Clinical practice guidelines for diagnostic and treatment of the chronic heart failure.

Chronic heart failure continues to be one of the main causes of impairment in the functioning and quality of life of people who suffer from it, as well as one of the main causes of mortality in our country and around the world. Mexico has a high prevalence of risk factors for developing heart failure, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, which makes it essential to have an evidence-based document that provides recommendations to health professionals involved in the diagnosis and treatment of these patients. This document establishes the clinical practice guide (CPG) prepared at the initiative of the Mexican Society of Cardiology (SMC) in collaboration with the Iberic American Agency for the Development and Evaluation of Health Technologies, with the purpose of establishing recommendations based on the best available evidence and agreed upon by an interdisciplinary group of experts. This document complies with international quality standards, such as those described by the US Institute of Medicine (IOM), the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE), the Intercollegiate Network for Scottish Guideline Development (SIGN) and the Guidelines International Network (G-I-N). The Guideline Development Group was integrated in a multi-collaborative and interdisciplinary manner with the support of methodologists with experience in systematic literature reviews and the development of CPG. A modified Delphi panel methodology was developed and conducted to achieve an adequate level of consensus in each of the recommendations contained in this CPG. We hope that this document contributes to better clinical decision making and becomes a reference point for clinicians who manage patients with chronic heart failure in all their clinical stages and in this way, we improve the quality of clinical care, improve their quality of life and reducing its complications.

La insuficiencia cardiaca crónica sigue siendo unas de las principales causas de afectación en el funcionamiento y en la calidad de vida de las personas que la presentan, así como una de las primeras causas de mortalidad en nuestro país y en todo el mundo. México tiene una alta prevalencia de factores de riesgo para desarrollar insuficiencia cardiaca, tales como hipertensión arterial, diabetes y obesidad, lo que hace imprescindible contar con un documento basado en la evidencia que brinde recomendaciones a los profesionales de la salud involucrados en el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de estos pacientes. Este documento establece la guía de práctica clínica (GPC) elaborada por iniciativa de la Sociedad Mexicana de Cardiología (SMC) en colaboración con la Agencia Iberoamericana de Desarrollo y Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud, con la finalidad de establecer recomendaciones basadas en la mejor evidencia disponible y consensuadas por un grupo interdisciplinario y multicolaborativo de expertos. Cumple con estándares internacionales de calidad, como los descritos por el Institute of Medicine de los Estados Unidos de América (IOM), el National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) del Reino Unido, la Intercollegiate Network for Scottish Guideline Development (SIGN) de Escocia y la Guidelines International Network (G-I-N). El grupo de desarrollo de la guía se integró de manera interdisciplinaria con el apoyo de metodólogos con experiencia en revisiones sistemáticas de la literatura y en el desarrollo de GPC. Se llevó a cabo y se condujo metodología de panel Delphi modificado para lograr un nivel de consenso adecuado en cada una de las recomendaciones contenidas en esta GPC. Esperamos que este documento contribuya para la mejor toma de decisiones clínicas y se convierta en un punto de referencia para los clínicos que manejan pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca crónica en todas sus etapas clínicas, y de esta manera logremos mejorar la calidad en la atención clínica, aumentar la calidad de vida de los pacientes y disminuir las complicaciones de la enfermedad.

Tendencias temporales en las características, tratamiento y resultados de la insuficiencia cardiaca en octogenarios durante dos décadas / Temporal trends in characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of heart failure in octogenarians over two decades

Introducción y objetivos Los octogenarios representan el segmento de población de más rápida expansión en Europa; la prevalencia de la insuficiencia cardiaca (IC) en este grupo supera el 10%. Se evaluaron los cambios en las características clínicas, el tratamiento y los resultados a un año durante dos décadas en pacientes ambulatorios con IC crónica de edad ≥ 80 años incluidos en un registro nacional de cardiología. Métodos Se incluyó a 2 520 octogenarios con mediciones de la fracción de eyección ecocardiográfica basal y seguimiento a 1 año disponibles, inscritos en 138 clínicas ambulatorias de IC (21% de los hospitales nacionales con unidades de cardiología), reclutados a lo largo de tres épocas (1999-2005, 2006-2011, 2012-2018). Resultados En el momento de la inclusión, a lo largo de los 3 periodos de estudio, aumentaron la edad, el índice de masa corporal, la fracción de eyección, la prevalencia de obesidad, diabetes, dislipemia, hipertensión preexistente y la historia de fibrilación auricular. La proporción de pacientes con fracción de eyección conservada aumentó del 19,4% al 32,7% (p de tendencia <0,0001). Los marcadores de enfermedad avanzada se hicieron menos prevalentes. La prescripción de bloqueadores beta y antagonistas de los receptores de mineralocorticoides aumentó con el tiempo. Durante el seguimiento a un año, 308 pacientes fallecieron (12,2%) y 360 (14,3%) fueron ingresados por causas cardiovasculares; en total, 591 (23,5%) alcanzaron el objetivo primario combinado de mortalidad por todas las causas u hospitalización cardiovascular. Mediante un análisis multivariable ajustado, la inclusión en 2006-2011 (HR=0,70; IC95%, 0,55-0,90; p=0,004) y 2012-2018 (HR=0,61; IC95%, 0,47-0,79; p=0,0002), conllevó un menor riesgo del resultado primario que la inclusión en el periodo 1999-2005. Conclusiones Entre los octogenarios, a lo largo de 2 décadas, la prevalencia de los factores de riesgo aumentó (AU)

Introduction and objectives Octogenarians represent the most rapidly expanding population segment in Europe. The prevalence of heart failure (HF) in this group exceeds 10%. We assessed changes in clinical characteristics, therapy, and 1-year outcomes over 2 decades in chronic HF outpatients aged ≥ 80 years enrolled in a nationwide cardiology registry. Methods We included 2520 octogenarians with baseline echocardiographic ejection fraction measurements and available 1-year follow-up, who were recruited at 138 HF outpatient clinics (21% of national hospitals with cardiology units), across 3 enrolment periods (1999-2005, 2006-2011, 2012-2018).Result At recruitment, over the 3 study periods, there was an increase in age, body mass index, ejection fraction, the prevalence of obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, pre-existing hypertension, and atrial fibrillation history. The proportion of patients with preserved ejection fraction rose from 19.4% to 32.7% (P for trend <.0001). Markers of advanced disease became less prevalent. Prescription of beta-blockers and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists increased over time. During the 1-year follow-up, 308 patients died (12.2%) and 360 (14.3%) were admitted for cardiovascular causes; overall, 591 (23.5%) met the combined primary endpoint of all-cause mortality or cardiovascular hospitalization. On adjusted multivariable analysis, enrolment in 2006 to 2011 (HR, 0.70; 95%CI, 0.55-0.90; P=.004) and 2012 to 2018 (HR, 0.61; 95%CI, 0.47-0.79; P=.0002) carried a lower risk of the primary outcome than recruitment in 1999 to 2005. Conclusions Among octogenarians, over 2 decades, risk factor prevalence increased, management strategies improved, and survival remained stable, but the proportion hospitalized for cardiovascular causes declined. Despite increasing clinical complexity, in cardiology settings the burden of hospitalizations in the oldest old with chronic HF is declining (AU)

NT-proBNP for heart failure diagnosis in Primary Care: Costs or savings? A budget impact study.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a growing public health concern and diagnosis can be challenging, particularly in primary care. This study aims to estimate the budgetary impact of introducing N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) for CHF diagnosis in a primary care setting from the perspective of the Portuguese health system. METHODS: A budget impact analysis was conducted over one-year from the patients' first presentation. The standard of care (SoC) was compared to NT-proBNP at the point-of-care (PoC) or laboratory (Lab). A decision tree model was used to estimate the downstream costs associated with each of the three pathways. RESULTS: An estimated 81 012 patients were expected to present to primary care with new onset CHF symptoms. The use of NT-proBNP as a primary diagnostic tool is estimated to generate annualized savings of EUR 935 657 and EUR 2 982 443 in the Lab and PoC setting, respectively. Estimated cost savings were due to the need for fewer medical visits, hospitalizations and echocardiograms (ECHO). The Lab and PoC settings led to similar reductions in hospitalizations (14.4%) and ECHO (27%), but the reduction in medical visits was higher in the PoC setting (38% compared to 2.5%), resulting in higher savings compared to Lab. CONCLUSIONS: Using NT-proBNP for CHF diagnosis in primary care could result in considerable costs savings for the public health system in Portugal. This evidence might support health policy makers to reconsider the resource management and define a new strategy to mitigate the impact of CHF.

Temporal trends in characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of heart failure in octogenarians over two decades.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Octogenarians represent the most rapidly expanding population segment in Europe. The prevalence of heart failure (HF) in this group exceeds 10%. We assessed changes in clinical characteristics, therapy, and 1-year outcomes over 2 decades in chronic HF outpatients aged ≥ 80 years enrolled in a nationwide cardiology registry. METHODS: We included 2520 octogenarians with baseline echocardiographic ejection fraction measurements and available 1-year follow-up, who were recruited at 138 HF outpatient clinics (21% of national hospitals with cardiology units), across 3 enrolment periods (1999-2005, 2006-2011, 2012-2018). RESULTS: At recruitment, over the 3 study periods, there was an increase in age, body mass index, ejection fraction, the prevalence of obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, pre-existing hypertension, and atrial fibrillation history. The proportion of patients with preserved ejection fraction rose from 19.4% to 32.7% (P for trend <.0001). Markers of advanced disease became less prevalent. Prescription of beta-blockers and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists increased over time. During the 1-year follow-up, 308 patients died (12.2%) and 360 (14.3%) were admitted for cardiovascular causes; overall, 591 (23.5%) met the combined primary endpoint of all-cause mortality or cardiovascular hospitalization. On adjusted multivariable analysis, enrolment in 2006 to 2011 (HR, 0.70; 95%CI, 0.55-0.90; P=.004) and 2012 to 2018 (HR, 0.61; 95%CI, 0.47-0.79; P=.0002) carried a lower risk of the primary outcome than recruitment in 1999 to 2005. CONCLUSIONS: Among octogenarians, over 2 decades, risk factor prevalence increased, management strategies improved, and survival remained stable, but the proportion hospitalized for cardiovascular causes declined. Despite increasing clinical complexity, in cardiology settings the burden of hospitalizations in the oldest old with chronic HF is declining.

Insuficiencia cardíaca crónica en Argentina. OFFICE IC AR, un registro conjunto de la Sociedad Argentina de Cardiología y de la Federación Argentina de Cardiología / Chronic Heart Failure in Argentina. OFFICE IC AR, a joint registry of the Argentine Society of Cardiology and the Argentine Federation of Cardiology

RESUMEN Introducción: Diferentes registros argentinos de insuficiencia cardíaca crónica (ICC) fueron generados en los últimos 25 años, en forma individual por la Sociedad Argentina de Cardiología (SAC) y la Federación Argentina de Cardiología (FAC), con diversa representatividad. Los últimos datos conocidos datan de 2013. El Registro OFFICE IC AR fue encarado en forma conjunta por la SAC y la FAC para conocer la realidad de la ICC en Argentina. Objetivos: Describir en forma amplia y comprensiva las características salientes de la ICC en Argentina, incluyendo las características de los pacientes, el uso de recursos diagnósticos y terapéuticos, la adherencia a las guías de práctica y el pronóstico a mediano y largo plazo. Material y Métodos: Estudio prospectivo de cohorte, de pacientes con ICC de al menos 6 meses de evolución, alejados de una internación por al menos 3 meses. Se recabaron datos clínicos y paraclínicos. Los pacientes fueron categorizados, de acuerdo a la fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda (FEVI), en IC con FE reducida, ICFER (≤40%); IC con FE en el rango medio, ICFErm, ahora denominada IC con FE levemente reducida, ICFElr (41%-49%), e IC con FE preservada, ICFEP (≥50%). En seguimiento de al menos 1 año se registró la incidencia de hospitalización por insuficiencia cardíaca (HIC), muerte cardiovascular (MCV) y muerte de todas las causas (MTC) Resultados: Entre noviembre de 2017 y enero de 2020, 100 cardiólogos de todo el país incluyeron 1004 pacientes con ICC; edad media 65,8 ± 12,4 años, 74,6% hombres, FEVI conocida en el 93,8%. El 68,4% tenía ICFER, el 16% ICFElr y el 15,6% ICFEP. Hubo alta prevalencia de comorbilidades, incluyendo diabetes y anemia en el 30%, e insuficiencia renal crónica en el 22%. Fue elevada la utilización de antagonistas neurohormonales (ANH): 89,5% betabloqueantes; 57,3% inhibidores o antagonistas del sistema renina angiotensina, 28,9% sacubitril valsartán y 78,6% antialdosterónicos. En 69% se utilizó triple terapia. Su empleo fue mayor en la ICFER, pero elevado incluso en la ICFEP. En una mediana de seguimiento de 1,7 años la incidencia anual de MCV/HIC fue 12,8%, la de MCV 6,6% y la de MTC 8,4%, sin diferencia entre las distintas categorías de FEVI. Conclusiones: En el primer registro conjunto de ICC SAC-FAC se verificó elevada prevalencia de ICFER, alta prevalencia de comorbilidades, uso frecuente de ANH y pronóstico acorde a los registros internacionales.

ABSTRACT Background: Several Argentine registries on chronic heart failure (CHF) have been generated over the past 25 years, either individually by the Argentine Society of Cardiology (SAC) or the Argentine Federation of Cardiology (FAC), with different representativeness. The last known data are from 2013. The OFFICE IC AR registry was jointly undertaken by the SAC and FAC to know the reality of CHF in Argentina. Objective: The aim of this registry was to extensively and comprehensively describe the outstanding characteristics of CHF in Argentina, including patient characteristics, use of diagnostic and therapeutic resources, adherence to practice guidelines and mid-and long-term prognosis. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study of patients with at least 6-month evolution CHF and not hospitalized for at least the past 3 months. Clinical and paraclinical data were collected. Patients were categorized according to left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), into HF with reduced EF, HFrEF (≤40 %), HF with midrange EF, now termed HF with mildly reduced EF, HFmrEF (41%-49%), and HF with preserved EF, HFpEF (≥50%). The incidence of hospitalization for HF (HHF), cardiovascular mortality (CVM) and all-cause mortality (ACM) was recorded for at least 1-year follow-up. Results: Between November 2017 and January 2020, 100 cardiologists from all over the country included 1004 patients with CHF. Mean age was 65.8 ± 12.4 years, 74.6% were men, and 93.8% had known LVEF. In 68.4% of cases, patients had HFrEF, 16% HFmrEF and 15.6% HFpEF. A high prevalence of comorbidities was found, including diabetes and anemia in 30% of cases, and chronic renal failure in 22%. There was high use of neurohormonal antagonists (NHA): 89.5% betablockers, 57.3% renin-angiotensin system inhibitors or antagonists, 28.9% sacubitril-valsartan and 78.6% aldosterone antagonists. Triple therapy was used in 69% of patients, with higher prescription in HFrEF, but elevated even on HFpEF. At a median follow-up of 1.7 years, the annual incidence of CVM/HHF was 12.8%, CVM 6.6% and ACM 8.4%, without statistical differences between the different LVEF categories. Conclusions: This first SAC-FAC joint CHF registry verified a high prevalence of HFrEF, a high prevalence of comorbidities, frequent use of NHA and prognosis according to international registries.

Nivel de empoderamiento de las personas con insuficiencia cardíaca crónica hospitalizadas / Level of empowerment of hospitalized chronic heart failure patient

Fundamento: Conocer el nivel de empoderamiento de laspersonas con insuficiencia cardiaca crónica hospitalizadas es crucial para identificar a las personas con un nivelde empoderamiento más bajo y fundamentar el diseño deestrategias efectivas para mejorar su control sobre lasdecisiones y acciones que afectan a su salud y bienestar.La falta de estudio de este fenómeno en esta poblacióny contexto, sugiere que estos pacientes no están siendoatendidos adecuadamente. Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo, prospectivo. Seutilizó el Cuestionario de empoderamiento del pacientecon enfermedad crónica, traducido y validado al español,que consta de 47 ítems, agrupados en tres dimensiones:Actitud positiva y sentido del control, Toma de decisiones compartida e informada, y Búsqueda de informacióny compartir entre iguales. Fue distribuido para su cumplimentación en las 24 horas previas al alta hospitalaria.Resultados: Se recogieron 25 cuestionarios (81%). La puntuación global media de empoderamiento fue de 165,92 ±20,9. La dimensión Actitud positiva y sentido de controlfue la peor puntuada, con una media de 3,4 ± 0,5. Se encontró una relación inversa y débil entre el nivel de em-poderamiento y la edad (rho = -0,240; p = 0,000) y una relación débil y positiva con la supervivencia a los 10 años(rho = 0,316; p = 0,01).Conclusión: El nivel de empoderamiento de los pacientesde este estudio fue medio-alto. Las estrategias para abordar la atención de esta población deberían centrarse entrabajar su actitud respecto a la enfermedad y percepciónde control de la situación e individualizarse conforme ala edad.(AU)

Background: Establishing the level of chronic cardiac inpatient empowerment is essential. By doing so, it is possible to identify groups with a lower level. It also providesa basis for designing effective strategies to improve theircontrol over decision making and the actions that affecttheir health and wellness. The shortage of studies of thisphenomenon for this particular population and contextsuggests that such patients are not receiving proper care. Methods: A prospective and descriptive study was carried out. A validated Spanish version of the Patient empowerment in long-term conditions scale was used. Thesurvey has 47 items, grouped into three dimensions: Positive attitude and feeling of control, Knowledge in shareddecision making, and Seeking information and sharingwith other patients. It was distributed 24 hours beforehospital discharge. Results: Twenty five questionnaires were collected (81%).The mean global empowerment score of the patients was165.92 ± 20.9. The dimension Positive attitude and senseof control showed the lowest score, with a mean of 3.4± 0.5. An inverse weak relationship was found betweenthe level of empowerment and age (rho = -0.240; p = 0.000)while a positive one was found with 10-year survival(rho = 0,316; p = 0.01). Conclusion: The level of empowerment of the patients inthis study was medium-high. The strategies used to address the care of this population should focus on workingon their attitude towards the disease and perceived control of the situation, and should be individualized according to age.(AU)

Real life study of sacubitril valsartan combined therapy in chronic heart failure / Estudio en vida real de la terapia combinada de sacubitril valsartán en insuficiencia cardíaca crónica

Objectives: Sacubitril/valsartan is a drug for chronic heart failure (CHF), approved by Drugs Regulatory Agencies based on the results of the PARADIGM-HF, which could have several limitations on internal validity and applicability. Furthermore, this drug has a high economic impact. The objectives of this study are to evaluate effectiveness and safety of sacubitril/valsartan in CHF, as well as to evaluate adequation to use criteria stablished in a Health Management Area (HMA). Methods: Retrospective, observational study including adult patients with CHF who were receiving sacubitril/valsartan during 2017 in an HMA. The treatment effectiveness was assesed by death and/or hospitalization rates related to CHF. Frequency of adverse events was used to safety evaluation. Furthermore, adequation rate was assessed. Findings: A total of 68 patients were included. Death or hospitalization rates due to CHF at 12 months were 32.3% globally (2.9% and 29.4% respectively). Among patients analyzed, 33.8% presented hypotension, during the first year after treatment initiation. Overall adequation rate was 67.6%. Conclusions: A high percentage of death and/or hospitalization due to CHF was observed. Hypotension is a frequent adverse event which leads to dose adjustment and/or drug withdrawal. Overall adequation rate of sacubitril/valsartan prescription is acceptable. (AU)

Objetivos: El sacubitril/valsartán es un medicamento para la insuficiencia cardíaca crónica (ICC), aprobado por las agencias reguladoras de medicamentos en base a los resultados del ensayo pivotal PARADIGM-HF, que podría tener varias limitaciones en la validez interna y la aplicabilidad. Además, este fármaco tiene un alto impacto económico. Los objetivos de este estudio son evaluar la efectividad y la seguridad de sacubitril/valsartán en la ICC, así como evaluar la adecuación a los criterios establecidos en un Área de Gestión de Salud (AGS). Métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo que incluye pacientes adultos con ICC que recibieron sacubitril/valsartán durante 2017 en una AGS. La efectividad del tratamiento fue evaluada mediante la tasa de mortalidad y/o hospitalización relacionadas con la ICC. La frecuencia de los eventos adversos se utilizó para la evaluación de seguridad. Además, se evaluó la tasa de adecuación. Resultados: Se incluyeron un total de 68 pacientes. Las tasas de mortalidad u hospitalización por ICC a los 12 meses fueron del 32,3% a nivel global (2,9% y 29,4%, respectivamente). Entre los pacientes analizados, el 33,8% presentó hipotensión durante el primer año después del inicio del tratamiento. La tasa de adaptación global fue del 67,6%. Conclusiones: Se observó un alto porcentaje de muerte y/o hospitalización por ICC. La hipotensión es un evento adverso frecuente que conduce al ajuste de la dosis y/o a la retirada del medicamento. La tasa general de adecuación de la prescripción de sacubitril/valsartán es aceptable. (AU)

Impacto clínico y en costes sanitarios de alteraciones de potasio en pacientes con enfermedades cardiovasculares, metabólicas y renales crónicas / Impact on clinical outcomes and health costs of deranged potassium levels in patients with chronic cardiovascular, metabolic, and renal conditions

Introducción y objetivos Las alteraciones de la potasemia son frecuentes en las enfermedades cardiovasculares crónicas. El objetivo del estudio es evaluar las asociaciones de la hiperpotasemia y la hipopotasemia con eventos clínicos y costes sanitarios en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca, enfermedad renal crónica, diabetes mellitus, hipertensión y cardiopatía isquémica. Métodos Estudio longitudinal que incluyó a 36.269 pacientes de un Área de Salud que tuvieran al menos una de las afecciones mencionadas. Se utilizaron bases de datos administrativas, hospitalarias y de atención primaria. Se siguió a los participantes entre 2015 y 2017; estos tenían 55 o más años y al menos 1 medición de potasio. Se utilizaron 4 diseños analíticos para evaluar la prevalencia y la incidencia y el uso de inhibidores del sistema renina-angiotensina-aldosterona. Resultados La hiperpotasemia fue 2 veces más frecuente que la hipopotasemia. En los análisis ajustados, la hiperpotasemia se asoció de manera significativa con un mayor riesgo de muerte por todas las causas (HR de los modelos de regresión de Cox entre 1,31 y 1,68) y con un aumento de las probabilidades de que los gastos anuales de atención sanitaria superen el 85% (OR entre 1,21 y 1,29). Las asociaciones fueron aún mayores en los pacientes hipopotasémicos (HR para la muerte por todas las causas, 1,92-2,60; OR para los gastos de atención sanitaria> percentil 85, 1,81-1,85). Conclusiones Se necesitarían estudios experimentales para confirmar si la prevención de los trastornos del potasio reduce la mortalidad y los gastos sanitarios en estas enfermedades crónicas. Hasta entonces, nuestros hallazgos proporcionan conclusiones observacionales sobre la importancia de mantener normales las concentraciones de potasio. (AU)

Introduction and objectives Potassium derangements are frequent among patients with chronic cardiovascular conditions. Studies on the associations between potassium derangements and clinical outcomes have yielded mixed findings, and the implications for health care expenditure are unknown. We assessed the population-based associations between hyperkalemia, hypokalemia and clinical outcomes and health care costs, in patients with chronic heart failure, chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and ischemic heart disease. Methods Population-based, longitudinal study including up to 36 269 patients from a health care area with at least one of the above-mentioned conditions. We used administrative, hospital and primary care databases. Participants were followed up between 2015 and 2017, were aged ≥ 55 years and had at least 1 potassium measurement. Four analytic designs were used to evaluate prevalent and incident cases and the use of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors. Results Hyperkalemia was twice as frequent as hypokalemia. On multivariable-adjusted analyses, hyperkalemia was robustly and significantly associated with an increased risk of all-cause death (HR from Cox regression models ranging from 1.31–1.68) and with an increased odds of a yearly health care expenditure >85th percentile (OR, 1.21–1.29). Associations were even stronger in hypokalemic patients (HR for all-cause death, 1.92–2.60; OR for health care expenditure> percentile 85th, 1.81–1.85). Conclusions Experimental studies are needed to confirm whether the prevention of potassium derangements reduces mortality and health care expenditure in these chronic conditions. Until then, our findings provide observational evidence on the potential importance of maintaining normal potassium levels. (AU)

Impact on clinical outcomes and health costs of deranged potassium levels in patients with chronic cardiovascular, metabolic, and renal conditions.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Potassium derangements are frequent among patients with chronic cardiovascular conditions. Studies on the associations between potassium derangements and clinical outcomes have yielded mixed findings, and the implications for health care expenditure are unknown. We assessed the population-based associations between hyperkalemia, hypokalemia and clinical outcomes and health care costs, in patients with chronic heart failure, chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and ischemic heart disease. METHODS: Population-based, longitudinal study including up to 36 269 patients from a health care area with at least one of the above-mentioned conditions. We used administrative, hospital and primary care databases. Participants were followed up between 2015 and 2017, were aged ≥ 55 years and had at least 1 potassium measurement. Four analytic designs were used to evaluate prevalent and incident cases and the use of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors. RESULTS: Hyperkalemia was twice as frequent as hypokalemia. On multivariable-adjusted analyses, hyperkalemia was robustly and significantly associated with an increased risk of all-cause death (HR from Cox regression models ranging from 1.31-1.68) and with an increased odds of a yearly health care expenditure >85th percentile (OR, 1.21-1.29). Associations were even stronger in hypokalemic patients (HR for all-cause death, 1.92-2.60; OR for health care expenditure> percentile 85th, 1.81-1.85). CONCLUSIONS: Experimental studies are needed to confirm whether the prevention of potassium derangements reduces mortality and health care expenditure in these chronic conditions. Until then, our findings provide observational evidence on the potential importance of maintaining normal potassium levels.

Péptidos natriuréticos en la detección de disfunción ventricular izquierda en población de alto riesgo. Metaanálisis de pruebas diagnósticas / Natriuretic peptides in the detection of left ventricular dysfunction in a high risk population. A meta-analysis of diagnostic tests

Resumen Introducción: Las concentraciones de los péptidos natriuréticos en el plasma se han propuesto como un método de tamización para disfunción ventricular temprana. Objetivo: Comparar las características operativas del péptido natriurético tipo B (BNP) y de la fracción N-terminal (NT-proBNP) en población con factores de riesgo. Método: Metaanálisis de pruebas diagnósticas. Resultados: Se aplicó una estrategia de búsqueda mediante la cual se encontraron 86 referencias, de las cuales se seleccionaron 12 por criterios de inclusión. En 8 de estos estudios se evaluó el desempeño del BNP, en 3 el NT-proBNP y en uno ambas pruebas. Los puntos de corte para el BNP oscilaron entre 8 y 169,5 pg/ml, con una sensibilidad agrupada de 82,1% (IC 95%, 76,7-86,4%), una especificidad agrupada de 69% (IC 95%, 61,5-75,6%), un LR+ 2,65 (IC 95%, 2,17-3,23) y un LR( 0,26 (IC 95%, 0,21-0,32). Cuando solo se analizaron los datos para puntos de corte por debajo de 50 pg/ml la sensibilidad agrupada mejoró a 89,2% (IC 95%, 82,6-94%) y el LR( fue 0,23 (IC 95%, 0,14-0,40). Solo se analizaron 3 estudios sobre NT-proBNP, con puntos de corte entre 125 y 902 pg/ml, con sensibilidad agrupada del 97,2% (IC 95%, 90,2-99,7%), especificidad agrupada del 76,9% (IC 95%, 74,5-79,1%), LR+ 3,39 (IC 95%, 1,67-6,85) y LR( 0,07 (IC 95%, 0,02-0,23). Conclusión: El BNP y el NT-proBNP pueden ser útiles para descartar disfunción ventricular izquierda asintomática en pacientes en riesgo.

Abstract Introduction: The concentration of natriuretic peptides in plasma has been proposed as a screening method for early ventricular dysfunction. Objective: To compare the operative characteristics of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) fraction in a population with risk factors. Method: A meta-analysis of diagnostic tests. Results: A search strategy was applied that found 86 references, of which 12 were selected according to the inclusion criteria. The role of BNP was evaluated in 8 of these studies, that of NT-proBNP in 3, and both tests in one of them. The cut-off points for BNP varied between 8 and 169.5 pg/mL, with a grouped sensitivity of 82.1% (95% CI; 76.7-86.4%), a grouped specificity of 69% (95%CI; 61.5-75.6%), a positive likelihood ratio (LR+) of 2.65 (95% CI; 2.17-3.23) and a negative likelihood ratio (LR() of 0.26 (95% CI; 0.21-0.32). When the data were only analysed for cut-off points below 50 pg/mL, the grouped sensitivity improved to 89.2% (95% CI; 82.6-94%), and the LR( was 0.23 (95% CI; 0.14-0.40). Only 3 studies on NT-proBNP were analysed, with cut-off points between 125 and 902 pg/mL, a grouped specificity of 97.2% (95% CI; 90.2-99.7%), a grouped sensitivity of 76.9% (95% CI; 74.5-79.1%), LR+ 3.39 (95% CI; 1.67-6.85), and LR( 0.07 (95% CI; 0.02-0.23). Conclusion: BNP and NT-proBNP can be useful in ruling out asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction in patients at risk.

Congestión y su diagnóstico en la insuficiencia cardíaca crónica descompensada

La congestión en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca (IC) crónica descompensada no sólo refleja fracaso del músculo cardíaco, siendo sus mecanismos fisiopatológicos heterogéneos. Las presiones de llenado del ventrículo izquierdo elevadas favorecen la progresión de la IC y la muerte celular. La congestión es uno de los principales factores de predicción de la mala evolución del paciente en pacientes con IC; sin embargo, ella es difícil de evaluar, especialmente cuando los síntomas son leves. Aunque se dispone de numerosos puntajes clínicos, herramientas de diagnóstico por imágenes y pruebas biológicas para ayudar a los médicos a determinar y cuantificar la congestión, no todos son apropiados para su uso en todas las etapas del tratamiento del paciente, existiendo grandes dificultades en el diagnóstico de patrones congestivos. Parte de este fracaso se explica no sólo por lo tardío de la presentación clínica, sino por la frecuente disociación entre examen clínico y perfiles hemodinámicos. Conocer e intervenir precozmente patrones de congestión hemodinámica (etapa preclínica) tiene efectos favorables en la calidad de vida y supervivencia. En los últimos años, la evaluación multimétodo se ha convertido en una herramienta muy importante para prevenir las hospitalizaciones por IC. Las intervenciones terapéuticas destinadas a descender la presión capilar pulmonar elevada cambian el pronóstico de esta población, con un impacto mayor que la mejoría del IC. Los avances tecnológicos permitirán detectar variaciones hemodinámicas tempranas. Nuestro mayor desafío es implementar nuevas estrategias de manejo basadas en las recientes tecnologías.

Congestion in patients with decompensated chronic heart failure (HF) not only reflects heart muscle failure, but its pathophysiological mechanisms are heterogeneous. High filling pressures promote HF progression and cell death. Congestion is one of the main predictors of poor patient outcome in patients with HF; however, it is difficult to assess, especially when symptoms are mild. Although numerous clinical scores, imaging tools, and biomarkers tests are available to help clinicians determine and quantify congestion, not all are appropriate for use at all stages of patient treatment, and there are great difficulties in diagnosis. congestive patterns. Part of this failure is explained not only by the lateness of the clinical presentation, but also by the frequent dissociation between the clinical examination and hemodynamic profiles. Knowing and intervening early hemodynamic congestion patterns (preclinical stage) has favorable effects on quality of life and survival. In recent years, multi-method evaluation has become a very important tool to prevent hospitalizations for HF. Therapeutic interventions aimed at lowering elevated pulmonary capillary pressure change the prognosis of this population, with a greater impact than the improvement in HF. Technological advances will make it possible to detect early hemodynamic variations. Our greatest challenge is to implement new management strategies based on recent technologies.

A congestão em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC) crônica descompensada não reflete apenas a falha do músculo cardíaco, mas seus mecanismos fisiopatológicos são heterogêneos. Altas pressões de enchimento promovem a progressão da IC e morte celular. A congestão é um dos principais preditores de desfecho desfavorável do paciente em pacientes com IC; no entanto, é difícil avaliar, especialmente quando os sintomas são leves. Embora vários escores clínicos, ferramentas de imagem e testes biológicos estejam disponíveis para ajudar os médicos a determinar e quantificar a congestão, nem todos são apropriados para uso em todas as fases do tratamento do paciente, com grandes dificuldades no diagnóstico. padrões congestivos. Parte dessa falha é explicada não apenas pelo atraso do quadro clínico, mas também pela frequente dissociação entre o exame clínico e o perfil hemodinâmico. Conhecer e intervir nos padrões de congestão hemodinâmica precoce (estágio pré-clínico) tem efeitos favoráveis na qualidade de vida e sobrevida. Nos últimos anos, a avaliação multi-método tornou-se uma ferramenta muito importante para prevenir hospitalizações por IC. As intervenções terapêuticas com o objetivo de diminuir a elevação da pressão capilar pulmonar alteram o prognóstico dessa população, com impacto maior do que a melhora da IC. Os avanços tecnológicos permitirão detectar precocemente as variações hemodinâmicas. Nosso maior desafio é implementar novas estratégias de gestão baseadas em tecnologias recentes

Guía de práctica clínica para la prevención, el diagnóstico, el tratamiento y la rehabilitación de la falla cardiaca en población mayor de 18 años, clasificación B, C y D. Componente de rehabilitación cardiaca / Practice Guidelines for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of heart failure in a population greater than 18 years-old: B, C and D Classification. Cardiac rehabilitation component

Resumen Introducción: Los programas de rehabilitación cardiaca integran la realización de ejercicio supervisado con prevención secundaria y soporte sicosocial que permite mejorar la adherencia a medidas con impacto claro sobre la morbilidad y mortalidad en pacientes con falla cardiaca. Metodología: Para el desarrollo de la guía de práctica clínica basada en la evidencia se siguieron los pasos definidos en la Guía Metodológica para la Elaboración de Guías de Práctica Clínica con Evaluación Económica en el Sistema General de Seguridad Social en Salud Colombiano del Ministerio de Salud y Protección Social de Colombia. Resultados: Se establecen las recomendaciones para el desarrollo adecuado de un programa de rehabilitación cardiaca integral en pacientes con falla cardiaca, abordando aspectos de evaluación de capacidad funcional, efectividad y seguridad del ejercicio, dosificación, modalidad y rehabilitación en pacientes con dispositivos. Conclusión: La práctica de ejercicio en pacientes con falla cardíaca estable ha demostrado disminuir las hospitalizaciones, mejorar la calidad de vida y la capacidad funcional y ser seguro en aquellos a quienes se les ha implantado un dispositivo.

Abstract Introduction: Cardiac rehabilitation programs combine the performing of supervised exercise with secondary prevention and psycho-social support that helps to improve adherence to measures, with a clear impact on the morbidity and mortality in patients with heart failure. Methodology: For the development of the evidence-based clinical practice guidelines, the steps followed were those defined in the Methodological Guidelines for the Preparation of Clinical Practice Guidelines with an Economic Assessment in the General Social Security System in Colombian Health by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of Colombia. Results: Recommendations were established for the adequate development of an integrated cardiac rehabilitation program for patients with heart failure. The aspects approached included the assessment of functional capacity, effectivity and safety of the exercise, dosification, methodology, and rehabilitation in patients with devices. Conclusion: The practice of exercise in patients with stable heart has shown to reduce the number of hospital admissions, improve the quality of life and functional capacity. It has also shown to be safe in those that have a device implanted.

Prevalence and incidence of hyperkalaemia in the Spanish population with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: a systematic review and populational relevance. / Prevalencia e incidencia de hiperpotasemia en población española con insuficiencia cardiaca con fracción de eyección deprimida: revisión sistemática y relevancia poblacional.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Hyperkalaemia (K+ levels≥5.5mmol/L) is a severe ion imbalance that occurs in patients who have heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and increases the risk of ventricular fibrillation. Given that there are no estimates on the number of patients with this complication, the aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and incidence of hyperkalaemia in patients with HFrEF in Spain. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Based on a systematic literature search and through a meta-analysis, we calculated an HFrEF prevalence of ≤40% in the European and U.S. POPULATION: Based on another systematic literature search, we calculated the prevalence of hyperkalaemia in patients with HF and its annual incidence rate. Considering the previous values and the Spanish population pyramid in 2016, we estimated the number of individuals with HFrEF who currently have hyperkalaemia and those who develop it each year in Spain. RESULTS: Approximately 17,100 (10,000 men and 7100 women) of the 508,000 patients with HFrEF in Spain have hyperkalaemia. Furthermore, approximately 14,900 patients with HFrEF (9500 men and 5400 women) develop hyperkalaemia each year. CONCLUSIONS: Approximately 1 of every 30 patients with HFrEF has plasma potassium values >5.5 mmol/L.

Valor pronóstico de los niveles de propéptido N-terminal del procolágeno tipos I y III asociados al remodelamiento ventricular en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca crónica / Prognostic value of procollagen types I and III N-terminal propeptide as regards ventricular remodelling in patients with chronic heart failure

Resumen Introducción: La insuficiencia cardiaca constituye el estadio final de muchas cardiopatias. Aunque los cambios en la composición de la matriz extracelular relacionados con el proceso de remodelamiento ventricular han sido descritos, ni la evolución ni el impacto clínico de la fibrogénesis miocárdica en pacientes con IC están completamente entendidos. Objetivo: Determinar si los precursores de la síntesis y degradación del colágeno son útiles en la predicción de hospitalización, muerte o necesidad de trasplante cardiaco en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca crónica. Métodos: Se estudiaron 204 pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca crónica entre 2015 y 2016; 106 con miocardiopatía isquémica y 98 con miocardiopatía dilatada. Se midieron los niveles séricos de noradrenalina, fracción N-terminal del propéptido natriurético cerebral, propéptido N-terminal del procolágeno tipo I (PINP) y propéptido N-terminal del procolágeno tipo III (PIIINP). Se determinaron volúmenes y fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo, clase funcional y tratamiento médico. Resultados: Durante el seguimiento hubo 55 hospitalizaciones, 7 muertes y 9 trasplantes. La edad (p < 0,001), los niveles de PINP (p = 0,04), PIIINP (p = 0,016) y volúmenes del ventrículo izquierdo (p < 0,05), fueron significativamente mayores en los pacientes que alcanzaron el desenlace primario. En pacientes con dilatación severa del ventrículo izquierdo (IVTDVI > 110ml/m2, IVTSVI > 50ml/m2), niveles de PIIINP > 6,2 (g/L y PINP > 40 (g/L se asociaron con mayor riesgo de hospitalización, muerte o necesidad de trasplante (sobrevida libre de eventos a 12 meses: 45% versus 95%, p < 0,0001). Conclusiones: Los niveles circulantes de PINP y PIIINP, se correlacionan con el remodelamiento del ventrículo izquierdo y predicen desenlaces en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca crónica.

Abstract Introduction: Heart failure (HF) is the end-stage of many heart diseases. Although the changes in the composition of the extracellular matrix associated with the ventricular remodelling process have been described, neither the evolution nor the clinical impact of the myocardial fibrogenesis in patients with HF are completely understood. Objective: To determine if the precursors of the synthesis and degradation of collagen are useful in the prediction of hospital admissions, death, or the need for a heart transplant in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). Methods: A total of 204 patients with chronic heart failure were studied between the years 2015 and 2016, of whom 106 had ischaemic heart disease, and 98 had dilated cardiomyopathy. Measurements were made of the serum levels of noradrenaline, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide, and procollagen type III N-terminal propeptide (PIIINP). The left ventricular volumes and ejection fraction were determined, as well a record made of the functional class and medical treatment. Results: During follow-up, there were 55 hospital admissions, 7 deaths and 9 transplants. Age (p<0,001), PINP levels (p=0,04), PIIINP levels (p=0,016), and left ventricular volumes (p<0,05), were significantly higher in patients who achieved the primary outcome. In patients with severe dilation of the left ventricle (LV diastolic volume index, LVDVI > 110 ml/m2, LV systolic volume index, LVTSVI > 50 ml/m2), PIIINP levels > 6.2 (g/L and a PINP > 40 (g/L, were associated with a higher risk of hospital admission, death, or need of a transplant (event-free survival at 12 months: 45% versus 95%, p<0,0001). Conclusions: The circulating levels of PINP and PIIINP are associated with left ventricular remodelling, and predict the outcomes in patients with chronic heart failure.

Predictors of response to cardiac resynchronization therapy: A prospective cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has modified the prognosis of chronic heart failure (HF) with left ventricular systolic dysfunction. However, 30% of patients do not have a favorable response. The big question is how to determine predictors of response. AIMS: To identify baseline characteristics that might influence echocardiographic response to CRT. METHODS AND RESULTS: We performed a prospective single-center hospital-based cohort study of consecutive HF patients selected to CRT (NYHA class II-IV, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <35% and QRS complex ≥120 ms). Responders were defined as those with a ≥5% absolute increase in LVEF at six months. Clinical, electrocardiographic, laboratory, echocardiographic, autonomic, endothelial and cardiopulmonary function parameters were assessed before CRT device implantation. Logistic regression models were used. Seventy-nine patients were included, 54 male (68.4%), age 68.1 years (standard deviation 10.2), 19 with ischemic etiology (24%). At six months, 51 patients (64.6%) were considered responders. Although by univariate analysis baseline tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and serum creatinine were significantly different in responders, on multivariate analysis only TAPSE was independently associated with response, with higher values predicting a positive response to CRT (OR=1.13; 95% CI: 1.02-1.26; p=0.020). TAPSE ≥15 mm was strongly associated with response, and TAPSE <15 mm with non-response (p=0.005). Responders had no TAPSE values below 10 mm. CONCLUSION: From a range of clinical and technical baseline characteristics, multivariate analysis only identified TAPSE as an independent predictor of CRT response, with TAPSE <15 mm associated with non-response. This study highlights the importance of right ventricular dysfunction in CRT response. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02413151.

Predicting short-term mortality in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic heart failure: The EAHFE-3D scale. / Predicción de la mortalidad a muy corto plazo de los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca crónica agudizada: escala EAHFE-3D.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Prognostic scales are needed in acute exacerbation of chronic heart failure to detect early mortality. The objective of this study is to create a prognostic scale (scale EAHFE-3D) to stratify the risk of death the very short term. PATIENTS AND METHOD: We used the EAHFE database, a multipurpose, multicenter registry with prospective follow-up currently including 6,597 patients with acute heart failure attended at 34 Spanish Emergency Departments from 2007 to 2014. The following variables were collected: demographic, personal history, data of acute episode and 3-day mortality. The derivation cohort included patients recruited during 2009 and 2011 EAHFE registry spots (n=3,640). The classifying variable was all-cause 3-day mortality. A prognostic scale (3D-EAHFE scale) with the results of the multivariate analysis based on the weight of the OR was created. The 3D-EAHFE scale was validated using the cohort of patients included in 2014 spot (n=2,957). RESULTS: A total of 3,640 patients were used in the derivation cohort and 102 (2.8%) died at 3 days. The final scale contained the following variables (maximum 165 points): age≥75 years (30 points), baseline NYHA III-IV (15 points), systolic blood pressure<110mmHg (20 points), room-air oxygen saturation<90% (30 points), hyponatremia (20 points), inotropic or vasopressor treatment (30 points) and need for noninvasive mechanical ventilation (20 points); with a ROC curve of 0.80 (95% CI 0.76-0.84; P<.001). The validation cohort included 2,957 patients (66 died at 3 days, 2.2%), and the scale obtained a ROC curve of 0.76 (95% CI 0.70-0.82; P<.001). The risk groups consisted of very low risk (0-20 points), low risk (21-40 points), intermediate risk (41-60 points), high risk (61-80 points) and very high risk (>80 points), with a mortality (derivation/validation cohorts) of 0/0.5, 0.8/1.0, 2.9/2.8, 5.5/5.8 and 12.7/22.4%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: EAHFE-3D scale may help to predict the very short term prognosis of patients with acute heart failure in 5 risk groups.

Uric acid and gamma-glutamyl transferase activity are associated with left ventricular remodeling indices in patients with chronic heart failure.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Uric acid and gamma-glutamyl transferase are prognostic indicators in chronic heart failure. Nevertheless, the mechanism underlying the association between uric acid, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and chronic heart failure progression and prognosis remains largely unknown. METHODS: The association of uric acid and gamma-glutamyl transferase with flow-mediated dilation and echocardiographic indices of cardiac remodeling was addressed in 120 patients with chronic ischemic heart failure. To determine the independent contribution of uric acid and gamma-glutamyl transferase to the flow-mediated dilation and echocardiographic indices of remodeling, a series of multiple linear regression models, based on traditional and nontraditional risk factors impacting upon these parameters, were constructed. RESULTS: Uric acid, but not gamma-glutamyl transferase, was an independent predictor of flow-mediated dilation. Uric acid was associated with all the echocardiographic indices of left ventricular dysfunction tested in 3 multiple-regression models. Uric acid correlated with left ventricular end-systolic diameter, left ventricular end-diastolic diameter, left ventricular end-systolic volume, and left ventricular end-diastolic volume (r = 0.337; r = 0.340; r = 0.321; r = 0.294; P = .001, respectively). Gamma-glutamyl transferase was an independent predictor of left ventricular end-systolic volume and left ventricular end-diastolic volume, after adjustment for all variables. Gamma-glutamyl transferase correlated with left ventricular end-systolic diameter, left ventricular end-diastolic diameter, left ventricular end-systolic volume, and left ventricular end-diastolic volume (r = 0.238, P = .009; r = 0.219, P = .016; r = 0.359, P < .001; r = 0.369, P = .001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Serum uric acid and gamma-glutamyl transferase levels are associated with left ventricular remodeling in patients with chronic ischemic heart failure.

Health care and nonhealth care costs in the treatment of patients with symptomatic chronic heart failure in Spain.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Chronic heart failure is associated with high mortality and utilization of health care and social resources. The objective of this study was to quantify the use of health care and nonhealth care resources and identify variables that help to explain variability in their costs in Spain. METHODS: This prospective, multicenter, observational study with a 12-month follow-up period included 374 patients with symptomatic heart failure recruited from specialized cardiology clinics. Information was collected on the socioeconomic characteristics of patients and caregivers, health status, health care resources, and professional and nonprofessional caregiving. The monetary cost of the resources used in caring for the health of these patients was evaluated, differentiating among functional classes. RESULTS: The estimated total cost for the 1-year follow-up ranged from € 12,995 to € 18,220, depending on the scenario chosen (base year, 2010). The largest cost item was informal caregiving (59.1%-69.8% of the total cost), followed by health care costs (26.7%- 37.4%), and professional care (3.5%). Of the total health care costs, the largest item corresponded to hospital costs, followed by medication. Total costs differed significantly between patients in functional class II and those in classes III or IV. CONCLUSIONS: Heart failure is a disease that requires the mobilization of a considerable amount of resources. The largest item corresponds to informal care. Both health care and nonhealth care costs are higher in the population with more advanced disease.

Impact of CPAP on physical exercise tolerance and sympathetic-vagal balance in patients with chronic heart failure / Impacto da CPAP sobre a tolerância ao exercício físico e a modulação simpatovagal de pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca crônica

Background: Chronic heart failure (CHF) leads to exercise intolerance. However, non-invasive ventilation is able to improve functional capacity of patients with CHF. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on physical exercise tolerance and heart rate variability (HRV) in patients with CHF. Method : Seven men with CHF (62±8 years) and left ventricle ejection fraction of 41±8% were submitted to an incremental symptom-limited exercise test (IT) on the cicloergometer. On separate days, patients were randomized to perform four constant work rate exercise tests to maximal tolerance with and without CPAP (5 cmH2O) in the following conditions: i) at 50% of peak work rate of IT; and ii) at 75% of peak work rate of IT. At rest and during these conditions, instantaneous heart rate (HR) was recorded using a cardiofrequencimeter and HRV was analyzed in time domain (SDNN and RMSSD indexes). For statistical procedures, Wilcoxon test or Kruskall-Wallis test with Dunn's post-hoc were used accordingly. In addition, categorical variables were analysed through Fischer's test (p<0.05). Results: There were significant improvements in exercise tolerance at 75% of peak work rate of IT with CPAP (405±52 vs. 438±58 s). RMSSD indexes were lower during exercise tests compared to CPAP at rest and with 50% of peak work rate of IT. Conclusion: These data suggest that CPAP appears to be a useful strategy to improve functional capacity in patients with CHF. However, the positive impact of CPAP did not generate significant changes in the HRV during physical exercises. .

Contextualização: A insuficiência cardíaca (IC) crônica cursa com intolerância ao exercício físico. A ventilação não invasiva (VNI) tem se mostrado benéfica para a melhora da performance desses pacientes. Objetivos: Avaliar a eficiência da pressão positiva contínua nas vias aéreas (CPAP) sobre a tolerância ao exercício físico e a variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC) de pacientes com IC crônica. Método: Sete homens com IC crônica (62±8 anos) e fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo de 41±8% foram submetidos ao teste incremental (TI) sintoma-limitado em cicloergômetro. Posteriormente, foram aleatorizados para a realização de exercícios físicos de carga constante até a tolerância máxima com e sem CPAP (5 cmH2O) nas condições: i) 50% da carga pico do TI e ii) 75% da carga pico do TI. Em repouso e durante os testes, a frequência cardíaca (FC) instantânea foi obtida pelo cardiofrequencímetro, e a VFC foi analisada no domínio do tempo. A análise estatística foi realizada pelos testes de Wilcoxon ou Kruskall-Wallis com post-hoc de Dunn e as variáveis categóricas, pelo teste de Fischer (p<0,05). Resultados: Durante a CPAP, houve aumento significativo no tempo de exercício físico (405±52 vs. 438±58 s) e da FC pico (97±3 vs. 105±2 bpm) somente na intensidade de 75%. Em relação à VFC, observou-se que o RMSSD foi significativamente menor em exercício físico quando comparado ao repouso com CPAP na intensidade 50%. Conclusão: Em conclusão, a CPAP com 5 cmH20 mostrou-se um útil na melhora da capacidade funcional dos pacientes estudados com pouco impacto sobre a VFC. .

Antagonistas neurohormonales en el tratamiento de la insuficiencia cardiaca crónica / Neurohormonal antagonists in the treatment of chronic heart failure

La insuficiencia cardíaca crónica se caracteriza por presentar una importante activación neurohormonal que consiste principalmente en un aumento de la activación simpática y del sistema renina-angiotensina-aldosterona. Esta activación en un principio compensatoria, con el tiempo lleva al empeoramiento de la función ventricular y los síntomas en la insuficiencia cardíaca. El tratamiento médico debe ir dirigido a bloquear dicha activación y con ello disminuir la progresión de la enfermedad. Las estatinas, IECAS, ARA II, antagonistas de la aldosterona y los beta bloqueadores constituyen, fármacos antagonistas neurohormonales. Todos ellos han demostrado disminuir la morbimortalidad de la enfermedad...

The chronic heart failure is determined by an important neurohormonal activation that consists in the increase of the sympathetic activation and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. This activation is at the beginning compensatory, but then it leads to a bigger damage of the ventricular function and chronic insufficiency symptoms. The physician must avoid this activation and diminish the progression of the disease. Statins, ACE inhibitor (angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), aldosterone antagonists and beta blockers are the antagonist neurohormonal drugs. All of them have proven to decrease the morbimortality of the disease...