in the treatment of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders due to its effectiveness and perceived safety profile. However, emerging evidence suggests a potential link between olanzapine use and adverse cardiovascular effects, including cardiomyopathy. This narrative review explores the mechanisms, clinical implications, and management strategies associated with olanzapine-induced cardiomyopathy. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted to investigate the relationship between olanzapine and cardiomyopathy. The search included epidemiological studies, clinical case reports, and mechanistic research focusing on the pathophysiology of olanzapine-induced cardiomyopathy. The review also examined treatment strategies for managing this potential complication. Olanzapine-induced cardiomyopathy is hypothesized to be associated with metabolic disturbances and receptor antagonism. The metabolic effects of olanzapine, such as weight gain, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia, share similarities with obesity-related cardiomyopathy. Additionally, olanzapine's antagonism of certain receptors may contribute to cardiovascular stress. The review highlighted that patients with new-onset heart failure and significant weight gain while on olanzapine should be closely monitored for signs of cardiomyopathy. Early detection and prompt withdrawal of olanzapine, along with initiation of goal-directed medical therapy, are crucial for mitigating this potentially life-threatening condition. The relationship between olanzapine and cardiomyopathy is complex and not yet fully understood. However, the potential for significant cardiovascular risk necessitates vigilance among healthcare providers. Early identification and management of olanzapine-induced cardiomyopathy can improve patient outcomes. Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms behind this adverse effect and to develop optimized treatment strategies for patients requiring antipsychotic therapy.

Reduced left atrial strain and risk of ischemic stroke in patients with normal sinus rhythm: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION: Abnormalities in the left atrium have been linked to a higher risk of ischemic cerebrovascular events. Left atrial (LA) strain analysis can identify LA dysfunction, even in patients with normal LA volumes. However, the precise association between LA strain and the occurrence of ischemic stroke in individuals who are in normal sinus rhythm (NSR) is not well established. Hypothesis: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the relationship between reduced LA strain and the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with NSR. METHODS: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central for studies that examined our clinical question. Two reviewers independently performed study selection, data extraction, and assessment of bias. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4.1. Heterogeneity was assessed with I2 statistics. We calculated pooled multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) under a random effects model. RESULTS: We included 8,632 patients from 4 cohort studies, of which 3 were prospective. The mean follow-up ranged from 2.5 years to 10.9 years. The mean age ranged from 68.8 to 75.2 years. All results were obtained through multivariable-adjusted analysis, which includes adjusting for LA size and occurrence of new-onset atrial fibrillation during follow-up. The incidence of ischemic stroke was significantly increased in patients with reduced reservoir strain (HR 1.53; 95% CI 1.09-2.15; p=0.01; Figure 1) and conduit strain (HR 1.39; 95% CI 1.16-1.59; p < 0.001). Reduced contractile strain was not predictive of stroke incidence (HR 1.94; 95% CI 0.96-3.93; p=0.07). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate an independent association of reduced LA strain with an increased incidence of ischemic stroke in patients without a previous history of atrial fibrillation. Future studies are warranted to evaluate the role of LA strain as part of a comprehensive risk stratification for stroke.