Selvester QRS Score is a Predictor of Mortality in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction. / O Escore de Selvester QRS é um Preditor de Mortalidade na Insuficiência Cardíaca com Fração de Ejeção Preservada.

BACKGROUND: The Selvester QRS (S-QRS) score on a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is associated with both the amount of myocardial scar and poor prognosis in myocardial infarction patients. However, its prognostic value in heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is unknown. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the predictive value of the S-QRS score for mortality in HFpEF. METHODS: 359 patients were retrospectively enrolled in this study. Electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and laboratory features of the patients were recorded. The simplified S-QRS score was measured and recorded. The mean follow-up time of the patients was 38.1±9.5 months. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Of 359 patients, 270 were in the survivor group, and 89 were in the deceased group. Age, Hs-CRP, troponin, pro-BNP, left atrial (LA) diameter, LA volume index, QRS duration, Tpe, and S-QRS score were statistically high in the deceased group. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, age, Hs-CRP, NT-proBNP, LA diameter, LA volume index, Tpe, and S-QRS score were shown to be independent risk factors for mortality. In the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the cut-off value of the S-QRS score was 5.5, the sensitivity was 80.8%, and the specificity was 77.2% (AUC:0.880, p:0.00). In Kaplan-Meier analysis, it was found that mortality was higher in the group with S-QRS score ≥ 5.5 than in the group with S-QRS score < 5.5. (Long-rank, p:0.00). CONCLUSIONS: We think that the S-QRS score can be used as a prognostic indicator of long-term mortality in patients with HFpEF.

FUNDAMENTO: O escore Selvester QRS (S-QRS) em um eletrocardiograma (ECG) de 12 derivações está associado tanto à quantidade de cicatriz miocárdica quanto ao mau prognóstico em pacientes com infarto do miocárdio. Entretanto, seu valor prognóstico na insuficiência cardíaca (IC) com fração de ejeção preservada (ICFEp) é desconhecido. OBJETIVO: Este estudo tem como objetivo investigar o valor preditivo do escore S-QRS para mortalidade na ICFEp. MÉTODOS: 359 pacientes foram incluídos retrospectivamente neste estudo. As características eletrocardiográficas, ecocardiográficas e laboratoriais dos pacientes foram registradas. O escore S-QRS simplificado foi medido e registrado. O tempo médio de seguimento dos pacientes foi de 38,1±9,5 meses. A significância estatística foi estabelecida em p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Dos 359 pacientes, 270 estavam no grupo sobrevivente e 89 no grupo falecido. Idade, PCR-us, troponina, pro-BNP, diâmetro do átrio esquerdo (AE), índice de volume do AE, duração do QRS, Tpe e escore do S-QRS foram estatisticamente altos no grupo falecido. Na análise de regressão logística multivariada, idade, PCR-us, NT-proBNP, diâmetro do AE, índice de volume do AE, Tpe e escore S-QRS mostraram-se fatores de risco independentes para mortalidade. Na análise da característica operacional do receptor (ROC), o valor de corte do escore S-QRS foi de 5,5, a sensibilidade foi de 80,8% e a especificidade foi de 77,2% (AUC: 0,880, p:0,00). Na análise de Kaplan-Meier, verificou-se que a mortalidade foi maior no grupo com escore S-QRS ≥ 5,5 do que no grupo com escore S-QRS < 5,5. (Long-rank, p:0,00). CONCLUSÃO: Acreditamos que o escore S-QRS pode ser usado como um indicador prognóstico de mortalidade a longo prazo em pacientes com ICFEp.

Serum Elabela level is significantly increased in patients with acromegaly.

BACKGROUND: Although the bioactive peptides associated with the apelinergic system are known to be associated with heart failure and ischemic heart disease, there are no data on their association with acromegaly. AIM: We aimed to investigate the change in serum Elabela levels, a novel peptide of the apelinergic system, in patients with acromegaly. METHODS: Our study included 30 treatment naive patients who were recently diagnosed with acromegaly, and 50 age-and-sex-matched healthy controls. In addition to routine history, physical examination and laboratory examinations, serum Elabela level was measured. Participants were divided into two groups as individuals with and without acromegaly and compared to each other. RESULTS: Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were found to be higher in patients with acromegaly. Serum glucose, Hs-CRP, NT-proBNP, insulin-like growth factor-1, growth hormone and serum Elabela levels were higher in patients with acromegaly (p < 0.05 for each). Left ventricular ejection fraction (LV-EF) was found to be lower in patients with acromegaly than the patients in healthy control group (p < 0.05). In multivariate analysis; age, systolic blood pressure, NT-proBNP, Insulin-like growth factor 1 and growth hormone levels were found to be very closely and positively related to serum Elabela level (p < 0.05 for each). CONCLUSIONS: Serum Elabela level can be used as an early and objective indicator of early cardiovascular involvement in patients with acromegaly. Further research is needed to clarify the role of serum Elabela levels on cardiovascular system in acromegaly patients.

O Escore de Selvester QRS é um Preditor de Mortalidade na Insuficiência Cardíaca com Fração de Ejeção Preservada / Selvester QRS Score is a Predictor of Mortality in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

Resumo Fundamento O escore Selvester QRS (S-QRS) em um eletrocardiograma (ECG) de 12 derivações está associado tanto à quantidade de cicatriz miocárdica quanto ao mau prognóstico em pacientes com infarto do miocárdio. Entretanto, seu valor prognóstico na insuficiência cardíaca (IC) com fração de ejeção preservada (ICFEp) é desconhecido. Objetivo Este estudo tem como objetivo investigar o valor preditivo do escore S-QRS para mortalidade na ICFEp. Métodos 359 pacientes foram incluídos retrospectivamente neste estudo. As características eletrocardiográficas, ecocardiográficas e laboratoriais dos pacientes foram registradas. O escore S-QRS simplificado foi medido e registrado. O tempo médio de seguimento dos pacientes foi de 38,1±9,5 meses. A significância estatística foi estabelecida em p < 0,05. Resultados Dos 359 pacientes, 270 estavam no grupo sobrevivente e 89 no grupo falecido. Idade, PCR-us, troponina, pro-BNP, diâmetro do átrio esquerdo (AE), índice de volume do AE, duração do QRS, Tpe e escore do S-QRS foram estatisticamente altos no grupo falecido. Na análise de regressão logística multivariada, idade, PCR-us, NT-proBNP, diâmetro do AE, índice de volume do AE, Tpe e escore S-QRS mostraram-se fatores de risco independentes para mortalidade. Na análise da característica operacional do receptor (ROC), o valor de corte do escore S-QRS foi de 5,5, a sensibilidade foi de 80,8% e a especificidade foi de 77,2% (AUC: 0,880, p:0,00). Na análise de Kaplan-Meier, verificou-se que a mortalidade foi maior no grupo com escore S-QRS ≥ 5,5 do que no grupo com escore S-QRS < 5,5. (Long-rank, p:0,00) Conclusão Acreditamos que o escore S-QRS pode ser usado como um indicador prognóstico de mortalidade a longo prazo em pacientes com ICFEp.

Abstract Background The Selvester QRS (S-QRS) score on a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is associated with both the amount of myocardial scar and poor prognosis in myocardial infarction patients. However, its prognostic value in heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is unknown. Objective This study aims to investigate the predictive value of the S-QRS score for mortality in HFpEF. Methods 359 patients were retrospectively enrolled in this study. Electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and laboratory features of the patients were recorded. The simplified S-QRS score was measured and recorded. The mean follow-up time of the patients was 38.1±9.5 months. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results Of 359 patients, 270 were in the survivor group, and 89 were in the deceased group. Age, Hs-CRP, troponin, pro-BNP, left atrial (LA) diameter, LA volume index, QRS duration, Tpe, and S-QRS score were statistically high in the deceased group. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, age, Hs-CRP, NT-proBNP, LA diameter, LA volume index, Tpe, and S-QRS score were shown to be independent risk factors for mortality. In the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the cut-off value of the S-QRS score was 5.5, the sensitivity was 80.8%, and the specificity was 77.2% (AUC:0.880, p:0.00). In Kaplan-Meier analysis, it was found that mortality was higher in the group with S-QRS score ≥ 5.5 than in the group with S-QRS score < 5.5. (Long-rank, p:0.00) Conclusions We think that the S-QRS score can be used as a prognostic indicator of long-term mortality in patients with HFpEF.

Aumento da Espessura Médio-intimal Aórtica e sua Relação com Estresse Oxidativo Elevado em Pacientes com Talassemia Menor / Aortic Intima Media Thickness is Increased and Closely Related to Elevated Oxidative Stress Increases in Beta Thalassemia Minor

Resumo Fundamento A espessura médio-intimal (EMI) da artéria aorta abdominal (EMI-A) pode ser um marcador precoce de aterosclerose subclínica e um indicador objetivo de estresse oxidativo em pacientes com talassemia menor. Objetivo Avaliar se as EMIs da artéria aorta e da artéria carótida (EMI-C) se alteram com estresse oxidativo, e examinar a relação entre esses parâmetros em pacientes com talassemia menor. Métodos O estudo incluiu 80 pacientes diagnosticados com talassemia menor, e 50 indivíduos sadios com idade e sexo similares. Após procedimentos de rotina, as amostras de sangue foram coletadas dos grupos de estudo para a medida da homeostase tiol/dissulfeto e da albumina modificada pela isquemia (AMI). As medidas da EMI-C foram realizadas a partir de quatro regiões diferentes (artéria carótida externa direita e esquerda e artéria carótida interna direita e esquerda) por ultrassonografia, e a medida da EMI-A foi realizada por ultrassonografia abdominal. Um valor de p<0,05 foi definido como estatisticamente significativo. Resultados Nos pacientes com talassemia menor, os níveis de tiol nativo e tiol total, e a razão tiol nativo/tiol total foram mais baixos, e os valores de AMI, razão dissulfeto/tiol nativo, e razão dissulfeto/tiol total foram mais altos que no grupo controle. A EMI-A foi significativamente maior no grupo de pacientes com talassemia menor que nos controles (1,46±0,37 vs 1,23±0,22 e p<0,001). Quando os parâmetros associados com EMI-A na análise univariada foram avaliados por regressão linear multivariada, EMI-A apresentou uma relação positiva, e os níveis de tiol nativo e tiol total apresentaram uma forte relação negativa com AMI (p<0,01). Conclusão Nós demonstramos, pela primeira vez, um aumento no estresse oxidativo com a elevação da EMI-A, e valores inalterados da EMI-C em pacientes com talassemia menor.

Abstract Background Abdominal aortic intima media thickness (A-IMT) may be an early marker of subclinical atherosclerosis and an objective indicator of increased oxidative stress in beta-thalassemia minor patients. Objective To evaluate whether aortic and carotid IMTs change with oxidative stress and to assess the relationship between these parameters in beta-thalassemia minor patients. Methods The study included 80 patients diagnosed with beta-thalassemia minor, and 50 healthy individuals with similar age and gender. After routine procedures, blood samples were collected from the study groups for thiol-disulfide hemostasis and ischemia-modified albumin (IMA). C-IMT measurements were performed in four different regions (right and left internal and external carotid artery) by ultrasonography. In addition, A-IMT measurement was performed by abdominal ultrasonography. Statistically significant p value was set as <0.05 for all comparisons. Results In beta-thalassemia minor patients, native thiol, total thiol and native thiol / total thiol ratio were lower, and the IMA, disulfide / native thiol ratio and disulfide / total thiol ratios were higher than in healthy control group. A-IMT measurement was significantly higher in beta-thalassemia minor group than controls (1.46±0.37 vs 1.23±0.22 and p<0.001). When the parameters associated with A-IMT in univariate analysis were evaluated by multivariate linear regression analysis, A-IMT was positively related, and native thiol and total thiol levels were negatively and closely related to IMA (p<0.01). Conclusion We demonstrated, for the first time, that oxidative stress status increased with increased A-IMT, while C-IMT remained unchanged in beta-thalassemia minor patients.

Aortic Intima Media Thickness is Increased and Closely Related to Elevated Oxidative Stress Increases in Beta Thalassemia Minor. / Aumento da Espessura Médio-intimal Aórtica e sua Relação com Estresse Oxidativo Elevado em Pacientes com Talassemia Menor.

BACKGROUND: Abdominal aortic intima media thickness (A-IMT) may be an early marker of subclinical atherosclerosis and an objective indicator of increased oxidative stress in beta-thalassemia minor patients. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether aortic and carotid IMTs change with oxidative stress and to assess the relationship between these parameters in beta-thalassemia minor patients. METHODS: The study included 80 patients diagnosed with beta-thalassemia minor, and 50 healthy individuals with similar age and gender. After routine procedures, blood samples were collected from the study groups for thiol-disulfide hemostasis and ischemia-modified albumin (IMA). C-IMT measurements were performed in four different regions (right and left internal and external carotid artery) by ultrasonography. In addition, A-IMT measurement was performed by abdominal ultrasonography. Statistically significant p value was set as <0.05 for all comparisons. RESULTS: In beta-thalassemia minor patients, native thiol, total thiol and native thiol / total thiol ratio were lower, and the IMA, disulfide / native thiol ratio and disulfide / total thiol ratios were higher than in healthy control group. A-IMT measurement was significantly higher in beta-thalassemia minor group than controls (1.46±0.37 vs 1.23±0.22 and p<0.001). When the parameters associated with A-IMT in univariate analysis were evaluated by multivariate linear regression analysis, A-IMT was positively related, and native thiol and total thiol levels were negatively and closely related to IMA (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: We demonstrated, for the first time, that oxidative stress status increased with increased A-IMT, while C-IMT remained unchanged in beta-thalassemia minor patients.

FUNDAMENTO: A espessura médio-intimal (EMI) da artéria aorta abdominal (EMI-A) pode ser um marcador precoce de aterosclerose subclínica e um indicador objetivo de estresse oxidativo em pacientes com talassemia menor. OBJETIVO: Avaliar se as EMIs da artéria aorta e da artéria carótida (EMI-C) se alteram com estresse oxidativo, e examinar a relação entre esses parâmetros em pacientes com talassemia menor. MÉTODOS: O estudo incluiu 80 pacientes diagnosticados com talassemia menor, e 50 indivíduos sadios com idade e sexo similares. Após procedimentos de rotina, as amostras de sangue foram coletadas dos grupos de estudo para a medida da homeostase tiol/dissulfeto e da albumina modificada pela isquemia (AMI). As medidas da EMI-C foram realizadas a partir de quatro regiões diferentes (artéria carótida externa direita e esquerda e artéria carótida interna direita e esquerda) por ultrassonografia, e a medida da EMI-A foi realizada por ultrassonografia abdominal. Um valor de p<0,05 foi definido como estatisticamente significativo. RESULTADOS: Nos pacientes com talassemia menor, os níveis de tiol nativo e tiol total, e a razão tiol nativo/tiol total foram mais baixos, e os valores de AMI, razão dissulfeto/tiol nativo, e razão dissulfeto/tiol total foram mais altos que no grupo controle. A EMI-A foi significativamente maior no grupo de pacientes com talassemia menor que nos controles (1,46±0,37 vs 1,23±0,22 e p<0,001). Quando os parâmetros associados com EMI-A na análise univariada foram avaliados por regressão linear multivariada, EMI-A apresentou uma relação positiva, e os níveis de tiol nativo e tiol total apresentaram uma forte relação negativa com AMI (p<0,01). CONCLUSÃO: Nós demonstramos, pela primeira vez, um aumento no estresse oxidativo com a elevação da EMI-A, e valores inalterados da EMI-C em pacientes com talassemia menor.

Evaluation of Liver Stiffness After Atrial Septal Defect Closure.

ABSTRACT: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the liver stiffness (LS) values and the right ventricle (RV) functions after atrial septal defect (ASD) closure treatment. Sixty-six patients were included (38 female, 28 male) in the study. Patients were grouped into 3 subgroups (group I = 21 patients without ASD closure, group II = 38 patients who underwent ASD closure, and group III = 11 patients with ASD and Eisenmenger syndrome). After 1-year follow-up of the patients who underwent ASD closure, LS was assessed using the liver elastography technique. Echocardiographic changes and LS changes over time were compared. Absolute Δ-LS and Δ-liver size were found to be significantly decreased in group II compared with the other groups. While liver size, LS levels, RV and left ventricle (LV) dimensions, and tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient were found to be significantly decreased; the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and the LV ejection fraction were significantly increased in group II. In addition, Δ-LV and Δ-RV dimensions and Δ-tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient values were statistically significant and Δ-tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and LV ejection fraction values were statistically higher in group II compared with the other groups. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that the LS is another parameter, which significantly decreases in patients treated with ASD occluder devices and can be used as an objective follow-up parameter in addition to classic echocardiographic measurements.

Disfunção Ventricular e do Átrio Esquerdo Subclínica em Pacientes com Acromegalia: Um Estudo de Ecocardiograma de Rastreamento de Manchas / Subclinical Left Atrial and Ventricular Dysfunction in Acromegaly Patients: A Speckle Tracking Echocardiography Study

Resumo Fundamento Embora se saiba que a fração de ejeção (FE) do ventrículo esquerdo (VE) medida por eletrocardiograma seja preservada em pacientes com acromegalia, não há informação suficiente sobre deformação longitudinal global e deformação do átrio esquerdo (SLG-VE e SAE). Objetivo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as funções do ventrículo esquerdo (VE) e do átrio esquerdo (AE) por ecocardiograma strain (ES) em pacientes com acromegalia. Métodos Este estudo incluiu 50 pacientes com acromegalia na forma ativa da doença e 50 controles saudáveis com idade, sexo e área de superfície corporal similares. Além dos ecocardiogramas de rotina, medições de SLG-VE e SAE foram realizadas com o ES. Resultados Os valores dos SAE e SLG-VE foram significativamente mais baixos em pacientes com acromegalia (p<0,05 para todos). Na análise bivariada, a pressão arterial sistólica, o pró-hormônio N-terminal do peptídeo natriurético cerebral, o fator de crescimento semelhante à insulina tipo 1, e detectou-se que os níveis de IMVE tinham correlação positiva com SAE e SLG-VE (p<0,05). O nível de IGF-1 tinha forte correlação com SAE e SLG-VE (p<0,001 e β=0,5 vs. p<0,001 e β=0,626, respectivamente); 48% dos pacientes com acromegalia têm SLG-VE reduzido (<20%). O índice de massa do ventrículo esquerdo (IMVE) determina independentemente a presença de SLG-VE reduzido, e cada 1g/m2 de aumento no nível de IMVE aumenta a probabilidade de redução de SLG-VE em 6%. Conclusão Embora a fração de ejeção de VE seja normal em pacientes com acromegalia, os valores de SAE e SLG-VE são significativamente mais baixos. Além do aumento em IMVE, outro achado do envolvimento cardíaco pode ser a redução de SAE e SLG-VE. Portanto, além do ecocardiograma de rotina, SAE e SLG-VE podem ser úteis para avaliar os sinais iniciais de envolvimento cardíaco antes da ocorrência de alterações cardíacas irreversíveis.

Abstract Background Although it is known that the left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) measured by echocardiography is preserved in patients with acromegaly, there is not enough information about the LV and left atrial strain (LV-GLS and LAS). Objective This study aimed to evaluate the left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) functions with strain echocardiography (SE) in patients with acromegaly. Methods This study included 50 acromegaly patients with active disease and 50 healthy controls with similar age, gender, and body surface area. In addition to routine echocardiography examinations, LV-GLS and LAS measurements were performed with SE. Results LAS and LV-GLS values were significantly lower in patients with acromegaly (p<0.05 for all). In bivariate analysis, systolic blood pressure, N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide, Insulin-like growth factor-1, LA diastolic diameter, and LVMI levels were found to be positively correlated with both LAS and LV-GLS (p <0.05). IGF-1 level was strongly correlated with LAS and LV-GLS (p<0.001 and β=0.5 vs. p<0.001 and β=0.626, respectively); 48% of patients with acromegaly have reduced LV-GLS (<20%). Left ventricular mass-index (LVMI) independently determines the presence of reduced LV-GLS and each 1g/m2increase in LVMI level increases the likelihood of reduced LV-GLS by 6%. Conclusion Although LV ejection fraction is normal in patients with acromegaly, LAS and LV-GLS values were significantly reduced. Apart from LVMI increase, another finding of cardiac involvement may be LAS and LV-GLS decrease. Therefore, in addition to routine echocardiography, LAS and LV-GLS may be useful to evaluate early signs of cardiac involvement before the occurrence of irreversible cardiac changes.

Subclinical Left Atrial and Ventricular Dysfunction in Acromegaly Patients: A Speckle Tracking Echocardiography Study. / Disfunção Ventricular e do Átrio Esquerdo Subclínica em Pacientes com Acromegalia: Um Estudo de Ecocardiograma de Rastreamento de Manchas.

BACKGROUND: Although it is known that the left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) measured by echocardiography is preserved in patients with acromegaly, there is not enough information about the LV and left atrial strain (LV-GLS and LAS). OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) functions with strain echocardiography (SE) in patients with acromegaly. METHODS: This study included 50 acromegaly patients with active disease and 50 healthy controls with similar age, gender, and body surface area. In addition to routine echocardiography examinations, LV-GLS and LAS measurements were performed with SE. RESULTS: LAS and LV-GLS values were significantly lower in patients with acromegaly (p<0.05 for all). In bivariate analysis, systolic blood pressure, N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide, Insulin-like growth factor-1, LA diastolic diameter, and LVMI levels were found to be positively correlated with both LAS and LV-GLS (p <0.05). IGF-1 level was strongly correlated with LAS and LV-GLS (p<0.001 and ß=0.5 vs. p<0.001 and ß=0.626, respectively); 48% of patients with acromegaly have reduced LV-GLS (<20%). Left ventricular mass-index (LVMI) independently determines the presence of reduced LV-GLS and each 1g/m2increase in LVMI level increases the likelihood of reduced LV-GLS by 6%. CONCLUSION: Although LV ejection fraction is normal in patients with acromegaly, LAS and LV-GLS values were significantly reduced. Apart from LVMI increase, another finding of cardiac involvement may be LAS and LV-GLS decrease. Therefore, in addition to routine echocardiography, LAS and LV-GLS may be useful to evaluate early signs of cardiac involvement before the occurrence of irreversible cardiac changes.

FUNDAMENTO: Embora se saiba que a fração de ejeção (FE) do ventrículo esquerdo (VE) medida por eletrocardiograma seja preservada em pacientes com acromegalia, não há informação suficiente sobre deformação longitudinal global e deformação do átrio esquerdo (SLG-VE e SAE). OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as funções do ventrículo esquerdo (VE) e do átrio esquerdo (AE) por ecocardiograma strain (ES) em pacientes com acromegalia. MÉTODOS: Este estudo incluiu 50 pacientes com acromegalia na forma ativa da doença e 50 controles saudáveis com idade, sexo e área de superfície corporal similares. Além dos ecocardiogramas de rotina, medições de SLG-VE e SAE foram realizadas com o ES. RESULTADOS: Os valores dos SAE e SLG-VE foram significativamente mais baixos em pacientes com acromegalia (p<0,05 para todos). Na análise bivariada, a pressão arterial sistólica, o pró-hormônio N-terminal do peptídeo natriurético cerebral, o fator de crescimento semelhante à insulina tipo 1, e detectou-se que os níveis de IMVE tinham correlação positiva com SAE e SLG-VE (p<0,05). O nível de IGF-1 tinha forte correlação com SAE e SLG-VE (p<0,001 e ß=0,5 vs. p<0,001 e ß=0,626, respectivamente); 48% dos pacientes com acromegalia têm SLG-VE reduzido (<20%). O índice de massa do ventrículo esquerdo (IMVE) determina independentemente a presença de SLG-VE reduzido, e cada 1g/m2 de aumento no nível de IMVE aumenta a probabilidade de redução de SLG-VE em 6%. CONCLUSÃO: Embora a fração de ejeção de VE seja normal em pacientes com acromegalia, os valores de SAE e SLG-VE são significativamente mais baixos. Além do aumento em IMVE, outro achado do envolvimento cardíaco pode ser a redução de SAE e SLG-VE. Portanto, além do ecocardiograma de rotina, SAE e SLG-VE podem ser úteis para avaliar os sinais iniciais de envolvimento cardíaco antes da ocorrência de alterações cardíacas irreversíveis.

Reduced CTRP3 Levels in Patients with Stable Coronary Artery Disease and Related with the Presence of Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation. / Níveis Reduzidos de CTRP3 em Pacientes com Doença Arterial Coronariana Estável Relacionados à Presença de Fibrilação Atrial Paroxística.

BACKGROUND: Serum Complement C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein-3 (CTRP3) levels and the relationship with atrial fibrillation (AF) in stable coronary artery disease (CAD) are not clearly known. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the change in serum CTRP3 levels and its relationship with paroxysmal AF in stable CAD. METHOD: The study included 252 patients with CAD and 50 age-sex matched healthy control subjects. Serum CTRP3 levels were measured in addition to routine anamnesis, physical examination, laboratory and echocardiography examinations. The patients were divided into groups with and without CAD and CAD patients with and without paroxysmal AF. Statistical significance was accepted as p<0.05. RESULTS: Serum CTRP3 levels were found to be significantly lower in patients with CAD than in the control group (p<0.001). AF was detected in 38 patients (15.08%) in the CAD group. The frequency of hypertension and female gender, hs-CRP, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine levels and left atrial end-diastolic (LAd) diameter were higher (p<0.05 for each one), and CTRP3 levels were lower in patients with AF (p <0.001). In the logistic regression analysis, serum CTRP3 levels and LAd diameters were independently determined the patients with AF (p<0.01 for each one). In this analysis, we found that every 1 ng/mL reduction in CTRP3 levels increased the risk of AF by 10.7%. In the ROC analysis of CTRP3 values for detecting patients with AF, the area under the ROC curve for CTRP3 was 0.971 (0.951-991) and was statistically significant (p<0.001). When the CTRP3 cut-off value was taken as 300 ng/mL, it was found to predict the presence of AF with 87.9% sensitivity and 86.8% specificity. CONCLUSION: Serum CTRP3 levels were significantly reduced in patients with stable CAD and decreased CTRP3 levels were closely related to the presence of paroxysmal AF in these patients.

FUNDAMENTO: Os níveis de Proteína 3 relacionada ao fator de necrose tumoral/complemento sérico C1q (CTRP3) e a relação com a fibrilação atrial (FA) na doença arterial coronária estável (DAC) não estão claros atualmente. OBJETIVOS: O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a mudança nos níveis séricos de CTRP3 e sua relação com a FA paroxística em DAC estável. MÉTODO: O estudo incluiu 252 pacientes com DAC e 50 controles saudáveis com idade/sexo compatíveis. Os níveis séricos de CTRP3 foram medidos, além da anamnese de rotina, exame físico, exames laboratoriais e ecocardiograma. Os pacientes foram divididos em grupos com e sem DAC e indivíduos com DAC com e sem FA paroxística. Os valores eram estatisticamente significativos quando p<0,05. RESULTADOS: Os níveis séricos de CTRP3 foram significativamente menores em pacientes com DAC do que no grupo controle (p<0,001). A FA foi detectada em 28 pacientes (15,08%) no grupo DAC. A frequência de hipertensão e do sexo feminino, a proteína C reativa de alta sensibilidade (PCR-as), o nitrogênio ureico no sangue, os níveis de creatinina e o diâmetro diastólico do átrio esquerdo foram maiores (p<0,05 para cada um), e os níveis de CTRP3 foram mais baixos em pacientes com FA (p<0,001). Na análise de regressão logística, os níveis séricos de CTRP3 e os diâmetros diastólicos do átrio esquerdo foram independentemente determinados pelos pacientes com FA (p<0,01 para cada um). Nesta análise, observamos que cada 1 ng/mL de redução nos níveis de CTRP3 aumentou o risco de FA em 10,7%. Na análise ROC dos valores de CTRP3 para detectar pacientes com FA, a área da curva ROC para CTRP3 foi 0,971 (0,951­991) e considerada estatisticamente significativa (p<0,001). Quando o ponto de corte de CTRP3 foi considerado em 300 ng/mL, demonstrava a presença de FA com 87,9% de sensibilidade e 86,8% de especificidade. CONCLUSÃO: Os níveis séricos de CTRP3 caíram significativamente em pacientes com DAC estável, e níveis reduzidos de CTRP3 estiveram relacionados à presença de FA paroxística nesses pacientes.

Níveis Reduzidos de CTRP3 em Pacientes com Doença Arterial Coronariana Estável Relacionados à Presença de Fibrilação Atrial Paroxística / Reduced CTRP3 Levels in Patients with Stable Coronary Artery Disease and Related with the Presence of Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Resumo Fundamento Os níveis de Proteína 3 relacionada ao fator de necrose tumoral/complemento sérico C1q (CTRP3) e a relação com a fibrilação atrial (FA) na doença arterial coronária estável (DAC) não estão claros atualmente. Objetivos O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a mudança nos níveis séricos de CTRP3 e sua relação com a FA paroxística em DAC estável. Método O estudo incluiu 252 pacientes com DAC e 50 controles saudáveis com idade/sexo compatíveis. Os níveis séricos de CTRP3 foram medidos, além da anamnese de rotina, exame físico, exames laboratoriais e ecocardiograma. Os pacientes foram divididos em grupos com e sem DAC e indivíduos com DAC com e sem FA paroxística. Os valores eram estatisticamente significativos quando p<0,05. Resultados Os níveis séricos de CTRP3 foram significativamente menores em pacientes com DAC do que no grupo controle (p<0,001). A FA foi detectada em 28 pacientes (15,08%) no grupo DAC. A frequência de hipertensão e do sexo feminino, a proteína C reativa de alta sensibilidade (PCR-as), o nitrogênio ureico no sangue, os níveis de creatinina e o diâmetro diastólico do átrio esquerdo foram maiores (p<0,05 para cada um), e os níveis de CTRP3 foram mais baixos em pacientes com FA (p<0,001). Na análise de regressão logística, os níveis séricos de CTRP3 e os diâmetros diastólicos do átrio esquerdo foram independentemente determinados pelos pacientes com FA (p<0,01 para cada um). Nesta análise, observamos que cada 1 ng/mL de redução nos níveis de CTRP3 aumentou o risco de FA em 10,7%. Na análise ROC dos valores de CTRP3 para detectar pacientes com FA, a área da curva ROC para CTRP3 foi 0,971 (0,951-991) e considerada estatisticamente significativa (p<0,001). Quando o ponto de corte de CTRP3 foi considerado em 300 ng/mL, demonstrava a presença de FA com 87,9% de sensibilidade e 86,8% de especificidade. Conclusão Os níveis séricos de CTRP3 caíram significativamente em pacientes com DAC estável, e níveis reduzidos de CTRP3 estiveram relacionados à presença de FA paroxística nesses pacientes.

Abstract Background Serum Complement C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein-3 (CTRP3) levels and the relationship with atrial fibrillation (AF) in stable coronary artery disease (CAD) are not clearly known. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the change in serum CTRP3 levels and its relationship with paroxysmal AF in stable CAD. Method The study included 252 patients with CAD and 50 age-sex matched healthy control subjects. Serum CTRP3 levels were measured in addition to routine anamnesis, physical examination, laboratory and echocardiography examinations. The patients were divided into groups with and without CAD and CAD patients with and without paroxysmal AF. Statistical significance was accepted as p<0.05. Results Serum CTRP3 levels were found to be significantly lower in patients with CAD than in the control group (p<0.001). AF was detected in 38 patients (15.08%) in the CAD group. The frequency of hypertension and female gender, hs-CRP, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine levels and left atrial end-diastolic (LAd) diameter were higher (p<0.05 for each one), and CTRP3 levels were lower in patients with AF (p <0.001). In the logistic regression analysis, serum CTRP3 levels and LAd diameters were independently determined the patients with AF (p<0.01 for each one). In this analysis, we found that every 1 ng/mL reduction in CTRP3 levels increased the risk of AF by 10.7%. In the ROC analysis of CTRP3 values for detecting patients with AF, the area under the ROC curve for CTRP3 was 0.971 (0.951-991) and was statistically significant (p<0.001). When the CTRP3 cut-off value was taken as 300 ng/mL, it was found to predict the presence of AF with 87.9% sensitivity and 86.8% specificity. Conclusion Serum CTRP3 levels were significantly reduced in patients with stable CAD and decreased CTRP3 levels were closely related to the presence of paroxysmal AF in these patients.

Modified Lung Ultrasound Score in Evaluating the Severity of Covid-19 Pneumonia.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 causes coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), which has been declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization. The aim of the study described here was to determine the severity of pneumonia and the clinical parameters related to a modified lung ultrasound score (mLUS) in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. The study included 44 patients with proven COVID-19 pneumonia. Patients were divided into three groups on the basis of pneumonia severity: mild/moderate pneumonia (group I), severe pneumonia (group II) and critically ill patients (group III). It was determined that mLUS values in groups I-III were 6.51 ± 4.12, 23.5 ± 5.9 and 24.7 ± 3.9, respectively. mLUS values were significantly higher in group II and III patients than in group I patients. There was a positive relationship between mLUS and age and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide level and a negative relationship with PaO2/FiO2 (p = 0.032, ß = 0.275 vs. p = 0.012, ß = 0.315 vs. p = 0.001, ß = -0.520, respectively). In patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, mLUS increases significantly with the severity of the disease.

Complement C1q/Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Protein-3 (CTRP3) is Significantly Decreased in Patients with Heart Failure and Closely Related with Ventricular Tachycardia.

BACKGROUND: The relationship between serum complement C1q/tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related protein-3 (CTRP3) levels and ventricular tachycardia (VT) in heart failure patients with reduced ejection-fraction (HFrEF) is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in serum CTRP3 level and the relationship with VT in HFrEF. METHODS: The study included 88 patients with HFrEF with and without VT and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Serum CTRP3 levels were measured in addition to routine anamnesis, physical, laboratory and echocardiography examinations. The patients were divided into groups with and without HFrEF and HFrEF patients with and without VT. RESULTS: Serum CTRP3 levels were significantly lower in the patients with HFrEF than in the control group (206 ± 16 ng/mL and 427 ± 49 ng/mL, p < 0.001). Similarly, CTRP3 levels were lower in the patients with VT (194 ± 10 ng/mL and 216 ± 15 ng/mL, p < 0.001). Left ventricular (LV) volume and tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient were significantly higher and LV ejection-fraction was significantly lower in the patients with VT (all p < 0.05). Serum CTRP3 and LV end-systolic volume values independently determined the patients with VT (all p < 0.01). Every 10 ng/mL decrease in CTRP3 level increased the odds ratio of VT by 79%. In the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis, the area under the ROC curve for CTRP3 was 0.884 (p < 0.001). A CTRP3 cut-off value of 200 ng/mL could predict VT with 88.1% sensitivity and 80.2% specificity. CONCLUSIONS: Serum CTRP3 levels were significantly decreased in the patients with HFrEF, and decreased CTRP3 levels were very closely related to the presence of VT in these patients.

The new prognostic factor for pulmonary embolism: The ratio of monocyte count to HDL cholesterol.

PURPOSE: Aim of this study is to investigate effectiveness of the monocyte to HDL cholesterol ratio in patients diagnosed with pulmonary embolism for predicting intra-hospital mortality. METHOD: A total of 269 patients diagnosed with pulmonary embolism in the emergency clinic were included in the study. Study was conducted retrospectively. Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (PESI), Monocyte count and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) values were determined. MHR values of the patients were calculated. SPSS 26 package program was used to investigate the effectiveness of MHR in predicting mortality. FINDINGS: Mean age of the patients was 64.51 ± 12.4 years. PESI, Number of monocytes and MHR were significantly higher in the group with mortality than the group without mortality (p < .05). HDL values were significantly lower (p < .05) in mortality group. Sensitivity of MHR 19 cut off value was 89.3%, and its specificity was 82.0%. CONCLUSION: Use of predictors for mortality estimation in patients diagnosed with acute pulmonary embolism is important for faster administration of treatment modalities. We think MHR values can be used as a strong predictor according to the hemogram parameters and biochemical results.

Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity is significantly increased in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and significantly related with serum calcium level.

BACKGROUND: Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) is a rare cause of secondary hypertension (HT), but in patients with PHP, HT is very common and 20-80% of patients have HT. The aim of this study was to evaluate the change in carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (CF-PWV) in hypertensive patients with PHP, and was to determine the clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic parameters associated with CF-PWV. METHODS: The study included 83 newly diagnosed hypertensive patients with PHP and 83 patients with newly diagnosed essential HT without PHP. All patients underwent echocardiography and CF-PWV measurements. RESULTS: In patients with PHP, blood urea nitrogen, hs-CRP, uric acid, serum and urine calcium, parathyroid hormone level, CF-PWV value, LV wall thickness, LVMI, aortic and left atrium (LA) diameter, and presence of LVH and CF-PWV > 10 m/s were higher, and serum phosphorus levels were lower. Serum calcium, LA diameter, and LVMI values were closely correlated with CF-PWV. In the ROC analysis, the AUROC was calculated as 0.825 for calcium level to determine the patients with increased CF-PWV. When the serum calcium value was taken as 10 mg/dL, it was determined with CF-PWV > 10 m/s were 79.5% sensitivity and 78.2% specificity. CONCLUSION: CF-PWV significantly increases in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients with PHP and significantly related to serum calcium level. To protect against target organ damage, high serum calcium levels should be monitored as well as blood pressure in hypertensive patients with PHP.

Frequency of postoperative atrial fibrillation and related parameters in patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy for obesity.

BACKGROUND: In this study, we planned to determine the frequency of postoperative AF and its related parameters in morbidly obese patients who underwent bariatric surgery. METHODS: The study included 300 patients with morbidly obese who had no history of AF and underwent successful bariatric surgery. Routine anamnesis, physical examination and laboratory parameters of the patients were recorded. Patients with postoperative AF were detected. The participants were grouped as patients with and without AF. RESULTS: Postoperative AF occurred in 19 (6.3%) patients. Age, BMI and LAd diameter parameters independently determined the presence of AF. When the ROC curve was performed to identify patients with AF, the area under the ROC curve was found to be 0.841, 0.785 and 0.902 for age, BMI and LAd diameter, respectively. According to this analysis, 50 years for age, 43 kg/m2 for BMI and 40 mm for LAd were used to determine patients with AF with acceptable sensitivity and specificity (>70% each). CONCLUSIONS: The most important determinants of postoperative AF are age, LAd and basal BMI. Therefore, morbidly obese patients with LAd >40 mm, BMI >43 kg/m2 and >50 years of age should be followed up more closely for postoperative AF development and preoperative precautions should be taken to prevent AF development.

Disease Severity Affects Ventricular Repolarization Parameters in Patients With COVID-19. / A Gravidade da Doença Afeta os Parâmetros de Repolarização Ventricular em Pacientes com COVID-19.

BACKGROUND: There is no study evaluating the Tpeak-Tend (Tpe) interval, Tpe/QT ratio, and Tpe/QTc ratio to assess cardiac arrhythmias in patients with COVID-19. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to examine whether there is a change in QT, QTc, Tpe interval, Tpe/QT ratio, and Tpe/QTc ratio in patients with COVID-19. METHODS: The study included 90 patients with COVID-19 infection and 30 age-and-sex-matched healthy controls. QT, QTc, Tpe interval, Tpe/QT ratio, and Tpe/QTc ratio were measured. The participants included in the study were divided into the following 4 groups: healthy controls (group I), patients with COVID-19 without pneumonia (group II), patients with COVID-19 and mild pneumonia (group III), and patients with COVID-19 and severe pneumonia (group IV). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: It was found that baseline heart rate, presence of hypertension and diabetes, white blood cell count, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, potassium, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, NT-proBNP, high sensitive C reactive protein, D-dimer, hs-cTnI, Tpe, Tpe/QT, and Tpe/QTc increased from group I to group IV, and they were significantly higher in all patients in group IV (p < 0.05). Systolic-diastolic blood pressure, hemoglobin, and calcium levels were found to be lowest in group IV and significantly lower than in other groups (< 0.05). QT and QTc intervals were similar between groups. It was determined that increased heart rate, calcium, D-dimer, NT-proBNP and hs-CRP levels were significantly related to Tpe, Tpe/QT, and Tpe/QTc. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with COVID-19 and severe pneumonia, Tpe, Tpe/QT ratio, and Tpe/QTc ratio, which are among ventricular repolarization parameters, were found to be increased, without prolonged QT and QTc intervals. In this study, we cannot definitively conclude that the ECG changes observed are directly related to COVID-19 infection or inflammation, but rather associated with severe COVID-19 scenarios, which might involve other causes of inflammation and comorbidities. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(5):907-913).

FUNDAMENTO: Não há estudos avaliando o intervalo Tpico-Tfim (Tpe), a relação Tpe/QT e a relação Tpe/QTc para avaliar arritmias cardíacas em pacientes com COVID-19. OBJETIVO: Visamos investigar se há alterações nos intervalos QT, QTc e Tpe e nas relações Tpe/QT e Tpe/QTc em pacientes com COVID-19. MÉTODOS: O estudo incluiu 90 pacientes com infecção por COVID-19 e 30 controles saudáveis pareados por sexo e idade. Foram aferidos os intervalos QT, QTc e Tpe e as relações Tpe/QT e Tpe/QTc. Os participantes incluídos no estudo foram divididos nos seguintes 4 grupos: controles saudáveis (grupo I), pacientes com COVID-19 sem pneumonia (grupo II), pacientes com COVID-19 e pneumonia leve (grupo III) e pacientes com COVID-19 e pneumonia grave (grupo IV). Significância estatística foi definida por valor p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Verificou-se que a frequência cardíaca basal, a presença de hipertensão e diabetes, a contagem de leucócitos, o nitrogênio ureico no sangue, a creatinina, o potássio, o aspartato aminotransferase, a alanina aminotransferase, o NT-proBNP, a proteína C reativa de alta sensibilidade, o dímero-D, a TncI-as, o intervalo Tpe, a relação Tpe/QT e a relação Tpe/QTc aumentaram do grupo I para o grupo IV e foram significativamente mais altos em todos os pacientes do grupo IV (p < 0,05). A pressão arterial sistólica, a hemoglobina e os níveis de cálcio eram menores no grupo IV e significativamente menores em comparação com os demais grupos (< 0,05). Os intervalos QT e QTc eram semelhantes entre grupos. Determinou-se que os níveis elevados de frequência cardíaca, cálcio, dímero-D, NT-proBNP e PCR-as eram significativamente relacionados a Tpe, Tpe/QT e Tpe/QTc. CONCLUSÕES: Em pacientes com COVID-19 e pneumonia grave, o intervalo Tpe, a relação Tpe/QT e a relação Tpe/QTc, que estão entre os parâmetros de repolarização ventricular, foram aumentados, sem prolongação dos intervalos QT e QTc. A partir deste estudo, não podemos definitivamente concluir que as alterações eletrocardiográficas observadas estão diretamente relacionadas à infecção por COVID-19 ou à inflamação, mas sim associadas a cenários graves de COVID-19, que podem envolver outras causas de inflamação e comorbidades.

Relationship between coarse F waves and thromboembolic events in patients with permanent atrial fibrillation.

BACKGROUND: The coarse F waves on the 12-lead surface electrocardiogram (ECG) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) are known as atrial viability and contractility indicator. Our aim in this study was to investigate the effect of coarse F wave on thromboembolism in patients with permanent AF. METHODS: In our study, 328 patients with permanent AF were included. Routine laboratory, echocardiographic and electrocardiographic parameters were examined. Cerebrovascular event (CVE) or acute artery occlusion was considered a thromboembolic event. RESULTS: In our study, 46 (14.0%) of the patients were found to have thromboembolic events and 282 (86%) of them were found without thromboembolic events. In the group with thromboembolic event, the number of patients with hypertension (HT) (P < .001) and history of coronary artery disease (P = .003) and elderly patients (P < .001) was significantly higher and warfarin use was significantly lower (P = .025). In the group of patients without thromboembolic events, the number of patients with a coarse F wave in surface ECG was significantly lower (P = .001). Age (OR: 1.105, 95% CI: 1.066-1.145, P < .001), HT (OR: 2.831, 95% CI: 1.266-6.331, P = .011), and coarse F wave (OR: 0.290, 95% CI: 0.126- 0.670, P = .004) were determined as independent variables for thromboembolic events. CONCLUSION: Coarse F wave in 12-lead surface ECG in patients with permanent AF may be associated with good prognosis.

A Gravidade da Doença Afeta os Parâmetros de Repolarização Ventricular em Pacientes com COVID-19 / Disease Severity Affects Ventricular Repolarization Parameters in Patients With COVID-19

Resumo Fundamento: Não há estudos avaliando o intervalo Tpico-Tfim (Tpe), a relação Tpe/QT e a relação Tpe/QTc para avaliar arritmias cardíacas em pacientes com COVID-19. Objetivo: Visamos investigar se há alterações nos intervalos QT, QTc e Tpe e nas relações Tpe/QT e Tpe/QTc em pacientes com COVID-19. Métodos: O estudo incluiu 90 pacientes com infecção por COVID-19 e 30 controles saudáveis pareados por sexo e idade. Foram aferidos os intervalos QT, QTc e Tpe e as relações Tpe/QT e Tpe/QTc. Os participantes incluídos no estudo foram divididos nos seguintes 4 grupos: controles saudáveis (grupo I), pacientes com COVID-19 sem pneumonia (grupo II), pacientes com COVID-19 e pneumonia leve (grupo III) e pacientes com COVID-19 e pneumonia grave (grupo IV). Significância estatística foi definida por valor p < 0,05. Resultados: Verificou-se que a frequência cardíaca basal, a presença de hipertensão e diabetes, a contagem de leucócitos, o nitrogênio ureico no sangue, a creatinina, o potássio, o aspartato aminotransferase, a alanina aminotransferase, o NT-proBNP, a proteína C reativa de alta sensibilidade, o dímero-D, a TncI-as, o intervalo Tpe, a relação Tpe/QT e a relação Tpe/QTc aumentaram do grupo I para o grupo IV e foram significativamente mais altos em todos os pacientes do grupo IV (p < 0,05). A pressão arterial sistólica, a hemoglobina e os níveis de cálcio eram menores no grupo IV e significativamente menores em comparação com os demais grupos (< 0,05). Os intervalos QT e QTc eram semelhantes entre grupos. Determinou-se que os níveis elevados de frequência cardíaca, cálcio, dímero-D, NT-proBNP e PCR-as eram significativamente relacionados a Tpe, Tpe/QT e Tpe/QTc. Conclusões: Em pacientes com COVID-19 e pneumonia grave, o intervalo Tpe, a relação Tpe/QT e a relação Tpe/QTc, que estão entre os parâmetros de repolarização ventricular, foram aumentados, sem prolongação dos intervalos QT e QTc. A partir deste estudo, não podemos definitivamente concluir que as alterações eletrocardiográficas observadas estão diretamente relacionadas à infecção por COVID-19 ou à inflamação, mas sim associadas a cenários graves de COVID-19, que podem envolver outras causas de inflamação e comorbidades.

Abstract Background: There is no study evaluating the Tpeak-Tend (Tpe) interval, Tpe/QT ratio, and Tpe/QTc ratio to assess cardiac arrhythmias in patients with COVID-19. Objective: We aimed to examine whether there is a change in QT, QTc, Tpe interval, Tpe/QT ratio, and Tpe/QTc ratio in patients with COVID-19. Methods: The study included 90 patients with COVID-19 infection and 30 age-and-sex-matched healthy controls. QT, QTc, Tpe interval, Tpe/QT ratio, and Tpe/QTc ratio were measured. The participants included in the study were divided into the following 4 groups: healthy controls (group I), patients with COVID-19 without pneumonia (group II), patients with COVID-19 and mild pneumonia (group III), and patients with COVID-19 and severe pneumonia (group IV). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: It was found that baseline heart rate, presence of hypertension and diabetes, white blood cell count, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, potassium, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, NT-proBNP, high sensitive C reactive protein, D-dimer, hs-cTnI, Tpe, Tpe/QT, and Tpe/QTc increased from group I to group IV, and they were significantly higher in all patients in group IV (p < 0.05). Systolic-diastolic blood pressure, hemoglobin, and calcium levels were found to be lowest in group IV and significantly lower than in other groups (< 0.05). QT and QTc intervals were similar between groups. It was determined that increased heart rate, calcium, D-dimer, NT-proBNP and hs-CRP levels were significantly related to Tpe, Tpe/QT, and Tpe/QTc. Conclusions: In patients with COVID-19 and severe pneumonia, Tpe, Tpe/QT ratio, and Tpe/QTc ratio, which are among ventricular repolarization parameters, were found to be increased, without prolonged QT and QTc intervals. In this study, we cannot definitively conclude that the ECG changes observed are directly related to COVID-19 infection or inflammation, but rather associated with severe COVID-19 scenarios, which might involve other causes of inflammation and comorbidities. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(5):907-913)

Serum Elabela Level Significantly Increased in Patients with Complete Heart Block.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the change in serum Elabela level, a new apelinergic system peptide, in patients with complete atrioventricular (AV) block and healthy controls. METHODS: The study included 50 patients with planned cardiac pacemaker (PM) implantation due to complete AV block and 50 healthy controls with similar age and gender. Elabela level was measured in addition to routine anamnesis, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Patients were divided into two groups, with and without AV block, and then compared. RESULTS: In patients with AV block, serum Elabela level was significantly higher and heart rate and cardiac output were significantly lower than in healthy controls. Serum Elabela level was found to be positively correlated with high-sensitive C-reactive protein and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels, but negatively correlated with heart rate, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and cardiac output. In linear regression analysis, it was found that these parameters were only closely related to heart rate and NT-proBNP. Serum Elabela level was determined in the patients with AV block independently; an Elabela level > 9.5 ng/ml determined the risk of complete AV-block with 90.2% sensitivity and 88.0% specificity. CONCLUSION: In patients with complete AV block, the serum Elabela level increases significantly before the PM implantation procedure. According to the results of our study, it was concluded that serum Elabela level could be used in the early determination of patients with complete AV block.

Serum elabela level significantly increased in patients with complete heart block

Abstract Objective: To investigate the change in serum Elabela level, a new apelinergic system peptide, in patients with complete atrioventricular (AV) block and healthy controls. Methods: The study included 50 patients with planned cardiac pacemaker (PM) implantation due to complete AV block and 50 healthy controls with similar age and gender. Elabela level was measured in addition to routine anamnesis, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Patients were divided into two groups, with and without AV block, and then compared. Results: In patients with AV block, serum Elabela level was significantly higher and heart rate and cardiac output were significantly lower than in healthy controls. Serum Elabela level was found to be positively correlated with high-sensitive C-reactive protein and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels, but negatively correlated with heart rate, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and cardiac output. In linear regression analysis, it was found that these parameters were only closely related to heart rate and NT-proBNP. Serum Elabela level was determined in the patients with AV block independently; an Elabela level > 9.5 ng/ml determined the risk of complete AV-block with 90.2% sensitivity and 88.0% specificity. Conclusion: In patients with complete AV block, the serum Elabela level increases significantly before the PM implantation procedure. According to the results of our study, it was concluded that serum Elabela level could be used in the early determination of patients with complete AV block.