[Treatment of cardiogenic shock due to right ventricular involvement]. / Tratamiento del choque cardiogénico con compromiso ventricular derecho.

The right ventricle is susceptible to changes in preload, afterload, and contractility. The answer is its dilation with dysfunction/acute failure; filling is limited to the left ventricle and cardiac output. Systemic venous congestion is retrograde to the right heart, it is involved in the genesis of cardiogenic shock due to right ventricle involvement. This form of shock is less well known than that which occurs due to left ventricular failure, therefore, treatment may differ. Once the primary treatment has been carried out, since no response is obtained, supportive treatment aimed at ventricular pathophysiology will be the next option. It is suggested to evaluate the preload for the reasoned indication of liquids, diuretics or even ultrafiltration. Restore or maintain heart rate and sinus rhythm, treat symptomatic bradycardia, arrhythmias that make patients unstable, use of temporary pacing or cardioversion procedures. Improving contractility and vasomotility, using vasopressors and inotropes, alone or in combination, the objective will be to improve right coronary perfusion pressure. Balance the effect of drugs and maneuvers on preload and/or afterload, such as mechanical ventilation, atrial septostomy and pulmonary vasodilators. And the increasing utility of mechanical support of the circulation that has become a useful tool to preserve/restore right heart function.

El ventrículo derecho es susceptible a cambios en la precarga, poscarga y la contractilidad y la respuesta fisiopatológica es la dilatación con disfunción/falla aguda lo que limita el llenado del ventrículo izquierdo y el gasto cardiaco. La congestión venosa sistémica, está implicada en la génesis del choque cardiogénico con compromiso del ventrículo derecho. Esta forma de choque es menos conocida que la que sucede por falla ventricular izquierda, por ende, el tratamiento puede diferir. La primera línea de tratamiento son las medidas de soporte y en caso de no funcionar, el tratamiento dirigido a la fisiopatología ventricular será la siguiente opción. Se sugiere evaluar la precarga para la indicación razonada de líquidos, diuréticos o la ultrafiltración. Restaurar o mantener la frecuencia cardiaca y el ritmo sinusal, tratar la bradicardia sintomática, las arritmias que inestabilizan a los pacientes, el uso de marcapaso temporal o procedimientos de cardioversión. Mejorar la contractilidad y vasomotilidad a través del uso de vasopresores e inotrópicos, solos o combinados, el objetivo será mejorar la presión de perfusión coronaria derecha. Balancear el efecto de fármacos y maniobras en la precarga y/o poscarga, como la ventilación mecánica, septostomía atrial y vasodilatadores pulmonares. Y la creciente utilidad del soporte mecánico de la circulación que se ha convertido en una herramienta útil para preservar/restaurar la función cardiaca derecha.

[Six minute walk test: From normal to morbid obesity subject]. / Prueba de caminata de 6 minutos: del sujeto normal a la obesidad mórbida.

Introduction: Morbid obesity is associated with alterations in the ability to walk, however, the behavior of the 6-minute walk test in subjects with increases in body mass index is unknown. Objective: To describe the behavior of the 6-minute walk test in subjects with normal body mass index to morbid obesity. Methods: Through an analytical cross-sectional design, subjects of both genders from 18 to 60 years old with body mass index were studied: Normal (BMI:18.5-24.9); overweight (BMI:25-29.9); obesity (BMI:30-39.9); morbid obesity (BMI:>40) kg/m2. A 6-minute walk test was performed, demographic variables and pathological personal history were delimited. BMI categories were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni adjustment, and gender with t-test, both for independent groups, and Pearson's correlations for the various variables. Results: 480 subjects of both genders were studied in four groups. Age: men 43 ± 11 and women 45 ± 10 years old. Percentage diabetes mellitus (6.7%), arterial hypertension (18.3%). Meters walked men vs. women by body mass index (normal: 483 ± 56 vs. 449 ± 61; overweight: 471 ± 55 vs. 441 ± 44; obesity: 455 ± 70 vs. 421 ± 47; morbid obesity: 443 ± 49 vs. 403 ± 54, p < 0.05). Correlation body mass index-meters walked: r: -0.446 (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Meters walked in the 6-minute walk test decreased as body mass index increased. The male gender walked more meters in all categories.

Introducción: La obesidad mórbida se asocia a alteraciones de la capacidad de caminar, sin embargo se desconoce cómo es el comportamiento de la prueba de caminata de 6 minutos en sujetos con incrementos del índice de masa corporal (IMC). Objetivo: Describir el comportamiento de la prueba de caminata de 6 minutos en sujetos con IMC normal hasta la obesidad mórbida. Métodos: Mediante un diseño transversal analítico se estudiaron sujetos de ambos sexos de 18 a 60 años con IMC: normal (18.5-24.9 kg/m2), sobrepeso (25-29.9 kg/m2), obesidad (30-39.9 kg/m2), obesidad mórbida (> 40 kg/m2). Se les realizó prueba de caminata de 6 minutos, se acotaron variables demográficas y antecedentes personales patológicos. Se analizaron las categorías de IMC con ANOVA de una vía y ajuste de Bonferroni y los sexos con prueba t, ambos para grupos independientes y correlaciones de Pearson para las diversas variables. Una p < 0.05 fue considerada estadísticamente significativa. Resultados: Se estudiaron 480 sujetos de ambos sexos en cuatro grupos. Edad: hombres 43 ± 11 y mujeres 45 ± 10 años. Porcentaje diabetes mellitus (6.7%), hipertensión arterial (18.3%). Metros caminados hombres vs. mujeres por IMC (normal: 483 ± 56 vs. 449 ± 61; sobrepeso: 471 ± 55 vs. 441 ± 44; obesidad: 455 ± 70 vs. 421 ± 47; obesidad mórbida: 443 ± 49 vs. 403 ± 54; p < 0.05). Correlación IMC-metros caminados r: ­0.446 (p < 0.0001). Conclusiones: Los metros caminados en la prueba de caminata de 6 minutos disminuyeron conforme incrementó el IMC. El sexo masculino caminó más metros en todas las categorías.

Post-cardioversion time Course of Atrial Remodeling Markers and their Association with Recurrence in Subjects with Long-standing, Persistent Atrial Fibrillation.

BACKGROUND: Activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis with elevation of inflammatory markers and the resulting fibrosis play a very important role in atrial remodeling in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), which is associated with post-cardioversion recurrence. AIM OF THE STUDY: The purpose of the study was to describe the time course of angiotensin II (AngII), aldosterone, and of the amino terminal pro-peptide of type III pro-collagen (PIIINP) following cardioversion, and their association with arrhythmia recurrence. METHODS: Ninety-nine subjects with long-standing, persistent, non-valvular atrial fibrillation who underwent successful electrical cardioversion were included, with a 6 month follow up. Angiotensin II (AngII), aldosterone and PIIINP concentrations were measured at 0, 1, 7, 30, and 180 d. Two groups were formed for the analysis: continuing sinus rhythm and recurrence of AF. RESULTS: 53% of the subjects experienced recurrence of AF. Subjects with recurrence had larger left atrial diameters and lower global peak atrial longitudinal strain (8.7 vs. 19.7%; p <0.001), higher levels of AngII (431.85 vs. 257.97 pg/mL; p = 0.003) at 180 d, higher pre-cardioversion levels of aldosterone, (11.42 vs. 5.46 pg/mL; p = 0.048) at 1 d (12.01 vs. 5.05 pg/mL; p = 0.004) and at 180 d (12.66 vs. 7.51 pg/mL; p = 0.011). There were no differences in PIIINP levels between both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Electrical post-cardioversion recurrence in subjects with long-standing, persistent AF is associated with elevated levels of AngII and aldosterone.

["Follow up" strategy in the management of hospital stay]. / Estrategia de Follow up en la gestión de la estancia hospitalaria.

Background: In countries with emerging economies, the adequate and efficient management of resources is a priority, through strategies to reduce prolonged stay, increase the availability of beds, maximize profitability and reduce iatrogenic complications. Objective: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of the "Follow up" strategy (FU) on the main indicators of the hospitalization process. Material and methods: A cross-sectional, comparative study was developed to evaluate the impact of the FU strategy on the indicators: hospital admissions and discharges, average days of hospital stay (DEH), percentage of hospital occupancy (OH), bed substitution interval (ISC), bed turnover rate (CRI) and prolonged hospital stay (EHP). Results: The FU was associated with a reduction in DEH [5.7 (5.5-6.1) vs. 6.5 days (6.1-6.9), p = 0.01]; ISC [0.6 (0.4-0.8) vs. 1.2 (0.8-1.3), p = 0.01] and EHP [23.6 (21.6-24.7) vs. 26.3% (24.4-28.7), p = 0.02] compared to the control group, with an increase in existence [1436 (1381-1472) vs. 1347 patient days (1280-1402), p = 0.02], respectively. There was no significant difference in the number of admissions, discharges or in the IRC. Conclusions: The FU reduces the average number of days of hospital stay, the rate of bed substitution and prolonged stay.

Introducción: en los países con economías emergentes es prioritaria la gestión adecuada y eficiente de los recursos hospitalarios. Las estrategias de gestión pueden reducir la estancia prolongada, aumentar la disponibilidad de camas, maximizar la rentabilidad y reducir las complicaciones iatrogénicas. Objetivo: el propósito del estudio fue evaluar el efecto de la estrategia de Follow up (FU) en los principales indicadores del proceso de hospitalización. Material y métodos: se desarrolló un estudio transversal, comparativo, para evaluar el impacto de la estrategia de FU en los indicadores: ingresos y egresos hospitalarios, promedio de días de estancia hospitalaria (DEH), porcentaje de ocupación hospitalaria (OH), intervalo de sustitución de camas (ISC), índice de rotación de camas (IRC) y estancia hospitalaria prolongada (EHP). Resultados: la estrategia de FU se asoció con una reducción de los DEH [5.7 (5.5-6.1) frente a 6.5 días (6.1-6.9), p = 0.01]; ISC [0.6 (0.4-0.8) frente a 1.2 (0.8-1.3), p = 0.01] y EHP [23.6 (21.6-24.7) frente a 26.3% (24.4-28.7), p = 0.02] respecto al grupo control, con incremento de la existencia [1436 (1381-1472) frente a 1347 días paciente (1280-1402), p = 0.02], respectivamente. No hubo diferencia significativa en el número de ingresos, egresos ni en el IRC. Conclusiones: la estrategia de FU disminuyó el promedio de días de estancia hospitalaria, el índice de sustitución de camas y la estancia prolongada.

[Characterization of gas exchange parameters in Mexico City]. / Caracterización de parámetros del intercambio gaseoso en la Ciudad de México.

Background: At high altitude the gas exchange is impaired, in the moderate altitude of Mexico City they are not yet defined. Objective: To characterize the gas exchange in the moderate altitude of Mexico City. Material and methods: Through an analytical cross-sectional study, subjects born and inhabitants of Mexico City, both genders, aged 20 to 59 years without cardiopulmonary disease, were studied. Their demographic variables, simple spirometry and arterial blood gas were recorded. Differences in variables were calculated with one-way ANOVA for independent groups and Bonferroni adjustment. p < 0.05 was accepted as significant. Results: 335 subjects were studied, 168 (50.15%) men. Group age 45 ± 11 years old, body mass index 22.97 ± 1.54 Kg/m2. Forced expiratory volume ratio in the first second / Forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) 91.58 ± 12.86%. The arterial oxygen pressure was: 66 ± 5.02 mmHg, carbon dioxide: 32.07 ± 2.66 mmHg, arterial oxygen saturation: 93.0 3 ± 1.80%, and hemoglobin: 14.07 ± 1.52 gr/dL. Conclusions: The arterial oxygen pressure and carbon dioxide are lowered at the Mexico City altitude.

Introducción: en las grandes altitudes, el intercambio gaseoso suele estar deteriorado; en la altitud moderada de la Ciudad de México esto no está aún plenamente definido. Objetivo: caracterizar el intercambio gaseoso en la altitud moderada de la Ciudad de México. Material y métodos: mediante un estudio transversal analítico se estudiaron sujetos nacidos y habitantes de la Ciudad de México, de ambos géneros, con edades de 20 a 59 años sin enfermedad cardiopulmonar. Se registraron sus variables demográficas, espirometría simple y de gasometría arterial. Las diferencias en las variables se calcularon con ANOVA de una vía para grupos independientes y ajuste de Bonferroni. Una p < 0.05 se aceptó como significativa. Resultados: se estudiaron 335 sujetos, de los cuales 168 (50.15%) fueron hombres, la edad grupal fue de 45 ± 11 años, con índice de masa corporal 22.97 ± 1.54 Kg/m2. La relación volumen espiratorio forzado en el primer segundo/ Capacidad vital forzada (VEF1/CVF) de 91.58 ± 12.86%. La presión arterial de oxígeno fue de 66 ± 5.02 mmHg, el bióxido de carbono: 32.07 ± 2.66 mmHg, la saturación arterial de oxígeno: 93.03 ± 1.80% y la hemoglobina: 14.07 ± 1.52 gr/dL. Conclusiones: la presión arterial de oxígeno y del bióxido de carbono están disminuidos a la altura de la Ciudad de México.

Caracterización de parámetros del intercambio gaseoso en la Ciudad de México / Characterization of gas exchange parameters in Mexico City

Introducción: en las grandes altitudes, el intercambio gaseoso suele estar deteriorado; en la altitud moderada de la Ciudad de México esto no está aún plenamente definido. Objetivo: caracterizar el intercambio gaseoso en la altitud moderada de la Ciudad de México. Material y métodos: mediante un estudio transversal analítico se estudiaron sujetos nacidos y habitantes de la Ciudad de México, de ambos géneros, con edades de 20 a 59 años sin enfermedad cardiopulmonar. Se registraron sus variables demográficas, espirometría simple y de gasometría arterial. Las diferencias en las variables se calcularon con ANOVA de una vía para grupos independientes y ajuste de Bonferroni. Una p < 0.05 se aceptó como significativa. Resultados: se estudiaron 335 sujetos, de los cuales 168 (50.15%) fueron hombres, la edad grupal fue de 45 ± 11 años, con índice de masa corporal 22.97 ± 1.54 Kg/m2. La relación volumen espiratorio forzado en el primer segundo/Capacidad vital forzada (VEF1/CVF) de 91.58 ± 12.86%. La presión arterial de oxígeno fue de 66 ± 5.02 mmHg, el bióxido de carbono: 32.07 ± 2.66 mmHg, la saturación arterial de oxígeno: 93.03 ± 1.80% y la hemoglobina: 14.07 ± 1.52 gr/dL. Conclusiones: la presión arterial de oxígeno y del bióxido de carbono están disminuidos a la altura de la Ciudad de México.

Background: At high altitude the gas exchange is impaired, in the moderate altitude of Mexico City they are not yet defined. Objective: To characterize the gas exchange in the moderate altitude of Mexico City. Material and methods: Through an analytical cross-sectional study, subjects born and inhabitants of Mexico City, both genders, aged 20 to 59 years without cardiopulmonary disease, were studied. Their demographic variables, simple spirometry and arterial blood gas were recorded. Differences in variables were calculated with one-way ANOVA for independent groups and Bonferroni adjustment. p < 0.05 was accepted as significant. Results: 335 subjects were studied, 168 (50.15%) men. Group age 45 ± 11 years old, body mass index 22.97 ± 1.54 Kg/m2. Forced expiratory volume ratio in the first second / Forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) 91.58 ± 12.86%. The arterial oxygen pressure was: 66 ± 5.02 mmHg, carbon dioxide: 32.07 ± 2.66 mmHg, arterial oxygen saturation: 93.0 3 ± 1.80%, and hemoglobin: 14.07 ± 1.52 gr/dL. Conclusions: The arterial oxygen pressure and carbon dioxide are lowered at the Mexico City altitude.

Left atrial longitudinal strain by speckle tracking as independent predictor of recurrence after electrical cardioversion in persistent and long standing persistent non-valvular atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in humans. After successful cardioversion, there is a recurrence of 60% due to atrial remodeling, and it has been shown that the global peak atrial longitudinal strain (GPALS) is decreased in these subjects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of GPALS for AF recurrence. A prospective cohort of patients with persistent (PnVAF) and long standing persistent non-valvular AF (LSPnVAF) which underwent electrical cardioversion was evaluated with standard echocardiographic variables and GPALS quantification. The primary endpoint was AF recurrence at 6 months. We included PnVAF (n = 50, aged 68.4 ± 10.2 years, female 46%, lasted AF 6 months) and LSPnVAF (n = 81, aged 66.5 ± 13.1 years, female 36%, lasted AF 18 months). At 6 months there were a 68% of recurrence of AF in PnVAF and 53% in LSPnVAF group. GPALS was lower in recurrence 7.8 ± 2.0% versus 21.2 ± 8.9% (p < 0.001) for PnVAF and 7.3 ± 2.7% versus 20.7 ± 7.6% (p < 0.001) in LSPnVAF. GPALS ≤ 10.75% discriminates recurrence at 6 months with a sensitivity of 85%, specificity 99%, PPV 85%, NPV 90%, LR + 8.5 and LR- 0.17. The independent predictors of recurrence in PnVAF were GPALS ≤ 10.75% HR 8.89 [(2.2-35.7), p < 0.01] meanwhile in LSPnVAF were age HR 1.039 [(1.007-1.071), p = 0.01], and GPALS ≤ 10.75% HR 28.1 [(7.2-109.1), p < 0.001]. In subjects with PnVAF and LSPnVAF with successful electrical cardioversion, GPALS ≤ 10.75% predicts arrhythmia recurrence at 6-month follow-up.

[Pulmonary arterial hypertension from the risk assessment to combined treatment]. / Hipertensión arterial pulmonar desde la evaluación del riesgo al tratamiento combinado.

This paper shows the importance of the guideline clinical practice as well as the centers for comprehensive care of pulmonary arterial hypertension. The current treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension is analyzed according to its severity, stratified through the evaluation of the multiple parameters of risk and its mortality to 1 year. The prognosis of the disease is considered and the place of the combined treatment indicated in sequential manner or from the beginning.

En este trabajo se señala la importancia de las guías de actuación clínica, así como de los centros de atención integral de la hipertensión arterial pulmonar. Se analiza el tratamiento actual de la hipertensión arterial pulmonar de acuerdo a su severidad, estratificado a través de la evaluación de parámetros múltiples de riesgo y su mortalidad a 1 año. Además, se considera el pronóstico de la enfermedad y el lugar que tiene el tratamiento combinado indicado en forma secuencial o desde un inicio.

[Pulmonary thromboembolism: Recent experience of 4 years at a cardiology hospital]. / Tromboembolismo pulmonar: experiencia reciente de 4 años en un hospital de cardiología.

It comprised a series of cases over a period of 4 years, held at the Hospital of Cardiology of the Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, IMSS. From 2008 to 2011, admitted to Emergency 184 patients with suspected pulmonary embolism, of which 41 were removed; of the 143 remaining cases, only 127 patients was diagnosed with PE. The other 16 patients had other diagnoses. In 86% of patients showed electrocardiographic pattern S1Q3T3 and 39% had RBBB, in 17 (13.3%) patients there was hemodynamic instability, and in 94.4% showed enlargement of the right chambers by echocardiography, 55.9% showed paradoxical septal motion, PASP was 66.2+22.8 mm Hg and in 43.3% the Mc Connell sign was positive. A total of 48 patients (37.7%) received thrombolysis, the remaining patients received conventional medical treatment with anticoagulation. Overall mortality was 14%.

Se trata de una serie de casos comprendida en un periodo de 4 años, realizada en el Hospital de Cardiología del Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI del IMSS. Del año 2008 al 2011, se ingresaron al servicio de Urgencias 184 pacientes con sospecha de tromboembolismo pulmonar (TEP), de los cuales se eliminaron 41; de los 143 casos restantes, solo a 127 pacientes se les diagnosticó TEP, los 16 pacientes restantes presentaron otros diagnósticos. En el 86% de los casos se demostró patrón electrocardiográfico S1Q3T3, y en 39% BRDHH. En 17 pacientes existió inestabilidad hemodinámica; en el 94.4% se demostró dilatación de cavidades derechas por ecocardiografía, en 55.9% se demostró movimiento septal paradójico, la PSAP fue de 66.2+22.8 mm Hg y en 43.3% el signo de Mc Connell fue positivo. A un total de 48 pacientes se les administró trombólisis, mientras que el resto de los pacientes recibió tratamiento médico convencional con anticoagulación. La mortalidad global fue del 14%.

Oxidative Stress State Is Associated with Left Ventricular Mechanics Changes, Measured by Speckle Tracking in Essential Hypertensive Patients.

The oxidative stress state is characterized by an increase in oxygen reactive species that overwhelms the antioxidant defense; we do not know if these pathological changes are correlated with alterations in left ventricular mechanics. The aim was correlating the oxidative stress state with the left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS) and the left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP). Twenty-five patients with essential hypertension and 25 controls paired by age and gender were studied. All of the participants were subjected to echocardiography and biochemical determination of oxidative stress markers. The hypertensive patients, compared with control subjects, had significantly (p < 0.05) higher levels of oxidized proteins (5.03 ± 1.05 versus 4.06 ± 0.63 nmol/mg), lower levels of extracellular superoxide dismutase (EC-SOD) activity (0.045 ± 0.02 versus 0.082 ± 0.02 U/mg), higher LVEDP (16.2 ± 4.5 versus 11.3 ± 1.6 mm Hg), and lower GLS (-12% versus -16%). Both groups had preserved ejection fraction and the results showed a positive correlation of oxidized proteins with GLS (r = 0.386, p = 0.006) and LVEDP (r = 0.389, p = 0.005); we also found a negative correlation of EC-SOD activity with GLS (r = -0.404, p = 0.004) and LVEDP (r = -0.347, p = 0.014).

Concordancia entre la gasometría arterial y venosa central en sujetos postoperados de cirugía de revascularización miocárdica en condición estable / Concordance between central venous and arterial blood gases in post-surgical myocardial revascularization patients in stable condition

Objetivo: La concordancia entre los parámetros de la gasometría arterial y venosa central no se ha definido aún, por lo cual estudiamos la concordancia entre ambas en sujetos postoperados de cirugía de revascularización miocárdica en condición estable. Métodos: Se estudiaron sujetos de manera consecutiva con un diseño transversal. Se les determinó la posición del catéter venoso central y al mismo tiempo se obtuvo la muestra arterial y venosa central previa a su egreso de la terapia intensiva. Los datos se expresaron según el método estadístico de Bland-Altman y al coeficiente de correlación intraclase. El resultado estadístico aceptó una p < 0.05. Resultados: Se estudiaron 206 muestras de 103 sujetos postoperados, el pH y el lactato tuvieron una diferencia media (límites de acuerdo) de 0.029 ± 0.048 (−0.018, 0.077) y −0.12 ± 0.22 (−0.57, 0.33) respectivamente; la magnitud del coeficiente de correlación intraclase respectiva fue de 0.904 y 0.943; las relativas a la presión de oxígeno 27.86 ± 6.08 (15.9, 39.8) y la saturación de oxígeno 33.02 ± 6.13 (21, 45), magnitud 0.258 y 0.418. Conclusión: Los parámetros con mejor concordancia arterial y venosa central fueron el pH y el lactato.

Objective: The concordance between the parameters of arterial and central venous blood gases has not been defined yet. We studied the concordance between both parameters in post-surgical myocardial revascularization patients in stable condition. Methods: Consecutive subjects were studied in a cross-sectional design. The position of the central venous catheter was performed and simultaneously we obtained arterial and central venous blood samples prior to discharge from the intensive care unit. Data are expressed according to Bland-Altman statistical method and the intraclass correlation coefficient. Statistical result was accepted at P < .05. Results: Two hundred and six samples were studied of 103 post-surgical patients, pH and lactate had a mean difference (limits of agreement) 0.029 ± 0.048 (−0018, 0.077) and −0.12 ± 0.22 (−0.57, 0.33) respectively. The magnitude of the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.904 and 0.943 respectively. The values related to oxygen pressure were 27.86 ± 6.08 (15.9, 39.8) and oxygen saturation 33.02 ± 6.13 (21, 45), with magnitude of 0.258 and 0.418 respectively. Conclusion: The best matching parameters between arterial and central venous blood samples were pH and lactate.

Utilidad clínica del iloprost inhalado en la hipertensión arterial pulmonar / Clinical utility of inhaled iloprost in pulmonary arterial hypertension

El iloprost inhalado es un fármaco del grupo de las prostaciclinas utilizado en el tratamiento de la hipertensión arterial pulmonar. La eficacia y seguridad de su administración han permitido su uso como monoterapia y en terapia combinada. En esta revisión se describen las características del medicamento, los grupos susceptibles de tratamiento y la evidencia clínica actualizada del uso del fármaco.

Inhaled iloprost is a drug from the group of prostacyclins used in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Its efficacy and safety have allowed its use as monotherapy and combination therapy. This review describes the product characteristics, amenable to treatment groups, and updated clinical evidence of drug use.

[Concordance between central venous and arterial blood gases in post-surgical myocardial revascularization patients in stable condition]. / Concordancia entre la gasometría arterial y venosa central en sujetos postoperados de cirugía de revascularización miocárdica en condición estable.

OBJECTIVE: The concordance between the parameters of arterial and central venous blood gases has not been defined yet. We studied the concordance between both parameters in post-surgical myocardial revascularization patients in stable condition. METHODS: Consecutive subjects were studied in a cross-sectional design. The position of the central venous catheter was performed and simultaneously we obtained arterial and central venous blood samples prior to discharge from the intensive care unit. Data are expressed according to Bland-Altman statistical method and the intraclass correlation coefficient. Statistical result was accepted at P<.05. RESULTS: Two hundred and six samples were studied of 103 post-surgical patients, pH and lactate had a mean difference (limits of agreement) 0.029±0.048 (-0018, 0.077) and -0.12±0.22 (-0.57, 0.33) respectively. The magnitude of the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.904 and 0.943 respectively. The values related to oxygen pressure were 27.86±6.08 (15.9, 39.8) and oxygen saturation 33.02±6.13 (21, 45), with magnitude of 0.258 and 0.418 respectively. CONCLUSION: The best matching parameters between arterial and central venous blood samples were pH and lactate.

[Clinical utility of inhaled iloprost in pulmonary arterial hypertension]. / Utilidad clínica del iloprost inhalado en la hipertensión arterial pulmonar.

Inhaled iloprost is a drug from the group of prostacyclins used in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Its efficacy and safety have allowed its use as monotherapy and combination therapy. This review describes the product characteristics, amenable to treatment groups, and updated clinical evidence of drug use.

[The evaluation and treatment of a patient with atrial fibrillation]. / Fibrilación auricular. . Evaluación y tratamiento.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in humans. The treatment can be one of the most difficult. It's true that AF itself it's a no-lethal arrhythmia but is often a cause of symptoms that can lead the patient to worsening in his quality of life thet predispose to serious conditions like thromboembolic events and heart failure. There is a general agreement in the benefit of antithrombotic therapy and the need of control of comorbid conditions, but there is not an ideal treatment for AF and the choice for the best treatment is based on the individual differences of each patient. Physician and patient must be aware of the risks and possible complications as well as the options in antiarrhythmic and antithrombotic drugs available in order to choose the best for each patient. We must get the message across that AF patients show a dynamic curse of the disease so reevaluation of the individual risk and response to therapy should be made.

Ipact of bezafibrate treatment in patients with hyperfibrinogenemia and ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Hyperfibrinogenemia is a predictor of cardiovascular events in healthy subjects and in patients with chronic ischemic heart disease. Bezafibrate decreases fibrinogen levels and also the incidence of major cardiovascular events in primary prevention, but its effects in acute coronary syndrome are unknown. METHODS: This is a randomized, controlled clinical trial with conventional therapy. We included patients with Acute ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEAMI) and fibrinogen concentration >500 mg/dl at 72 h of evolution. We randomized subjects into two groups: bezafibrate 400 mg (group I) and conventional therapy (group II). Primary end point was decrease of fibrinogen concentrations. Secondary end points were recurrence of angina or infarction, left ventricular failure and combined end points during hospitalization. RESULTS: We included 25 patients in each group. Fibrinogen concentrations were lower at hospital discharge in Group I than in Group II (532.42 +/- 129.6 vs. 889 +/- 127.32 mg/dl in group II, p <0.0001). Secondary end points were more frequent in Group II than in Group I: angina (56% vs. 4%, RR 0.071 [0.010-0.503], p <0.0001), left ventricular failure (24% vs. 4%, RR 0.167 [0.022-1.286], p = 0.049) and combined end points (76% vs. 8%, RR 0.105 [0.027-0.405], p <0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Bezafibrate treatment was a safe treatment and reduced fibrinogen levels in patients with STEAMI and hyperfibrinogenemia. In the short term, this reduction was associated with a lower incidence of major cardiovascular events.

Impacto del tratamiento con bezafibrato en pacientes con hiperfibrinogenemia e infarto agudo del miocardio con elevación del ST / Impact of bezafibrate treatment in patients with hyperfibrinogenemia and ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction: a randomized clinical trial

Introducción: La hiperfibrinogenemia se considera predictora de eventos cardiovasculares en sujetos sanos y pacientes con cardiopatía isquémica. Como medida de prevención primaria, el bezafibrato disminuye el fibrinógeno sanguíneo y los eventos cardiovasculares, pero su efecto en el síndrome coronario agudo aún no se conoce. Material y métodos: Ensayo clínico, aleatorizado, controlado con tratamiento convencional. Se incluyeron pacientes con infarto agudo del miocardio con elevación del segmento ST y concentraciones de fibrinógeno > 500 mg/dl a las 72 horas de evolución. Se asignaron a recibir 400 mg de bezafibrato (grupo I) o tratamiento convencional (grupo II). Punto primario de evaluación: concentraciones de fibrinógeno; puntos secundarios: recurrencia de angina o infarto, falla ventricular izquierda y puntos finales combinados durante la estancia hospitalaria. Resultados: Se incluyeron 25 pacientes por grupo. Las concentraciones de fibrinógeno al egreso hospitalario fueron significativamente menores en el grupo I (532.42 ± 129.6 versus 889 ± 127.32 mg/dl del grupo II, p < 0.0001). Los puntos secundarios se presentaron con mayor frecuencia en el grupo II que en el grupo I: angina (56 versus 4%, riesgo relativo 0.071 [0.010-0.503], p < 0.0001), falla ventricular (24 versus 4%, riesgo relativo 0.167 [0.022-1.286], p = 0.049) y puntos finales combinados (76 versus 8%, riesgo relativo 0.105 [0.027- 0.405], p < 0.001). Conclusiones: El tratamiento con bezafibrato fue seguro y logró reducir el fibrinógeno en pacientes con infarto agudo. Esta reducción se asoció con menor frecuencia de eventos cardiovasculares a corto plazo.

BACKGROUND: Hyperfibrinogenemia is a predictor of cardiovascular events in healthy subjects and in patients with chronic ischemic heart disease. Bezafibrate decreases fibrinogen levels and also the incidence of major cardiovascular events in primary prevention, but its effects in acute coronary syndrome are unknown. METHODS: This is a randomized, controlled clinical trial with conventional therapy. We included patients with Acute ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEAMI) and fibrinogen concentration >500 mg/dl at 72 h of evolution. We randomized subjects into two groups: bezafibrate 400 mg (group I) and conventional therapy (group II). Primary end point was decrease of fibrinogen concentrations. Secondary end points were recurrence of angina or infarction, left ventricular failure and combined end points during hospitalization. RESULTS: We included 25 patients in each group. Fibrinogen concentrations were lower at hospital discharge in Group I than in Group II (532.42 +/- 129.6 vs. 889 +/- 127.32 mg/dl in group II, p <0.0001). Secondary end points were more frequent in Group II than in Group I: angina (56% vs. 4%, RR 0.071 [0.010-0.503], p <0.0001), left ventricular failure (24% vs. 4%, RR 0.167 [0.022-1.286], p = 0.049) and combined end points (76% vs. 8%, RR 0.105 [0.027-0.405], p <0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Bezafibrate treatment was a safe treatment and reduced fibrinogen levels in patients with STEAMI and hyperfibrinogenemia. In the short term, this reduction was associated with a lower incidence of major cardiovascular events.

Non-ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction secondary to antiphospholipid antibody syndrome in an adolescent female.

BACKGROUND: antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) is characterized by the association among arterial or venous thrombosis, recurrent pregnancy loss, thrombocytopenia and the presence of circulating antiphospholipid antibodies. Antiphospholipid antibody-related thrombosis seems to constitute a significant proportion of childhood thrombosis. We present the case of an adolescent female with non-ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction secondary to APS. CLINICAL CASE: we present the case of a 14-year old female with a history of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura whose symptomatology initiated with oppressive chest pain, dyspnea, diaphoresis and nausea. During the physical exam she had tachycardia, accentuation of the second heart sound, a mesosystolic murmur in the pulmonary focus and pulmonary rales. Electrocardiogram showed ST-segment depression in anterior and lateral wall and positive enzymatic curve for infarction. Clinical study reported anterolateral and apical infarction, ostium secundum atrial septal defect and APS. CONCLUSIONS: many studies have demonstrated the diversity of clinical features associated with APS in children and teenagers including deep venous thrombosis, stroke, digital ischemia, pulmonary vasoocclusive disease and, more rarely, acute myocardial infarction. In pediatric patients with acute myocardial infarction we must consider the possibility of APS even though coronary thrombotic occlusion is one of the rarest manifestations.