| 1. |
- Arata, Allegra, et al.
(author)
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Sex Differences in Heart Failure : What Do We Know?
- 2023
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In: Journal of cardiovascular development and disease. - 2308-3425. ; 10:7
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Highlights: Women predominantly exhibit HFpEF compared to men. Factors exclusive to women, such as adverse pregnancy outcomes and premature menopause, elevate the risk of HF. The establishment of sex-specific optimal drug dosages and concrete guidelines for device therapy is essential. Concerted multidisciplinary initiatives are crucial to bridge the existing sex disparities in HF management. Heart failure (HF) remains an important global health issue, substantially contributing to morbidity and mortality. According to epidemiological studies, men and women face nearly equivalent lifetime risks for HF. However, their experiences diverge significantly when it comes to HF subtypes: men tend to develop HF with reduced ejection fraction more frequently, whereas women are predominantly affected by HF with preserved ejection fraction. This divergence underlines the presence of numerous sex-based disparities across various facets of HF, encompassing aspects such as risk factors, clinical presentation, underlying pathophysiology, and response to therapy. Despite these apparent discrepancies, our understanding of them is far from complete, with key knowledge gaps still existing. Current guidelines from various professional societies acknowledge the existence of sex-based differences in HF management, yet they are lacking in providing explicit, actionable recommendations tailored to these differences. In this comprehensive review, we delve deeper into these sex-specific differences within the context of HF, critically examining associated definitions, risk factors, and therapeutic strategies. We provide a specific emphasis on aspects exclusive to women, such as the impact of pregnancy-induced hypertension and premature menopause, as these unique factors warrant greater attention in the broader HF discussion. Additionally, we aim to clarify ongoing controversies and knowledge gaps pertaining to the pharmacological treatment of HF and the sex-specific indications for cardiac implantable electronic devices. By shining a light on these issues, we hope to stimulate a more nuanced understanding and promote the development of more sex-responsive approaches in HF management.
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| 2. |
- Archilletti, Federico, et al.
(author)
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Coronary angiography- or fractional flow reserve-guided complete revascularization in multivessel disease STEMI : A Bayesian hierarchical network meta-analysis
- 2023
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In: International Journal of Cardiology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0167-5273. ; 370, s. 122-128
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Aims: To identify the best strategy to achieve complete revascularization (CR) in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and multi-vessel disease (MVD). Methods and results: We systematically reviewed the literature for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IRA-only PCI and CR guided by angiography or fractional flow reserve (FFR) in MVD-STEMI. Both frequentist (classical) and Bayesian network meta-analysis were performed, including a comparative hierarchy estimation of the probability to reduce the primary composite endpoint of all-cause death and new myocardial infarction (MI). We identified 11 RCTs, including 8193 STEMI patients. Compared with IRA-only strategy, CR significantly reduced the primary endpoint (OR: 0.73; 95%CI0.55–0.97). We observed non-significant difference between angiography and FFR guidance in reducing the primary endpoint (OR: 0.73, 95% CI 0.35–1.57). The Bayesian probability analysis ranked angio-guided CR as the best intervention yielding lowest risk of all-cause death or new MI (SUCRA92%). Conclusions: In patients with MVD-STEMI, CR is associated with a reduction in all-cause mortality and new MI compared with IRA-only PCI. Angio-guided CR is associated with the lowest risk of all-cause death or new MI, therefore the role of FFR-guidance in this setting is questionable. Condensed abstract: Both frequentist and Bayesian network meta-analysis were performed to compare infarct-related artery (IRA)-only percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and complete revascularization (CR) guided by angiography or fractional flow reserve (FFR) in multivessel disease (MVD) and acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Eleven randomized controlled trials were identified, including 8193 STEMI patients. Compared with IRA-only strategy, CR significantly reduced the incidence of the composite endpoint of all-cause death and new myocardial infarction without significant difference in angio-guided and FFR-guided CR. The Bayesian probability analysis ranked angio-guided CR as the best intervention yielding lowest risk of the composite endpoint and, therefore the role of FFR-guidance in this setting is questionable.
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| 3. |
- Archilletti, Federico, et al.
(author)
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Timing of mechanical circulatory support during primary angioplasty in acute myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock : Systematic review and meta-analysis
- 2022
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In: Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions. - : Wiley. - 1522-1946 .- 1522-726X. ; 99:4, s. 998-1005
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives: We aim to define whether the timing of microaxial left ventricular assist device (IMLVAD) implantation might impact on mortality in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) cardiogenic shock (CS) patients who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). Background: Despite the widespread use of PPCI, mortality in patients with AMI and CS remains high. Mechanical circulatory support is a promising bridge to recovery strategy, but evidence on its benefit is still inconclusive and the optimal timing of its utilization remains poorly explored. Methods: We compared clinical outcomes of upstream IMLVAD use before PPCI versus bailout use after PPCI in patients with AMI CS. A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing the two strategies were performed. Effect size was reported as odds ratio (OR) using bailout as reference group and a random effect model was used. Study-level risk estimates were pooled through the generic inverse variance method (random effect model). Results: A total of 11 observational studies were identified, including a pooled population of 6759 AMI-CS patients. Compared with a bailout approach, upstream IMLVAD was associated with significant reduction of 30-day (OR = 0.65; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.51–0.82; I2 = 43%, adjusted OR = 0.54; 95% CI = 0.37–0.59; I2 = 3%, test for subgroup difference p = 0.30), 6-month (OR = 0.51; 95% CI = 0.27–0.96; I2 = 66%), and 1-year (OR = 0.56; 95% CI = 0.39–0.79; I2 = 0%) all-cause mortality. Incidence of access-related bleeding, acute limb ischemia and transfusion outcomes were similar between the two strategies. Conclusion: In patients with AMI-CS undergoing PPCI, upstream IMLVAD was associated with reduced early and midterm all-cause mortality when compared with a bailout strategy.
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| 4. |
- Bisaccia, Giandomenico, et al.
(author)
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Cardiovascular Morbidity and Mortality Related to Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease : a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- 2023
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In: Current Problems in Cardiology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0146-2806 .- 1535-6280. ; 48:6
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Whether non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a cardiovascular (CV) risk factor is debated. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the CV morbidity and mortality related to NAFLD in the general population, and to determine whether CV risk is comparable between lean and non-lean NAFLD phenotypes.METHODS AND RESULTS: We searched multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, for observational studies published through 2022 that reported the risk of CV events and mortality. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for all-cause mortality, CV mortality, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, atrial fibrillation (AF), and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) were assessed through random-effect meta-analysis. We identified 33 studies and a total study population of 10,592,851 individuals (mean age 53±8; male sex 50%; NAFLD 2,9%). Mean follow-up was 10±6 years. Pooled ORs for all-cause and CV mortality were respectively 1.14 (95%CI 0.78-1.67) and 1.13 (95%CI 0.57-2.23), indicating no significant association between NAFLD and mortality. NAFLD was associated with increased risk of MI (OR 1.6; 95%CI 1.5-1.7), stroke (OR 1.6; 95%CI 1.2-2.1), atrial fibrillation (OR 1.7; 95%CI 1.2-2.3) and MACCE (OR 2.3; 95%CI 1.3-4.2). Compared with non-lean NAFLD, lean NAFLD was associated with increased CV mortality (OR 1.50; 95%CI 1.1-2.0), but similar all-cause mortality and risk of MACCE.CONCLUSIONS: While NAFLD may not be a risk factor for total and CV mortality, it is associated with excess risk of non-fatal CV events. Lean and non-lean NAFLD phenotypes exhibit distinct prognostic profiles and should receive equitable clinical care.
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| 5. |
- Bisaccia, Giandomenico, et al.
(author)
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Mitochondrial dysfunction and heart disease : Critical appraisal of an overlooked association
- 2021
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In: International Journal of Molecular Sciences. - : MDPI AG. - 1661-6596 .- 1422-0067. ; 22:2
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The myocardium is among the most energy-consuming tissues in the body, burning from 6 to 30 kg of ATP per day within the mitochondria, the so-called powerhouse of the cardiomyocyte. Although mitochondrial genetic disorders account for a small portion of cardiomyopathies, mitochondrial dysfunction is commonly involved in a broad spectrum of heart diseases, and it has been implicated in the development of heart failure via maladaptive circuits producing and perpetuating mitochondrial stress and energy starvation. In this bench-to-bedside review, we aimed to (i) describe the key functions of the mitochondria within the myocardium, including their role in ischemia/reperfusion injury and intracellular calcium homeostasis; (ii) examine the contribution of mitochondrial dysfunction to multiple cardiac disease phenotypes and their transition to heart failure; and (iii) discuss the rationale and current evidence for targeting mitochondrial function for the treatment of heart failure, including via sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors.
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| 6. |
- Bisaccia, Giandomenico, et al.
(author)
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Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 and Cardiovascular Autonomic Dysfunction : What Do We Know?
- 2021
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In: Journal of cardiovascular development and disease. - : MDPI AG. - 2308-3425. ; 8:11, s. 1-15
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), or long COVID syndrome, is emerging as a major health issue in patients with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. Symptoms commonly experienced by patients include fatigue, palpitations, chest pain, dyspnea, reduced exercise tolerance, and "brain fog". Additionally, symptoms of orthostatic intolerance and syncope suggest the involvement of the autonomic nervous system. Signs of cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction appear to be common in PASC and are similar to those observed in postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and inappropriate sinus tachycardia. In this review, we report on the epidemiology of PASC, discuss current evidence and possible mechanisms underpinning the dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, and suggest nonpharmacological and pharmacological interventions to treat and relieve symptoms of PASC-associated dysautonomia.
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| 7. |
- Bisaccia, Giandomenico, et al.
(author)
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Prognostic Value of High-Sensitivity Cardiac Troponin in Women
- 2022
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In: Biomolecules. - : MDPI AG. - 2218-273X. ; 12:10
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- High-sensitivity cardiac troponin assays have become the gold standard for diagnosing acute and chronic myocardial injury. The detection of troponin levels beyond the 99th percentile is included in the fourth universal definition of myocardial infarction, specifically recommending the use of sex-specific thresholds. Measurable concentrations below the proposed diagnostic thresholds have been shown to inform prognosis in different categories of inpatients and outpatients. However, clinical investigations from the last twenty years have yielded conflicting results regarding the incremental value of using different cut-offs for men and women. While advocates of a sex-specific approach claim it may help reduce gender bias in cardiovascular medicine, particularly in acute coronary syndromes, other groups question the alleged incremental diagnostic and prognostic value of sex-specific thresholds, ultimately asserting that less is more. In the present review, we aimed to synthesize our current understanding of sex-based differences in cardiac troponin levels and to reappraise the available evidence with regard to (i) the prognostic significance of sex-specific diagnostic thresholds of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin assays compared to common cut-offs in both men and women undergoing cardiovascular disease risk assessment, and (ii) the clinical utility of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin assays for cardiovascular disease prevention in women.
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| 8. |
- Caprio, Maria Vittoria, et al.
(author)
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Moderate aortic stenosis : Navigating the uncharted
- 2024
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In: Echocardiography. - 0742-2822. ; 41:6
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Aortic stenosis (AS) stands as the most common valvular heart disease in developed countries and is characterized by progressive narrowing of the aortic valve orifice resulting in elevated transvalvular flow resistance, left ventricular hypertrophy, and progressive increased risk of heart failure and sudden death. This narrative review explores clinical challenges and evolving perspectives in moderate AS, where discrepancies between aortic valve area and pressure gradient measurements may pose diagnostic and therapeutic quandaries. Transthoracic echocardiography is the first-line imaging modality for AS evaluation, yet cases of discordance may require the application of ancillary noninvasive diagnostic modalities. This review underscores the importance of accurate grading of AS severity, especially in low-gradient phenotypes, emphasizing the need for vigilant follow-up. Current clinical guidelines primarily recommend aortic valve replacement for severe AS, potentially overlooking latent risks in moderate disease stages. The noninvasive multimodality imaging approach—including echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance, computed tomography, and nuclear techniques—provides unique insights into adaptive and maladaptive cardiac remodeling in AS and offers a promising avenue to deliver precise indications and exact timing for intervention in moderate AS phenotypes and asymptomatic patients, potentially improving long-term outcomes. Nevertheless, what we may have gleaned from a large amount of observational data is still insufficient to build a robust framework for clinical decision-making in moderate AS. Future research will prioritize randomized clinical trials designed to weigh the benefits and risks of preemptive aortic valve replacement in the management of moderate AS, as directed by specific imaging and nonimaging biomarkers.
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| 9. |
- Ceriello, Laura, et al.
(author)
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Massive necrotizing myocarditis in a young patient with idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome
- 2022
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In: IMAGING. - : Akademiai Kiado Zrt.. - 2732-0960. ; 14:1, s. 66-69
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- A 27-years-old female with multiple autoimmune disorders presented to our cardiology unit for acute chest pain and worsening dyspnoea. Admission blood tests revealed increased serum levels of high-sensitive cardiac troponin, eosinophilic count and C-reactive protein. Laboratory findings, low QRS voltages by ECG, mildly reduced left ventricular systolic function in the context of pseudohypertrophy, mild and diffuse late gadolinium enhancement associated with markedly increased native T1 and T2 mapping levels assessed by echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, raised the suspicion of massive eosinophilic myocarditis, subsequently confirmed by histological examination of endomyocardial biopsy. Prompt initiation of immunosuppressive treatment allowed swift regression of myocardial inflammation and full recovery of left ventricular systolic function within one month. After ruling-out clonal myeloid disorder, lymphocyte-variant and reactive hypereosinophilia, the young lady was eventually diagnosed with idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome. This case report turns the spotlight on the role and importance of advanced multi-modality cardiovascular imaging for raising clinical suspicion of acute eosinophilic myocarditis, guiding diagnostic work-up and monitoring response to treatment.
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| 10. |
- Clark, Joseph, et al.
(author)
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Interchangeability in Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Measured by Echocardiography and cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance : Not a Perfect Match in the Real World
- 2023
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In: Current Problems in Cardiology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0146-2806. ; 48:8
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Comparisons of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) derived left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) have been reported in core-lab settings but are limited in the real-world setting. We retrospectively identified outpatients from 4 hospital sites who had clinically indicated quantitative assessment of LVEFTTE and LVEFCMR and evaluated their concordance. In 767 patients (mean age 47.6 years; 67.9% males) the median inter-modality interval was 35 days. There was significant positive correlation between the 2 modalities (r = 0.75; P < 0.001). Median LVEF was 54% (IQR 47%, 60%) for TTE and 59% (IQR 51%, 64%) for CMR, (P < 0.001). Normal LVEFTTE was confirmed by CMR in 90.6% of cases. Of patients with severely impaired LVEFTTE, 42.3% were upwardly reclassified by CMR as less severely impaired. The overall proportion of patients that had their LVEF category confirmed by both imaging modalities was 64.4%; Cohen's Kappa 0.41, indicating fair-to-moderate agreement. Overall, CMR upwardly reclassified 28% of patients using the British Society of Echocardiography LVEF grading, 18.6% using the European Society of Cardiology heart failure classification, and 29.6% using specific reference ranges for each modality. In a multi-site “real-worldˮ clinical setting, there was significant discrepancy between LVEFTTE and LVEFCMR measurement. Only 64.4% had their LVEF category confirmed by both imaging modalities. LVEFTTE was generally lower than LVEFCMR. LVEFCMR upwardly reclassified almost half of patients with severe LV dysfunction by LVEFTTE. Clinicians should consider the inter-modality variation before making therapeutic recommendations, particularly as clinical trial LVEF thresholds have historically been guided by echocardiography.
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