Complete Atrioventricular Block and Cardiopulmonary Involvement in Rapidly Progressive Systemic Sclerosis

Abstract The heart and lung are target organs in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and similar symptoms (dyspnea and cough) may make the differential diagnosis between the two lesions difficult. In addition, complete atrioventricular block (CAVB) is a rare complication of this disease. This case report is about a patient with SSc and pulmonary fibrosis who was admitted to the emergency room with CAVB, heart failure (HF) and progressive worsening of the underlying disease.

Trends in Mortality Rates from Cardiovascular Disease and Cancer between 2000 and 2015 in the Most Populous Capital Cities of the Five Regions of Brazil.

BACKGROUND: In many cities around the world, the mortality rate from cancer (CA) has exceeded that from disease of the circulatory system (DCS). OBJECTIVES: To compare the mortality curves from DCS and CA in the most populous capital cities of the five regions of Brazil. METHODS: Data of mortality rates from DCS and CA between 2000 and 2015 were collected from the Mortality Information System of Manaus, Salvador, Goiania, Sao Paulo and Curitiba, and categorized by age range into early (30-69 years) and late (≥ 70 years), and by gender of the individuals. Chapters II and IX of the International Classification of Diseases-10 were used for the analysis of causes of deaths. The Joinpoint regression model was used to assess the tendency of the estimated annual percentage change of mortality rate, and the Monte Carlo permutation test was used to detect when changes occurred. Statistical significance was set at 5%. RESULTS: There was a consistent decrease in early and late mortality from DCS in both genders in the cities studied, except for late mortality in men in Manaus. There was a tendency of decrease of mortality rates from CA in São Paulo and Curitiba, and of increase in the rates from CA in Goiania. In Salvador, there was a decrease in early mortality from CA in men and women and an increase in late mortality in both genders. CONCLUSION: There was a progressive and marked decrease in the mortality rate from DCS and a maintenance or slight increase in CA mortality in the five capital cities studied. These phenomena may lead to the intersection of the curves, with predominance of mortality from CA (old and new cases).

Trends in Mortality Rates from Cardiovascular Disease and Cancer between 2000 and 2015 in the Most Populous Capital Cities of the Five Regions of Brazil / Tendência das Taxas de Mortalidade por Doença Cardiovascular e Câncer entre 2000 e 2015 nas Capitais mais Populosas das Cinco Regiões do Brasil

Abstract Background: In many cities around the world, the mortality rate from cancer (CA) has exceeded that from disease of the circulatory system (DCS). Objectives: To compare the mortality curves from DCS and CA in the most populous capital cities of the five regions of Brazil. Methods: Data of mortality rates from DCS and CA between 2000 and 2015 were collected from the Mortality Information System of Manaus, Salvador, Goiania, Sao Paulo and Curitiba, and categorized by age range into early (30-69 years) and late (≥ 70 years), and by gender of the individuals. Chapters II and IX of the International Classification of Diseases-10 were used for the analysis of causes of deaths. The Joinpoint regression model was used to assess the tendency of the estimated annual percentage change of mortality rate, and the Monte Carlo permutation test was used to detect when changes occurred. Statistical significance was set at 5%. Results: There was a consistent decrease in early and late mortality from DCS in both genders in the cities studied, except for late mortality in men in Manaus. There was a tendency of decrease of mortality rates from CA in São Paulo and Curitiba, and of increase in the rates from CA in Goiania. In Salvador, there was a decrease in early mortality from CA in men and women and an increase in late mortality in both genders. Conclusion: There was a progressive and marked decrease in the mortality rate from DCS and a maintenance or slight increase in CA mortality in the five capital cities studied. These phenomena may lead to the intersection of the curves, with predominance of mortality from CA (old and new cases).

Resumo Fundamento: Em muitas cidades no mundo, a taxa de mortalidade por câncer (CA) ultrapassou aquela por doenças do aparelho circulatório (DAC). Objetivos: Comparar as curvas de mortalidade por DAC e CA nas capitais mais populosas das cinco regiões brasileiras. Métodos: Dados de mortalidade por DAC e CA entre 2000 e 2015 foram coletadas no Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade das capitais mais populosas das cinco regiões do Brasil: Manaus, Salvador, Goiânia, São Paulo e Curitiba. Os dados foram categorizados por faixas etárias dos indivíduos em precoce (30-69 anos) e tardia (≥70 anos), e por gênero. Foram considerados os capítulos II e IX da Classificação Internacional de Doenças-10 para análise das causas de óbito. A tendência na estimativa de mudança percentual foi calculada pelo modelo de regressão Joinpoint 4.6.0.0. e a detecção das mudanças das taxas pelo teste de permutação Monte Carlo. Nível de significância estatística de 5%. Resultados: Observou-se queda consistente das mortalidades precoce e tardia por DAC, em ambos os gêneros, nas capitais estudadas, com exceção da mortalidade tardia em homens em Manaus. Houve tendência de queda das taxas de mortalidade por CA em São Paulo e Curitiba, e de aumento da taxa de mortalidade por CA em Goiânia. Em Salvador, houve queda na mortalidade precoce por CA em homens e mulheres e incremento na mortalidade tardia em ambos os gêneros. Conclusão: Houve queda progressiva e expressiva da taxa de mortalidade por DAC nas cinco capitais em oposição à manutenção ou discreta elevação da mortalidade por CA. Tais fenômenos concorrem para o cruzamento das curvas com predomínio da mortalidade por CA (já ocorrido ou casos novos).

Relationship of Electromechanical Dyssynchrony in Patients Submitted to CRT With LV Lead Implantation Guided by Gated Myocardial Perfusion Spect / Relação entre Dissincronismo Elétrico e Mecânico em Pacientes Submetidos a TRC com Implante do Eletrodo de VE Orientado pela Cintilografia GATED SPECT

Abstract Background: Heart failure (HF) affects more than 5 million individuals in the United States, with more than 1 million hospital admissions per year. Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) can benefit patients with advanced HF and prolonged QRS. A significant percentage of patients, however, does not respond to CRT. Electrical dyssynchrony isolated might not be a good predictor of response, and the last left ventricular (LV) segment to contract can influence the response. Objectives: To assess electromechanical dyssynchrony in CRT with LV lead implantation guided by GATED SPECT. Methods: This study included 15 patients with functional class II-IV HF and clinically optimized, ejection fraction of 35%, sinus rhythm, left bundle-branch block, and QRS ≥ 120 ms. The patients underwent electrocardiography, answered the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ), and underwent gated myocardial perfusion SPECT up to 4 weeks before CRT, being reassessed 6 months later. The primary analysis aimed at determining the proportion of patients with a reduction in QRS duration and favorable response to CRT, depending on concordance of the LV lead position, using chi-square test. The pre- and post-CRT variables were analyzed by use of Student t test, adopting the significance level of 5%. Results: We implanted 15 CRT devices, and 2 patients died during follow-up. The durations of the QRS (212 ms vs 136 ms) and the PR interval (179 ms vs 126 ms) were significantly reduced (p < 0.001). In 54% of the patients, the lead position was concordant with the maximal delay site. In the responder group, the lateral position was prevalent. The MLHFQ showed a significant improvement in quality of life (p < 0.0002). Conclusion: CRT determines improvement in the quality of life and in electrical synchronism. Electromechanical synchronism relates to response to CRT. Positioning the LV lead in the maximal delay site has limitations.

Resumo Fundamento: A insuficiência cardíaca (IC) afeta mais de 5 milhões de pessoas nos Estados Unidos, com mais de 1 milhão de internações/ano. A terapia de ressincronização (TRC) pode beneficiar pacientes com IC avançada e QRS alargado; entretanto, percentual significativo de pacientes não respondem à TRC. O dissincronismo elétrico isolado pode não representar um bom preditor de resposta, e o local da última ativação do ventrículo esquerdo (VE) pode influenciar na resposta. Objetivos: Avaliar o dissincronismo eletromecânico na TRC com o implante do eletrodo do VE orientado por GATED SPECT. Métodos: Incluídos 15 pacientes com IC classe funcional II-IV, otimizados clinicamente, com fração de ejeção de 35%, ritmo sinusal, bloqueio de ramo esquerdo, QRS ≥ 120 ms. Realizaram eletrocardiograma, Questionário Minnesota Vivendo com Insuficiência Cardíaca (MLHFQ) e cintilografia GATED SPECT até 4 semanas antes do implante. Reavaliados 6 meses após. Análise primária visou determinar a proporção de pacientes com redução da duração do QRS e resposta favorável à TRC dependendo da concordância ou não na posição do eletrodo, utilizando teste Qui-Quadrado. Análise das variáveis pré e pós TRC foi feita através do teste t de Student, assumindo significância de 5%. Resultados: Realizamos 15 implantes com 2 óbitos no seguimento. As reduções das durações do QRS (212 ms vs 136 ms) e do IPR (179 ms vs 126 ms) foram significativas (p < 0,001). Em 54%, o eletrodo foi concordante com o local de maior atraso. No grupo respondedor, a posição lateral foi prevalente. O MLHFQ mostrou melhora significativa da qualidade de vida (p < 0,0002). Conclusão: A TRC determina melhora da qualidade de vida e do sincronismo elétrico. O sincronismo eletromecânico relaciona-se com a resposta à TRC. O posicionamento do eletrodo de VE no sítio de maior retardo tem limitações.

Relationship of Electromechanical Dyssynchrony in Patients Submitted to CRT With LV Lead Implantation Guided by Gated Myocardial Perfusion Spect.

BACKGROUND: Heart failure (HF) affects more than 5 million individuals in the United States, with more than 1 million hospital admissions per year. Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) can benefit patients with advanced HF and prolonged QRS. A significant percentage of patients, however, does not respond to CRT. Electrical dyssynchrony isolated might not be a good predictor of response, and the last left ventricular (LV) segment to contract can influence the response. OBJECTIVES: To assess electromechanical dyssynchrony in CRT with LV lead implantation guided by GATED SPECT. METHODS: This study included 15 patients with functional class II-IV HF and clinically optimized, ejection fraction of 35%, sinus rhythm, left bundle-branch block, and QRS ≥ 120 ms. The patients underwent electrocardiography, answered the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ), and underwent gated myocardial perfusion SPECT up to 4 weeks before CRT, being reassessed 6 months later. The primary analysis aimed at determining the proportion of patients with a reduction in QRS duration and favorable response to CRT, depending on concordance of the LV lead position, using chi-square test. The pre- and post-CRT variables were analyzed by use of Student t test, adopting the significance level of 5%. RESULTS: We implanted 15 CRT devices, and 2 patients died during follow-up. The durations of the QRS (212 ms vs 136 ms) and the PR interval (179 ms vs 126 ms) were significantly reduced (p < 0.001). In 54% of the patients, the lead position was concordant with the maximal delay site. In the responder group, the lateral position was prevalent. The MLHFQ showed a significant improvement in quality of life (p < 0.0002). CONCLUSION: CRT determines improvement in the quality of life and in electrical synchronism. Electromechanical synchronism relates to response to CRT. Positioning the LV lead in the maximal delay site has limitations.

Comparison of two smoking cessation interventions for inpatients.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of two cognitive behavioral therapy-based smoking cessation interventions initiated during hospitalization and to evaluate the factors related to relapse after discharge. METHODS: This was a prospective randomized study involving 90 smokers hospitalized in a university hospital. We collected data related to sociodemographic characteristics, reasons for admission, smoking-related diseases, smoking history, the degree of nicotine dependence (ND), and the level of craving. Patients were divided into two treatment groups: brief intervention (BrInter, n = 45); and intensive intervention with presentation of an educational video (InInterV, n=45). To assess relapse, all patients were assessed by telephone interview in the first, third, and sixth months after discharge. Abstinence was confirmed by measurement of exhaled carbon monoxide (eCO). RESULTS: Of the 90 patients evaluated, 55 (61.1%) were male. The mean age was 51.1 ± 12.2 years. The degree of ND was elevated in 39 (43.4%), and withdrawal symptoms were present in 53 (58.9%). The mean eCO at baseline was 4.8 ± 4.5 ppm. The eCO correlated positively with the degree of ND (r = 0.244; p = 0.02) and negatively with the number of smoke-free days (r = -0.284; p = 0.006). There were no differences between the groups in terms of the variables related to socioeconomic status, smoking history, or hospitalization. Of the 81 patients evaluated at 6 months, 33 (40.7%) remained abstinent (9 and 24 BrInter and InInterV group patients, respectively; p = 0.001), and 48 (59.3%) had relapsed (31 and 17 BrInter and InInterV group patients, respectively; p= 0.001). Moderate or intense craving was a significant independent risk factor for relapse, with a relative risk of 4.0 (95% CI: 1.5-10.7; p < 0.00001). CONCLUSIONS: The inclusion of an educational video proved effective in reducing relapse rates. Craving is a significant risk factor for relapse.

Comparison of two smoking cessation interventions for inpatients / Comparação de duas intervenções de cessação do tabagismo em pacientes internados

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of two cognitive behavioral therapy-based smoking cessation interventions initiated during hospitalization and to evaluate the factors related to relapse after discharge. Methods: This was a prospective randomized study involving 90 smokers hospitalized in a university hospital. We collected data related to sociodemographic characteristics, reasons for admission, smoking-related diseases, smoking history, the degree of nicotine dependence (ND), and the level of craving. Patients were divided into two treatment groups: brief intervention (BrInter, n = 45); and intensive intervention with presentation of an educational video (InInterV, n=45). To assess relapse, all patients were assessed by telephone interview in the first, third, and sixth months after discharge. Abstinence was confirmed by measurement of exhaled carbon monoxide (eCO). Results: Of the 90 patients evaluated, 55 (61.1%) were male. The mean age was 51.1 ± 12.2 years. The degree of ND was elevated in 39 (43.4%), and withdrawal symptoms were present in 53 (58.9%). The mean eCO at baseline was 4.8 ± 4.5 ppm. The eCO correlated positively with the degree of ND (r = 0.244; p = 0.02) and negatively with the number of smoke-free days (r = −0.284; p = 0.006). There were no differences between the groups in terms of the variables related to socioeconomic status, smoking history, or hospitalization. Of the 81 patients evaluated at 6 months, 33 (40.7%) remained abstinent (9 and 24 BrInter and InInterV group patients, respectively; p = 0.001), and 48 (59.3%) had relapsed (31 and 17 BrInter and InInterV group patients, respectively; p= 0.001). Moderate or intense craving was a significant independent risk factor for relapse, with a relative risk of 4.0 (95% CI: 1.5-10.7; p < 0.00001). Conclusions: The inclusion of an educational video proved effective in reducing relapse rates. Craving is a significant risk factor for relapse.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar a eficácia de duas intervenções de cessação de tabagismo baseadas na terapia cognitivo-comportamental em pacientes internados e avaliar os fatores relacionados à recaída após a alta hospitalar. Métodos: Estudo prospectivo, randomizado, com 90 tabagistas internados em um hospital universitário. Foram coletados dados relacionados a características sociodemográficas, motivo da internação, doenças relacionadas ao tabagismo, carga tabágica, grau de dependência de nicotina (DN) e grau de fissura. Os pacientes foram distribuídos em dois grupos de tratamento: intervenção breve (InB; n = 45) e intervenção intensiva com apresentação de um vídeo educativo (InIV; n = 45). Para avaliar recaídas, todos os pacientes foram entrevistados por contato telefônico no primeiro, terceiro e sexto mês após a alta. A abstinência foi confirmada pela medida de monóxido de carbono no ar expirado (COex). Resultados: Dos 90 pacientes avaliados, 55 (61,1%) eram homens. A média de idade foi de 51,1 ± 12,2 anos. O grau de DN foi elevado em 39 (43,4%), e sintomas de abstinência estavam presentes em 53 (58,9%). A média de COex inicial foi de 4,8 ± 4,5 ppm. O COex se correlacionou positivamente com o grau de DN (r = 0,244; p = 0,02) e negativamente com o número de dias sem fumar (r = −0,284; p = 0,006). Não houve diferenças entre os grupos quanto a variáveis relacionadas com nível socioeconômico, carga tabágica ou internação. Dos 81 pacientes avaliados após 6 meses de segmento, 33 (40,7%) continuaram abstinentes (9 e 24 nos grupos InB e InIV, respectivamente; p = 0,001) e 48 (59,3%) recaíram (31 e 17 nos grupos InB e InIV, respectivamente; p = 0,001). O grau de fissura (moderado ou intenso) foi um fator de risco independente significativo para a recaída, com um risco relativo de 4,0 (IC95%: 1,5-10,7; p < 0,00001). Conclusões: A inclusão de um vídeo educativo provou ser eficaz na redução das taxas de recaída. O grau de fissura foi um fator de risco significativo para a recaída.

Cardiovascular effects of radiotherapy on the patient with cancer.

The incidence of cancer (CA) has increased globally and radiotherapy (RT) is a vital component in its treatment. Cardiovascular injuries induced by RT in the treatment of thoracic and cervical CA have been causing problems in clinical practice for decades, and are among the most serious adverse effects of radiation experienced by the growing number of cancer survivors. This article presentes a review on the Lilacs, Scielo and Pubmed databases of the main cardiovascular injuries, their mechanisms, clinical presentations, treatments and prevention proposals. Injuries caused by RT include diseases of the pericardium, coronary artery disease, valvular disease, myocardial disease with systolic and diastolic dysfunction, conduction disorders, and carotid artery and great vessels disease. Thoracic and cervical irradiation increases cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Despite the great progress in the improvement of RT techniques, totally excluding prime areas of the cardiovascular system from the irradiation field is not yet possible. Guidelines must be created for monitoring, diagnosis and treatment of patients with CA treated with RT.

Cardiovascular effects of radiotherapy on the patient with cancer / Efeitos cardiovasculares da radioterapia no paciente com câncer

Summary The incidence of cancer (CA) has increased globally and radiotherapy (RT) is a vital component in its treatment. Cardiovascular injuries induced by RT in the treatment of thoracic and cervical CA have been causing problems in clinical practice for decades, and are among the most serious adverse effects of radiation experienced by the growing number of cancer survivors. This article presentes a review on the Lilacs, Scielo and Pubmed databases of the main cardiovascular injuries, their mechanisms, clinical presentations, treatments and prevention proposals. Injuries caused by RT include diseases of the pericardium, coronary artery disease, valvular disease, myocardial disease with systolic and diastolic dysfunction, conduction disorders, and carotid artery and great vessels disease. Thoracic and cervical irradiation increases cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Despite the great progress in the improvement of RT techniques, totally excluding prime areas of the cardiovascular system from the irradiation field is not yet possible. Guidelines must be created for monitoring, diagnosis and treatment of patients with CA treated with RT.

Resumo A incidência de câncer (CA) tem aumentado globalmente e a radioterapia (RT) é um componente vital do tratamento. As lesões cardiovasculares induzidas pela RT no tratamento de CA torácicos e cervicais geram problemas à prática clínica há décadas e estão entre os efeitos adversos mais graves da RT experimentados pelo crescente número de sobreviventes de CA. Neste artigo, realiza-se revisão nas bases Lilacs, Scielo e Pubmed das principais lesões cardiovasculares secundárias à RT, os mecanismos fisiopatológicos, as apresentações clínicas, os tratamentos e as propostas de prevenção. Dentre as lesões pela RT, destacam-se as doenças do pericárdio, a doença arterial coronariana, a doença valvular, a doença do miocárdio com disfunção sistólica e diastólica, os distúrbios de condução, a doença das artérias carótidas e dos grandes vasos. A irradiação torácica e cervical aumentam a morbimortalidade cardiovascular. Apesar da grande evolução no aprimoramento das técnicas de RT, ainda não foi possível excluir totalmente áreas nobres do sistema cardiovascular dos campos de irradiação. Faz-se necessária a instituição de diretrizes para monitoramento, diagnóstico e tratamento dos pacientes com CA submetidos à RT.

Hypertension in patients with cancer.

There is a known association between chemotherapy and radiotherapy for treatment of cancer patients and development or worsening of hypertension. The aim of this article is to review this association. A literature search was conducted for articles reporting this association on the databases PubMed, SciELO and LILACS between 1993 and 2013. There was a high coprevalence of hypertension and cancer, since both diseases share the same risk factors, such as sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, unhealthy diet and alcohol abuse. The use of chemotherapy and adjuvant drugs effective in the treatment of cancer increased the survival rate of these patients and, consequently, increased the incidence of hypertension. We described the association between the use of angiogenesis inhibitors (bevacizumab, sorafenib and sunitinib), corticosteroids, erythropoietin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with the development of hypertension. We also described the relationship between hypertension and carotid baroreceptor injury secondary to cervical radiotherapy. Morbidity and mortality increased in patients with cancer and hypertension without proper antihypertensive treatment. We concluded that there is need for early diagnosis, effective monitoring and treatment strategies for hypertension in cancer patients in order to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Hypertension in Patients with Cancer / Hipertensão Arterial no Paciente com Câncer

There is a known association between chemotherapy and radiotherapy for treatment of cancer patients and development or worsening of hypertension. The aim of this article is to review this association. A literature search was conducted for articles reporting this association on the databases PubMed, SciELO and LILACS between 1993 and 2013. There was a high coprevalence of hypertension and cancer, since both diseases share the same risk factors, such as sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, unhealthy diet and alcohol abuse. The use of chemotherapy and adjuvant drugs effective in the treatment of cancer increased the survival rate of these patients and, consequently, increased the incidence of hypertension. We described the association between the use of angiogenesis inhibitors (bevacizumab, sorafenib and sunitinib), corticosteroids, erythropoietin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with the development of hypertension. We also described the relationship between hypertension and carotid baroreceptor injury secondary to cervical radiotherapy. Morbidity and mortality increased in patients with cancer and hypertension without proper antihypertensive treatment. We concluded that there is need for early diagnosis, effective monitoring and treatment strategies for hypertension in cancer patients in order to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Há associação conhecida entre a quimioterapia e a radioterapia utilizadas no tratamento do paciente com Câncer (CA) e o desenvolvimento ou agravamento da Hipertensão Arterial (HA). Este artigo teve como objetivo revisar a referida associação. Foi realizada uma pesquisa bibliográfica nas bases PubMed, SciELO e LILACS, entre 1993 e 2013, que relatasse tal associação. Observou-se maior coprevalência entre HA e CA por ambas as doenças compartilharem dos mesmos fatores de risco, tais como sedentarismo, obesidade, tabagismo, alimentação inadequada e abuso de álcool. O uso de quimioterápicos e fármacos adjuvantes eficazes no tratamento do CA aumentou a sobrevida desses pacientes e, consequentemente, a maior incidência de HA. Descreveuse a associação entre o uso dos inibidores de angiogênese (bevacizumab, sorafenib e sunitinib), corticoides, eritropoetina e anti-inflamatórios não esteroidais com o desenvolvimento de HA. Também foi relatada a relação entre hipertensão e lesão do barorreceptor carotídeo secundária a radioterapia cervical. A morbimortalidade aumentou nos pacientes com CA e hipertensos sem tratamento anti-hipertensivo adequado. Concluiu-se pela necessidade de diagnóstico precoce, estratégias de monitorização e tratamento efetivo da HA no paciente com CA com objetivo de diminuir a morbimortalidade cardiovascular.

O paradigma da biologia de sistemas aplicado às doenças cardiovasculares / The Paradigm of Systems Biology Applied to Cardiovascular Diseases

O método osleriano, baseado na análise individual dos componentes funcionais de um organismo, vem apresentandosinais de esgotamento na tentativa de explicar a fisiopatologia de síndromes complexas como o câncer e as doençascardiovasculares. Por essa razão, vem sendo substituído progressivamente por um novo paradigma: a metodologia dossistemas biológicos. Esse novo modelo busca integrar conhecimentos de diferentes e modernas áreas de pesquisa como as ciências ômicas e a bioinformática, com o objetivo de desenvolver redes biológicas capazes de auxiliar no melhor entendimento dessas síndromes complexas. O objetivo dessa revisão é apresentar ao cardiologista clínico e ao investigador cardiovascular uma nova ferramenta denominada biologia de sistemas e a forma com que ela integra os dados provenientes das ciências ômicas, além de sua contribuição na nova abordagem das doenças cardiovasculares. Foirealizada pesquisa na base de dados Medline, dos principais artigos, até o presente momento, referentes ao cruzamento das palavras-chave em português e em inglês: “biologia de sistemas”, “insuficiência cardíaca”, “síndrome metabólica” e“arritmias cardíacas”; “systems biology”, “heart failure”, “metabolic syndrome” and “cardiac arrhythmias”. Concluiu-se que a biologia de sistemas deverá ser mais empregada para o melhor entendimento de doenças cardiovasculares complexas, como síndrome metabólica, aterosclerose, hipertensão arterial, insuficiência cardíaca e arritmias cardíacas. Cardiologistas, investigadores cardiovasculares, outros profissionais da saúde e pesquisadores da área básica de diferentes campos do conhecimento estarão mais integrados, buscando identificar modelos de redes aplicados à saúde e à doença, aquilo que hoje se denomina medicina em rede.

Based on individual analyses of the functional components of an organism, the oslerian method shows signs of depletion when attempting to explain the pathophysiology of complex syndromes such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. This is why it isgradually being supplanted by a new paradigm: the methodology of biological systems. This new model strives to integrate knowledge in different modern research areas with the omics sciences and bioinformatics, in order to develop biological networks leading to abetter understanding of these complex syndromes. The purpose of this review is to introduce clinical cardiologists and cardiovascular researchers a new tool called systems biology, showing how it integrates data from the omics sciences and its contribution to a new approach to cardiovascular disease. To date, a search of the Medline database has been conducted with the following key words inPortuguese and English: “biologia de sistemas”, “insuficiência cardíaca”, “síndrome metabólica” e “arritmias cardíacas”; “systemsbiology”, “heart failure”, “metabolic syndrome” and “cardiac arrhythmias”. This led to the conclusion that systems biology must be used to an increasing extent for a better understanding of complex cardiovascular diseases such as metabolic syndrome, atherosclerosis, hypertension, heart failure and cardiac arrhythmias. Cardiologists, cardiovascular researchers, other healthcare practitioners and basic researchers in other fields of knowledge will build up closer links in a quest to identify health and disease network models that are now called network medicine.

Infarto do miocárdio e mixoma em átrio esquerdo / Myocardial infarction and myxoma in the left atrium / Infarto del Miocardio y Mixoma en Aurícula Izquierda

Os mixomas são os tumores cardíacos primários benignos mais comuns, sendo que a grande maioria localiza-se no átrio esquerdo; 80 por cento têm sua origem no septo interatrial e 5 por cento deles são biatrial. Clinicamente, apresentam-se, quase sempre, com sinais e sintomas de doença valvular mitral ou de eventos tromboembólicos. Este relato ilustra um caso de mixoma em átrio esquerdo, projetando-se através da valva mitral para o ventrículo esquerdo e simulando uma estenose mitral, que evoluiu com acidente vascular cerebral isquêmico (AVCi) e infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM), como complicações tromboembólicas. O ecocardiograma continua a ser uma ferramenta valiosa no diagnóstico e o tratamento cirúrgico imediato é necessário para evitar desfechos fatais.

Myxomas are the most common benign primary cardiac tumors, the vast majority located in the left atrium and 80 percent originates in the atrial septum and 5 percent of them are biatrial.Usually present, often with signs and symptoms of mitral valve disease or thromboembolic events. This report illustrates a case of myxoma in left atrium protrudind through the mitral valve into the left ventricle, simulating stenotic mitral valve disease, which evolved with ischemic stroke (AIS) and acute myocardial infarction (MI) as thromboembolic events. Echocardiography continues to be a valuable tool in the diagnosis and surgical treatment is immediately necessary to prevent fatal outcomes.

Los mixomas son los tumores cardíacos primarios benignos más comunes, siendo que la gran mayoría se localiza en la aurícula izquierda; el 80% tiene su origen en el septo interauricular y el 5% de ellos son biauriculares. Clínicamente, se presentan, casi siempre, con señales y síntomas de enfermedad valvular mitral o de eventos tromboembólicos. Este relato ilustra un caso de mixoma en aurícula izquierda, proyectándose a través de la válvula mitral hacia el ventrículo izquierdo y simulando una estenosis mitral, que evolucionó con accidente vascular cerebral isquémico (AVCi) e infarto agudo del miocardio (IAM), con complicaciones tromboembólicas. El ecocardiograma continua siendo una herramienta valiosa en el diagnóstico y el tratamiento quirúrgico inmediato es necesario para evitar desenlaces fatales.

Miocárdio não-compactado como diagnóstico diferencial de cardiomiopatia periparto: A propósito de um caso

A cardiomiopatia periparto (CMPP) é uma das causas comuns de cardiomiopatia secundária de etiologia desconhecida. Caracteriza-se pela presença de insuficiência cardíaca congestiva (ICC) materna, no último mês de gestação ou até cinco meses pós-parto, com disfunção ventricular sistólica esquerda, na ausência de outras causas de insuficiência cardíaca e em mulheres previamente saudáveis. A terapêutica médica consiste no bloqueio neuro-hormonal, suporte inotrópico, redução da pré e pós-carga cardíaca e anticoagulação. O transplante cardíaco está reservado aos casos graves e refratários à terapêutica medicamentosa. O prognóstico é variável: aproximadamente 50-60% das pacientes recuperam completamente a função cardíaca, na maioria das vezes dentro dos primeiros seis meses. Relata-se um caso de mulher negra, 37 anos, multípara, pré-natal sem intercorrências, sem comorbidades prévias ou uso de drogas, que desenvolveu um quadro de ICC, de instalação súbita, com disfunção ventricular comprovada ao ecocardiograma 15 dias após parto normal. Houve suspeição clínica de miocárdio não-compactado (MNC) que levou a dúvida quanto ao diagnóstico de CMPP, posto ser esta um diagnóstico de exclusão. A presença de MNC foi afastada pela ressonância nuclear magnética cardíaca.

La miocardiopatía periparto (MCPP) es una causa frecuente de miocardiopatía secundaria de etiología desconocida. Se caracteriza por la presencia de insuficiencia cardíaca congestiva (ICC) en la madre en el último mes del embarazo o hasta cinco meses después del parto, con disfunción sistólica del ventrículo izquierdo en ausencia de otras causas de insuficiencia cardíaca en mujeres previamente sanas. El tratamiento médico consiste en el bloqueo neurohormonal, soporte inotrópico, la reducción de la pre y post-carga cardíaca y anticoagulación. El trasplante cardíaco está reservado para casos graves y refractarios al tratamiento farmacológico. El pronóstico es variable: aproximadamente el 50-60% de las pacientes recuperan completamente la función cardíaca, en la mayoría de los casos en los primeros seis meses. Se presenta el caso clínico de una mujer de raza negra de 37 años, multípara, prenatal sin complicaciones, sin comorbilidades previas o uso de drogas, que desarrollo ICC, de aparición súbita, con disfunción ventricular demostrada en el ecocardiograma 15 días después de un parto normal. No había sospecha clínica de miocardiopatía no compactada (MNC) que dio lugar a duda sobre el diagnóstico de MCPP, ya que éste es un diagnóstico de exclusión. La presencia de MNC fue descartada por resonancia magnética nuclear cardíaca.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a common cause of secondary cardiomyopathy of unknown etiology. It is characterized by the presence of congestive heart failure (CHF) in the mother in the last month of pregnancy or until five months after birth with left ventricular systolic dysfunction in the absence of other causes of heart failure in previously healthy women. Medical treatment consists of neurohormonal blockade, inotropic support, reduced pre-and post-cardiac load and anticoagulation. Heart transplantation is reserved for severe cases refractory to medical therapy. The prognosis is variable: approximately 50-60% of patients recover full cardiac function, in most cases in the first six months. We report the case of a black woman of 37 years, multiparous, prenatal without complications, comorbidities or previous drug use that developed CHF, sudden onset, demonstrated ventricular dysfunction on echocardiography 15 days after childbirth normal. There was no clinical suspicion of non-compaction cardiomyopathy (NCC) which gave rise to doubt about the diagnosis of PPCM, since this is a diagnosis of exclusion. The presence of NCC was ruled out by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.

Miocárdio nÒo-compactado como diagnóstico diferencial de cardiomiopatia periparto: A propósito de um caso

A cardiomiopatia periparto (CMPP) é uma das causas comuns de cardiomiopatia secundária de etiologia desconhecida. Caracteriza-se pela presenþa de insuficiÛncia cardíaca congestiva (ICC) materna, no último mÛs de gestaþÒo ou até cinco meses pós-parto, com disfunþÒo ventricular sistólica esquerda, na ausÛncia de outras causas de insuficiÛncia cardíaca e em mulheres previamente saudáveis. A terapÛutica médica consiste no bloqueio neuro-hormonal, suporte inotrópico, reduþÒo da pré e pós-carga cardíaca e anticoagulaþÒo. O transplante cardíaco está reservado aos casos graves e refratários O terapÛutica medicamentosa. O prognóstico é variável: aproximadamente 50-60% das pacientes recuperam completamente a funþÒo cardíaca, na maioria das vezes dentro dos primeiros seis meses. Relata-se um caso de mulher negra, 37 anos, multípara, pré-natal sem intercorrÛncias, sem comorbidades prévias ou uso de drogas, que desenvolveu um quadro de ICC, de instalaþÒo súbita, com disfunþÒo ventricular comprovada ao ecocardiograma 15 dias após parto normal. Houve suspeiþÒo clínica de miocárdio nÒo-compactado (MNC) que levou a dúvida quanto ao diagnóstico de CMPP, posto ser esta um diagnóstico de exclusÒo. A presenþa de MNC foi afastada pela ressonÔncia nuclear magnética cardíaca.(AU)

La miocardiopatía periparto (MCPP) es una causa frecuente de miocardiopatía secundaria de etiología desconocida. Se caracteriza por la presencia de insuficiencia cardíaca congestiva (ICC) en la madre en el último mes del embarazo o hasta cinco meses después del parto, con disfunción sistólica del ventrículo izquierdo en ausencia de otras causas de insuficiencia cardíaca en mujeres previamente sanas. El tratamiento médico consiste en el bloqueo neurohormonal, soporte inotrópico, la reducción de la pre y post-carga cardíaca y anticoagulación. El trasplante cardíaco está reservado para casos graves y refractarios al tratamiento farmacológico. El pronóstico es variable: aproximadamente el 50-60% de las pacientes recuperan completamente la función cardíaca, en la mayoría de los casos en los primeros seis meses. Se presenta el caso clínico de una mujer de raza negra de 37 años, multípara, prenatal sin complicaciones, sin comorbilidades previas o uso de drogas, que desarrollo ICC, de aparición súbita, con disfunción ventricular demostrada en el ecocardiograma 15 días después de un parto normal. No había sospecha clínica de miocardiopatía no compactada (MNC) que dio lugar a duda sobre el diagnóstico de MCPP, ya que éste es un diagnóstico de exclusión. La presencia de MNC fue descartada por resonancia magnética nuclear cardíaca.(AU)

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a common cause of secondary cardiomyopathy of unknown etiology. It is characterized by the presence of congestive heart failure (CHF) in the mother in the last month of pregnancy or until five months after birth with left ventricular systolic dysfunction in the absence of other causes of heart failure in previously healthy women. Medical treatment consists of neurohormonal blockade, inotropic support, reduced pre-and post-cardiac load and anticoagulation. Heart transplantation is reserved for severe cases refractory to medical therapy. The prognosis is variable: approximately 50-60% of patients recover full cardiac function, in most cases in the first six months. We report the case of a black woman of 37 years, multiparous, prenatal without complications, comorbidities or previous drug use that developed CHF, sudden onset, demonstrated ventricular dysfunction on echocardiography 15 days after childbirth normal. There was no clinical suspicion of non-compaction cardiomyopathy (NCC) which gave rise to doubt about the diagnosis of PPCM, since this is a diagnosis of exclusion. The presence of NCC was ruled out by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.(AU)

Smoking among inpatients at a university hospital.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and characteristics of smoking among inpatients at a university hospital, as well as to evaluate their motivation, interest, and need for help in quitting smoking. METHODS: A prospective study involving inpatients treated between May of 2008 and April of 2009 on the cardiovascular disease wards at the Antonio Pedro University Hospital, located in the city of Niterói, Brazil. All inpatients were asked to complete a questionnaire designed to collect data regarding demographics, reasons for admission, and smoking status. The smokers also responded to additional questions regarding their smoking habits. The level of nicotine dependence was determined with the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence. RESULTS: Of the 136 inpatients who participated in the study, 68 (50.0%) were male. The mean age was 60.7 years. The prevalence of smoking was 13.2%. Among the 49 patients with coronary disease, 36 (73.5%) were smokers or former smokers. The majority of the patients presented with a high level of nicotine dependence and reported withdrawal symptoms during hospitalization. Although most smokers were motivated to quit smoking, they admitted that they needed help to do so. CONCLUSIONS: Because smoking is forbidden in the hospital environment and most inpatients who smoke are highly motivated to quit, health professionals should view the hospitalization period as an opportunity to promote smoking cessation.

Tabagismo em pacientes internados em um hospital universitário / Smoking among inpatients at a university hospital

OBJETIVO: Determinar a prevalência e as características de tabagismo em pacientes internados em um hospital universitário e investigar sua motivação, interesse e necessidade de ajuda para parar de fumar. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo de pacientes internados nas enfermarias de cardiologia do Hospital Universitário Antonio Pedro, localizado em Niterói (RJ), entre maio de 2008 e abril de 2009. Foi administrado um questionário contendo perguntas sobre dados demográficos, motivo de internação e sua condição em relação ao hábito tabágico. Os pacientes tabagistas responderam perguntas adicionais sobre o hábito de fumar. A avaliação da dependência de nicotina foi realizada com o Teste Fagerström para Dependência de Nicotina. RESULTADOS: Dos 136 pacientes internados que participaram do estudo, 68 (50,0 por cento) eram do sexo masculino, com média de idade de 60,7 anos. A prevalência de tabagismo foi de 13,2 por cento. Dos 49 pacientes internados com diagnóstico de doença coronariana, 36 (73,5 por cento) eram fumantes ou ex-fumantes. A maioria dos pacientes apresentou elevado grau de dependência à nicotina e relatou sintomas de abstinência durante a internação. Apesar de estarem motivados para parar de fumar, os pacientes relataram necessidade de ajuda para abandonar o tabagismo. CONCLUSÕES: Devido à restrição do ato de fumar em ambiente hospitalar e à elevada motivação dos pacientes, deve-se aproveitar o momento da internação para promover a cessação do tabagismo.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and characteristics of smoking among inpatients at a university hospital, as well as to evaluate their motivation, interest, and need for help in quitting smoking. METHODS: A prospective study involving inpatients treated between May of 2008 and April of 2009 on the cardiovascular disease wards at the Antonio Pedro University Hospital, located in the city of Niterói, Brazil. All inpatients were asked to complete a questionnaire designed to collect data regarding demographics, reasons for admission, and smoking status. The smokers also responded to additional questions regarding their smoking habits. The level of nicotine dependence was determined with the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence. RESULTS: Of the 136 inpatients who participated in the study, 68 (50.0 percent) were male. The mean age was 60.7 years. The prevalence of smoking was 13.2 percent. Among the 49 patients with coronary disease, 36 (73.5 percent) were smokers or former smokers. The majority of the patients presented with a high level of nicotine dependence and reported withdrawal symptoms during hospitalization. Although most smokers were motivated to quit smoking, they admitted that they needed help to do so. CONCLUSIONS: Because smoking is forbidden in the hospital environment and most inpatients who smoke are highly motivated to quit, health professionals should view the hospitalization period as an opportunity to promote smoking cessation.