Optimización de la protección en radiología y cardiología intervencionista pediatrica en América Latina y el Caribe (OPRIPALC) / Optimization of protection in pediatric interventional cardiology and radiology in Latin America and the Caribbean (OPRIPALC)

El objetivo del presente artículo ha sido describir el programa "Optimización de la Protección en Radiología Intervencionista Pediátrica en América Latina y el Caribe" (OPRIPALC) que nace el año 2018 como respuesta conjunta de la Organización Panamericana de la Salud y la Organización Mundial de la Salud, en cooperación con el Organismo Internacional de Energía Atómica, para colaborar con sus Estados miembros en asegurar que las exposiciones a la radiación de los pacientes pediátricos sean las mínimas necesarias durante los procedimientos intervencionistas. Actualmente, hay 18 centros de los siguientes 10 países que participan: Argentina, Brasil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, México, Perú y Uruguay. Para el desarrollo del programa se plantean una serie de objetivos, productos, actividades y resultados esperados. La puesta en marcha de la WEB de OPRIPALC ha significado un instrumento muy válido para seguir la información actualizada del programa. Un programa actualizado de formación en radioprotección para los profesionales implicados en el programa, se está realizando por medio de "webinars". Se deberá seguir actuando en la aplicación del programa de control de calidad básico para los equipos de rayos X participantes y validar los valores de los Niveles de Referencia para Diagnóstico (NRDs). Se propone formar un equipo de trabajo entre los Físicos Médicos y Tecnólogos Médicos participantes de OPRIPALC para implicarse en las pruebas de control básicas que todos los centros debieran realizar. Se han presentado algunos resultados iniciales de OPRIPALC en eventos científicos internacionales. Se está avanzando en proponer unos primeros valores sobre NRDs en procedimientos de intervencionismo cardiológico pediátrico por bandas de edad y peso. OPRIPALC es una de las pocas iniciativas de carácter regional para obtener valores de NRDs en procedimientos intervencionistas pediátricos. Se espera que tanto los valores de referencia como la metodología empleada en OPRIPALC, puedan ser utilizados en otras regiones del mundo.

The objective of this article has been to describe the program "Optimization of Protection in Pediatric Interventional Radiology in Latin America and the Caribbean" (OPRIPALC) that was born in 2018 as a joint response of the Pan American Health Organization and the World Organization of the Health, in cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency, to collaborate with its member states in ensuring that radiation exposures of pediatric patients are the minimum necessary during interventional procedures. Currently, there are 18 centers from the following 10 countries participating: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru and Uruguay. For the development of the program, a series of objectives, products, activities and expected results are proposed. The launch of the OPRIPALC WEBSITE has been a very valid instrument for following up-to-date information on the program. An updated training program in radiation protection for the professionals involved in the program is being carried out through webinars. It should continue acting in the application of the basic quality control program for the participating X-ray equipment and validate the values of the Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs). It is proposed to form a work team among the OPRIPALC participating medical physicists to get involved in the basic control tests that all centers should carry out. Some initial results of OPRIPALC have been presented at international scientific events. Progress is being made in proposing first values on DRLs in pediatric cardiac intervention procedures by age and weight bands. OPRIPALC is one of the few regional initiatives to obtain DRLs values in pediatric interventional procedures. It is expected that both the reference values and the methodology used in OPRIPALC can be used in other regions of the world.

Uso de la ivrabadina para el tratamiento de la taquicardia ectópica de la unión congénita / Use of ivabradine for the treatment of congenital junctional ectopic tachycardia

Resumen La taquicardia ectópica de la unión en su variante congénita es una taquiarritmia pediátrica poco frecuente, que por su naturaleza incesante y su refractariedad a los agentes farmacológicos tradicio nales lleva asociada una alta morbimortalidad. Se presentan los casos clínicos de dos pacientes pediátricos con diagnóstico de taquicardia ectópica de la unión congénita, que mostraron respuesta inadecuada a las alternativas de tratamiento habituales y que, en consecuencia, desarrollaron miocardiopatía dilatada y disfunción ventricular secundaria a la taquicardia sostenida. En ambos se utilizó ivabradina como alternativa farmacológica innovadora pare el control de ésta con excelente respuesta clínica.

Abstract The congenial form of junctional ectopic tachycardia is a rare variant of pediatric tachyarrhythmia that due to its incessant nature and its refractoriness to the traditionally used antiarrhythmic agents has a high morbimortality The clinical cases of two patients with a diagnosis of congenital junctional ectopic tachycardia with inadequate response to the regular pharmacological options, who developed dilated cardiomyopathy and ventricular dysfunc tion secondary to sustained tachycardia, are presented. In both ivrabadine, a new innovative option was used with excellent clinical response.

[Use of ivabradine for the treatment of congenital junctional ectopic tachycardia]. / Uso de la ivrabadina para el tratamiento de la taquicardia ectópica de la unión congénita.

The congenial form of junctional ectopic tachycardia is a rare variant of pediatric tachyarrhythmia that due to its incessant nature and its refractoriness to the traditionally used antiarrhythmic agents has a high morbimortality The clinical cases of two patients with a diagnosis of congenital junctional ectopic tachycardia with inadequate response to the regular pharmacological options, who developed dilated cardiomyopathy and ventricular dysfunction secondary to sustained tachycardia, are presented. In both ivrabadine, a new innovative option was used with excellent clinical response.

La taquicardia ectópica de la unión en su variante congénita es una taquiarritmia pediátrica poco frecuente, que por su naturaleza incesante y su refractariedad a los agentes farmacológicos tradicionales lleva asociada una alta morbimortalidad. Se presentan los casos clínicos de dos pacientes pediátricos con diagnóstico de taquicardia ectópica de la unión congénita, que mostraron respuesta inadecuada a las alternativas de tratamiento habituales y que, en consecuencia, desarrollaron miocardiopatía dilatada y disfunción ventricular secundaria a la taquicardia sostenida. En ambos se utilizó ivabradina como alternativa farmacológica innovadora pare el control de ésta con excelente respuesta clínica.

Changes in Body Size during Early Growth Are Independently Associated with Arterial Properties in Early Childhood.

Nutritional status in early life stages has been associated with arterial parameters in childhood. However, it is still controversial whether changes in standardized body weight (z-BW), height (z-BH), BW for height (z-BWH) and/or body mass index (z-BMI) in the first three years of life are independently associated with variations in arterial structure, stiffness and hemodynamics in early childhood. In addition, it is unknown if the strength of the associations vary depending on the growth period, nutritional characteristics and/or arterial parameters analyzed. AIMS: First, to compare the strength of association between body size changes (Δz-BW, Δz-BH, Δz-BWH, Δz-BMI) in different time intervals (growth periods: 0-6, 0-12, 0-24, 0-36, 12-24, 12-36, 24-36 months (m)) and variations in arterial structure, stiffness and hemodynamics at age 6 years. Second, to determine whether the associations depend on exposure to cardiovascular risk factors, body size at birth and/or on body size at the time of the evaluation (cofactors). Anthropometric (at birth, 6, 12, 24, 36 m and at age 6 years), hemodynamic (peripheral and central (aortic)) and arterial (elastic (carotid) and muscular (femoral) arteries; both hemi-bodies) parameters were assessed in a child cohort (6 years; n =632). The association between arterial parameters and body size changes (Δz-BW, Δz-BH, Δz-BWH, Δz-BMI) in the different growth periods was compared, before and after adjustment by cofactors. RESULTS: Δz-BW 0-24 m and Δz-BWH 0-24 m allowed us to explain inter-individual variations in structural arterial properties at age 6 years, with independence of cofactors. When the third year of life was included in the analysis (0-36, 12-36, 24-36 m), Δz-BW explained hemodynamic (peripheral and central) variations at age 6 years. Δz-BH and Δz-BMI showed limited associations with arterial properties. CONCLUSION: Δz-BW and Δz-BWH are the anthropometric variables with the greatest association with arterial structure and hemodynamics in early childhood, with independence of cofactors.

Stroke volume and cardiac output non-invasive monitoring based on brachial oscillometry-derived pulse contour analysis: Explanatory variables and reference intervals throughout life (3-88 years).

BACKGROUND: Non-invasive assessment of stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO) and cardiac index (CI) has shown to be useful for the evaluation, diagnosis and/or management of different clinical conditions. Through pulse contour analysis (PCA) cuff­based oscillometric devices would enable obtaining ambulatory operator-independent non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring. There are no reference intervals (RIs), when considered as a continuum in childhood, adolescence and adult life, for PCA-derived SV [SV(PCA)], CO [CO(PCA)] and CI [CI(PCA)]. The aim of the study were to analyze the associations of SV(PCA), CO(PCA) and CI(PCA) with demographic, anthropometric, cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) and hemodynamic parameters, and to define RIs and percentile curves for SV(PCA), CO(PCA) and CI(PCA), considering the variables that should be considered when expressing them. METHODS: In 1449 healthy subjects (3-88 years) SV(PCA), CO(PCA) and CI(PCA) were non-invasively obtained (Mobil-O-Graph; Germany). ANALYSIS: associations between subject characteristics and SV(PCA), CO(PCA) and CI(PCA) levels (correlations; regression models); RIs and percentiles for SV(PCA), CO(PCA) and CI(PCA) (parametric methods; fractional polynomials). RESULTS: Sex, age, and heart rate would be explanatory variables for SV, CO, and CI levels. SV levels were also examined by body height, while body surface area (BSA) contributing to evaluation of CO and CI. CVRFs exposure did not contribute to independently explain the values of the dependent variables. SV, CO and CI levels were partially explained by the oscillometric-derived signal quality. RIs and percentiles were defined. CONCLUSIONS: Reference intervals and percentile for SV(PCA), CO(PCA) and CI(PCA), were defined for subjects from 3-88 years of age, results are expressed according to sex, age, heart rate, body height and/or BSA.

Aortic pressure and forward and backward wave components in children, adolescents and young-adults: Agreement between brachial oscillometry, radial and carotid tonometry data and analysis of factors associated with their differences.

Non-invasive devices used to estimate central (aortic) systolic pressure (cSBP), pulse pressure (cPP) and forward (Pf) and backward (Pb) wave components from blood pressure (BP) or surrogate signals differ in arteries studied, techniques, data-analysis algorithms and/or calibration schemes (e.g. calibrating to calculated [MBPc] or measured [MBPosc] mean pressure). The aims were to analyze, in children, adolescents and young-adults (1) the agreement between cSBP, cPP, Pf and Pb obtained using carotid (CT) and radial tonometry (RT) and brachial-oscillometry (BOSC); and (2) explanatory factors for the differences between approaches-data and between MBPosc and MBPc.1685 subjects (mean/range age: 14/3-35 y.o.) assigned to three age-related groups (3-12; 12-18; 18-35 y.o.) were included. cSBP, cPP, Pf and Pb were assessed with BOSC (Mobil-O-Graph), CT and RT (SphygmoCor) records. Two calibration schemes were considered: MBPc and MBPosc for calibrations to similar BP levels. Correlation, Bland-Altman tests and multiple regression models were applied. Systematic and proportional errors were observed; errors´ statistical significance and values varied depending on the parameter analyzed, methods compared and group considered. The explanatory factors for the differences between data obtained from the different approaches varied depending on the methods compared. The highest cSBP and cPP were obtained from CT; the lowest from RT. Independently of the technique, parameter or age-group, higher values were obtained calibrating to MBPosc. Age, sex, heart rate, diastolic BP, body weight or height were explanatory factors for the differences in cSBP, cPP, Pf or Pb. Brachial BP levels were explanatory factors for the differences between MBPosc and MBPc.

Dislipemias en la edad pediátrica. Importancia del diagnóstico y tratamiento precoces / Dyslipidemia in pediatric population. Relevance of early diagnosis and treatment / Dislipidemia em idade pediátrica. Importância do diagnóstico e tratamento precoces

Resumen: Las alteraciones de los lípidos o dislipemias son factores de riesgo principales para el desarrollo de aterosclerosis y enfermedad cardiovascular (ECV). La ateroesclerosis puede iniciarse precozmente en la edad pediátrica, pero se manifestará clínicamente al llegar a la adultez. La prevención mediante la promoción de salud y el control de los factores de riesgo debe iniciarse precozmente y el pediatra debe liderar este proceso. La epidemia de obesidad es una de las causas del aumento de las alteraciones de los lípidos en sangre en la edad pediátrica. Las dislipemias severas obligan a la búsqueda de enfermedades genéticas, siendo la hipercolesterolemia familiar la más frecuente. El diagnóstico temprano de esta enfermedad tiene gran relevancia en la prevención de la ECV, así como en el diagnóstico familiar en cascada. Es fundamental el trabajo en conjunto con los médicos de adultos, ya sea en la referencia de los padres de niños diagnosticados con dislipemia, y de los hijos de adultos con esta enfermedad. Desde la pediatría debemos acompañar el desarrollo de programas de control de dislipemias creados por diferentes instituciones. Se han planteado nuevos aspectos en las recomendaciones de las principales sociedades científicas internacionales y en nuestro país es necesario una discusión de dichas recomendaciones para adaptarlas a nuestra realidad y necesidades. Este artículo tiene como objetivos principales exponer la importancia del conocimiento de esta patología en niños, sus características y manejo, con el objetivo de mantener la salud del niño, iniciar precozmente la prevención de la ECV del adulto, y promover la discusión de un tema en el que se plantean nuevas normativas de estudio y tratamiento.

Summary: Dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for aterosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Atherosclerosis onset can occur early during pediatric age and be present with clinical manifestations in the adulthood. Prevention through health promotion and risk factors control should start early in a process lead by the pediatrician. The obesity epidemic is one of the causes of blood lipids alterations in this population. Severe dyslipidemias lead to genetic disorders screening and family hypercholesterolemia is the most common. Early diagnosis of this disorder is specially relevant for cardiovascular disease prevention and family diagnosis. Joint work with adult physicians is essential for the referral of parents of diagnosed children and offsprings of diagnosed adults. From pediatrics we must accompany the development of dyslipidemia control programs created by different institutions.New recommendations have been made by international scientific societies and our country needs to discuss and adapt them to our situation and needs. This article has as main objectives to expose the importance of the knowledge of this pathology in children, its characteristics and management in order to preserve children`s health and establish early prevention of cardiovascular disease in adults. It also aims to open up the discussion of a subject in which new guidelines are being set.

Resumo: As alterações de lipídios ou dislipidemias são fatores de risco principais para o desenvolvimento de aterosclerose e doenças cardiovasculares. Aterosclerose pode começar cedo na faixa etária pediátrica, mas ser clinicamente manifestada ao atingir a idade adulta. Prevenção através da promoção da saúde e controle de fatores de risco deve ser iniciada o mais cedo e o pediatra deve liderar esse processo de prevenção. A epidemia da obesidade é uma das causas do aumento de alterações dos lipídios no sangue na faixa etária pediátrica. As dislipidemias severas obrigam a procurar doenças genéticas, sendo a mais comum hipercolesterolemia familiar. O diagnóstico precoce desta doença tem grande relevância tanto na prevenção de doenças cardiovasculares como no diagnóstico familiar cascata. É fundamental o trabalho em conjunto com os médicos de adultos, seja também na referência de pais de crianças com dislipidemia diagnosticados, bem como a referência dos filhos de adultos com esta doença. Desde a pediatria devemos acompanhar o desenvolvimento de programas de controle de dislipidemias desenvolvido por diferentes instituições. Foram levantados novos aspectos nas recomendações das principais sociedades científicas internacionais e em nosso país é preciso discutir para adaptá-los à nossa realidade e necessidades. Este trabalho tem como principais objetivos expor a importância do conhecimento desta patologia em crianças, suas características e manejo com o objetivo de manter a saúde de crianças, início precoce de prevenção da doenças cardiovasculares do adulto e desencadear uma discussão de um tópico em que se propõe novas normativas de estudo e tratamento.

Muerte súbita de causa cardíaca en pediatría. Análisis de 95 casos en los últimos 20 años / Sudden death of cardiac etiology in pediatrics. Analysis of 95 cases in the last 20 years / Morte súbita de etiologia cardíaca em pediatria. Análises de 95 casos nos últimos 20 anos

Resumen: Introducción: acerca del tema muerte súbita de origen cardíaco en niños y adolescentes es mucho lo que se describe en la literatura mundial, pero son pocos los datos publicados en nuestro país. Más de la mitad de los casos de muerte súbita en este grupo etario responden a una etiología cardíaca. Objetivo: analizar los eventos de muerte súbita en edad pediátrica a partir de casos de muerte súbita (incluidas las frustras o abortadas) referidos por los colegas intervinientes en su evaluación de manera correlativa, según fueron sucediendo en el tiempo, tratando de investigar en ellos y en sus familiares cercanos la existencia de patologías cardíacas responsables de dicho evento. Evaluar mecanismos de prevención. Resultados: se estudiaron 95 casos, el 68% de sexo masculino, con edades entre 6 meses y 18 años. En el 65% de los casos se encontró una etiología cardíaca responsable. De ellos, en dos tercios se trató de una patología estructural cardíaca y en el tercio restante de una canalopatía o arritmia. Hubo antecedentes familiares de muerte súbita en el 50% de los casos. En el 35% de éstos se encontró una etiología potencialmente causante de muerte súbita. Conclusiones: la muerte súbita en edad pediátrica es un hecho real. Desconocemos su incidencia en nuestro país. La etiología cardíaca tuvo un papel preponderante en los casos estudiados. Por lo tanto, debemos poder detectar las situaciones de riesgo de un evento de muerte súbita previo a su aparición, y, si este ocurriera, tener previstos los mecanismos necesarios para revertirla.

Summary: Introduction: much has been described in the global literature about Sudden Cardiac Death, but few reliable data is available in Uruguay. More than half of the cases of sudden death in this age group arise from a cardiac etiology. Objective: to analyze sudden death in pediatric populations by studying sudden death cases (including frustrated or aborted deaths) referred to by colleagues involved in their assessment, as they happened over time. We studied the existence of cardiac pathologies in patients and their close relatives and evaluated prevention mechanisms. Results: 95 cases were studied, 68% males, aged between 6 months and 18 years. In 65% of the cases, we were able to find a cardiac etiology responsible for the event, in two thirds of the cases it was a structural cardiac pathology, and in the remaining third it was a canalopathy or arrhythmia. There was a family history of sudden death in 50% of cases. Of these cases, 35% showed a potential etiology that caused the sudden death. Conclusions: sudden death in children is a real fact. We do not know its incidence in Uruguay. Cardiac etiology played a significant role in the cases studied. Therefore, we should be able to detect situations of risk of a sudden death event prior to its appearance and if it occurred, we should be able to prevent the necessary mechanisms to reverse it.

Resumo: Introdução: muito tem sido descrito na literatura internacional sobre morte súbita cardíaca, mas poucos dados confiáveis estão disponíveis no Uruguai. Mais da metade dos casos de morte súbita nessa faixa etária vem duma etiologia cardíaca. Objetivo: analisar eventos de morte súbita durante a idade pediátrica, estudando casos de morte súbita (incluindo mortes frustradas ou abortadas) referidos pelos colegas envolvidos em sua avaliação, assim tal como ocorreram ao longo do tempo. Estudamos a existência de patologias cardíacas em pacientes e familiares próximos e avaliamos os mecanismos de prevenção. Resultados: foram estudados 95 casos, 68% do sexo masculino, com idade entre 6 meses e 18 anos. Em 65% dos casos, conseguimos encontrar uma etiologia cardíaca responsável pelo evento, e em dois terços dos casos era uma patologia cardíaca estrutural e no terço restante era uma canalopatia ou arritmia. Em 50% dos casos existia história familiar de morte súbita. Desses casos, 35% mostraram uma etiologia potencial que causou a morte súbita. Conclusões: a morte súbita em crianças é um fato real. Não sabemos sua incidência em Uruguai. A etiologia cardíaca teve um papel importante nos casos estudados. Portanto, devemos ser capazes de detectar situações de risco de morte súbita antes de que ocorra e, se ocorrer, devemos prever os mecanismos necessários para revertê-lo.

Captura y extracción percutánea de cuerpos extraños intravasculares / Percutaneous retrieval of intravascular foreign bodies / Remoção percutânea de corpos estranos intravenosos

Resumen: En el cuidado del paciente pediátrico en el ámbito del centro de tratamiento intensivo y en sala de hemodinamia se utilizan materiales (guías, catéteres, dispositivos de cierre) que en ocasiones pueden quedar libres en el árbol vascular y embolizar, sea a nivel venoso como arterial. Esto implica la necesidad de contar obligatoriamente, en esos lugares, con material adecuado para su extracción percutánea de forma de evitar las complicaciones potenciales por la permanencia de esos cuerpos a nivel intravascular. Se presenta en este trabajo nuestra experiencia de 20 años en la captura y extracción por vía percutánea de 40 cuerpos intravasculares, a saber: 25 restos de catéteres venosos centrales, 7 restos de porth a cath, 1 guía metálica y 7 coils embolizados. En 35 pacientes la vía utilizada para el rescate fue la vía venosa femoral (en un caso se asoció el acceso por vía venosa yugular) y en los cinco restantes fue la vía arterial femoral. El material utilizado fue en cinco casos un catéter pigtail (en casos de restos de catéteres) para la movilización y localización en una posición más accesible. Luego, en ocho casos, se utilizó un catéter cestilla, en 29 casos un catéter lazo (Goose Neck Snare) y en tres casos un biótomo, para la captura y extracción de los materiales embolizados. Treinta y nueve cuerpos embolizados fueron rescatados sin complicaciones, uno no pudo ser extraído por estar firmemente adherido al ápex ventricular derecho.

Summary: Handling pediatric patients at Intensive Care Centers and in catheterization rooms often leads to using materials (guidewires, catheters, closure devices) that may sometimes remain in the vascular tree and cause embolism, either at the venous or arterial level. This means that ICUs should have material to perform percutaneous retrieval, in order to avoid potential complications due to the intravascular presence of these bodies. In 20 years, we have retrieved 40 intravascular bodies percutaneously: 25 remains of central venous catheters, 7 remains of Porth to Cath, 1 metallic guide and 7 embolized coils. We used the femora vein in 35 patients (in one case, we also used jugular venous access) and in the remaining three patients we used the femoral arterial route. In 5 cases, we used a Pigtail catheter (in case of catheter remains) in order to move and place patients in a more accessible position. In 8 cases we used a catheter, in 27 cases a loop catheter (Goose Neck Snare) and in 3 cases we used a bioptome in order to capture and retrieve the embolized materials. We managed to extract 37 embolized objects without complications, one could not be extracted because it was firmly attached to the right ventricular apex.

Resumo: A manipulação de pacientes pediátricos nas Unidades de Terapia Intensiva e nas salas de cateterismo geralmente leva ao uso de materiais (fios-guia, cateteres, dispositivos de fechamento) que às vezes podem permanecer na árvore vascular e causar embolia, no nível venoso ou arterial. Isso significa que as UTIs devem ter material para realizar a remoção percutânea, a fim de evitar possíveis complicações devido à presença intravascular desses corpos. Em 20 anos, recuperamos 40 corpos intravasculares por via percutânea: 25 restos de cateteres venosos centrais, 7 restos de Porth to Cath, 1 guia metálico e 7 bobinas embolizadas. Utilizamos a veia femoral em 35 pacientes (em um caso, também utilizamos acesso venoso jugular) e nos três pacientes restantes utilizamos a via arterial femoral. Em 5 casos, utilizamos um cateter Pigtail (no caso de restos de cateter) para mobilizar e colocar os pacientes em uma posição mais acessível. Em 8 casos utilizamos um cateter, em 27 casos um cateter de laço (Goose Neck Snare) e em 3 casos utilizamos um biótomo para capturar e recuperar os materiais embolizados. Conseguimos extrair 37 objetos embolizados sem complicações, um deles não pôde ser retirado porque estava firmemente preso ao ápice do ventrículo direito.

Arterial Structural and Functional Characteristics at End of Early Childhood and Beginning of Adulthood: Impact of Body Size Gain during Early, Intermediate, Late and Global Growth.

An association between nutritional characteristics in theearlylife stages and the state of the cardiovascular (CV) system in early childhood itself and/or at the beginning of adulthood has been postulated. It is still controversial whether changes in weight, height and/or body mass index (BMI) during childhood or adolescence are independently associated with hemodynamics and/or arterial properties in early childhood and adulthood. AIMS: First, to evaluate and compare the strength of association between CVproperties (at 6 and 18 years (y)) and (a) anthropometric data at specific growth stages (e.g., birth, 6 y, 18 y) and (b) anthropometric changes during early (0-2 y), intermediate (0-6 y), late (6-18 y) and global (0-18 y) growth. Second, to determine whether the associations between CVproperties and growth-related body changes depend on size at birth and/or at the time of CVstudy. Third, to analyze the capacity of growth-related body size changes to explain hemodynamic and arterial properties in early childhood and adulthood before and after adjusting for exposure to CV risk factors. Anthropometric, hemodynamic (central, peripheral) and arterial parameters (structural, functional; elastic, transitional and muscular arteries) were assessed in two cohorts (children, n = 682; adolescents, n = 340). Data wereobtained and analyzed following identical protocols. RESULTS: Body-size changes in infancy (0-2 y) and childhood (0-6 y) showed similar strength of association with CV properties at 6 y. Conversely, 0-6, 6-18 or 0-18 ychanges were not associated with CV parameters at 18 y. The association between CV properties at 6 yand body-size changes during growth showed: equal or greater strength than the observed for body-size at birth, and lower strength compared to that obtained for current z-BMI. Conversely, only z-BMI at 18 y showed associations with CV z-scores at 18 y. Body size at birth showed almost no association with CVproperties at 6 or 18 y. CONCLUSION: current z-BMI showed the greatest capacity to explain variations in CV properties at 6 and 18 y. Variations in some CV parameters were mainly explained by growth-related anthropometric changes and/or by their interaction with current z-BMI. Body size at birth showed almost no association with arterial properties at 6 or 18 y.

Hemorragia alveolar difusa no inmune en pediatría / Non-inmune mediated diffuse alveolar hemorrage in children / A hemorragia alveolar difusa não imune em pediatria

Resumen: La hemorragia alveolar difusa no inmune es una patología poco frecuente tanto en la población pediátrica como en los adultos. Si bien se conocen factores determinantes de dicha patología, la interacción de éstos a la hora de producirse el sangrado no es del todo comprendida. Para cumplir con la función de intercambio gaseoso la membrana alvéolo-capilar debe tener un espesor bajo, lo que la expone a falla por estrés y eventualmente extravasación de sangre al parénquima pulmonar. La membrana basal, sumado a la disposición de los alvéolos y el intersticio pulmonar, le dan resistencia extraordinaria a dicha membrana. Si ocurre efracción de la membrana alvéolo capilar puede haber pasaje de sangre al alvéolo e intersticio pulmonar, este fenómeno es conocido como falla por estés. En los casos que existe fragilidad de la membrana alvéolo-capilar, ya sea por inmadurez o por situaciones patológicas, existe un riesgo significativo de efracción de la misma. Alteraciones hemodinámicas y de la cascada de la coagulación pueden ser factores determinantes en el desarrollo de hemorragia alveolar. En el presente trabajo se discuten cuatro casos clínicos de hemorragia alveolar difusa no inmune y en base a éstos se desarrolla una hipótesis con el objetivo de explicar la interrelación de los factores que inciden en el desarrollo de dicha entidad.

Summary: Non-immune mediated alveolar hemorrhage is a rare pathology affecting both children and adults. Although the causes of this disease are known, their interaction in case of bleeding is not clearly understood. The present paper discusses 4 clinical cases of non-immune mediated alveolar hemorrhage and a hypothesis is presented with the objective of explaining the interrelation of the factors that may affect the its development. In order to comply with the gas exchange function, the alveolar-capillary membrane must not be too thick, since this might lead to stress failure and to eventual blood extravasation to the lung parenchyma. The basement membrane (type IV) collagen, plus the alveoli arrangement and the pulmonary interstitium, provide extraordinary resistance to such membrane. Whenever the alveolar-capillary membrane is weak, either due to immaturity or to pathological situations, there is a significant risk of rupture. Hemodynamic and coagulation alterations can be determining factors in the development of this pathology, since they affect the development of stress failure or perpetuate the passage of blood to the pulmonary interstitium.

Resumo: A hemorragia alveolar não imune é uma patologia rara tanto nas crianças como nos adultos. Embora os determinantes dessa patologia sejam conhecidos, sua interação no momento de determinar o sangramento não é completamente compreendida. Neste estudo discutimos quatro casos clínicos de hemorragia alveolar não imune e desenvolvimos hipóteses para explicar a inter-relação de fatores que afetam o desenvolvimento da doença. Para que a membrana possa cumprir a sua função de troca de gás alveolar-capilar deve ter baixa espessura, o que a expõe à tensão de ruptura e, eventualmente, o extravasamento de sangue para o parênquima pulmonar. O colagénio tipo IV da membrana basal, adicionado à disposição dos alvéolos e ao interstício pulmonar, confere extraordinária resistência à referida membrana. Nos casos nos que há fragilidade da membrana alvéolo-capilar, seja por imaturidade ou por situações patológicas, existe risco significativo de sua ruptura. Alterações hemodinâmicas e de coagulação podem ser fatores determinantes no desenvolvimento dessa patologia, uma vez que afetam o desenvolvimento de falha de estresse ou perpetuam a passagem do sangue para o interstício pulmonar.

Retorno venoso pulmonar anómalo total: experiencia de 25 años en un único centro / Total anomalus pulmonary venous connection: 25 years experience in one health center / Retorno pulmonar venoso anômalo total: 25 anos de experiência num centro de saúde

Resumen: Introducción: en los últimos 20 años se ha reducido en forma significativa la mortalidad operatoria de los pacientes con retorno venoso pulmonar anómalo total. Objetivo: revisión de casos con retorno venoso pulmonar anómalo total sometidos a cirugía reparadora en los últimos 25 años y evaluación de su resultado en un único centro. Material y método: estudio descriptivo retrospectivo desde enero de 1991 a diciembre de 2016. Se identificaron 71 pacientes sometidos a cirugía reparadora. La información se extrajo de registros clínicos. Cuarenta y siete eran de sexo masculino. La edad media fue de 2,8 meses (rango 1 día a 30 meses), peso promedio de 4 kg (rango 2,1 a 10,9 kg). Resultados: del total de casos, 49 fueron supradiafragmáticos y 22 infradiafragmáticos. La obstrucción preoperatoria estuvo presente en 35 pacientes. Treinta y un pacientes fueron operados en el período neonatal, diez fallecieron. La fisiología de ventrículo único y síndrome de heterotaxia estuvo presente en seis casos, todos fallecieron. La obstrucción posoperatoria del drenaje ocurrió en doce pacientes, diez de ellos fueron reintervenidos, uno sobrevivió. La mortalidad global fue de 31%, con 35% en los primeros quince años, descendiendo a 20% en los últimos diez años. Conclusiones: en los últimos diez años se ha logrado un descenso significativo en la mortalidad de los pacientes sometidos a reparación quirúrgica. La edad neonatal, la presencia de cardiopatía compleja asociada y la obstrucción preoperatoria al drenaje venoso se asoció con mayor mortalidad. La obstrucción posoperatoria tuvo mortalidad elevada.

Summary: Introduction: in the last 20 years mortality rates of patients with Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection undergoing surgical repair has improved significantly. Objective: this study aims at reviewing Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection post-surgical results over a 25-year period in one Health Center. Materials and methods: descriptive study of all patients that underwent surgical repair from Jan 1991 to Dec 2016. Seventy-one cases were identified. The data was retrieved from clinical records. Forty-seven were males. Median age was 2.8 months (range 1 day to 30 months of age) and the median weight was 4kg (range 2.1 to 10.9 kg). Results: forty-nine cases were supradiaphragmatic and 22 infradiaphragmatic. Drainage obstruction was present in 35 patients. Thirty-one received surgery during the neonatal period, 10 died (32%). Single-ventricle and Heterotaxy Syndrome were present in 6 cases and all of them died after surgery. Post-surgical drainage obstruction took place in 12 patients, 10 underwent re-intervention and only one survived. Overall mortality was 31%, 35% during the first 15 years period, eventhough it dropped to 20% in the last 10 years. Conclusions: there has been a significant improvement in mortality rates in the last ten years. Neonatal age, complex congenital heart disease and venous drainage obstruction prior to surgery were factors linked to higher mortality rates. Post-surgical pulmonary venous obstruction had a high mortality rate.

Resumo: Introdução: nos últimos 20 anos, a mortalidade cirúrgica de pacientes com Retorno Pulmonar Venoso Anômalo Total reduziu significativamente. Objetivo: revisão de casos com Retorno Pulmonar Venoso Anômalo Total submetidos à correção cirúrgica num único centro de saúde nos últimos 25 anos e avaliação de seu resultado. Material e método: estudo descritivo retrospectivo realizado de janeiro de 1991 a dezembro de 2016. Foram identificados 71 pacientes submetidos à correção cirúrgica. A informação foi extraída de registros clínicos. 47 eram do sexo masculino. A idade média foi de 2,8 meses (intervalo de 1 dia a 30 meses), e o peso médio de 4 kg (faixa de 2,1 a 10,9 kg). Resultados: do total de casos, 49 foram supradiafragmáticos e 22 infradiafragmáticos. A obstrução pré-operatória observou-se em 35 pacientes. 31 pacientes receberam a cirurgia no período neonatal, 10 morreram. A fisiologia da síndrome do ventrículo único e Heterotaxia observou-se em 6 casos, todos eles morreram. A obstrução pós-cirúrgica da drenagem ocorreu em 12 pacientes, 10 deles receberam uma segunda cirurgia, um deles sobreviveu. A mortalidade geral foi de 31%, com 35% nos primeiros 15 anos, caindo para 20% nos últimos 10 anos. Conclusões: nos últimos 10 anos houve uma redução significativa na mortalidade dos pacientes submetidos a correção cirúrgica. A idade neonatal, a presença de cardiopatia complexa associada e a obstrução pré-cirúrgica à drenagem venosa associaram-se a maior mortalidade. A obstrução pós-operatória teve alta mortalidade.

Peripheral and Central Aortic Pressure, Wave-Derived Reflection Parameters, Local and Regional Arterial Stiffness and Structural Parameters in Children and Adolescents: Impact of Body Mass Index Variations.

AIM: The aim was to analyze and compare the associations between body mass index (BMI) and structural and functional cardiovascular variables measured in children and adolescents. METHODS: 609 healthy subjects (mean age/range 12/4-18 years, 45% females) were studied. Subjects' BMI and the corresponding z-scores (z-BMI) were determined. Cardiovascular measurements: peripheral and aortic blood pressure (BP), aortic wave-derived parameters, common carotid, femoral and brachial artery diameters and stiffness, carotid intima-media thickness, carotid-radial and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (crPWV, cfPWV) and cfPWV/crPWV ratio. Cardiovascular data were standardized (z-scores) using equations (fractional polynomials) obtained from a sub-group (reference population, n = 241) non-exposed to cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs). Simple and multiple regression models were obtained for the associations between cardiovascular z-scores and z-BMI and/or z-BMI, age, sex and CVRFs. RESULTS: z-BMI was associated with standardized cardiovascular variables, regardless of age, sex and CVRFs. BP (peripheral rather than aortic) was the variable with the greatest variations associated with z-BMI. Systolic (SBP) and pulse pressure (PP; in that order) were the variables with the highest variations associated with z-BMI. Carotid, but not femoral or brachial stiffness showed BP-dependent variations associated with z-BMI. Arterial diameters were associated with z-BMI, without differences among arteries. CONCLUSION: In children and adolescents, z-BMI was gradually and positively associated with haemodynamic (peripheral and central BP) and vascular parameters (structural and functional) with independence of age, sex and other CVRFs (Dyslipidemia, Hypertension, Smoke, Diabetes). There were differences in the associations depending on the arteries studied and on whether central or peripheral haemodynamic parameters were analyzed.

Resultados del estudio electrofisiológico y ablación en niños de hasta 13 años con técnica mínimamente invasiva

El estudio electrofisiológico (EEF) y la ablación en niños son eficaces y están internacionalmente bien pautados. Clásicamente se utilizan tres a cinco accesos vasculares y catéteres endovasculares (CEVs). Propusimos un protocolo simplificado para reducir la cantidad y con ello las complicaciones. Quisimos evaluar los resultados obtenidos. Material y método: realizamos un estudio descriptivo, prospectivo, longitudinal, de 120 pacientes consecutivos de hasta 13 años, sin cardiopatía estructural. El protocolo se basa en utilizar un registro esofágico (RIE) cuando es de utilidad, tener la imagen radiológica en pantalla de la posición del His e ir moviendo un CEV a la posición necesaria cada momento. Resultados: la edad osciló entre 7 meses y 13 años (media=9,5 años) y 72 (62%) eran varones. En 101 (84%) se intentó una ablación y en 19 (16%) EEF. El 70% de las ablaciones fueron por una vía accesoria, 25% por una reentrada nodal y 5% otras causas. El tiempo total de procedimiento fue 104 ± 55 minutos. En 58 niños se intentó RIE y en 57 se logró. El 42% de las ablaciones se hicieron con un solo acceso y 94% con uno o dos CEVs. En seis casos complejos se requirieron tres CEVs y en ninguno, cuatro. Hubo 15 que requirieron más de dos accesos. La ablación fue efectiva en 94%, y seguidos 51±22 meses hubo 6 (6%) recurrencias. Un paciente hizo una pericarditis, no hubo complicaciones vasculares, eléctricas ni otras. Conclusiones: con este protocolo se obtuvieron resultados similares a las series convencionales, con un número muy bajo de accesos, catéteres y complicaciones.

Summary: The electrophysiology study (EPS) and ablation procedure in children are effective and internationally well-defined techniques. They typically use 3 to 5 vascular accesses and endovascular catheters (EVC). We proposed a simplified protocol to reduce these numbers and thus, reduce complications. The study aimed to evaluate the results obtained. Method: we performed a descriptive, prospective, longitudinal study over 120 consecutive patients up to 13 years of age, with no structural heart disease. The protocol consists in using an esophageal record (IER) when it is useful, having the radiological image of its position on the screen and in continuing to move an EVC to the required position at each time. Results: age ranged between 7 months and 13 years (mean = 9.5) and 72 (62%) children were male. In 101 (84%) an ablation was attempted and in 19 (16%) EPS. 70% of the ablations were done for accessory pathways, 25% for nodal reentry tachycardia and 5% others causes. The total time of the procedure was 104 ± 55 minutes. In 58 children an IAR was attempted and in 57 it was achieved. In 42% of cases the ablation was made with 1 single access and 94% with 1 or 2 EVCs. In 6 complex cases 3 EVCs were required and 4 in none. There were 15 cases that required >2 accesses. The ablation was effective in 94%. During 51 ± 22 months of follow-up there were 6 (6%) recurrences. One patient had pericarditis, there were no vascular, electrical, or other complications. Conclusions: with this protocol the results are similar to the conventional series, using a very low number of accesses, catheters and complications rate.

O estudo eletrofisiológico (EPS) e a ablação em crianças são procedimentos eficazes e internacionalmente bem estabelecidos. Tipicamente utilizam-se 3 a 5 acessos vasculares e cateteres endovasculares (CEVs). Propusemos um protocolo simplificado para reduzir a quantidade e com isso as complicações com o fim de avaliar os resultados obtidos. Métodos: realizou-se um estudo longitudinal descritivo, prospectivo, de 120 pacientes consecutivos com até 13 anos de idade, sem cardiopatia estrutural. O protocolo consiste na utilizacao dum registro esofágico (EIR) quando resultar útil, uma imagem radiológica na tela que mostra posição de His e a movimentacao do CEV para a posição necessária a cada momento. Resultados: a idade variou de 7 meses a 13 anos (média = 9,5 anos). 72 (62%) dos pacientes eram do sexo masculino. 101 (84%) pacientes receberam uma ablação e 19 (16%) o FES. 70% das ablações foram por via acessória, 25% por reentrada nodal e 5% por outras causas. O tempo total do procedimento foi de 104 ± 55 minutos. O RIE se tentou em 58 crianças e se conseguiu em 57. 42% das ablações foram feitas com 1 acesso único e 94% com 1 ou 2 CEVs. Em 6 casos complexos, foram necessários 3 CEVs e em nenhum caso foram necessários 4. 15 casos necessitaram de mais de 2 acessos. A ablação foi eficaz em 94% dos casos e, após do seguimento de 51 ± 22 meses, houve 6 (6%) recorrências. Um paciente apresentou pericardite, más sem complicações vasculares, elétricas ou de outro tipo. Conclusões: obtivemos resultados semelhantes com este protocolo para as séries convencionais, com um número muito baixo de acessos, cateteres ou complicações.

Forward and Backward Aortic Components and Reflection Indexes in Children and Adolescents: Determinants and Role in High Pressure States.

BACKGROUND: High blood pressure states (HBP) would differ in wave components and reflections indexes, which could associate clinical and prognostic implications. The study aims: 1) to characterize the association of aortic wave components and reflection parameters (backward [Pb], forward [Pf], Pb/Pf ratio and augmentation index [AIx]) with demographic, anthropometric, hemodynamic and arterial parameters in healthy children and adolescents; 2) to generate multivariate prediction models for the associations, to contribute to understand the main determinants of Pf, Pb, Pb/Pf and AIx; 3) to identify if differences in wave reflection indexes observed in HBP could be explained by differences in the analyzed parameters. METHODS: Healthy children and adolescents (n=816, females: 386; Age: 3-20 years) were studied. EVALUATIONS: central aortic pressure and wave components (Pb, Pf, Pb/Pf and AIx determination with SphygmoCor [SCOR] and Mobil-o-Graph [MOG]); anthropometric assessment; regional arterial stiffness (carotid-femoral, carotid-radial pulse wave velocity [PWV] and PWV ratio); carotid intima-media thickness; carotid and femoral distensbility; cardiac output; systemic vascular resistances (SVR). Simple and multiple regression models were constructed to determine aortic wave parameters; the main explanatory variables. Normotensive and HBP groups were compared. Differences in wave reflection indexes were analyzed before and after controlling for explanatory variables. Equivalences between SphygmoCor and Mobil-O-Graph data were assessed (correlation and Bland-Altman analyses). RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: There were systematic and proportional differences between the data obtained with SphygmoCor and Mobil-O-Graph devices. Heart rate (HR), peripheral pulse pressure, height and weight were the variables that isolated (simple associations) or combined (multiple associations), showed the major capability to explain interindividual differences in Pf, Pb, Pb/Pf and AIx. Arterial stiffness also showed explanatory capacity, being the carotid the artery with the major contribution. HBP associated higher Pf, Pb, AIx and lower Pb/Pf ratio. Those findings were observed together with higher weight, arterial stiffness and HR. After adjusting for anthropometric characteristics, HR, cardiac output and SVR, the HBP group showed greater Pf and Pb. Then, Pf and Pb characteristics associated with HBP would not be explained by anthropometric or hemodynamic factors. Evaluating wave components and reflection parameters could contribute to improve the comprehension and management of HBP states.

Increases in Peripheral Systolic Pressure Levels and Z-score Associate Gradual Aortic Pressure Increase and Functional Arterial Impairment in Children and Adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Arterial changes associated with children and adolescents high blood pressure (HBP) states would vary depending on the arterial type, arterial indexes considered and/or on blood pressure (BP) levels. AIMS: To determine in children and adolescents: 1) if there is gradual structural-functional arterial impairment associated with gradual peripheral (brachial) systolic BP (pSBP) level or z-score increases, and 2) whether subjects with HBP levels and those with normal BP differ in the profiles of arterial changes associated with pSBP deviations. METHODS: 1005 asymptomatic children and adolescents were included. Clinical, anthropometric and arterial non-invasive evaluations were performed. Heart rate, brachial BP, aortic BP and wavederived parameters (i.e. augmentation index), carotid and femoral diameters, blood velocities and elastic modulus, carotid intima-media thickness and aortic pulse wave velocity, were obtained. Two groups were assembled: Reference (without cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs); n=379) and HBP (n=175). Additionally, subjects were ascribed to groups according to their pSBP z-scores (z-score ≤ 0, 0< z-score < 1 or z-score ≥ 1). Age and sex-related mean and standard deviation equations were obtained for each variable (Reference group). Using those equations, data (entire population) were converted into z-scores. Groups were compared (absolute and z-scored variables) before and after adjusting for cofactors (ANOVA/ANCOVA). Linear regression analyses were done considering: pSBP and z-pSBP (independent) and absolute levels and z-scores for hemodynamic and arterial indexes (dependent variables). Differences in hemodynamic and arterial levels and z-scores variations (dependent) associated with variations in pSBP and z-pSBP (independent variable) were assessed. The slopes of the models for Reference and HBP groups were compared. CONCLUSION: HBP states associate hemodynamic and arterial changes not explained by exposure to other CVRFs, anthropometric or demographic factors. The higher the pSBP deviations from ageand sex-expected mean value in the Reference group, the higher the hemodynamic and arterial indexes deviation. The pSBP-related variations in hemodynamic and arterial indexes would not differ depending on whether HBP states are present or not.

Estenosis valvular aórtica congénita. ¿Qué debemos esperar? ¿Cómo actuar? / Congenital aortic valve stenosis. What can we expect? How should we act? / O que esperar e como agir nos casos de estenose valvar aórtica congênita?

Resumen: La estenosis valvular aórtica congénita en edad pediátrica es una cardiopatía que debe ser valorada adecuadamente considerando en especial su potencial grado de severidad, a los efectos de realizar el tratamiento de forma adecuada y oportuna, evitando una complicación mayor: la muerte súbita. Se analizan los lineamientos generales para el diagnóstico y reconocimiento de su severidad así como el accionar terapéutico indicado. Por último se ejemplifica mediante cuatro casos clínicos diferentes situaciones evolutivas, mostrando los procedimientos diagnósticos y tratamientos realizados.

Summary: Congenital aortic valve stenosis in children is a heart disease that must be adequately evaluated. The potential degree of severity should be especially considered for a timely treatment in order to prevent sudden death. Guidelines for the diagnosis, recognition of severity and therapeutic action are suggested. Finally, the study presents four clinical cases, with the applied treatment and follow up.

Resumo: A estenose valvar aórtica congênita em pacientes pediátricos é uma doença cardíaca que deve ser avaliada adequadamente, considerando, em particular, seu potencial grau de severidade, a fim de realizar o tratamento adequado e oportuno, evitando a grave complicação da morte súbita. Analisamos as diretrizes gerais para o diagnóstico e reconhecimento de sua gravidade, bem como a ação terapêutica indicada. Finalmente, diferentes situações evolutivas são exemplificadas por quatro casos clínicos, mostrando os procedimentos diagnósticos e os tratamentos realizados.

Complete Resection of a Right-Sided Interventricular Septal Fibroma.

A 15-month-old infant with a systolic cardiac murmur developed an episode of nonsustained ventricular tachycardia during transthoracic echocardiography. A large intracardiac mass, which widened the interventricular septum causing right ventricular outflow tract obstruction, was seen and confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. A cardiac fibroma was suspected, and because of the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias, surgery was rapidly considered. Despite the challenging location, the tumor was completely and successfully resected. Microscopic examination confirms the diagnosis of ventricular fibroma.

Remodelación de cavidades izquierdas en el posoperatorio de retorno venoso pulmonar anómalo total: utilidad del NTProBNP / Left chambers remodeling after repair of TAPVR connection: usefulness of NTProBNP

Resumen: El retorno venoso pulmonar anómalo total se caracteriza por la falla de conexión entre la aurícula primitiva y el retorno venoso pulmonar, este último se conecta al retorno venoso sistémico a través de la persistencia de conexiones embrionarias. En esta patología, el ventrículo izquierdo suele tener un tamaño en el límite inferior de la normalidad, con una aurícula izquierda pequeña y atrófica. En el período posoperatorio las cavidades izquierdas deben manejar todo el retorno venoso pulmonar, lo que podría determinar sobrecarga de estas cavidades. Presentamos dos casos de posoperatorio de retorno venoso pulmonar anómalo total, evaluando la relación entre el tamaño auricular izquierdo y los niveles de péptido natriurético. Se plantea como hipótesis una disfunción en el llenado de cavidades izquierdas como sustrato causal de este fenómeno, teniendo como consecuencia modificaciones adaptativas anatómicas y funcionales. La determinación de los niveles de péptido natriurético podría ser útil en la monitorización de este proceso adaptativo.

Summary: Total anomalous pulmonary venous return is a congenital heart disease characterized by failure of connection between the primitive left atrium and the pulmonary venous return, the latter drains to the systemic venous return trough persistent embryologic connections. In this pathology there is a normal size, but rather small, left ventricle with a small and undeveloped left atrium. In the postoperative period, the left chambers must handle all the pulmonary venous return, which could mean an increased wall stress. The study presents two cases of Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return, and the behavior of left atrial size and natriuretic peptide level after surgery. We set a hypothesis by which a dysfunction in the filling of the left chambers could explain this phenomenon and how this triggers compensatory modifications. Analyzing the level of natriuretic peptide might help monitor this process.

Comparative Analysis of Arterial Parameters Variations Associated with Inter-Individual Variations in Peripheral and Aortic Blood Pressure: Cross-Sectional Study in Healthy Subjects Aged 2-84 years.

INTRODUCTION: The association between arterial parameters and blood pressure (BP) interindividual variations could depend on the arterial segment, BP component (systolic, SBP; diastolic, DBP; pulse pressure, PP) and/or on whether central (cBP) or peripheral (pBP) BP variations are considered. AIM: To assess and compare arterial parameters variations associated with interindividual variations in cBP and pBP. METHODS: Healthy subjects (n = 923; 488 males, 2-84 years) were included. pBP and cBP waves were obtained (Mobil-O-Graph; SphygmoCor). Arterial diameter, intima-media thickness, local elastic modulus (carotid, CEM; brachial, BEM; femoral, FEM) and regional (carotid-radial and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity; crPWV and cfPWV) arterial stiffness were determined. Associations between BP and arterial parameters interindividual variations were analyzed and compared (correlations; linear regressions; slopes comparisons) considering data transformed into z-scores. RESULTS: Given a variation in z-cSBP or z-pSBP, z-CEM, z-FEM and z-cfPWV (stiffness indexes), were among the parameters with major BP-associated variations. z-crPWV and z-cfPWV, rather than local stiffness indexes were the parameters with major variations associated with z-DBP variations. z-cPP or z-pPP were associated with z-CEM and z-FEM variations, but not with brachial or regional stiffness variations. Most of the arterial parameters-BP slopes did not show significant differences when considering a variation in z-cSBP and z-pSBP. z-CEM and z-FEM were mainly associated with z-cPP and z-pPP variations, respectively. CONCLUSION: Disregard of age and sex, the variations in arterial parameters associated with BP interindividual variations showed differences depending on whether variations were central or peripheral; in SBP, DBP or PP and depending on the arterial segment considered.