Baseline characteristics, management, and predictors of early mortality in cardiogenic shock: insights from the FRENSHOCK registry

Cardiogenic shock in patients with active onco-hematological malignancies: A multicenter retrospective study

PURPOSE

Onco-hematological (OH) patients face significant cardiovascular risks due to malignancy and drug toxicity. Data are limited on the characteristics and outcomes of OH patients with cardiogenic shock (CS) in intensive care units (ICUs).

METHODS

This multicenter retrospective study included 214 OH patients with CS across 22 ICUs (2010-2021). The objectives were to (i) identify risk factors for 30-day mortality, (ii) describe early and long-term outcomes, and (iii) assess the prognostic impact of malignancy by comparing OH patients to a control group of CS patients.

RESULTS

The 30-day survival rate was 44.8 %. Multivariate analysis identified previous cardiomyopathy (OR = 1.61), acute kidney injury (OR = 1.62), lactate levels (OR = 1.08 per 1 mmol/L), pulmonary embolism (OR = 3.04), invasive mechanical ventilation (OR = 3.48), and epinephrine use (OR = 2.09) as factors associated with 30-day mortality. Among ICU survivors, 54 % were alive at 1 year with a median left ventricular ejection fraction of 52 %. OH malignancy was significantly associated with 30-day mortality (HR 2.54).

CONCLUSION

The prognosis for OH patients with CS in the ICU is poor, with epinephrine use associated with worse outcomes. Further research is needed to refine risk stratification and improve treatments for this population.

The current use of vasoactive agents in cardiogenic shock related to myocardial infarction and acute decompensated heart failure

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a heterogeneous condition associated with exceptionally high mortality rates, despite significant advances in the field of cardiology. The primary causes of CS are myocardial infarction-related CS (AMI-CS) and acute decompensated heart failure-related CS (ADHF-CS). Management of CS is inherently complex, with the initial focus-irrespective of the underlying etiology-centered on preserving end-organ perfusion. Parenteral vasopressors and inotropes are the cornerstone of therapy to achieve this objective. However, data on the comparative efficacy of different vasoactive agents in CS remain limited, and no single agent has demonstrated clear superiority. Recent progress in the staging and phenotyping of CS has provided a framework for more tailored therapeutic approaches. This review offers a comprehensive and updated summary of current evidence on the use of vasopressors and inotropes in AMI-CS and ADHF-CS, including a discussion of specific scenarios, such as right ventricular CS (RV-CS).

ECLS-SHOCK and DanGer Shock: Implications for Optimal Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support Use for Cardiogenic Shock Due to Acute Myocardial Infarction

Despite concerted efforts to rapidly identify patients with cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction (AMI-CS) and provide timely revascularization, early mortality remains stubbornly high. Although artificially augmenting systemic flow by using temporary mechanical circulatory support (tMCS) devices would be expected to reduce the rate of progression to multiorgan dysfunction and thereby enhance survival, reliable evidence for benefit has remained elusive with lingering questions regarding the appropriate selection of both patients and devices, as well as the timing of device implantation relative to other critical interventions. Further complicating matters are the resource-intensive multidisciplinary systems of care that must be brought to bear in this complex patient population. Until recently, studies of tMCS were extremely heterogeneous in design, populations treated, and timing of device implantation with regard to shock onset and revascularization. Attempts at summarizing the available data had resulted in a lack of clear benefit for any type of tMCS modality. On this background, 2 landmark trials of tMCS in the setting of AMI-CS---ECLS-SHOCK and DanGer Shock---have recently been published with divergent results that deserve detailed consideration. Thus, we provide a detailed narrative review of the current state of knowledge regarding tMCS for AMI-CS. The most common types of tMCS and related evidence are presented, as well as evidence for organizational considerations, such as the shock team. We also provide some insight into how this new evidence may be incorporated into practice and influence future research.

Association between mean hemodynamic variables during the first 24 h and outcomes in cardiogenic shock: identification of clinically relevant thresholds

PURPOSE

Cardiogenic shock (CS) remains a critical condition with high mortality rates despite advances in treatment. This study aims to comprehensively evaluate both macrocirculatory and tissue perfusion variables over the initial 24 h post-admission to determine their impact on patient prognosis and identify potential hemodynamic thresholds for optimal outcomes. Secondary aims were to explore the correlation between macrocirculatory and tissue perfusion variables.

DESIGN

This is a post hoc analysis of data from two prospective studies, OptimaCC (NCT01367743) and MicroShock (NCT03436641), involving only patients with CS. Both studies applied regular assessment of hemodynamic variables at specific time points (admission, 6, 12, and 24 h) to ensure consistency in data collection, enrolling 118 patients between September 2011 and July 2021, with similar inclusion criteria and care processes.

RESULTS

The median age of the cohort was 69 years, 59% being male. The primary outcome, 30-day mortality, occurred in 37% of patients. Average macrocirculation variables over the first 24 h of CS such as mean arterial pressure (MAP), cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), and cardiac power index (CPI) were significantly lower in patients meeting the primary outcome. Accordingly, average tissue perfusion variables (ΔPCO2 and ΔPCO2/C(a-v)O2) over the first 24 h of CS were also consistently impaired in patients meeting the primary outcome. The optimal clinically relevant thresholds of the first 24 h time course for poor outcomes, closely approximating the optimal values identified in the analysis, were: mean SAP < 95 mmHg, MAP < 70 mmHg, CO < 3.5 L/min, CI ≤ 1.8 L/min/m2, CPI < 0.27 W/m2, ScvO2 < 70%, ΔPCO2 ≥ 9 mmHg, and ΔPCO2/C(a-v)O2 ≥ 1.5 mmHg/mL.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to identify critical hemodynamic thresholds, encompassing both macrocirculatory and tissue perfusion variables, within the initial 24 h of CS that are associated with adverse outcomes. The identified thresholds suggest specific hemodynamic targets that may guide resuscitation strategies.

Features and outcomes of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy complicated by cardiogenic shock: an analysis of the FRENSHOCK multicenter prospective registry

BACKGROUND

Cardiogenic shock (CS) in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) due to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) or hypertensive heart disease, is underreported in the literature. This study aimed to delineate the characteristics, management strategies and outcomes of patients experiencing CS with preexisting LVH and HCM.

METHODS

FRENSHOCK is a prospective multicenter registry including 772 unselected CS patients from 49 centers. Baseline characteristics, management and 1-year outcomes were analyzed according to the occurrence on preexisting LVH.

RESULTS

Within 772 CS patients included, CS occur on a preexisting LVH in 34 patients (4.4%, 1.4% with HCM). Clinical characteristics, medical history, and usual medications, as well as hemodynamic parameters upon inclusion, did not differ between patients with or without LVH. The LVEF in CS patients with LVH was 27.3 ± 14.5% indicating a non-obstructive cause of CS. In-hospital management according to LVH and non-LVH groups indicated no differences between the groups. The 1-month and 1-year mortality did not differ between CS patients with and without LVH (respectively 26.5% vs 26%, (adjusted HR [95% CI]: 0.87 [0.44-1.72]) and 55.9% vs 44.7%, (adjusted HR [95% CI]:0.88 [0.54-1.42]). Subgroup analyses comparing HCM (n =11) and hypertensive LVH (n=23) revealed similar clinical characteristics, in-hospital management, and one-year rehospitalization rates for these patients.

CONCLUSION

In a large and unselected CS population, the prevalence of LVH patients is low (4.4%) with less than half having HCM (1.4%). The presentation, management, and outcomes of CS are similar to the broader CS population in our series. However, HCM-CS represents a distinct clinical entity necessitating tailored management approaches.

Neurohormonal response is associated with mortality in women with ST-elevation myocardial infarction

AIMS

Women continue to have a worse prognosis following ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) compared to men, despite advancements in treatment. This study investigates whether neurohormonal biomarker differences contribute to sex-related disparities in mortality.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 1892 consecutive STEMI patients from two tertiary heart centres were included. Admission neurohormonal activation defined as pro-atrial natriuretic peptide (proANP) and mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin (MR-proADM) was measured in blood drawn prior to acute coronary angiography (CAG). The primary endpoint was 1-year mortality stratified according to sex and biomarker level. Of 1782 (94%) with biomarkers available, 476 (27%) of patients were women. They were older (68 vs. 62 years), had longer symptom-to-angiography delay (211 vs. 181 min), and displayed a higher one-year mortality rate (12% vs. 7.4%, P < 0.001) compared to men. The neurohormonal response was higher in women compared to men [median (interquartile range) proANP 1050 (671-1591) vs. 772 (492-1294) pmol/L, P < 0.001); MR-proADM 0.80 (0.63-1.03) vs. 0.70 (0.58-0.89) nmol/L, P < 0.001]. In women, a level at or above the median was independently associated with a significantly higher mortality risk when adjusting for age, left ventricular ejection fraction, diabetes, heart failure, symptom onset to CAG, left-sided culprit lesion, obesity, renal dysfunction, primary percutaneous intervention, admission systolic blood pressure, and multivessel disease (HR proANP 6.05, 95% CI 1.81-20.3, P = 0.004; HR MR-proADM 3.49, 95% CI 1.42-8.62, P = 0.007). In men, there was an independent prognostic association for proANP but not for MR-proADM (HR proANP 2.38, 95% CI 1.18-4.81, P = 0.015; HR MR-proADM 1.74, 95% CI 0.89-3.40, P = 0.11).

CONCLUSION

Increased neurohormonal activation (MR-proADM and proANP) is associated with higher mortality in women compared to men. Neurohormonal activation may contribute to the observed sex-related differences in mortality.

Tailored Therapies for Cardiogenic Shock in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Navigating Emerging Strategies

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a complex and heterogeneous cardiac disorder, often complicated by cardiogenic shock, a life-threatening condition marked by severe cardiac output failure. Managing cardiogenic shock in HCM patients presents unique challenges due to the distinct pathophysiology of the disease, which includes dynamic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction, diastolic dysfunction, and myocardial ischemia. This review discusses current and emerging therapeutic strategies tailored to address the complexities of HCM-associated cardiogenic shock and other diseases with similar pathophysiology that provoke left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. We explore the role of pharmacological interventions, including the use of vasopressors and inotropes, which are crucial in stabilizing hemodynamics but require careful selection to avoid exacerbating the outflow obstruction. Additionally, the review highlights advancements in mechanical circulatory support devices such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), which have become vital in the acute management of cardiogenic shock. These devices provide temporary support and bridge patients to recovery, definitive therapy, or heart transplantation, which remains a critical option for those with end-stage disease. Furthermore, the review delves into the latest research and clinical trials that are refining these therapeutic approaches, ensuring they are optimized for HCM patients. The impact of these treatments on patient outcomes, including survival rates and quality of life, is also critically assessed. In conclusion, this review underscores the importance of a tailored therapeutic approach in managing cardiogenic shock in HCM patients, integrating pharmacological and mechanical support strategies to improve outcomes in this high-risk population.

Cardiogenic shock in general intensive care unit: a nationwide prospective analysis of epidemiology and outcome

AIMS

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a life-threatening disease burdened by a mortality up to 50%. The epidemiology has changed with non-ischaemic aetiologies being predominant, although data were mainly derived from patients admitted to dedicated acute cardiac care. We report the epidemiology and outcome of patients with CS admitted to general intensive care unit (ICU).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Prospective multicentric epidemiological study including 314 general ICU adhering to the GiViTI nationwide registry from 2011 to 2018, excluding cardiac arrest. The primary endpoint of the study was mortality. The association between clinical factors and mortality was evaluated using a logistic regression model. The odds ratios (ORs) of the covariates quantify their association with mortality during hospitalization. A total of 11 052 patients admitted to general ICU {incidence 2.17%; median age 72 [interquartile range (66-81)], 38.7% were women} with CS were included. Forty-seven per cent of patients had more than three organ insufficiency at the time of admission. The most common CS aetiologies were left heart failure (LHF, 5247-47.5%); acute myocardial infarction (3612-32.6%); right heart failure (RHF, 515-4.6%); and biventricular failure (532-4.8%). A total of 85.5% were mechanically ventilated during the ICU hospitalization. The overall ICU mortality was 44.8%, increasing to 53.4% during the hospitalization in the index hospital and to 54.3% at the latest hospital. Right heart failure-cardiogenic shock patients exhibited the highest mortality risk [OR: 1.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.94-1.50); P < 0.001], followed by biventricular CS [OR 1.04, 95% CI (0.82-1.32)]. Respiratory failure [OR 1.13 (95% CI 1.08-1.19)], coagulation disorder [1.17 (95% CI 1.1-1.24)], renal dysfunction [OR 1.55 (95% CI 1.50-1.61)], and neurological alteration [OR 1.45 (95% CI 1.39-1.50)] were associated with worsen outcome along with severe hypotension [systolic blood pressure < 70 mmHg-OR 2.35, 95% CI (2.06-2.67)], increasing age [OR 2.21 95% CI (2.01-2.42)], and longer ICU stay prior to admission (two-fold increase for each 4.7 days).

CONCLUSION

In the general ICU, the aetiology of CS, excluding cardiac arrest, remains characterized mostly by LHF with RHF-CS burdened by higher mortality. Multiorgan failure at admission and longer hospital stay before ICU admission predispose to worsen outcome.

Ventilation strategies in cardiogenic shock: insights from the FRENSHOCK observational registry

BACKGROUND

Despite scarce data, invasive mechanical ventilation (MV) is widely suggested as first-line ventilatory support in cardiogenic shock (CS) patients. We assessed the real-life use of different ventilation strategies in CS and their influence on short and mid-term prognosis.

METHODS

FRENSHOCK was a prospective registry including 772 CS patients from 49 centers in France. Patients were categorized into three groups according to the ventilatory supports during hospitalization: no mechanical ventilation group (NV), non-invasive ventilation alone group (NIV), and invasive mechanical ventilation group (MV). We compared clinical characteristics, management, and occurrence of death and major adverse event (MAE) (death, heart transplantation or ventricular assist device) at 30 days and 1 year between the three groups.

RESULTS

Seven hundred sixty-eight patients were included in this analysis. Mean age was 66 years and 71% were men. Among them, 359 did not receive any ventilatory support (46.7%), 118 only NIV (15.4%), and 291 MV (37.9%). MV patients presented more severe CS with more skin mottling, higher lactate levels, and higher use of vasoactive drugs and mechanical circulatory support. MV was associated with higher mortality and MAE at 30 days (HR 1.41 [1.05-1.90] and 1.52 [1.16-1.99] vs NV). No difference in mortality (HR 0.79 [0.49-1.26]) or MAE (HR 0.83 [0.54-1.27]) was found between NIV patients and NV patients. Similar results were found at 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that using NIV is safe in selected patients with less profound CS and no other MV indication. NCT02703038.

Ten-year trends in characteristics, management and outcomes of patients admitted with cardiogenic shock in the ACTION-SHOCK cohort

BACKGROUND

The ACTION-SHOCK registry offers a decade-long perspective on patients admitted with cardiogenic shock (CS).

AIMS

To assess trends in the management and outcomes of patients with CS over 10 years.

METHODS

Trends in the characteristics, management and outcomes of patients with CS admitted into the cardiac intensive care unit of Pitié-Salpêtrière hospital from 2011 to 2020 were analysed. Short-term outcomes included in-hospital mortality, heart transplantation or ventricular assist device. Long-term outcomes were all-cause death or readmission for acute heart failure at 1 year.

RESULTS

Over a 10-year period, data from 700 patients with CS (median [interquartile range] age 61 [50-72] years; 73% of men) were analysed. The proportion of CS related to acute myocardial infarction decreased (from 45% in 2011-2012 to 27% in 2019-2020) while the proportions related to chronic coronary syndrome (18% to 23%) and non-ischaemic cardiomyopathies (37 to 51%) increased (P<0.01). The use of rescue extracorporeal membrane oxygenation remained stable (19 to 14%) and intra-aortic balloon pump use decreased (22% to 7%) (P<0.01). In-hospital mortality remained stable (27 to 29%) as did the proportions of patients discharged after transplantation (17 to 14%) or with a durable ventricular assist device (2 to 4%). Among patients discharged alive, death or readmission for acute heart failure at 1 year remained high (37 to 47%).

CONCLUSION

CS remained associated with a poor prognosis over the last decade. There are significant unmet needs in the management strategies of patients with CS.

Prehospital factors predicting mortality in patients with shock: state-wide linkage study

BACKGROUND

Patients with shock treated by emergency medical services (EMS) have high morbidity and mortality. Knowledge of prehospital factors predicting outcomes in patients with shock remains limited. We aimed to describe the prehospital predictors of mortality in patients with non-traumatic shock transported to hospital by EMS.

METHOD

This is a retrospective cohort study of consecutive ambulance attendances for non-traumatic shock in Victoria, Australia (January 2015-June 2019) linked with government-held administrative data (emergency, admissions and mortality records). Predictors of 30-day mortality were assessed using Cox proportional regressions. The primary outcome was 30-day all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

Overall, 21 334 patients with non-traumatic shock (median age 69 years, 54.8% female) were successfully linked with state administrative records. Among this cohort, 9 149 (43%) patients died within 30-days. Compared with survivors, non-survivors had a longer median on-scene time: 60 (35-98) versus 30 (19-50), p <0.001. Non-survivors were more likely to be older (median age in years: 74 (61-84) vs 65 (47-78), p<0.001), had prehospital cardiac arrest requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation (adjusted HR (aHR)=6.26, 95% CI 5.87, 6.69) and had prehospital intubation (aHR=1.07, CI 1.00, 1.14). Reduced 30-day mortality was associated with administration of epinephrine (aHR=0.66, CI 0.62, 0.71) and systolic blood pressures above 80 mm Hg in the prehospital setting.

CONCLUSION

The 30-day mortality from non-traumatic shock is high at 43%. Independent predictors of mortality included age, prehospital cardiac arrest and endotracheal intubation. Interventions that target reversible causes of short-term mortality in patients with non-traumatic shock are a high priority.

Building a cardiogenic shock response team: key considerations necessary to improve outcomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review provides key information about cardiogenic shock (CS) teams, including published evidence and practical recommendations to create a CS team and program.

RECENT FINDINGS

CS is a complex disease process with a high in-hospital mortality rate ranging from 30% to 70% according to recent registries and randomized studies. The explanation for the elevated rates is likely multifactorial, including the various etiologies of cardiogenic shock as well as delays in recognition and deployment of appropriate therapies. Accordingly, the use of cardiogenic shock team has been implemented with the aim of improving outcomes in these patients. The CS team typically consists of members with critical care or cardiac critical care expertise, heart failure, cardiothoracic surgery, and interventional cardiology. A number of retrospective studies have now supported the benefits of a CS team, particularly in selecting the appropriate candidates for tailored mechanical circulatory support therapies and providing interventions in a timely manner, which have translated into improved outcomes.

SUMMARY

CS teams provides a platform for expedited recognition of CS and timely, standardized, and multidisciplinary discussions regarding appropriate management and care.

Cardiogenic shock and infection: A lethal combination

BACKGROUND

Cardiogenic shock and sepsis are severe haemodynamic states that are frequently present concomitantly, leading to substantial mortality. Despite its frequency and clinical significance, there is a striking lack of literature on the outcomes of combined sepsis and cardiogenic shock.

METHODS

FRENSHOCK was a prospective registry including 772 patients with cardiogenic shock from 49 centres. The primary endpoint was 1-month all-cause mortality. Secondary endpoints included heart transplantation, ventricular assistance device and all-cause death rate at 1year.

RESULTS

Among the 772 patients with cardiogenic shock included, 92 cases were triggered by sepsis (11.9%), displaying more frequent renal and hepatic acute injuries, with lower mean arterial pressure. Patients in the sepsis group required broader use of dobutamine (90.1% vs. 81.2%; P=0.16), norepinephrine (72.5% vs. 50.8%; P<0.01), renal replacement therapy (29.7% vs. 14%; P<0.01), non-invasive ventilation (36.3% vs. 24.4%; P=0.09) and invasive ventilation (52.7% vs. 35.9%; P=0.02). Sepsis-triggered cardiogenic shock resulted in higher 1-month (41.3% vs. 24.0%; adjusted hazard ratio: 1.94, 95% confidence interval: 1.36-2.76; P<0.01) and 1-year (62.0% vs. 42.9%; adjusted hazard ratio 1.75, 95% confidence interval 1.32-2.33; P<0.01) all-cause death rates. No significant difference was found at 1year for heart transplantation or ventricular assistance device (8.7% vs. 10.3%; adjusted odds ratio 0.72, 95% confidence interval 0.32-1.64; P=0.43). In patients with sepsis-triggered cardiogenic shock, neither the presence of a preexisting cardiomyopathy nor the co-occurrence of other cardiogenic shock triggers had any additional impact on death.

CONCLUSIONS

The association between sepsis and cardiogenic shock represents a common high-risk scenario, leading to higher short- and long-term death rates, regardless of the association with other cardiogenic shock triggers or the presence of preexisting cardiomyopathy.

Clinical Characteristics, Management, and Outcomes in Cardiogenic Shock: Insights From a High-Volume Italian Cardiac Intensive Care Unit

ABSTRACT

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a life-threatening condition. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical characteristics, management, and complication rate of patients with CS admitted to a high-volume hospital in Italy. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical, echocardiographic, and laboratory data, therapeutic management, and outcomes of patients with CS admitted to the Policlinico Gemelli (Rome) between January 1, 2020, and January 1, 2023. We included 96 patients [median age 71 years, interquartile range 60-79; 65 (68%) males], of whom 49 patients (51%) presented CS secondary to acute myocardial infarction and 60 (63%) with a de novo presentation of CS. Dobutamine was the most frequently used inotrope and noradrenaline the most frequently used vasopressor (adopted in 56% and 82% of cases, respectively). Forty-five (47%) patients died during the hospitalization. Nonsurvivors were older and had a higher inflammatory burden at admission, elevated lactate levels, a greater increase in lactate levels, higher left ventricular filling pressures, and worse right ventricular function. C-reactive protein levels [odds ratio (OR) 1.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.00-1.04), P = 0.027], lactate levels at admission (OR 3.49, 95% CI, 1.59-7.63, P = 0.02), and increase in lactate levels (OR 2.8, 95% CI, 1.37-5.75, P = 0.005) were independent predictors of in-hospital all-cause death. Our data contribute to the assessment of the regional variations in the management and outcomes of patients with CS. We observed a high mortality and complication rate. Lactate acidosis and C-reactive protein measured at admission may help in identifying patients at higher risk of adverse in-hospital outcomes.

Sex disparities in cardiogenic shock: Insights from the FRENSHOCK registry

BACKGROUND

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is the most severe form of acute heart failure. Discrepancies have been reported between sexes regarding delays, pathways and invasive strategies in CS complicating acute myocardial infarction. However, effect of sex on the prognosis of unselected CS remains controversial.

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to analyze the impact of sex on aetiology, management and prognosis of CS.

METHODS

The FRENSHOCK registry included all CS admitted in 49 French Intensive Care Units (ICU) and Intensive Cardiac Care Units (ICCU) between April and October 2016.

RESULTS

Among the 772 CS patients included, 220 were women (28.5%). Women were older, less smokers, with less history of ischemic cardiac disease (20.5% vs 33.6%) than men. At admission, women presented less cardiac arrest (5.5 vs 12.2%), less mottling (32.5 vs 41.4%) and higher LVEF (30 ± 14 vs 25 ± 13%). Women were more often managed via emergency department while men were directly admitted at ICU/ICCU. Ischemia was the most frequent trigger irrespective of sex (36.4% in women vs 38.2%) but women had less coronary angiogram and PCI (45.9% vs 54% and 24.1 vs 31.3%, respectively). We found no major difference in medication and organ support. Thirty-day mortality (26.4 vs 26.5%), transplant or permanent assist device were similar in both sexes.

CONCLUSION

Despite some more favorable parameters in initial presentation and no significant difference in medication and support, women shared similar poor prognosis than men. Further analysis is required to cover the lasting gap in knowledge regarding sex specificities to distinguish between differences and inequalities. NCT02703038.

EPidemiology Of Cardiogenic sHock in Scotland (EPOCHS): A multicentre, prospective observational study of the prevalence, management and outcomes of cardiogenic shock in Scotland

Background

Despite high rates of cardiovascular disease in Scotland, the prevalence and outcomes of patients with cardiogenic shock are unknown.

Methods

We undertook a prospective observational cohort study of consecutive patients with cardiogenic shock admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) or coronary care unit at 13 hospitals in Scotland for a 6-month period. Denominator data from the Scottish Intensive Care Society Audit Group were used to estimate ICU prevalence; data for coronary care units were unavailable. We undertook multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with in-hospital mortality.

Results

In total, 247 patients with cardiogenic shock were included. After exclusion of coronary care unit admissions, this comprised 3.0% of all ICU admissions during the study period (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.6%-3.5%). Aetiology was acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in 48%. The commonest vasoactive treatment was noradrenaline (56%) followed by adrenaline (46%) and dobutamine (40%). Mechanical circulatory support was used in 30%. Overall in-hospital mortality was 55%. After multivariable logistic regression, age (odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% CI 1.02-1.06), admission lactate (OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.05-1.19), Society for Cardiovascular Angiographic Intervention stage D or E at presentation (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.10-4.29) and use of adrenaline (OR 2.73, 95% CI 1.40-5.40) were associated with mortality.

Conclusions

In Scotland the prevalence of cardiogenic shock was 3% of all ICU admissions; more than half died prior to discharge. There was significant variation in treatment approaches, particularly with respect to vasoactive support strategy.

Cardiogenic shock and chronic kidney disease: Dangerous liaisons

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, closely interrelated with cardiovascular diseases, ultimately leading to the failure of both organs - the so-called "cardiorenal syndrome". Despite this burden, data related to cardiogenic shock outcomes in CKD patients are scarce.

METHODS

FRENSHOCK (NCT02703038) was a prospective registry involving 772 patients with cardiogenic shock from 49 centres. One-year outcomes (rehospitalization, death, heart transplantation, ventricular assist device) were analysed according to history of CKD at admission and were adjusted on independent predictive factors.

RESULTS

CKD was present in 164 of 771 patients (21.3%) with cardiogenic shock; these patients were older (72.7 vs. 63.9years) and had more comorbidities than those without CKD. CKD was associated with a higher rate of all-cause mortality at 1month (36.6% vs. 23.2%; hazard ratio 1.39, 95% confidence interval 1.01-1.9; P=0.04) and 1year (62.8% vs. 40.5%, hazard ratio 1.39, 95% confidence interval 1.09-1.77; P<0.01). Patients with CKD were less likely to be treated with norepinephrine/epinephrine or undergo invasive ventilation or receive mechanical circulatory support, but were more likely to receive renal replacement therapy (RRT). RRT was associated with a higher risk of all-cause death at 1month and 1year regardless of baseline CKD status.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiogenic shock and CKD are frequent "cross-talking" conditions with limited therapeutic options, resulting in higher rates of death at 1month and 1year. RRT is a strong predictor of death, regardless of preexisting CKD. Multidisciplinary teams involving cardiac and kidney physicians are required to provide integrated care for patients with failure of both organs.

Management of cardiogenic shock: a narrative review

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is characterized by low cardiac output and sustained tissue hypoperfusion that may result in end-organ dysfunction and death. CS is associated with high short-term mortality, and its management remains challenging despite recent advances in therapeutic options. Timely diagnosis and multidisciplinary team-based management have demonstrated favourable effects on outcomes. We aimed to review evidence-based practices for managing patients with ischemic and non-ischemic CS, detailing the multi-organ supports needed in this critically ill patient population.

Optimal Heart Failure Medical Therapy and Mortality in Survivors of Cardiogenic Shock: Insights From the FRENSHOCK Registry

BACKGROUND

The effects of pharmacological therapy on cardiogenic shock (CS) survivors have not been extensively studied. Thus, this study investigated the association between guideline-directed heart failure (HF) medical therapy (GDMT) and one-year survival rate in patients who are post-CS.

METHODS AND RESULTS

FRENSHOCK (French Observatory on the Management of Cardiogenic Shock in 2016) registry was a prospective multicenter observational survey, conducted in metropolitan French intensive care units and intensive cardiac care units. Of 772 patients, 535 patients were enrolled in the present analysis following the exclusion of 217 in-hospital deaths and 20 patients with missing medical records. Patients with triple GDMT (beta-blockers, renin-angiotensin system inhibitors, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists) at discharge (n=112) were likely to have lower left ventricular ejection fraction on admission and at discharge compared with those without triple GDMT (n=423) (22% versus 28%, P<0.001 and 29% versus 37%, P<0.001, respectively). In the overall cohort, the one-year mortality rate was 23%. Triple GDMT prescription was significantly associated with a lower one-year all-cause mortality compared with non-triple GDMT (adjusted hazard ratio 0.44 [95% CI, 0.19-0.80]; P=0.007). Similarly, 2:1 propensity score matching and inverse probability treatment weighting based on the propensity score demonstrated a lower incidence of one-year mortality in the triple GDMT group. As the number of HF drugs increased, a stepwise decrease in mortality was observed (log rank; P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In survivors of CS, the one-year mortality rate was significantly lower in those with triple GDMT. Therefore, this study suggests that intensive HF therapy should be considered in patients following CS.

Medical therapy of cardiogenic shock: Contemporary use of inotropes and vasopressors

Cardiogenic shock is a primary cardiac disorder that results in both clinical and biochemical evidence of tissue hypoperfusion and can lead to multi-organ failure and death depending on its severity. Inadequate cardiac contractility or cardiac power secondary to acute myocardial infarction remains the most frequent cause of cardiogenic shock, although its contribution has declined over the past two decades, compared with other causes. Despite some advances in cardiogenic shock management, this clinical syndrome is still burdened by an extremely high mortality. Its management is based on immediate stabilization of haemodynamic parameters so that further treatment, including mechanical circulatory support and transfer to specialized tertiary care centres, can be accomplished. With these aims, medical therapy, consisting mainly of inotropic drugs and vasopressors, still has a major role. The purpose of this article is to review current evidence on the use of these medications in patients with cardiogenic shock and discuss specific clinical settings with indications to their use.

Heart failure related cardiogenic shock: An ISHLT consensus conference content summary

In recent years, there have been significant advancements in the understanding, risk-stratification, and treatment of cardiogenic shock (CS). Despite improved pharmacologic and device-based therapies for CS, short-term mortality remains as high as 50%. Most recent efforts in research have focused on CS related to acute myocardial infarction, even though heart failure related CS (HF-CS) accounts for >50% of CS cases. There is a paucity of high-quality evidence to support standardized clinical practices in approach to HF-CS. In addition, there is an unmet need to identify disease-specific diagnostic and risk-stratification strategies upon admission, which might ultimately guide the choice of therapies, and thereby improve outcomes and optimize resource allocation. The heterogeneity in defining CS, patient phenotypes, treatment goals and therapies has resulted in difficulty comparing published reports and standardized treatment algorithms. An International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) consensus conference was organized to better define, diagnose, and manage HF-CS. There were 54 participants (advanced heart failure and interventional cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, critical care cardiologists, intensivists, pharmacists, and allied health professionals), with vast clinical and published experience in CS, representing 42 centers worldwide. State-of-the-art HF-CS presentations occurred with subsequent breakout sessions planned in an attempt to reach consensus on various issues, including but not limited to models of CS care delivery, patient presentations in HF-CS, and strategies in HF-CS management. This consensus report summarizes the contemporary literature review on HF-CS presented in the first half of the conference (part 1), while the accompanying document (part 2) covers the breakout sessions where the previously agreed upon clinical issues were discussed with an aim to get to a consensus.

Characteristics, management, and mid-term prognosis of older adults with cardiogenic shock admitted to intensive care units: Insights from the FRENSHOCK registry

BACKGROUND

The incidence of heart failure and cardiogenic shock (CS) in older adults is continually increasing due to population aging. To date, prospective data detailing the specific characteristics, management and outcomes of CS in this population are scarce.

METHODS

FRENSHOCK is a prospective registry including 772 CS patients from 49 centers. We studied 1-month and 1-year mortality among patients over 75-year-old, adjusted for independent predictors of 1-month and 1-year mortalities.

RESULTS

Out of 772 patients included, 236 (30.6%) were 75 years old or more (mean age 81.9 ± 4.7 years, 63.6% male). Compared to patients <75 years old, older adults had a higher prevalence of comorbidities including hypertension, dyslipidemia, chronic kidney disease, and history of heart disease. Older adults were characterized by a lower blood pressure, as well as higher creatinine and lower haemoglobin levels at presentation. Yet, they were less likely to be treated with norepinephrine, epinephrine, invasive ventilation, and renal replacement therapy. They showed a higher 1-month (aHR: 2.5 [1.86-3.35], p < 0.01) and 1-year mortality (aHR: 2.01 [1.58-2.56], p < 0.01). Analysis of both 1-month and 1-year mortality stratified by age quartiles showed a gradual relationship between aging and mortality in CS patients.

CONCLUSION

A third of patient with CS in critical care unit are older than 75 years and their risk of death at one month and one year is more than double compared to the younger ones. Further research is essential to identify best therapeutic strategy in this population. NCT02703038.

Beta Blockers Improve Prognosis When Used Early in Patients with Cardiogenic Shock: An Analysis of the FRENSHOCK Multicenter Prospective Registry

BACKGROUND

Beta blockers (BBs) are a cornerstone for patients with heart failure (HF) and ventricular dysfunction. However, their use in patients recovering from a cardiogenic shock (CS) remains a bone of contention, especially regarding whether and when to reintroduce this class of drugs.

METHODS

FRENSHOCK is a prospective multicenter registry including 772 CS patients from 49 centers. Our aim was to compare outcomes (1-month and 1-year all-cause mortality) between CS patients taking and those not taking BBs in three scenarios: (1) at 24 h after CS; (2) patients who did or did not discontinue BBs within 24 h; and (3) patients who did or did not undergo the early introduction of BBs.

RESULTS

Among the 693 CS included, at 24 h after the CS event, 95 patients (13.7%) were taking BB, while 598 (86.3%) were not. Between the groups, there were no differences in terms of major comorbidities or initial CS triggers. Patients receiving BBs at 24 h presented a trend toward reduced all-cause mortality both at 1 month (aHR = 0.61, 95% CI 0.34 to 1.1, p = 0.10) and 1 year, which was, in both cases, not significant. Compared with patients who discontinued BBs at 24 h, patients who did not discontinue BBs showed lower 1-month mortality (aHR = 0.43, 95% CI 0.2 to 0.92, p = 0.03) and a trend to lower 1-year mortality. No reduction in outcomes was observed in patients who underwent an early introduction of BB therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

BBs are drugs of first choice in patients with HF and should also be considered early in patients with CS. In contrast, the discontinuation of BB therapy resulted in increased 1-month all-cause mortality and a trend toward increased 1-year all-cause mortality.

Beta-blocker management in patients admitted for acute heart failure and reduced ejection fraction: a review and expert consensus opinion

The role of the beta-adrenergic signaling pathway in heart failure (HF) is pivotal. Early blockade of this pathway with beta-blocker (BB) therapy is recommended as the first-line medication for patients with HF and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Conversely, in patients with severe acute HF (AHF), including those with resolved cardiogenic shock (CS), BB initiation can be hazardous. There are very few data on the management of BB in these situations. The present expert consensus aims to review all published data on the use of BB in patients with severe decompensated AHF, with or without hemodynamic compromise, and proposes an expert-recommended practical algorithm for the prescription and monitoring of BB therapy in critical settings.

Cardiogenic Shock in Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy Patients: Red Flag for Myocardial Decline

Idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM) is one of the most common forms of nonischemic cardiomyopathy worldwide, possibly leading to cardiogenic shock (CS). Despite this heavy burden, the outcomes of CS in IDCM are poorly reported. Based on a large registry of unselected CS, our aim was to shed light on the 1-year outcomes after CS in patients with and without IDCM. FRENSHOCK was a prospective registry including 772 patients with CS from 49 centers. The 1-year outcomes (rehospitalizations, mortality, heart transplantation [HTx], ventricular assist devices [VAD]) were analyzed and adjusted on independent predictive factors. Within 772 CS included, 78 occurred in IDCM (10.1%). Patients with IDCM had more frequent history of chronic kidney failure and implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation. No difference was found in 1-month all-cause mortality between groups (28.2 vs 25.8%for IDCM and others, respectively; adjusted hazard ratio 1.14 [0.73 to 1.77], p = 0.57). Patients without IDCM were more frequently treated with noninvasive ventilation and intra-aortic balloon pump. At 1 year, IDCM led to higher rates of death or cardiovascular rehospitalizations (adjusted odds ratio 4.77 [95% confidence interval 1.13 to 20.1], p = 0.03) and higher rates of HTx or VAD for patients aged <65 years (adjusted odds ratio 2.68 [1.21 to 5.91], p = 0.02). In conclusion, CS in IDCM is a very common scenario and is associated with a higher rate of 1-year death or cardiovascular rehospitalizations and a more frequent recourse to HTx or VAD for patients aged <65 years, encouraging the consideration of it as a red flag for myocardial decline and urging for a closer follow-up and earlier evaluation for advanced heart failure therapies.

One-year outcomes in cardiogenic shock triggered by supraventricular tachycardia: an analysis of the FRENSHOCK multicenter prospective registry

Background

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is the most severe form of heart failure (HF), resulting in high early and long-term mortality. Characteristics of CS secondary to supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) are poorly reported. Based on a large registry of unselected CS, we aimed to compare 1-year outcomes between SVT-triggered and non-SVT-triggered CS.

Methods

FRENSHOCK is a French prospective registry including 772 CS patients from 49 centers. For each patient, the investigator could report 1-3 CS triggers from a pre-established list (ischemic, mechanical complications, ventricular/supraventricular arrhythmia, bradycardia, iatrogenesis, infection, non-compliance, and others). In this study, 1-year outcomes [rehospitalizations, mortality, heart transplantation (HTx), ventricular assist devices (VAD)] were analyzed and adjusted for independent predictive factors.

Results

Among 769 CS patients included, 100 were SVT-triggered (13%), of which 65 had SVT as an exclusive trigger (8.5%). SVT-triggered CS patients exhibited a higher proportion of male individuals with a more frequent history of cardiomyopathy or chronic kidney disease and more profound CS (biventricular failure and multiorgan failure). At 1 year, there was no difference in all-cause mortality (43% vs. 45.3%, adjusted HR 0.9 (95% CI 0.59-1.39), p = 0.64), need for HTx or VAD [10% vs. 10%, aOR 0.88 (0.41-1.88), p = 0.74], or rehospitalizations [49.4% vs. 44.4%, aOR 1.24 (0.78-1.98), p = 0.36]. Patients with SVT as an exclusive trigger presented more 1-year rehospitalizations [52.8% vs. 43.3%, aOR 3.74 (1.05-10.5), p = 0.01].

Conclusion

SVT is a frequent trigger of CS alone or in association in more than 10% of miscellaneous CS cases. Although SVT-triggered CS patients were more comorbid with more pre-existing cardiomyopathies and HF incidences, they presented similar rates of mortality, HTx, and VAD at 1 year, arguing for a better overall prognosis.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov, identifier: NCT02703038.

Microcirculatory dysfunction in cardiogenic shock

Cardiogenic shock is usually defined as primary cardiac dysfunction with low cardiac output leading to critical organ hypoperfusion, and tissue hypoxia, resulting in high mortality rate between 40% and 50% despite recent advances. Many studies have now evidenced that cardiogenic shock not only involves systemic macrocirculation, such as blood pressure, left ventricular ejection fraction, or cardiac output, but also involves significant systemic microcirculatory abnormalities which seem strongly associated with the outcome. Although microcirculation has been widely studied in the context of septic shock showing heterogeneous alterations with clear evidence of macro and microcirculation uncoupling, there is now a growing body of literature focusing on cardiogenic shock states. Even if there is currently no consensus regarding the treatment of microcirculatory disturbances in cardiogenic shock, some treatments seem to show a benefit. Furthermore, a better understanding of the underlying pathophysiology may provide hypotheses for future studies aiming to improve cardiogenic shock prognosis.

The role of temporary mechanical circulatory support in de novo heart failure syndromes with cardiogenic shock: A contemporary review

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a complex clinical syndrome with a high mortality rate. It can occur to due to multiple etiologies of cardiovascular disease and is phenotypically heterogeneous. Acute myocardial infarction-related CS (AMI-CS) has historically been the most prevalent cause, and thus, research and guidance have focused primarily on this. Recent data suggest that the burden of non-ischemic CS is increasing in the population of patents requiring intensive care admission. There is, however, a paucity of data and guidelines to inform the management of these patients who fall into two broad groups: those with existing heart failure and CS and those with no known history of heart failure who present with "de novo" CS. The use of temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS) has expanded across all etiologies, despite its high cost, resource intensity, complication rates, and lack of high-quality outcome data. Herein, we discuss the currently available evidence on the role of MCS in the management of patients with de novo CS to include fulminant myocarditis, right ventricular (RV) failure, Takotsubo syndrome, post-partum cardiomyopathy, and CS due to valve lesions and other cardiomyopathies.

The medical treatment of cardiogenic shock

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a leading cause of mortality worldwide. CS presentation and management in the current era have been widely depicted in epidemiological studies. Its treatment is codified and relies on medical care and extracorporeal life support (ECLS) in the bridge to recovery, chronic mechanical device therapy, or transplantation. Recent improvements have changed the landscape of CS. The present analysis aims to review current medical treatments of CS in light of recent literature, including addressing excitation-contraction coupling and specific physiology on applied hemodynamics. Inotropism, vasopressor use, and immunomodulation are discussed as pre-clinical and clinical studies have focused on new therapeutic options to improve patient outcomes. Certain underlying conditions of CS, such as hypertrophic or Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, warrant specifically tailored management that will be overviewed in this review.

Early Recognition and Risk Stratification in Cardiogenic Shock: Well Begun Is Half Done

Cardiogenic shock is a complex syndrome manifesting with distinct phenotypes depending on the severity of the primary cardiac insult and the underlying status. As long as therapeutic interventions fail to divert its unopposed rapid evolution, poor outcomes will continue challenging health care systems. Thus, early recognition in the emergency setting is a priority, in order to avoid delays in appropriate management and to ensure immediate initial stabilization. Since advanced therapeutic strategies and specialized shock centers may provide beneficial support, it seems that directing patients towards the recently described shock network may improve survival rates. A multidisciplinary approach strategy commands the interconnections between the strategic role of the ED in affiliation with cardiac shock centers. This review outlines critical features of early recognition and initial therapeutic management, as well as the utility of diagnostic tools and risk stratification models regarding the facilitation of patient trajectories through the shock network. Further, it proposes the implementation of precise criteria for shock team activation and the establishment of definite exclusion criteria for streaming the right patient to the right place at the right time.

Does sex affect the risk of 30-day all-cause mortality in cardiogenic shock?

BACKGROUND

Mortality rates following CS have stagnated on an unacceptably high level. Limited data regarding the prognostic value of sex in patients suffering from CS is available. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the prognostic value of sex in patients with cardiogenic shock (CS).

METHODS

Consecutive patients with CS of any cause were included from 2019 to 2021. Prognosis of females was compared to males regarding 30-day all-cause mortality. Further risk stratification was performed according to the presence or absence of CS related to acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Kaplan-Meier and multivariable Cox proportional regression analyses were used for statistics.

RESULTS

From a total of 273 CS patients (AMI-CS: 49%; non-AMI-CS: 51%), 60% were males and 40% females. The risk of 30-day all-cause mortality did not differ among males and females (56% vs. 56%; log rank p = 0.775; HR = 1.046; 95% CI 0.756-1.447; p = 0.785). Even after multivariable adjustment, sex was not associated with prognosis in CS patients (HR = 1.057; 95% CI 0.713-1.564; p = 0.784). Comparable risks of short-term mortality in both sexes were observed irrespective of the presence of AMI-related CS (64.0% vs. 64.6%; log rank p = 0.642; HR = 1.103; 95% CI 0.710-1.713; p = 0.664) and non-AMI-related CS (46.2% vs. 49.2%; log rank p = 0.696; HR = 1.099; 95% CI 0.677-1.783; p = 0.704).

CONCLUSION

Sex was not associated with the risk of 30-day all-cause mortality in CS patients irrespective of CS etiology. (clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT05575856).

Age as a predictor of clinical outcomes and determinant of therapeutic measures for emergency medical services treated cardiogenic shock

BACKGROUND

The impact of age on outcomes in cardiogenic shock (CS) is poorly described in the pre-hospital setting. We assessed the impact of age on outcomes of patients treated by emergency medical services (EMS).

METHODS

This population-based cohort study included consecutive adult patients with CS transported to hospital by EMS. Successfully linked patients were stratified into tertiles by age (18-63, 64-77, and > 77 years). Predictors of 30-day mortality were assessed through regression analyses. The primary outcome was 30-day all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 3523 patients with CS were successfully linked to state health records. The average age was 68 ± 16 years and 1398 (40%) were female. Older patients were more likely to have comorbidities including pre-existing coronary artery disease, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and cerebrovascular disease. The incidence of CS was significantly greater with increasing age (incidence rate per 100,000 person years 6.47 [95% CI: 6.1-6.8] in age 18-63 years, 34.34 [32.4-36.4] in age 64-77 years, 74.87 [70.6-79.3] in age > 77 years, P < 0.001). There was a step-wise increase in the rate of 30-day mortality with increasing age tertile. After adjustment, compared to the lowest age tertile, patients aged > 77 years had increased risk of 30-day mortality (adjusted hazard ratio = 2.26 [95% CI: 1.96-2.60]). Older patients were less likely to receive inpatient coronary angiography.

CONCLUSION

Older patients with EMS-treated CS have significantly higher rates of short-term mortality. The reduced rates of invasive interventions in older patients underscore the need for further development of systems of care to improve outcomes for this patient group.

One-year outcomes in cardiogenic shock triggered by ventricular arrhythmia: An analysis of the FRENSHOCK multicenter prospective registry

Background

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a life-threatening condition carrying poor prognosis, potentially triggered by ventricular arrhythmia (VA). Whether the occurrence of VA as trigger of CS worsens the prognosis compared to non-VA triggers  remains  unclear.  The  aim  of  this  study  was  to  evaluate  1-year  outcomes [mortality, heart transplantation, ventricular assist devices (VAD)] between VA-triggered and non-VA-triggered CS.

Methods

FRENSHOCK is a prospective multicenter registry including 772 CS patients from 49 centers. One to three triggers can be identified in the registry (ischemic, mechanical complications, ventricular/supraventricular arrhythmia, bradycardia, iatrogenesis, infection, non-compliance). Baseline characteristics, management and 1-year outcomes were analyzed according to the VA-trigger in the CS population.

Results

Within 769 CS patients included, 94 were VA-triggered (12.2%) and were compared to others. At 1 year, although there was no mortality difference [42.6 vs. 45.3%, HR 0.94 (0.67-1.30), p = 0.7], VA-triggered CS resulted in more heart transplantations and VAD (17 vs. 9%, p = 0.02). Into VA-triggered CS group, though there was no 1-year mortality difference between ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathies [42.5 vs. 42.6%, HR 0.97 (0.52-1.81), p = 0.92], non-ischemic cardiomyopathy led to more heart transplantations and VAD (25.9 vs. 5%, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

VA-triggered CS did not show higher mortality compared to other triggers but resulted in more heart transplantation and VAD at 1 year, especially in non-ischemic cardiomyopathy, suggesting the need for earlier evaluation by advanced heart failure specialized team for a possible indication of mechanical circulatory support or heart transplantation.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT02703038.

Pharmacological treatment of cardiogenic shock - A state of the art review

Cardiogenic shock is a clinical syndrome of impaired tissue perfusion caused by primary cardiac dysfunction and inadequate cardiac output. It represents one of the most lethal clinical conditions in intensive care medicine with mortality >40%. Management of different clinical presentations of cardiogenic shock includes guidance of cardiac preload, afterload, heart rate and contractility by differential pharmacological modulation of volume, systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance and cardiac output besides reversing the triggering cause. Data from large registries and randomized controlled trials on optimal diagnostic guidance as well as choice of pharmacological agents has accrued significantly in recent years. This state-of-the-art review summarizes the basic concepts of cardiogenic shock, the diagnostic work-up and currently available evidence and guideline recommendations on pharmacological treatment of cardiogenic shock.

Impact of Pre-Existing History of Heart Failure on Patient Profile, Therapeutic Management, and Prognosis in Cardiogenic Shock: Insights from the FRENSHOCK Registry

There is a large heterogeneity among patients presenting with cardiogenic shock (CS). It is crucial to better apprehend this heterogeneity in order to adapt treatments and improve prognoses in these severe patients. Notably, the presence (or absence) of a pre-existing history of chronic heart failure (CHF) at time of CS onset may be a significant part of this heterogeneity, and data focusing on this aspect are lacking. We aimed to compare CS patients with new-onset HF to those with worsening CHF in the multicenter FRENSHOCK registry. Altogether, 772 CS patients were prospectively included: 433 with a previous history of CHF and 339 without. Worsening CHF patients were older (68 +/− 13.4 vs. 62.7 +/− 16.2, p < 0.001) and had a greater burden of extra-cardiac comorbidities. At admission, acute myocardial infarction was predominantly observed in the new-onset HF group (49.9% vs. 25.6%, p < 0.001). When focusing on hemodynamic parameters, worsening CHF patients showed more congestion and higher ventricular filling pressures. Worsening CHF patients experienced higher in-hospital all-cause mortality (31.3% vs. 24.2%, p = 0.029). Our results emphasize the great heterogeneity of the patients presenting with CS. Worsening CHF patients had higher risk profiles, and this translated to a 30% increase in in-hospital all-cause mortality. The heterogeneity of this population prompts us to better determine the phenotype of CS patients to adapt their management.

Evolving Presentation of Cardiogenic Shock: A Review of the Medical Literature and Current Practices

Cardiogenic shock (CS) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among patients with cardiovascular disease. In the past, acute myocardial infarction was the leading cause of CS. However, in recent years, other etiologies, such as decompensated chronic heart failure, arrhythmia, valvular disease, and post-cardiotomy, each with distinct hemodynamic profiles, have risen in prevalence. The number of treatment options, particularly with regard to device-mediated therapy has also increased. In this review, we sought to survey the medical literature and provide an update on current practices.

Cardiogenic shock among cancer patients

Sophisticated cancer treatments, cardiovascular risk factors, and aging trigger acute cardiovascular diseases in an increasing number of cancer patients. Among acute cardiovascular diseases, cancer treatment, as well as the cancer disease itself, may induce a cardiogenic shock. Although increasing, these cardiogenic shocks are still relatively limited, and their management is a matter of debate in cancer patients. Etiologies that cause cardiogenic shock are slightly different from those of non-cancer patients, and management has some specific features always requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Recent guidelines and extensive data from the scientific literature can provide useful guidance for the management of these critical patients. Even if no etiologic therapy is available, maximal intensive supportive measures can often be justified, as most of these cardiogenic shocks are potentially reversible. In this review, we address the major etiologies that can lead to cardiogenic shock in cancer patients and discuss issues related to its management.

Basic mechanisms in cardiogenic shock: part 1-definition and pathophysiology

Cardiogenic shock mortality rates remain high despite significant advances in cardiovascular medicine and the widespread uptake of mechanical circulatory support systems. Except for early invasive angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention of the infarct-related artery, the most widely used therapeutic measures are based on low-quality evidence. The grim prognosis and lack of high-quality data warrant further action. Part 1 of this two-part educational review defines cardiogenic shock and discusses current treatment strategies. In addition, we summarize current knowledge on basic mechanisms in the pathophysiology of cardiogenic shock, focusing on inflammation and microvascular disturbances, which may ultimately be translated into diagnostic or therapeutic approaches to improve the outcome of our patients.