Neurogenic Stress Cardiomyopathy After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Who Is At Risk?

INTRODUCTION

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy (TCM) is a rare but well recognized complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage associated with increased morbidity and poor clinical outcomes. There is a scarcity of literature describing the prevalence and risk factors associated with this complication. The aim of this study was to identify patients who are at risk of developing TCM in non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage.

METHODS

The 2016 to 2021 National Inpatient Sample (NIS) was used to identify adult inpatients with a primary diagnosis of non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage. Univariate and multivariable analyses adjusting for patient demographics, comorbidity status, and hemorrhage etiology were used to characterize statistical associations with disease-related complications. Patients with TCM were further divided into those with "good" or "poor" functional outcomes and compared.

RESULTS

A total of 42 141 patients were identified as having a subarachnoid hemorrhage from 2016 to 2021. Of these patients 486 patients (1.2%) were found to have TCM. TCM was associated with increased length of stay (19.15 ± 17.8 days vs 11.72 ± 14.4, P < .001), increased total costs ($451 502.59 ± 443 777.9 vs $242 327.92 ± 338 862.3, P < .001), increased number of days from admission to first procedure (1.74 ± 4.5 vs 1.94 ± 5.0, P < .001), and increased mortality (31.7% vs 22.8%, P < .001). After controlling for confounding factors, independent risk factors for TCM in patients with non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage included: Female (Odds Ratio [OR]: 3.11, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 2.50-3.89, P < .001), Congestive Heart Failure (OR:4.60, CI:3.70-5.71, P < .001), and Fluid and Electrolyte Disorders (OR: 2.52, CI: 2.05-3.11, P < .001). Patients with good functional outcomes were found to have younger age (54.85 years ± 14.0 vs 58.14 ± 14.7, P < .001), decreased length of stay (17.11 ± 16.9 vs 19.83 ± 18.1, P < .001), decreased total charge ($370 245.94 ± 517 702.8 vs $477 366.55 ± 417 122.4, P < .001), and decreased mortality (P < .001) compared to those with poor functional outcomes.

CONCLUSION

TCM after subarachnoid hemorrhage is associated with increased mortality, length of stay, total cost, number of procedures in patients, and number of days to first procedure. Neurosurgeons and Neurocritical care medical professionals should be aware of the comorbidities and factors associated with increased TCM after subarachnoid hemorrhage in order to improve patient outcomes.

Electrocardiographic abnormalities are prognostic of the clinical outcomes and mortality of patients with subarachnoid hemorrhages

PURPOSE

We explored the relationships between electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities and the clinical outcomes and mortality of patients with non-traumatic aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhages (SAHs).

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study enrolled consecutive adult patients who presented to emergency departments with non-traumatic aneurysmal SAHs. We recorded their demographics, clinical characteristics, and ECG findings, and explored the relationships between ECG abnormalities, on the one hand, and 28-day mortality and prognosis, on the other.

RESULTS

We enrolled 158 patients, 76 females (48.10%) and 82 males (51.90%) of average age 54.70 ± 7.07 years. A total of 107 patients (67.72%) exhibited at least one ECG abnormality, most commonly a T-wave change (n = 54, 34.18%). Such patients evidenced significantly higher Hunt-Hess and Fisher scale scores than those without abnormalities (both p < 0.001). Patients with abnormal ECG findings experienced more unfavorable outcomes and higher mortality than others (both p < 0.001). ECG abnormalities, including PR prolongation, pathological Q waves, QRS widening, left bundle branch blocks, premature ventricular contractions, ST segment changes, and T-wave changes, were more common in non-survivors and patients with Hunt-Hess scores of 4-5 compared to survivors and those with Hunt-Hess scores <4, respectively. Moreover, increased age and presence of abnormal ECG findings were independent predictors of mortality in aneurysmal SAHs.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with abnormal ECG findings exhibited unfavorable clinical outcomes and increased mortality rates. Abnormal ECG findings combined with higher Hunt-Hess or Fischer grade scores usefully predict adverse clinical outcomes in and mortality of SAH patients.

Cerebrospinal Fluid and Serum Biomarker Insights in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Haemorrhage: Navigating the Brain-Heart Interrelationship for Improved Patient Outcomes

The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying severe cardiac dysfunction after aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) remain poorly understood. In the present study, we focused on two categories of contributing factors describing the brain-heart relationship. The first group includes brain-specific cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum biomarkers, as well as cardiac-specific biomarkers. The secondary category encompasses parameters associated with cerebral autoregulation and the autonomic nervous system. A group of 15 aSAH patients were included in the analysis. Severe cardiac complications were diagnosed in seven (47%) of patients. In the whole population, a significant correlation was observed between CSF S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100B) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) (rS = 0.62; p = 0.040). Additionally, we identified a significant correlation between CSF neuron-specific enolase (NSE) with cardiac troponin I (rS = 0.57; p = 0.025) and BNP (rS = 0.66; p = 0.029), as well as between CSF tau protein and BNP (rS = 0.78; p = 0.039). Patients experiencing severe cardiac complications exhibited notably higher levels of serum tau protein at day 1 (0.21 ± 0.23 [ng/mL]) compared to those without severe cardiac complications (0.03 ± 0.04 [ng/mL]); p = 0.009. Impaired cerebral autoregulation was noted in patients both with and without severe cardiac complications. Elevated serum NSE at day 1 was related to impaired cerebral autoregulation (rS = 0.90; p = 0.037). On the first day, a substantial, reciprocal correlation between heart rate variability low-to-high frequency ratio (HRV LF/HF) and both GFAP (rS = -0.83; p = 0.004) and S100B (rS = -0.83; p = 0.004) was observed. Cardiac and brain-specific biomarkers hold the potential to assist clinicians in providing timely insights into cardiac complications, and therefore they contribute to the prognosis of outcomes.

Assessment of Myocardial Function by Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke

Background

Acute stroke is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Myocardial injury is an important complication of acute cerebrovascular events. Neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy (NSC) is a condition of acute myocardial systolic dysfunction that can be observed after acute cerebrovascular events.

Objective

In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between myocardial function assessed by two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Materials and Methods

This cross-sectional study screened 97 patients (males, 42; females, 55; 65 ± 16 years) with acute ischemic stroke. Around 17 patients were excluded and 80 patients were studied. Patients were divided into two groups based on the calculated NIHSS score (Group 1, NIHSS score <16; Group 2, NIHSS score ≥16). Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data for all patients were collected. Cardiac function was evaluated by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography within 48 h of admission to the neurology care unit.

Results

There were no significant differences in the demographic parameters of patients. The absolute value of global longitudinal systolic strain (GLS) was significantly higher in Group 1 patients than in Group 2 patients (21.4 ± 2.2 vs 15.9 ± 2.7, P = 0.0281). We found that thirteen patients (22%) had normal LVEF and abnormal LV GLS in Group 1 (P = 0.036). Eight patients (36%) had normal LVEF and abnormal LV GLS in Group 2 (P = 0.042). E/e', QT on ECG, and serum troponin levels were significantly higher in Group 2 patients than in Group 1 patients (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that GLS is associated with stroke severity on admission in patients with acute ischemic stroke. GLS is an indicator of myocardial deformation with a different from LVEF. GLS can detect early myocardial dysfunction despite preserved LVEF.

Diagnosis and Management of Takotsubo Syndrome in Acute Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Comprehensive Review

Takotsubo syndrome (TS) is a frequent complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), especially in massive SAH with severe neurological damage. The initial presentation of TS is similar to acute coronary syndrome, causing differential diagnostic issues. Unnecessary diagnostic steps and uncertainty in therapy may delay the definitive treatment of the aneurysm, therefore increasing the risk of rebleeding. The purpose of this review is to summarize the latest knowledge on the diagnosis and therapy of TS in SAH and to provide a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm for the acute phase, promoting the early definitive treatment of the aneurysm. Rapid hemodynamic stabilization and early aneurysm securing are key points in reducing the risk of delayed cerebral ischemia and improving outcomes. In acute SAH noninvasive bedside diagnostic methods are preferred and securing the aneurysm is the priority. The combination of electrocardiography, cardiac biomarkers, and echocardiography is of great importance in differentiating TS from acute myocardial infarction. The risk-benefit ratio of coronary angiography should be carefully and individually considered and its use should be limited to patients with strong evidence of myocardial ischemia, after the successful endovascular treatment of the aneurysm. Invasive hemodynamic monitoring may be beneficial in cases of cardiogenic shock or pulmonary edema. In patients with hemodynamical instability secondary to TS, the use of non-catecholamine inotropes, especially levosimendan is recommended. In refractory hypotension, mechanical support should be considered. The left ventricular function improves within days to months after the acute event, low initial ejection fraction may predispose to delayed recovery.

The Heart Is at Risk: Understanding Stroke-Heart-Brain Interactions with Focus on Neurogenic Stress Cardiomyopathy-A Review

In recent years, it has been convincingly demonstrated that acute brain injury may cause severe cardiac complications-such as neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy (NSC), a specific form of takotsubo cardiomyopathy. The pathophysiology of these brain-heart interactions is complex and involves sympathetic hyperactivity, activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, as well as immune and inflammatory pathways. There have been great strides in our understanding of the axis from the brain to the heart in patients with isolated acute brain injury and more specifically in patients with stroke. On the other hand, in patients with NSC, research has mainly focused on hemodynamic dysfunction due to arrhythmias, regional wall motion abnormality, or left ventricular hypokinesia that leads to impaired cerebral perfusion pressure. Comparatively little is known about the underlying secondary and delayed cerebral complications. The aim of the present review is to describe the stroke-heart-brain axis and highlight the main pathophysiological mechanisms leading to secondary and delayed cerebral injury in patients with concurrent hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke and NSC as well as to identify further areas of research that could potentially improve outcomes in this specific patient population.

A New Approach in the Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury: The Effects of Levosimendan on Necrosis, Apoptosis, and Oxidative Stress

OBJECTIVE

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an essential and common health problem worldwide. Levosimendan is an inotropic and vasodilator drug used to treat heart failure. Moreover, it exerts pleiotropic effects and, thus, protective effects on many organs. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of levosimendan on necrosis, apoptosis, and reactive oxygen species in rats with TBI.

METHODS

The study included 28 female Wistar-Albino rats weighing 200-250 g. The rats were divided into 4 groups with 7 rats each as follows: Group 1: No trauma group (Control), Group 2: Traumatized, untreated group (T), Group 3: Levosimendan was administered at a dose of 12 μg/kg intraperitoneally 1 hour after the trauma (L1), Group 4: Levosimendan was administered at a dose of 12 μg/kg intraperitoneally 2 hours after the concussion (L2). After the experiment, the rats were decapitated, and the brain tissue was removed. Necrosis was assessed with Cresyl violet staining, apoptosis was assessed with immunohistochemical analysis, superoxide dismutase and catalase levels were measured with the spectrophotometric method, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were assessed by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography.

RESULTS

The number of necrotic cells in the L1 and L2 groups was significantly lower than in the K and T groups (P = 0.015 and P = 0.03, respectively). Although the active caspase-3 level was signified considerably in the T, L1, and L2 groups compared to the K group, no significant difference was found among these 3 groups (P > 0.05). The results of superoxide dismutase levels were similar to those of active caspase-3. catalase level was significantly higher in the K group than in the T and L2 groups (P = 0.045). Malondialdehyde activity was considerably higher in the L1 and L2 groups compared to the K group (P = 0.023).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicated that levosimendan may exert a neuroprotective effect by reducing necrosis in TBI and that levosimendan does not affect apoptosis and antioxidant levels in TBI. Comprehensive studies are needed to elucidate the effect of levosimendan on TBI fully.

Subarachnoidal hemorrhage related cardiomyopathy: an overview of Tako-Tsubo cardiomyopathy and related cardiac syndromes

INTRODUCTION

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is caused by a ruptured intracranial aneurysm leading to acute extravasation of blood into the subarachnoid space. SAH has an incidence of 6.3 per 100,000 persons per year in Europe and accounts for 5% of all strokes. SAH occurs at a relatively young age and has poor clinical outcomes and high mortality rates. Cardiac syndromes are regularly seen in patients with acute neurologic disease including SAH. These cardiac complications of SAH are associated with increased morbidity and mortality and present in a large variety and severity.

AREAS COVERED

The main goal of this review is to describe the SAH-related cardiac syndromes. Secondly, we will provide an overview of the underlying pathophysiology regarding the development of cardiac syndromes. Thirdly, we will describe the impact of cardiac syndromes on patient outcome.

EXPERT OPINION

Of all neurology patients, SAH patients have the highest risk of developing takotsubo syndrome (TTS), occurring in about 0.8-30% of patients. Both TTS and neurogenic stunned myocardium have many similarities on echocardiographic evaluation. In European Cardiology consensus, SAH is recognized as a primary cause of TTS.

The Octopus Trap of Takotsubo and Stroke: Genetics, Biomarkers and Clinical Management

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC) is a reversible cardiomyopathy mimicking an acute coronary syndrome, usually observed in response to acute stress situations. The association between acute ischemic stroke and TC is already known, since it has been previously reported that ischemic stroke can be both a consequence and a potential cause of TC. However, the precise pathophysiological mechanism linking the two conditions is still poorly understood. The aim of our review is to expand insights regarding the genetic susceptibility and available specific biomarkers of TC and to investigate the clinical profile and outcomes of patients with TC and stroke. Since evidence and trials on TC and stroke are currently lacking, this paper aims to fill a substantial gap in the literature about the relationship between these pathologies.

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in patients suffering from acute non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage—A single center follow-up study

Background

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) is an important complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), that may delay surgical or endovascular treatment and may influence patient outcome. This prospective follow-up study intended to collect data on the prevalence, severity, influencing factors and long-term outcome of TTC in patients suffering from non-traumatic SAH.

Methods

Consecutive patients admitted with the diagnosis of non-traumatic SAH were included. Intitial assessment consisted of cranial CT, Hunt-Hess, Fisher and WFNS scoring, 12-lead ECG, transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), transcranial duplex sonography and collecting laboratory parameters (CK, CK-MB, cardiac troponin T, NT-proBNP and urine metanephrine and normetanephrine). Diagnosis of TTC was based on modified Mayo criteria. TTC patients were dichotomized to mild and severe forms. Follow-up of TTE, Glasgow Outcome Scale assessment, Barthel’s and Karnofsky scoring occurred on days 30 and 180.

Results

One hundred thirty six patients were included. The incidence of TTC in the entire cohort was 28.7%; of them, 20.6% and 8.1% were mild and severe, respectively. TTC was more frequent in females (30/39; 77%) than in males (9/39; 23%) and was more severe. The occurrence of TTC was related to mFisher scores and WFNS scores. Although the severity of TTC was related to mFisher score, Hunt-Hess score, WFNS score and GCS, multivariate analysis showed the strongest relationship with mFisher scores. Ejection fraction differences between groups were present on day 30, but disappeared by day 180, whereas wall motion score index was still higher in the severe TTC group at day 180. By the end of the follow-up period (180 days), 70 (74.5%) patients survived in the non-TTC, 22 (81.5%) in the mild TTC and 3 (27%) in the severe TTC group (n = 11) (p = 0.002). At day 180, GOS, Barthel, and Karnofsky outcome scores were higher in patients in the control (non-TTC) and the mild TTC groups than in the severe TTC group.

Conclusions

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a frequent finding in patients with SAH, and severe TTC may be present in 8% of SAH cases. The severity of TTC may be an independent predictor of mortality and outcome at 6 months after disease onset. Therefore, a regular follow-up of ECG and TTE abnormalities is warranted in patients with subrachnoid hemorrhage for early detection of TTC.

Trial registration

The study was registered at the Clinical Trials Register under the registration number of NCT02659878 (date of registration: January 21, 2016).

Incidence and Outcomes of Registry-Based Acute Myocardial Infarction After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the rarest and least studied cardiac complication of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). Precise estimates of the incidence of AMI after aSAH are unavailable. Our goal was to estimate the incidence of registry-based AMI (rb-AMI) after aSAH and determine its association with clinical outcomes.

METHODS

Adult patients with aSAH in the National Inpatient Samples from 2002 to 2014 were included in the study. We evaluated risk factors for rb-AMI using univariate and multivariate regression models. Clinical outcomes that were assessed included functional status at discharge, in-patient mortality, length of stay, and total hospitalization cost, adjusting for patient demographics and cardiovascular risk factors through an inverse probability weighted analysis. Subgroup analyses were further performed stratified by rb-AMI type (ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction [STEMI] vs. non-STEMI [NSTEMI]).

RESULTS

A total of 139,734 patients with aSAH were identified, 3.6% of whom had rb-AMI. NSTEMI was the most common type of rb-AMI occurring after aSAH (71% vs. 29% for NSTEMI vs. STEMI, respectively). Patient characteristics associated with higher odds of rb-AMI included age, female sex, poor aSAH grade, and various cardiovascular risk factors. Rb-AMI was also associated with poor functional status at discharge, higher in-hospital mortality, and a longer and more costly hospital stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Rb-AMI occurs in 3.6% of patients with aSAH and is associated with poor functional status at discharge, higher in-patient mortality, and a longer and more costly hospitalization. Differentiating between different types of rb-AMI would be important in optimizing the management of patients with aSAH. Our definition of rb-AMI likely includes patients with neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy, which may confound the results.

Neurogenic Stunned Myocardium: A Review

Neurogenic stunned myocardium is a form of stress cardiomyopathy. The disorder is sometimes referred to as atypical Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. The pathophysiology of neurogenic stunned myocardium is hypothesized to involve significant overdrive of the sympathetic nervous system after a brain injury. Treatment options for a patient with a brain injury who has progressed to cardiogenic shock remain controversial, with no consistent guidelines. A patient with subarachnoid hemorrhage who progresses to cardiogenic shock with concurrent cerebral vasospasm presents a special treatment challenge. Neurogenic stunned myocardium is reversible; however, it must be recognized immediately to avoid or manage potential complications, such as cardiogenic shock and pulmonary edema. A multifaceted treatment approach is needed for the patient with cardiogenic shock and concurrent vasospasm.

Assessment of left atrial function by strain in patients with acute ıschemic stroke left atrial function and acute stroke

OBJECTIVE

Myocardial speckle-tracking echocardiography can detect subtle abnormalities in the left atrial function. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between left atrial myocardium and tissue function n assessed by two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography and the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

METHOD

The study was composed of 80 patients (45 men, 35 women, mean age: 67±15 years) with acute ischemic stroke. The patients were divided into two groups based on the calculated National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score (group 1, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score < 16; group 2, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≥ 16). Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data for all patients were collected. Cardiac functions were evaluated using two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography within 48 hours from admission to the neurology care unit.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the patients' clinical parameters. Left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2 (59.2±5.6 to 51.4±6.3, p=0.024). Left atrial longitudinal strain was significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2 (34.48±9.73 to 26.27±7.41, p=0.019). There were no significant differences between other echocardiographic parameters.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that left atrial longitudinal strain is associated with stroke severity during admission in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Left atrial longitudinal strain is an indicator of left atrial myocardial function.

Cardiac Troponin Elevation and Outcome in Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Many cardiopulmonary complications occur after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. This is due to sympathetic nervous system activation which results in release of norepinephrine from myocardial sympathetic nerves. Cardiac troponin I is a marker for diagnosis of cardiac injury. Elevated levels of troponin in these patients are associated with worse clinical outcomes. PubMed was searched for literature using regular and Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) keywords for data collection. Papers published in English language involving human subjects within the last 20 years focusing on cardiac troponin elevation following subarachnoid hemorrhage were included. Systemic complications that occur after subarachnoid hemorrhage worsen the clinical outcome of patients and have negative effects on the mortality and morbidity of these patients. Cardiac troponin I elevation is significantly associated with the severity of the stroke, poor neurological status, longer ICU stay, and death. Cardiac troponin I should be measured in patients presented with acute stroke. Hemodynamic monitoring and appropriate supportive care can improve clinical outcomes.

Experimental Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Drives Catecholamine-Dependent Cardiac and Peripheral Microvascular Dysfunction

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a devastating cerebral event caused by an aneurysmal rupture. In addition to neurological injury, SAH has significant effects on cardiac function and the peripheral microcirculation. Since these peripheral complications may exacerbate brain injury, the prevention and management of these peripheral effects are important for improving the overall clinical outcome after SAH. In this investigation, we examined the effects of SAH on cardiac function and vascular reactivity in a well-characterized blood injection model of SAH. Standard echocardiographic and blood pressure measurement procedures were utilized to assess cardiac function and hemodynamic parameters in vivo; we utilized a pressure myography approach to assess vascular reactivity in cremaster skeletal muscle resistance arteries ex vivo. We observed that elevated catecholamine levels in SAH stun the myocardium, reduce cardiac output and augment myogenic vasoconstriction in isolated cremaster arteries. These cardiac and vascular effects are driven by beta- and alpha-adrenergic receptor signaling, respectively. Clinically utilized adrenergic receptor antagonists can prevent cardiac injury and normalize vascular function. We found that tumor necrosis factor (TNF) gene deletion prevents the augmentation of myogenic reactivity in SAH: since membrane-bound TNF serves as a mechanosensor in the arteries assessed, alpha-adrenergic signaling putatively augments myogenic vasoconstriction by enhancing mechanosensor activity.

Heart Rate Variability as a Biomarker of Neurocardiogenic Injury After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to examine whether heart rate variability (HRV) measures can be used to detect neurocardiogenic injury (NCI).

METHODS

Three hundred and twenty-six consecutive admissions with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) met criteria for the study. Of 326 subjects, 56 (17.2%) developed NCI which we defined by wall motion abnormality with ventricular dysfunction on transthoracic echocardiogram or cardiac troponin-I > 0.3 ng/mL without electrocardiogram evidence of coronary artery insufficiency. HRV measures (in time and frequency domains, as well as nonlinear technique of detrended fluctuation analysis) were calculated over the first 48 h. We applied longitudinal multilevel linear regression to characterize the relationship of HRV measures with NCI and examine between-group differences at baseline and over time.

RESULTS

There was decreased vagal activity in NCI subjects with a between-group difference in low/high frequency ratio (β 3.42, SE 0.92, p = 0.0002), with sympathovagal balance in favor of sympathetic nervous activity. All time-domain measures were decreased in SAH subjects with NCI. An ensemble machine learning approach translated these measures into a classification tool that demonstrated good discrimination using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC 0.82), the area under precision recall curve (AUPRC 0.75), and a correct classification rate of 0.81.

CONCLUSIONS

HRV measures are significantly associated with our label of NCI and a machine learning approach using features derived from HRV measures can classify SAH patients that develop NCI.

Beta-Blockade in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Sympathetic nervous system activation after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is associated with complications and poor outcome. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we investigate the effect of beta-blockers on outcome after aSAH.

METHODS

The review was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019111784). We performed a systematic literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, published conference proceedings, and abstracts. Eligible studies included both randomized controlled trials and observational studies up to October 2018, reporting the effect of beta-blocker therapy on the following outcomes in aSAH: mortality, vasospasm, delayed cerebral ischemia, infarction or stroke, cardiac dysfunction, and functional outcomes. Studies involving traumatic SAH were excluded. Citations were reviewed, and data extracted independently by two investigators using a standardized proforma.

RESULTS

We identified 819 records with 16 studies (four were randomized controlled trials) including 6702 patients selected for analysis. Exposure to beta-blockade either before or after aSAH was associated with a significant reduction in unadjusted mortality (RR 0.63, 95% CI 0.42-0.93, p = 0.02). A significant reduction in unadjusted mortality was also seen in prospective trials of post-event beta-blockade (RR 0.51, 95% CI 0.28-0.93, p = 0.03). Statistically significant differences were not seen for other outcomes investigated.

CONCLUSIONS

In adult patients with aSAH, beta-blocker therapy is associated with a mortality benefit. Studies are generally of a low quality with considerable clinical heterogeneity. Prospective large interventional trials with patient centered outcomes are required to validate this finding.

Nimodipine Reappraised: An Old Drug With a Future

Nimodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel antagonist that blocks the flux of extracellular calcium through L-type, voltage-gated calcium channels. While nimodipine is FDAapproved for the prevention and treatment of neurological deficits in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), it affects myriad cell types throughout the body, and thus, likely has more complex mechanisms of action than simple inhibition of cerebral vasoconstriction. Newer understanding of the pathophysiology of delayed ischemic injury after a variety of acute neurologic injuries including aSAH, traumatic brain injury (TBI) and ischemic stroke, coupled with advances in the drug delivery method for nimodipine, have reignited interest in refining its potential therapeutic use. In this context, this review seeks to establish a firm understanding of current data on nimodipine's role in the mechanisms of delayed injury in aSAH, TBI, and ischemic stroke, and assess the extensive clinical data evaluating its use in these conditions. In addition, we will review pivotal trials using locally administered, sustained release nimodipine and discuss why such an approach has evaded demonstration of efficacy, while seemingly having the potential to significantly improve clinical care.

Prognostic Value of Echocardiography for Left Ventricular Dysfunction After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Cardiac dysfunction may worsen outcomes after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). This study quantitatively assessed the prognostic value of left ventricular dysfunction with respect to functional outcomes and mortality in patients with aneurysmal SAH.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE databases to retrieve relevant studies evaluating echocardiographic left ventricular dysfunction following aneurysmal SAH. Fourteen relevant observational studies evaluating 2234 patients were finally included in this study.

RESULTS

Echocardiographic regional wall motion abnormalities (RWMA) and neurogenic cardiomyopathy (NCM) of the left ventricle occurring after SAH were significantly related to an increase of in-hospital mortality (in 8 studies for RWMA, odds ratio [OR] 2.37; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.74-3.25 and in 5 studies for NCM, OR 2.82; 95% CI 1.2-6.6). Decreased ejection fraction on echocardiography was not associated with the increase of in-hospital mortality (in 4 studies, OR 1.76; 95% CI 0.86-3.61). The heterogeneities of decreased ejection fraction and NCM were significantly resolved by analyzing only the studies based on echocardiogram measurements obtained within 72 hours after admission.

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis suggests that the identification of echocardiographic left ventricular dysfunction identified by RWMA and NCM after SAH could provide better prognostic information for in-hospital mortality.

Importance of Managing the Water-Electrolyte Balance by Delivering the Optimal Minimum Amount of Water and Sodium After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

After aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), crystalloid fluids with a relatively high sodium concentration have been used to maintain the cerebral blood flow. However, the prophylactic delivery of water and sodium by intravenous (IV) infusion will not necessarily improve the prognosis of patients after aSAH, and the excessive supply of water and sodium can negatively affect the outcome. We hypothesized that the delivery of an optimal amount of water and sodium separately might improve the outcome after aSAH.

METHODS

We recruited 55 consecutive patients who had undergone clipping or endovascular coil embolization after aSAH. Group 1 (n = 33) received conventional therapy (i.e., prophylactic IV sodium and water [protocol 1]). Group 2 (n = 22) received the optimal amount of water and sodium separately (protocol 2).

RESULTS

The median total of water and sodium chloride supplied in group 1 was significantly greater than that supplied in group 2 (P < 0.01). The modified Rankin scale score at discharge was 0-2 in 15 patients (95%) in group 2 and 23 patients (55%) in group 1 (P < 0.001). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the odds ratio for a discharge modified Rankin scale score of 0-2 or 3-6 was significantly associated with the treatment protocol (P < 0.05) and the net fluid balance on days 4-8 (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The separate delivery of optimal amounts of water and sodium could be a promising therapeutic strategy to improve the prognosis after aSAH.

Acute Brain Diseases as Triggers for Stress Cardiomyopathy: Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To determine the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy (NSC) among patients admitted to our neuroscience intensive care unit (NICU).

METHODS

Following institutional review board approval, consecutive adult patients admitted to the NICU between 2009 and 2013 with definite and possible NSC were included. Data on patient demographics, baseline clinical information, cardiac function, and laboratory values were collected. Outcomes included length of stay, modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at discharge and long-term follow-up. Continuous variables were compared using a student's t test, and categorical variables were compared using a Chi-square test.

RESULTS

Among 34 patients included in the study, the most common presenting symptom was dyspnea (17 patients, 50%). Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) was the most common neurological inciting event (11 patients, 32.4%), but two-thirds of this cohort had other neurological triggers. The most common electrocardiogram changes were QT-interval prolongation (30 patients, 88.2%) and T-wave inversion (22 patients, 64.7%). The most common echocardiographic pattern was the apical variant (14 patients, 41.2%), and 26% of patients had right ventricular involvement (P = 0.03) which was a predictor of poor outcome along with inotropic support (P = 0.006). Functional outcome was poor (mRS > 3) in 53% of patients at discharge, but function improved over time in most survivors.

CONCLUSIONS

NSC is most common after SAH, but can result from a wide spectrum of acute brain insults. Requirement of inotropic support was the strongest indicator of prognosis at last follow-up. Patients with NSC often have poor function at discharge but many improve over time.

Use of levosimendan in the treatment of cerebral vascular vasospasm: a case study

Despite the progress in the management of cerebral arterial aneurysms, subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) remains the major cause of neurological disability. While SAH-related deaths usually occur as a result of brain impairment due to hemorrhage, permanent neurological deficits are caused by cerebral ischemia due to edema and spasm of cerebral arteries. Additionally, ~20%-30% of patients with SAH develop secondary cardiomyopathy; this phenomenon is known as neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy (NSC), which is associated with increased mortality and poor long-term prognosis. Levosimendan is a new inotropic drug that causes calcium sensitization of troponin C, thus increasing contraction force of myofilaments. The drug also causes opening of ATP-dependent potassium channels in vascular smooth muscles, which results in dilatation of veins and arteries, including cerebral arteries. To date, there have been several reports of levosimendan application in patients with SAH and neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy, and the effect of the drug on vasospasm has been previously advocated. This paper presents a case report of a 57-year-old patient with massive SAH, where levosimendan was used for reducing vasospasm.

Clinical presentations and outcomes of Takotsubo syndrome in the setting of subarachnoid hemorrhage: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Evidence remains inconsistent regarding the incidence and prognosis of Takotsubo syndrome in the setting of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the clinical presentation and in-hospital mortality of these patients.

METHODS

A systematic review of the electronic databases was conducted for studies involving patients with spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage and concomitant findings of classical Takotsubo syndrome on transthoracic echocardiogram. A meta-analysis was conducted for the primary outcome of in-hospital mortality using the Mantel-Haenszel method for fixed effects and the DerSimonian and Laird method for random effects, with 95% confidence interval and a p-value <0.05 for statistical significance.

RESULTS

Ten studies were retrieved with a total of 157 patients presenting with classical Takotsubo syndrome, representing 4.4% of the subarachnoid hemorrhage total population. The overall incidence of in-hospital mortality was 30% in the patients who developed Takotsubo syndrome. Meta-analysis illustrated a significant increase in the odds of in-hospital mortality for the Takotsubo syndrome patients by fixed effects model (odds ratio 2.6, 95% confidence interval 1.16-5.85, p=0.02, I2=39%), with a trend towards increased risk of in-hospital mortality by random effects model (odds ratio 3.00, 95% confidence interval 0.90-9.77, p = 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of Takotsubo syndrome in patients with spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage seems to be high with a trend towards higher risk of in-hospital mortality in those patients. Thus, patients presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage might benefit from a comprehensive cardiac evaluation upon presentation for early detection and proper triage of this high-risk population.

Reversible Stress Cardiomyopathy Secondary to Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Case Report

BACKGROUND

Acute cerebral incidents have been correlated with cardiac manifestations. Specifically, subarachnoid hemorrhage has been correlated with a syndrome described as neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy and mimics acute coronary syndrome.

CASE REPORT

A 55-year-old woman presented at the Emergency Department of our hospital complaining of vomiting and headache of sudden onset. Computed tomography angiography revealed a ruptured aneurysm at the tip of the basilar artery and the patient underwent a successful complete embolism of the sac of the aneurysm. During hospitalization, the patient developed electrocardiographic alterations and elevation of cardiac biomarkers, and echocardiography showed an impairment of left ventricular systolic function. The patient was diagnosed with neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy and she was treated conservatively. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: Clinicians should be aware of neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy because early diagnosis and treatment are the cornerstones for achieving a better outcome.

Complete heart block as the presenting feature in subarachnoid haemorrhage

Cardiac manifestations of subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) are well-documented phenomena that can complicate the treatment of this devastating condition. Here, we present a case of SAH presenting as complete heart block on initial assessment, an extremely rare event.A 53-year-old woman presented with a witnessed fall, sustaining a mild head injury. She denied any symptoms of SAH. Initial ECG revealed complete heart block, for which the patient was accepted under the cardiology team. For completion, a CT head scan was requested, this demonstrated significant SAH blood load in an aneurysmal rather than traumatic pattern. CT angiogram and subsequent digital subtraction angiography confirmed a posterior communicating artery aneurysm as the cause of the SAH. This case highlights the importance of considering neurological diagnoses in patients with collapse even with concomitant cardiac abnormalities, as the two are often inextricably linked.

The role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase -786 T/C polymorphism in cardiac instability following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

INTRODUCTION

Cardiac abnormalities are observed frequently after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). A subset of aSAH patients develops neurogenic cardiomyopathy, likely induced by catecholamine excess. Genetic polymorphisms of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene have been linked to decreased nitric oxide (NO) levels, coronary artery spasm, and myocardial infarction. The role of the eNOS single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) -786 T/C in cardiac instability following aSAH has not been previously investigated.

METHODS

From 2012 to 2015, aSAH patients were prospectively enrolled in the Cerebral Aneurysm Renin Angiotensin System (CARAS) study at two academic institutions. Blood samples were used to assess the eNOS SNP -786 T/C rs2070744 through 5'exonuclease (Taqman) genotyping assays. Associations between this polymorphism and cardiac instability following aSAH were analyzed.

RESULTS

Multivariable analysis demonstrated a dominant effect of the C allele of eNOS SNP -786 T/C on cardiac instability in patients with aSAH. A lower Glasgow Coma Scale score and a history of ischemic vascular disease were also associated with cardiac instability. Furthermore, cardiac instability independently predicted poor functional outcome upon discharge from the hospital.

CONCLUSIONS

The C allele of the eNOS SNP -786 T/C was independently associated with an increased risk for cardiac instability following aSAH. Cardiac instability itself was a risk factor for an unfavorable functional outcome upon discharge from the hospital.

Clinical Presentation to the Emergency Department Predicts Subarachnoid Hemorrhage-Associated Myocardial Injury

INTRODUCTION

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is frequently seen in emergency departments. Secondary injury, such as subarachnoid hemorrhage-associated myocardial injury (SAHMI), affects one third of survivors and contributes to poor outcomes. SAHMI is not attributed to ischemia from myocardial disease but can result in hypotension and arrhythmias. It is important that emergency nurses recognize which clinical presentation characteristics are predictive of SAHMI to initiate proper interventions. The aim of this study was to determine whether patients who present to the emergency department with clinical aSAH are likely to develop SAHMI, as defined by troponin I ≥0.3 ng/mL.

METHODS

This was a prospective descriptive study. SAHMI was defined as troponin I ≥0.3 ng/mL. Predictors included demographics and clinical characteristics, severity of injury, admission 12-lead electrogardiogram (ECG), initial emergency department vital signs, and pre-hospital symptoms at time of aneurysm rupture.

RESULTS

Of 449 patients, 126 (28%) had SAHMI. Patients with SAHMI were more likely to report seizures and unresponsiveness with significantly lower Glasgow coma score and higher proportion of Hunt and Hess grades 3 to 5 and Fisher grades III and IV (all P < .05). Patients with SAHMI had higher atrial and ventricular rates and longer QTc intervals on initial ECG (P < .05). On multivariable logistic regression, poor Hunt and Hess grade, report of prehospital unresponsiveness, lower admission Glasgow coma score, and longer QTc interval were significantly and independently predictive of SAHMI (P < .05).

DISCUSSION

Components of the clinical presentation of subarachnoid hemorrhage to the emergency department predict SAHMI. Identifying patients with SAHMI in the emergency department can be helpful in determining surveillance and care needs and informing transfer unit care. Contribution to Emergency Nursing Practice.

Association of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1 (SERPINE1) Polymorphisms and Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Genetic variations of the serine proteinase inhibitor family E member 1 (SERPINE1) gene, which encodes plasminogen activator inhibitor 1, correlate with serum levels of its product and are associated with thrombophilia and coronary atherosclerosis. Various SERPINE1 ;gene polymorphisms have been identified. However, only the functional 5G/4G polymorphism has been assessed in the context of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). We assessed associations of 6 SERPINE1 polymorphisms with the clinical sequelae of aSAH.

METHODS

From 2012 to 2015, patients with aSAH were prospectively enrolled into the CARAS (Cerebral Aneurysm Renin Angiotensin System) study at 2 major academic institutions. Blood samples were used to evaluate 6 common SERPINE1 single nucleotide polymorphisms via 5' exonuclease (Taqman) genotyping assays.

RESULTS

There was an association of the AA genotype of rs2227631 with the 4G/4G genotype and of the GG genotype of rs7242 with the AA genotype of rs2227684. In multivariable analysis, patients with the AA genotype of rs2227631 and 4G/4G genotype had an increased risk for developing delayed cerebral ischemia. Patients with the GG genotype of rs7242 and AA genotype of rs2227684 had a decreased risk for a poor functional outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

SERPINE1 gene polymorphisms were associated with delayed cerebral ischemia and functional outcome after aSAH. These associations may arise from alterations of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 levels.

Heart-Brain Axis: Effects of Neurologic Injury on Cardiovascular Function

A complex interaction exists between the nervous and cardiovascular systems. A large network of cortical and subcortical brain regions control cardiovascular function via the sympathetic and parasympathetic outflow. A dysfunction in one system may lead to changes in the function of the other. The effects of cardiovascular disease on the nervous system have been widely studied; however, our understanding of the effects of neurological disorders on the cardiovascular system has only expanded in the past 2 decades. Various pathologies of the nervous system can lead to a wide range of alterations in function and structure of the cardiovascular system ranging from transient and benign electrographic changes to myocardial injury, cardiomyopathy, and even cardiac death. In this article, we first review the anatomy and physiology of the central and autonomic nervous systems in regard to control of the cardiovascular function. The effects of neurological injury on cardiac function and structure will be summarized, and finally, we review neurological disorders commonly associated with cardiovascular manifestations.

Effects of preadmission beta-blockers on neurogenic stunned myocardium after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: A meta- analysis

OBJECTIVE

Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage is mostly caused by the rupture of an aneurysm. Neurogenic stunned myocardium (NSM) is one of the most frequent complications caused by aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). The possible pathogenesis of NSM may be that the catecholamine peak resulting from aSAH leads to subendocardial ischemia or coronary artery spasm. We designed this meta-analysis to find out whether beta-blockers (BB) can significantly reduce the incidence of NSM and improve the outcomes of aSAH.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, Elsevier and Medline from inception to Feb 2016. All studies related to the preadmission beta-blocker with aSAH were included.

RESULTS

Three retrospective studies and 691 patients were included. The incidence of mortality [OR=0.68, 95%CI (0.08-3.50), P=0.57], cardiac dysfunction [OR = 0.55, 95% CI (0.05-6.49), P=0.63], cerebral vasospasm (OR=0.52 95% CI(0.18-2.56), P=0.50] had no statistical difference between the preadmission BB group and no BB group.

CONCLUSION

The preadmission beta-blocker cannot decrease the incidence of mortality, cardiac dysfunction, cerebral vasospasm in patients with aSAH. A further research of the usefulness of preadmission beta-blocker in patients with aSAH will be needed.

Neurogenic stunned myocardium in subarachnoid hemorrhage

"Stunned myocardium," characterized by reversible left ventricular dysfunction, was first described via animal models using transient coronary artery occlusion. However, this phenomenon has also been noted with neurologic pathologies and collectively been labeled "neurogenic stunned myocardium" (NSM). Neurogenic stunned myocardium resulting from subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a challenging pathology due to its diagnostic uncertainty. Traditional diagnostic criteria for NSM after SAH focus on electrocardiographic and echocardiographic abnormalities and troponemia. However, tremendous heterogeneity still exists. Traditional pathophysiological mechanisms for NSM encompassed hypothalamic and myocardial perivascular lesions. More recently, research on pathophysiology has centered on myocardial microvascular dysfunction and genetic polymorphisms. Catecholamine surging as a mechanism has also gained attention with particular focus placed on the role of adrenergic blockade in both the prehospital and acute settings. Management remains largely supportive with case reports acknowledging the utility of inotropes such as dobutamine and milrinone and intra-aortic balloon pump when NSM is accompanied by cardiogenic shock. Neurogenic stunned myocardium that follows SAH can result in many complications such as arrhythmias, pulmonary edema, and prolonged intubation, which can negatively impact long-term recovery from SAH and increase morbidity and mortality. This necessitates the need to accurately diagnose and treat NSM.

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in the setting of acute hydrocephalus secondary to neurocysticercosis

We report the case of a 45-year-old male who presented with transient neurogenic stunned myocardium, or takotsubo cardiomyopathy, secondary to acute hydrocephalus caused by obstruction of the third ventricle by neurocysticercosis.

Unraveling of the Effect of Nodose Ganglion Degeneration on the Coronary Artery Vasospasm After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: An Experimental Study

BACKGROUND

Cardiac arrest is a major life-threatening complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Although medullary cardiocirculatuar center injury and central sympathetic overactivity have been suspected of initiating coronary artery spasm-induced cardiac arrest, we aimed to elucidate the effects of vagal ischemia at the brainstem on coronary vasospasm and sudden death in SAH.

METHODS

Twenty-six rabbits were randomly divided into 3 groups. Control (n = 5); SHAM (n = 8), and SAH group (n = 13). Experimental SAH was applied by injecting homologous blood into the cisterna magna, and the SHAM group was injected with isotonic saline solution also in the cisterna magna., Twenty-one days after the injection, histopathologic changes of the neuron density of nodose ganglia, the vasospasm index values of the coronary arteries, and the electrocardiographic events were analyzed.

RESULTS

Increased vasospasm index of the coronary arteries and degenerated neuron density of nodose ganglion were significantly different between animals with SAH, control, and SHAM groups (P < 0.005). If neurons of the nodose ganglia are lesioned due to ischemic insult during SAH, the heart rhythm regulation by vagus afferent reflexes is disturbed.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that there is causal relationship between nodose ganglion degeneration and coronary vasospasm. Our finding could be the reason that many cardiac events occur in patients with SAH. Vagal pathway paralysis induced by indirect sympathetic overactivity may trigger coronary vasospasm and heart rhythm disturbances. Our findings will aid in the planning of future experimental studies and in determining the clinical relevance of such studies.

Effects of temperature on inotropic responses of isolated canine atria under spontaneous or electrically paced rhythm

Effects of temperature on atrial contractility were investigated on isolated, blood-perfused canine atrial preparations which were spontaneously beating or constantly paced at 2 Hz and 2.5 Hz. The contrctility was increased by cooling from 37 degrees C to 27 degrees C in spontaneously beating hearts (the rate decreased from 100 to 56 beats/min) but in the paced atrium the increase of contactile force was followed by a slight decrease under 29 degrees C usually with pulsus alternans. The durations of shortening and relaxation of the developed tension were increased in parallel with cooling of temperature. The rate of shortening was slightly increased by cooling in both spontaneous rate and constant rate. On the other hand, the rate of relaxation was not so influenced in spontaneously beating hearts but slightly increased in paced atria but not significantly. The frequency-force relationship showed the positive staircase phenomenon (2 to 3.5 Hz) at 37 degrees C. However, at lower temperature the positive staircase was not clear and rather negative staircase appeared (1--3 Hz).