Impact of Cardiorenal Anemia Syndrome on the Prognosis of Patients With Chronic Heart Failure in Japan - Insights From the KUNIUMI Registry Chronic Cohort

BACKGROUND

With the aging of the population, the number of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and comorbidities is increasing in Japan. Among the comorbidities, cardiorenal anemia syndrome (CRAS) is particularly important, but the age-specific prevalence and prognosis of CRAS remain unclear.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The KUNIUMI registry chronic cohort is a prospective observational study of CHF (Stages B-D) in Awaji Island. In this study, we analyzed 1,646 patients registered in the KUNIUMI registry and categorized them into 4 groups: Group 1 included patients without cardiac failure (Stage B); Group 2 consisted of patients with cardiac failure but without renal failure or anemia; Group 3 comprised patients with both cardiac failure and renal failure but without anemia; and Group 4 (CRAS) included patients with cardiac failure, renal failure, and anemia. The primary endpoint was composite of all-cause-death and heart failure hospitalization. The proportion of patients with CRAS increased with age. Furthermore, Group 4 showed a significantly worse prognosis than other groups (log-rank P<0.01). On Cox proportional hazard regression analysis, compared with patients without cardiac failure, renal failure, or anemia, the age- and sex-adjusted hazard ratio for the primary endpoint in those with CRAS was 8.94 (95% confidence interval: 5.36-14.92).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of CRAS in CHF increases with age, and the prognosis associated with CRAS is generally worse compared with other comorbidities.

Anemia Management in the Cardiorenal Patient: A Nephrological Perspective

Heart failure (HF) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) frequently coexist, sharing significant overlap in prevalence and pathophysiological mechanisms. This coexistence, termed cardiorenal syndrome (CRS), often leads to anemia, which exacerbates both HF and CKD, thereby increasing morbidity and death. Managing anemia in CRS is complex due to conflicting guidelines and the multifactorial nature of the condition. Anemia in CRS is influenced by factors such as inadequate erythropoietin production, iron deficiency, reduced red blood cell life span, and chronic inflammation, which inhibit iron absorption and mobilization. This interplay of mechanisms worsens anemia, further aggravating HF and CKD. Anemia significantly impacts the prognosis of both HF and CKD, and recent trials have shown that hemoglobin increases, particularly with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, can improve outcomes in patients with HF and CKD. Iron deficiency is also prevalent in both patients with HF and patients with CKD and is associated with poorer exercise capacity and a higher mortality rate. Guidelines for diagnosing and treating iron deficiency differ between HF and CKD. Furthermore, treatment of anemia in CRS is controversial: While sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and intravenous iron has shown consistent benefits in patients with CRS, normalization of hemoglobin with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents improves symptoms and quality of life but have not consistently demonstrated cardiovascular benefits. There are no definitive guidelines for anemia management in CRS. Treatment should address HF, CKD, and anemia concurrently. A proposed algorithm includes correcting iron deficiency, initiating sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, and considering erythropoiesis-stimulating agents if hemoglobin remains <10 g/dL. Further research is needed to optimize anemia management strategies in patients with CRS.

Clinical features and prognostic factors of cardiorenal anemia syndrome in China: a retrospective single-center study

BACKGROUND

There is little research on cardiorenal anemia syndrome (CRAS) in China. This study was to describe the characteristics of patients with CRAS and to explore risk factors of all-cause death.

METHODS

A total of 81,795 patients were hospitalized from August 2012 to August 2021 in the nephrology department and cardiology department, of which 820 patients with CRAS were recruited into this study. The 820 patients were divided into three groups based on New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class: a NYHA Class II group (n = 124), a NYHA Class III group (n = 492), and a NYHA Class IV group (n = 204). Demographics and laboratory tests were collected and risk factors of all-cause death were analyzed. The primary endpoint of the study was all-cause death.

RESULTS

820 patients were included, with a median age of 65.00 (51.00-75.00) years and 61.2% were men. The median follow-up was 27.0 (13.0-51.0) months. 416 (50.7%) patients died during follow-up. Age, smoking history, cerebral infarction, NYHA functional class, albumin, serum creatinine (SCr), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) remained independent predictors of all-cause mortality risk in patients with CRAS (P < 0.05) after adjusting to the potential confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with CRAS, older age, smoking history, and more advanced systolic heart failure and renal failure correlated with worse clinical outcomes at follow-up.

Anemia in Heart Failure: A Perspective from 20-Year Bibliometric Analysis

Background & Objective

Anemia in patients with heart failure (HF) is a growing concern. However, there has no bibliometric analysis in this area up to now. The aim of this study is to explore the status and trends in the field of anemia in HF through the bibliometric analysis, and to provide an outlook on future research.

Methods

We retrieved publications from the Web of Science Core Collection database, and the following data analysis and visualization tools were utilized to perform data processing, statistical computing and graphics generation: VOSviewer (v.1.6.18), CiteSpace (v.6.2 R5), Scimago Graphica (v.1.0.36), Biblimatrix and Microsoft Excel.

Results

We identified a total of 3490 publications from 2004 to 2023. The publications in the field of anemia in HF are growing steadily. The United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy were the leading countries in this area. Stefan D Anker, as the most influential author, held the most total citations and publications. Harvard University was the most productive institution in this area. The European Journal of Heart Failure had published the most papers. Through the analysis of co-citations, 14 major clusters based on cluster labels were identified. Keyword analysis showed that mortality, outcome, prevalence, and risk were the most frequent keywords, and the potential research hotspots in the future will be intravenous iron and iron deficiency.

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of countries, authors, institutions, journals, co-cited references, and keywords in the field of anemia in HF through bibliometric analysis and data visualization. The status, hotspots and future trends in this field offer a reference for in-depth research. Further studies are necessary in the future to broaden the spectrum of research in this field, to evaluate comprehensive approaches to treating anemia in patients with HF, and to find rational targets for the management of anemia.

Prevalence, clinical correlates and outcomes of cardiorenal anemia syndrome among patients with heart failure attending tertiary referral hospital in Dodoma, Tanzania: A protocol of a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Cardiorenal anemia syndrome (CRAS) is a common complication among patients with heart failure and is associated with poor clinical outcomes. However, there is a paucity of published data concerning CRAS, despite of significant increase in heart failure patients attending medical services in developing countries. This study aims to assess the prevalence, clinical correlates, and outcomes of CRAS among patients with heart failure attending the Benjamin Mkapa Hospital in Dodoma, Tanzania.

METHODOLOGY

A prospective observational study is ongoing at the Benjamin Mkapa Hospital in Dodoma, Tanzania. Currently, 92 patients have been recruited into this study and process is not yet completed. The socio-demographic data, clinical correlates, and prevalence of CRAS will be determined at baseline meanwhile, the outcomes of CRAS will be determined during a follow-up period of six months from the date of enrollment. CRAS is the primary outcome of the study. Data will be categorized into CRAS and non-CRAS during statistical analysis. Mean and standard deviation will be used for normally distributed continuous variables while median and interquartile range will be used for skewed data. Frequencies and percentages will summarize categorical variables. Clinical correlates and outcomes of CRAS will be analyzed and compared by using univariate and multivariate logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models. A two-tailed p-value of less than 0.05 will indicate statistical significance.

Patient Selection and End Point Definitions for Decongestion Studies in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: Part 1

Despite recent advances in the treatment of patients with chronic heart failure, acute decompensated heart failure remains associated with significant mortality and morbidity because many novel therapies have failed to demonstrate meaningful benefit. Persistent congestion in the setting of escalating diuretic therapy has been repeatedly shown to be a marker of poor prognosis and is currently being targeted by various emerging device-based therapies. Because these therapies inherently carry procedural risk, patient selection is key in the future trial design. However, it remains unclear which patients are at a higher risk of residual congestion or adverse outcomes despite maximally tolerated decongestive therapy. In the first part of this 2-part review, we aimed to outline patient risk factors and summarize current evidence for early recognition of high-risk profile for residual congestion and adverse outcomes. These factors are classified as relating to the following: (1) previous clinical course, (2) severity of congestion, (3) diuretic response, and (4) degree of renal impairment. We also aimed to provide an overview of key inclusion criteria in recent acute decompensated heart failure trials and investigational device studies and propose potential criteria for selection of high-risk patients in future trials.

Inferior vena cava diameter and risk of acute decompensated heart failure rehospitalisations

OBJECTIVES

Inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter may be a surrogate for volume status in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). The utility of IVC diameter measurement is under studied. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between IVC diameter, clinical variables and ADHF rehospitalisations.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of 200 patients admitted for ADHF from 2018 to 2019 with transthoracic echocardiogram during index hospitalisation. Charts were assessed for ADHF rehospitalisation within 1 year.

RESULTS

The median age was 64, 30.5% were female, and average left ventricular ejection fraction was 41%±20%. IVC diameter correlated to pulmonary arterial (PA) pressure (R=0.347, p<0.001) and body surface area (BSA) (R=0.424 p<0.001). IVC diameter corrected for BSA correlated to PA pressure (R=0.287, p<0.001) and log N-terminal B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) (R=0.247, p≤0.01). Patients rehospitalised within 1 year had significantly greater mean IVC diameter compared with those not rehospitalised (p<0.001) while there was no difference in mean net weight lost during index hospitalisation or mean log NT-proBNP. Patients with IVC diameter greater than 2.07 cm had significantly increased ADHF rehospitalisation (85.6% vs 49.3%, log rank p<0.001) with HR 2.44 (95% CI 1.85 to 3.23, p<0.001). In multivariable Cox regression only IVC diameter (p<0.001), presence of tricuspid regurgitation (p=0.02) and NYHA class III/IV (p<0.001) independently predicted ADHF rehospitalisation within 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS

IVC diameter is predictive of rehospitalisation in patients with ADHF and may identify patients in need of greater monitoring and diuresis.

Prevalence and prognostic impact of chronic kidney disease and anaemia across ACC/AHA precursor and symptomatic heart failure stages

BACKGROUND

The importance of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and anaemia has not been comprehensively studied in asymptomatic patients at risk for heart failure (HF) versus those with symptomatic HF. We analysed the prevalence, characteristics and prognostic impact of both conditions across American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) precursor and HF stages A-D.

METHODS AND RESULTS

2496 participants from three non-pharmacological German Competence Network HF studies were categorized by ACC/AHA stage; stage C patients were subdivided into C1 and C2 (corresponding to NYHA classes I/II and III, respectively). Overall, patient distribution was 8.1%/35.3%/32.9% and 23.7% in ACC/AHA stages A/B/C1 and C2/D, respectively. These subgroups were stratified by the absence ( - ) or presence ( +) of CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] < 60 mL/min/1.73m2) and anaemia (haemoglobin in women/men < 12/ < 13 g/dL). The primary outcome was all-cause mortality at 5-year follow-up. Prevalence increased across stages A/B/C1 and C2/D (CKD: 22.3%/23.6%/31.6%/54.7%; anaemia: 3.0%/7.9%/21.7%/33.2%, respectively), with concordant decreases in median eGFR and haemoglobin (all p < 0.001). Across all stages, hazard ratios [95% confidence intervals] for all-cause mortality were 2.1 [1.8-2.6] for CKD + , 1.7 [1.4-2.0] for anaemia, and 3.6 [2.9-4.6] for CKD + /anaemia + (all p < 0.001). Population attributable fractions (PAFs) for 5-year mortality related to CKD and/or anaemia were similar across stages A/B, C1 and C2/D (up to 33.4%, 30.8% and 34.7%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence and severity of CKD and anaemia increased across ACC/AHA stages. Both conditions were individually and additively associated with increased 5-year mortality risk, with similar PAFs in asymptomatic patients and those with symptomatic HF.

Evaluation of Hemoglobin Response to Treatment With Enarodustat Using Pharmacometric Approach in Japanese Anemic Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease

Enarodustat (JTZ-951) is a hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor that has been approved and marketed in Japan for patients with anemia with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The pharmacometric approach was applied to assess the relationship between plasma concentrations of enarodustat and hemoglobin (Hb) levels, and to provide information regarding the optimal use of enarodustat in clinical practice by simulations based on the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model that was developed. The PK/PD data of enarodusat obtained from phase 2 and phase 3 studies in Japanese patients with CKD were well described by the models: a 1-compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination for PK, and a semimechanistic model based on transit compartment model for PD. Although several factors were identified as statistically significant covariates on the PK/PD of enarodustat, model-based simulations showed that none of them had clinically relevant impacts on the treatment effect (ie, Hb levels) of enarodustat. Hence, enarodustat treatment provides the stable Hb control with the initial dose (hemodialysis-dependent CKD: 4 mg/day, non-dialysis-dependent CKD: 2 mg/day) and maintenance dose (1-8 mg/day) to the patients with varied demographic characteristics.

Treatment of Anemia Associated with Chronic Kidney Disease with the HIF Prolyl Hydroxylase Inhibitor Enarodustat: A Review of the Evidence

Enarodustat, a newly developed hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor, is used in clinical practice in Japan. Several clinical studies showed that enarodustat corrected and maintained hemoglobin (Hb) levels by stimulating endogenous erythropoietin production and improving iron utilization in anemic patients with chronic kidney disease, regardless of whether they were on dialysis. In addition, Phase III comparative studies demonstrated that enarodustat was non-inferior to darbepoetin alfa in controlling Hb levels. Furthermore, enarodustat was well tolerated during the treatment. Enarodustat is currently being developed in the Republic of Korea and China and is expected to be developed worldwide. This article reviews the data on enarodustat, including the findings from preclinical studies, pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics, and efficacy and safety results of clinical studies. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Two long-term phase 3 studies of enarodustat (JTZ-951) in Japanese anemic patients with chronic kidney disease not on dialysis or on maintenance hemodialysis: SYMPHONY ND-Long and HD-Long studies

Enarodustat (JTZ‐951) is an oral hypoxia‐inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor developed for treating anemia in chronic kidney disease. Two open‐label, uncontrolled phase 3 studies evaluated the 52‐week safety and efficacy of enarodustat in Japanese anemic patients with chronic kidney disease not on dialysis (n = 132) [SYMPHONY ND‐Long study] or on maintenance hemodialysis (n = 136) [SYMPHONY HD‐Long study]. The most frequent adverse events were viral upper respiratory tract infection (25.8%) followed by chronic kidney disease (8.3%) in the SYMPHONY ND‐Long study, and viral upper respiratory tract infection (49.3%) followed by contusion (16.9%) and diarrhea (16.9%) in the SYMPHONY HD‐Long study. The incidence of any adverse events did not increase over time. Mean hemoglobin levels and 95% confidence intervals were maintained within the target range (10.0–12.0 g/dl) over 52 weeks in both studies. The long‐term safety and efficacy of enarodustat were confirmed in Japanese anemic patients with chronic kidney disease.

Iron deficiency contributes to resistance to endogenous erythropoietin in anaemic heart failure patients

AIMS

Abnormal endogenous erythropoietin (EPO) constitutes an important cause of anaemia in chronic diseases. We analysed the relationships between iron deficiency (ID) and the adequacy of endogenous EPO in anaemic heart failure (HF) patients, and the impact of abnormal EPO on 12-month mortality.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We investigated 435 anaemic HF patients (age: 74 ± 10 years; males: 60%; New York Heart Association class I or II: 39%; left ventricular ejection fraction: 43 ± 17%). Patients with EPO higher than expected for a given haemoglobin were considered EPO-resistant whereas those with EPO lower than expected - EPO-deficient. ID was defined as serum ferritin <100 µg/L or 100-299 µg/L with transferrin saturation <20%. EPO-resistant patients (22%) had more advanced HF whereas those with EPO deficiency (57%) were more frequently females and had worse renal function. Lower serum ferritin (indicating depleted body iron stores) was related to higher EPO observed/predicted ratio when adjusted for significant clinical confounders, including C-reactive protein. One year all-cause mortality was 28% in patients with EPO resistance compared to 17% in patients with EPO deficiency and 10% in patients with adequate EPO (log-rank test for the comparison EPO resistance vs. adequate EPO: P = 0.02). When adjusted for other prognosticators, there was still a trend towards increased 12-month mortality in patients with higher EPO level.

CONCLUSION

Anaemic HF patients with endogenous EPO deficiency vs. resistance have different clinical and laboratory characteristics. In such patients, ID contributes to EPO resistance independently of inflammation.

A Phase 3 Study of Enarodustat in Anemic Patients with CKD not Requiring Dialysis: The SYMPHONY ND Study

Introduction

Enarodustat (JTZ-951) is an oral hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor that might be a new therapeutic approach for managing anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We evaluated the efficacy (noninferiority to darbepoetin alfa [DA]) and safety of enarodustat in Japanese anemic patients with CKD not requiring dialysis.

Methods

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA)-naïve patients and ESA-treated patients were randomized at a 1:1 ratio to receive enarodustat orally once daily or DA subcutaneously every 2 or 4 weeks for 24 weeks, respectively. Subjects in each arm had dose adjustments every 4 weeks to maintain their hemoglobin (Hb) level within the target range (10 to 12 g/dl). The primary endpoint was the difference in the mean Hb level between arms during the evaluation period defined as weeks 20 to 24 (noninferiority margin: -0.75 g/dl).

Results

The mean Hb level during the evaluation period in the enarodustat arm was 10.96 g/dl (95% confidence interval [CI]: 10.84 to 11.07 g/dl) with a difference of 0.09 g/dl (95% CI: -0.07 to 0.26 g/dl) between arms, establishing its noninferiority to DA. Nearly 90% of subjects in both arms maintained a mean Hb level within the target range. Compared with DA, enarodustat was associated with decreased hepcidin and ferritin, and increased total iron-binding capacity. There were no apparent differences in the incidence of adverse events between arms (65.4% [enarodustat], 82.6% [DA]).

Conclusions

The efficacy of enarodustat was comparable to DA in anemic patients with CKD not requiring dialysis. No new safety concerns were identified compared with DA.

Anemia of cardiorenal syndrome

Cardiorenal syndrome includes a spectrum of disorders of the kidneys and heart in which loss of function in one organ contributes to reduced function in the other organ. Cardiorenal syndrome is frequently complicated by comorbid anemia, which leads to reciprocal and progressive cardiac and renal deterioration. The triad of heart failure, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and anemia is termed cardiorenal anemia syndrome (CRAS). There are currently no evidence-based recommendations for managing patients with CRAS; however, the treatment of these patients is multifactorial. Not only must the anemia be controlled, but heart failure and kidney injury must be addressed, in addition to other comorbidities. Intravenous iron and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents are the mainstays of treatment for anemia of CKD, addressing both iron and erythropoiesis deficiencies. Since erythropoiesis-stimulating agent therapy can be associated with adverse outcomes at higher doses in patients with CKD and is not used in routine practice in patients with heart failure, treatment options for managing anemia in patients with CRAS are limited. Several new therapies, particularly the hypoxia-inducible factor-prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors, are currently under clinical development. The hypoxia-inducible factor-prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors have shown promising results for treating anemia of CKD in clinical trials and may confer benefits in patients with CRAS, potentially addressing some of the limitations of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents. Updated clinical practice guidelines for the screening and management of anemia in cardiorenal syndrome, in light of potential new therapies and clinical evidence, would improve the clinical outcomes of patients with this complex syndrome.

The CRAS-EAHFE study: Characteristics and prognosis of acute heart failure episodes with cardiorenal-anaemia syndrome at the emergency department

BACKGROUND

The coexistence of other comorbidities confers poor outcomes in patients with acute heart failure. Our aim was to determine the characteristics of patients with acute heart failure and cardiorenal anaemia syndrome and the relationship between renal dysfunction and anaemia, alone or combined as cardiorenal anaemia syndrome, on short-term outcomes.

METHODS

We analysed the Epidemiology of Acute Heart Failure in Emergency Departments registry (cohort of patients with acute heart failure in Spanish emergency departments). Renal dysfunction was defined by an estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min/m², anaemia by haemoglobin values <12/<13 g/dl in women/men, and cardiorenal anaemia syndrome as the presence of both. Comparisons were made according to cardiorenal-anaemia syndrome positive (CRAS+) with respect to the rest of patients (CRAS-) and according the presence of renal dysfunction (RD+) and anaemia (A+), (alone, RD+/A-, RD-/A+) or in combination (RD+/A+; i.e. CRAS+) with respect to patients without renal dysfunction and anaemia (RD-/A-). The primary outcome was 30-day mortality, and the secondary outcomes were need for admission, prolonged hospitalisation (>10 days), in-hospital mortality during the index event, and reconsultation and the combination of 30-day post-discharge reconsultation/death. These short-term outcomes were compared and adjusted for differences among groups.

RESULTS

Of the 13,307 patients analysed, CRAS+ (36.4%) was associated with older age, multiple comorbidities, chronic use of loop diuretics, oedemas and hypotension. The 30-day mortality in CRAS+ was greater than in CRAS- (hazard ratio = 1.46, 95% confidence interval = 1.26-1.68) and RD-/A- (hazard ratio = 1.83, 95% confidence interval = 1.46-2.28) control groups. The mortality level was also higher in RD+/A- (hazard ratio = 1.40, 95% confidence interval = 1.10-1.78) and higher, but not statistically significant, in RD-/A+ (hazard ratio = 1.28, 95% confidence interval = 0.99-1.63) with respect to RD-/A-. All of the secondary outcomes, when related to CRAS- and RD-/A- control groups, were worse for CRAS+ and to a lesser extent, RD+/A-, being more rarely observed in RD-/A+.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiorenal anaemia syndrome in acute heart failure is related to greater mortality and worse short-term outcomes, and the impact of renal dysfunction and anaemia seems to be additive.

Cardiorenal Syndrome and Heart Failure-Challenges and Opportunities

Cardiorenal syndromes (CRS) describe concomitant bidirectional dysfunction of the heart and kidneys in which 1 organ initiates, perpetuates, and/or accelerates decline of the other. CRS are common in heart failure and universally portend worsened prognosis. Despite this heavy disease burden, the appropriate diagnosis and classification of CRS remains problematic. In addition to the hemodynamic drivers of decreased renal perfusion and increased renal vein pressure, induction of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system, disruption of balance between nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species, and inflammation are implicated in the pathogenesis of CRS. Medical therapy of heart failure including renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibition and β-adrenergic blockade can blunt these deleterious processes. Renovascular disease can accelerate the progression of CRS. Volume overload and diuretic resistance are common and complicate the management of CRS. In heart failure and CRS being treated with diuretics, worsening creatinine is not associated with worsened outcome if clinical decongestion is achieved. Adjunctive therapy is often required in the management of volume overload in CRS, but evidence for these therapies is limited. Anemia and iron deficiency are importantly associated with CRS and might amplify decline of cardiac and renal function. End-stage cardiac and/or renal disease represents an especially poor prognosis with limited therapeutic options. Overall, worsening renal function is associated with significantly increased mortality. Despite progress in the area of CRS, there are still multiple pathophysiological and clinical aspects of CRS that need further research to eventually develop effective therapeutic options.

The Dapagliflozin And Prevention of Adverse-outcomes in Heart Failure (DAPA-HF) trial: baseline characteristics

BACKGROUND

The aims of this study were to: (i) report the baseline characteristics of patients enrolled in the Dapagliflozin And Prevention of Adverse-outcomes in Heart Failure (DAPA-HF) trial, (ii) compare DAPA-HF patients to participants in contemporary heart failure (HF) registries and in other recent HF trials, and (iii) compare individuals with diabetes, pre-diabetes and a normal glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) in DAPA-HF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Adults with HF in New York Heart Association functional class ≥ II, a left ventricular ejection fraction ≤ 40%, an elevated N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide concentration and receiving standard treatment were eligible for DAPA-HF, which is comparing dapagliflozin 10 mg once daily to matching placebo. In patients without a history of diabetes, previously undiagnosed diabetes was defined as a confirmed HbA1c ≥ 6.5%. Among patients without known or undiagnosed diabetes, pre-diabetes was defined as a HbA1c ≥ 5.7% The remainder of patients, with a HbA1c < 5.7%, were defined as normoglycaemic. Of the 4744 patients (mean age 66 years; 23% women) randomized, 42% had known diabetes and 3% undiagnosed diabetes. Of the remainder, 67% had pre-diabetes and 33% normal HbA1c. Overall, DAPA-HF patients were generally similar to those in recent registries and in relevant trials and had high levels of background therapy: 94% angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker/angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor, 96% beta-blocker, and 71% mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist; 26% had a defibrillator. Patients with diabetes had worse HF status, more co-morbidity, and greater renal impairment but received similar HF therapy. Patients with diabetes received non-insulin hypoglycaemic therapy alone in 49%, insulin alone in 11%, both in 14%, and none in 26%.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients randomized in DAPA-HF were similar to those in other contemporary HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) registries and trials. These patients were receiving recommended HFrEF therapy and those with diabetes were also treated with conventional glucose-lowering therapy. Consequently, DAPA-HF will test the incremental efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin in HFrEF patients with and without diabetes.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT03036124.

Clinical and Socioeconomic Predictors of Heart Failure Readmissions: A Review of Contemporary Literature

Heart failure represents a clinical syndrome that results from a constellation of disease processes affecting myocardial function. Although recent studies have suggested a declining or stable incidence of heart failure, patients with heart failure continue to have high hospitalization and readmission rates, resulting in a substantial economic and public health burden. We searched PubMed and Google Scholar to identify published literature from 1998 through 2018 using the following keywords: heart failure, readmissions, predictors, prediction models, and interventions. Cited references were also used to identify relevant literature. Developments in the diagnosis and management of patients with heart failure have improved hospitalization and readmission rates in the past few decades. However, heart failure remains the most common cause of hospitalization in persons older than 65 years. As a result, given the enormous clinical and financial burden associated with heart failure readmissions on health care, there has been growing interest in the investigation of mechanisms aimed at improving outcomes and curtailing associated costs of care. Herein, we review the current literature on clinical and socioeconomic predictors of heart failure readmissions, briefly discussing limitations of existing strategies and providing an overview of current technology aimed at reducing hospitalizations.

[Anaemia and iron deficiency in chronic heart failure patients]

Tis review focused on prevalence of anemia and iron defciency (ID) in CHF and their effect on the course and prognosis of this condition. Based on evaluation of numerous laboratory data defnitions of anemia and ID were suggested. Specifcally, a diagnostic value of measuring serum iron, serum ferritin, transferrin saturation, total iron-binding capacity, and concentration of soluble transferrin receptors was discussed. Te review highlighted the importance of measuring bone marrow iron, which is rarely used in everyday clinical practice even though this test is considered a «gold standard» of ID diagnosis. Te review provided an insight into pathogenetic mechanisms of ID in CHF including insufcient iron supply, role of inflammation, erythropoietin, RAS, and effects of some pharmacological therapies. Te authors described physiological consequences of ID and anemia, activation of hemodynamic and non-hemodynamic compensatory mechanisms, which develop in response to anemia and not infrequently aggravate CHF. Special atention was paid to current approaches to treatment of anemia and ID in CHF, including a discussion of efcacy and safety of oral and intravenous dosage forms of iron and hemopoiesis stimulators.

A Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Trial of Enarodustat in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Followed by Long-Term Trial

BACKGROUND

Enarodustat (JTZ-951) is an oral hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor that mimics adaptive responses to hypoxic conditions and may provide a new therapeutic approach for managing anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We evaluated the efficacy, safety, and maintenance dose of enarodustat in anemic patients with CKD not on dialysis.

METHODS

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) naïve patients (correction group) and patients on a stable dose of ESA (conversion group) were randomized to receive 2, 4, or 6 mg of enarodustat or placebo once daily for 6 weeks in a double-blind manner (Period 1) followed by 24 weeks of open enarodustat treatment to maintain their hemoglobin (Hb) levels within a target range of 10.0-12.0 g/dL in reference to a dose adjustment algorithm (Period 2).

RESULTS

In the correction group, Hb level increase rate per week increased in a dose-response manner. The proportion of subjects in the conversion group who maintained Hb levels within ± 1.0 g/dL of baseline did not differ between each enarodustat arm and placebo arm during Period 1. Over 70% of subjects in both groups maintained Hb levels within the target range at the end of treatment in Period 2. The mean prescribed doses were 3.58 and 3.74 mg/day in the correction group and the conversion group, respectively. Enarodustat was associated with decreases in hepcidin and ferritin and increased total iron-binding capacity and was generally well tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS

Enarodustat corrects and maintains Hb levels in anemic patients with CKD not on dialysis.

Incidence and impact of cardiorenal anaemia syndrome on all-cause mortality in acute heart failure patients stratified by left ventricular ejection fraction in the Middle East

AIMS

This study aims to evaluate the incidence and impact of cardiorenal anaemia syndrome (CRAS) on all-cause mortality in acute heart failure (AHF) patients stratified by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) status in the Middle East.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data were analysed from 4934 consecutive patients admitted to 47 hospitals in seven Middle Eastern countries (Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain) with AHF from February to November 2012. CRAS was defined as AHF with estimated glomerular filtration rate of <60 mL/min and low haemoglobin (<13 g/dL for men or <12 g/dL for women). Analyses were performed using univariate and multivariate statistical techniques. The overall mean age of the cohort was 59 ± 15 years, 62% (n = 3081) were men, and 27% (n = 1319) had CRAS. Co-morbid conditions were common including hypertension (n = 3014; 61%), coronary artery disease (n = 2971; 60%), and diabetes mellitus (n = 2449; 50%). A total of 79% (n = 3576) of the patients had AHF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) (LVEF < 50%). CRAS patients were associated with major bleeding (1.29% vs. 0.6%; P = 0.017), blood transfusion (10.1% vs. 3.0%; P < 0.001), higher re-admission rate for AHF at 3 months' follow-up (27.6% vs. 18.8%; P < 0.001) and at 12 months' follow-up (34.3% vs. 26.2%; P < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that patients with CRAS were associated with higher odds of all-cause mortality during hospital admission [adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 2.10; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.34-3.31; P = 0.001], at 3 months' follow-up (aOR, 1.48; 95% CI: 1.07-2.06; P = 0.018), and at 12 months' follow-up (aOR, 1.45; 95% CI: 1.12-1.87; P = 0.004). Stratified analyses showed that CRAS patients with HFrEF were associated with higher odds of all-cause mortality during hospital admission (aOR, 2.03; 95% CI: 1.20-3.45; P = 0.009) and at 12 months' follow-up (aOR, 1.42; 95% CI: 1.06-1.89; P = 0.019) but not at 3 months' follow-up (aOR, 1.43; 95% CI: 0.98-2.09; P = 0.063). However, in AHF patients with preserved ejection fraction (LVEF ≥ 50%), CRAS was not associated with higher odds of all-cause mortality not only during hospital admission (aOR, 2.15; 95% CI: 0.84-5.55; P = 0.113) but also at 3 months' follow-up (aOR, 1.87; 95% CI: 0.93-3.76; P = 0.078) and at 12 months' follow-up (aOR, 1.59; 95% CI: 0.91-2.76; P = 0.101).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of CRAS was 27%. CRAS was associated with higher odds of all-cause mortality in AHF patients in the Middle East, especially in those with HFrEF.

The treatment gap in patients with chronic systolic heart failure: a systematic review of evidence-based prescribing in practice

The extent and impact of under-prescribing of evidence-based pharmacological therapies among heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFREF) in contemporary practice is unclear. We sought to examine the prescribing patterns of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), β-blockers (BBs) and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), and to quantify the estimated 'treatment gap' among HFREF patients in the 'real-world' setting. The MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL and CENTRAL databases were searched for registry- or survey-based studies which examined the prescribing rates of ACE inhibitors, ARBs, BBs and MRAs among HFREF patients. Searches were limited to those published in the years 2000-2015. A total of 23 reports, including 83,605 patients, were evaluated. Overall, ACE inhibitors/ARBs, BBs and MRAs were prescribed to 79.8, 81.4 and 36.4 % of patients, respectively. The estimated treatment gaps in the overall population were 13.1 % for ACE inhibitors/ARBs, 3.9 % for BBs and 16.8 % for MRAs. The proportion of patients who received ≥50 % of the guideline-recommended target doses was 72 % for ACE inhibitors, 51 % for ARBs, 49 % for BBs, 53 % for the combination of ACE inhibitors/ARBs and BBs and 83 % for MRAs. Prescribing these drugs according to contemporary guidelines was associated with lower mortality risk. Patients who were elderly, female and with comorbidities were less likely to receive optimal treatment as recommended by the guidelines. ACE inhibitors, ARBs, BBs and MRAs are under-prescribed in eligible HFREF patients. Efforts should be made to improve approaches to closing the treatment gap at both systems of care and individual levels.

Acute coronary syndrome and acute kidney injury: role of inflammation in worsening renal function

Background

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), a common complication of acute coronary syndromes (ACS), is associated with higher mortality and longer hospital stays. The role of cytokines and other mediators is unknown in AKI induced by an ACS (ACS-AKI), leading to several unanswered questions. The worsening of renal function is usually seen as a dichotomous phenomenon instead of a dynamic change, so evaluating changes of the renal function in time may provide valuable information in the ACS-AKI setting. The aim of this study was to explore inflammatory factors associated to de novo kidney injury induced by de novo cardiac injury secondary to ACS.

Methods

One hundred four consecutive patients with ACS were initially included on the time of admission to the Coronary Unit of the Instituto Nacional de Cardiología in Mexico City, from February to May 2016, before any invasive procedure, imaging study, diuretic or anti-platelet therapy. White blood count, hemoglobin, NT-ProBNP, troponin I, C-reactive protein, albumin, glucose, Na⁺, K⁺, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, creatinine (Cr), endothelin-1 (ET-1), leukotriene-B4, matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1, resolvin-D1 (RvD1), lipoxin-A4 (LXA4), interleukin-1β, −6, −8, and −10 were measured. We finally enrolled 78 patients, and subsequently we identified 15 patients with ACS-AKI. Correlations were obtained by a Spearman rank test. Low-rank regression, splines regressions, and also protein–protein/chemical interactions and pathways analyses networks were performed.

Results

Positive correlations of ΔCr were found with BUN, admission Cr, GRACE score, IL-1β, IL-6, NT-ProBNP and age, and negative correlations with systolic blood pressure, mean-BP, diastolic-BP and LxA4. In the regression analyses IL-10 and RvD1 had positive non-linear associations with ΔCr. ET-1 had also a positive association. Significant non-linear associations were seen with NT-proBNP, admission Cr, BUN, Na⁺, K⁺, WBC, age, body mass index, GRACE, SBP, mean-BP and Hb.

Conclusion

Inflammation and its components play an important role in the worsening of renal function in ACS. IL-10, ET-1, IL-1β, TnI, RvD1 and LxA4 represent mediators that might be associated with ACS-AKI. IL-6, ET-1, NT-ProBNP might represent crossroads for several physiopathological pathways involved in “de novo cardiac injury leading to de novo kidney injury”.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12872-017-0640-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Cardiorenal Anemia Syndrome and Survival among Heart Failure Patients in Tanzania: A Prospective Cohort Study

Background

Cardiorenal anemia syndrome (CRAS) is an evolving global epidemic associated with increased morbimortality and cost of care. The management of patients with CRAS remains a challenging undertaking worldwide and the lack of evidence-based clinical guidelines adds to the challenge. We aimed to explore the prevalence and survival rates of heart failure patients with CRAS in Tanzania.

Methods

We screened 789 patients and consecutively recruited 463 who met the inclusion criteria. Each participant underwent an interview, physical examination, anthropometric measurements, anemia, renal functions and echocardiographic assessment. All participants were followed until death or for up-to 180 days, whichever came first. Bivariate comparison and subsequent Cox proportional-hazards regression model were used to compare the CRAS and non-CRAS groups with respect to the primary end point.

Results

The mean age of participants was 46.4 ± 18.9 years, and 56.5% were women. Overall, 51.9% of participants had renal insufficiency, 72.8% were anemic and 44.4% had CRAS. During a mean follow-up of 103 ± 75 days, 57.8% of participants died. Patients with CRAS displayed a higher mortality rate (73.5%) compared to those free of CRAS (45.8%), (p < 0.001). During multivariate analysis in a cox regression model of 21 potential predictors of mortality; renal dysfunction (HR 1.9; 95% CI 1.0–3.5; p = 0.03), severe anemia (HR 1.8; 95% CI 1.0–3.1; p = 0.04), hyponatremia (HR 2.2; 95% CI 1.3–3.7; p = 0.004) and rehospitalization (HR 4.3; 95% CI 2.2–8.4; p < 0.001) proved to be the strongest factors.

Conclusion

Cardiorenal anemia syndrome is considerably prevalent and is associated with an increase in mortality amongst patients with heart failure. In view of this, timely, aggressive and collaborative measures to improve renal functions and/or correct anemia are crucial in the management of CRAS patients. Furthermore, these findings call for guideline committees to revise and/or develop evidence-based recommendations for management of patients with CRAS.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12872-017-0497-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Association of anemia and renal dysfunction with in-hospital mortality among patients hospitalized for acute heart failure syndromes with preserved or reduced ejection fraction

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of anemia and renal dysfunction with in-hospital outcomes in acute heart failure syndromes patients with preserved or reduced ejection fraction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Of the 4842 patients enrolled in the Acute Decompensated Heart Failure Syndromes (ATTEND) registry, 4693 patients were evaluated to investigate the association among anemia, renal dysfunction, a preserved or reduced ejection fraction and in-hospital mortality. They were divided into four groups based on hemoglobin and estimated glomerular filtration rate at admission. The in-hospital mortality rate was 5.9% and 6.9% of the preserved and reduced ejection fraction groups, respectively. After adjustment for multiple comorbidities, there was no association of either anemia or renal dysfunction alone with in-hospital mortality in preserved ejection fraction patients, but the combination of anemia and renal dysfunction was associated with a somewhat higher risk of in-hospital mortality than that without either condition (odds ratio (OR), 2.75; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.72-10.41; p=0.137). In reduced ejection fraction patients, adjusted analysis showed that a significantly higher risk of in-hospital mortality was associated with anemia alone (OR, 2.56; 95% CI, 1.10 -5.94; p=0.029) and with anemia plus renal dysfunction (OR, 2.34; 95% CI, 1.09-5.03; p=0.029) relative to the risk without either condition.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate that anemia combined with renal dysfunction is not a risk factor for in-hospital mortality in patients with a preserved ejection fraction, whereas anemia is an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality risk in reduced ejection fraction patients regardless of renal dysfunction.

Impact of Cardiorenal Anemia Syndrome on Short- and Long-Term Clinical Outcomes in Patients Hospitalized with Heart Failure

BACKGROUND

Dysfunctional interplay between the heart and kidneys may lead to the development of anemia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of cardiorenal anemia syndrome (CRAS) on short- and long-term outcomes among patients hospitalized with heart failure (HF).

METHODS

We enrolled 303 patients hospitalized with HF. We divided the patients into two groups: a CRAS group (n = 64) and a non-CRAS group (n = 239). We defined CRAS as HF accompanied by (1) an estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min/1.73 m(2) calculated by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease at admission and (2) a hemoglobin level <12 g/dl for females and <13 g/dl for males at admission. The primary outcome was a composite of cardiac death, non-fatal myocardial infarction and rehospitalization for HF.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up period of 25.6 months (range 0.1-35.3 months), the patients with CRAS had a significantly increased risk for the primary outcome (27.5 vs. 10.7%, p < 0.001) compared with the patients in the non-CRAS group. Using Cox proportional hazard analyses, the hazard ratio (HR) for the presence of CRAS was found to be 1.874 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.011-3.475, p = 0.046); HRs were also computed for the presence of diabetes mellitus (HR = 2.241, 95% CI 1.221-4.112, p = 0.009), New York Heart Association class III or IV HF (HR = 2.948, 95% CI 1.206-7.205, p = 0.018) and the use of intravenous loop diuretics (HR = 2.286, 95% CI 0.926-5.641, p = 0.073).

CONCLUSIONS

Renal dysfunction and anemia are a fatal combination and are associated with poor prognosis in patients with HF.

Investigation of iron deficiency in patients with congestive heart failure: A medical practice that requires greater attention

INTRODUCTION

Iron deficiency in congestive heart failure (CHF), with or without concomitant anaemia, is associated with health-related quality of life, NYHA functional class, and exercise capacity. Prospective, randomised studies have demonstrated that correcting iron deficiency improves the quality of life and functional status of patients with CHF, including those who do not have anaemia.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to analyse how frequently these iron parameters are tested and thus determine the extent to which this quality improvement tool has been implemented in patients admitted with CHF.

METHODS

Retrospective observational study of patients from a university hospital diagnosed with CHF on admission between 01/01/2012 and 11/06/2013.

RESULTS

Iron parameters were tested in 39% (324) of the 824 patients analysed. There was no significant difference in age between the patients whose iron was tested and those whose iron was not tested, but the difference in terms of gender was significant (P=.007). Glomerular filtration rate and haemoglobin, were significantly lower in the group of patients whose iron was tested (P<.001). The proportion of patients with anaemia, renal failure or both was significantly higher in the group of patients who had iron tests (P<.001). Of the 324 patients whose iron parameters were tested, 164 (51%) had iron deficiency. There were no differences between patients with and without iron deficiency in terms of age or gender. The iron parameters in both groups, ferritin and transferrin saturation index were significantly lower among the patients with iron deficiency (P<.001). The glomerular filtration rate values were significantly lower in patients with no iron deficiency (P<.001). Significant differences were also observed between those with and without iron deficiency in the proportion of patients with renal failure (79 vs. 66%, respectively, P=.013), but not in terms of haemoglobin concentration.

CONCLUSION

Congestive heart failure is very frequently associated with anaemia, iron deficiency and renal failure. Despite the fact that correcting iron deficiency is known to improve symptoms, testing of iron parameters in patients admitted with CHF is not performed as often as it should be.

Red Cell Distribution Width and the Risk of Mortality in Patients With Acute Heart Failure With or Without Cardiorenal Anemia Syndrome

Red cell distribution width (RCDW) has not been fully investigated for its prognostic impact in patients with acute heart failure (AHF) with or without the cardiorenal anemia syndrome (CRAS). A total of 978 patients (age 75 ± 14 years, 70% men, 43% with CRAS) hospitalized for AHF were enrolled. During a median follow-up duration of 31 months, 472 subjects (48%) died. The postdischarge mortality was positively associated with the increasing RCDW. After accounting for age, gender, co-morbidities, hemoglobin, renal function, sodium level, and N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide, RCDW remained an independent predictor of mortality (hazard ratio [HR] and 95% CI for a 1% increase of RCDW: 1.09, 1.00 to 1.17, p = 0.04). In the subgroups of patients with or without CRAS, RCDW was an independent predictor of total mortality for both subgroups (HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.10 and HR 1.11, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.15, respectively). In conclusion, elevated RCDW was independently associated with mortality in patients hospitalized for AHF, with or without CRAS.

Nutritional Status is Associated with Inflammation and Predicts a Poor Outcome in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure

AIM

Malnutrition has been identified to be an independent predictor of morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). However, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this pathway remain unclear.

METHODS

Nutritional screening was performed using the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score, which was calculated using the serum albumin and total cholesterol levels and lymphocyte number, in 114 CHF patients with a mean left ventricular ejection fraction of 26.6%±6.4%. The carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is correlated with carotid atherosclerosis and is a significant predictor of future cardiovascular events. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated, and the production of monocyte tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α was measured and expressed as mean±SD (pg/mL/10(6) PBMCs).

RESULTS

A multivariate linear regression analysis showed that the production of monocyte TNF-α (β coefficient=0.434, p＜0.001) and mean CIMT (β coefficient=0.204, p=0.006) were independent determinants of the CONUT score. During a median follow-up of 67.5 months, 45 patients experienced cardiac events, including 16 cardiac deaths and 29 readmissions for worsening CHF. A multivariate Cox hazard analysis demonstrated that a monocyte TNF-α level of ≥4.1 pg/mL/10(6) PBMCs (hazard ratio (HR), 14.10; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.55-77.92; p=0.002) and CONUT score of ≥3 (HR, 11.97; 95% CI, 2.21-64.67; p=0.004) were independently associated with the incidence of cardiac events.

CONCLUSIONS

These data indicate that a poor nutritional status as assessed using the CONUT score and atherosclerosis as indicated by CIMT is significantly associated with inflammation and predicts poor outcomes in patients with CHF.

Relation between Red Cell Distribution Width and Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 Cleaving in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Heart Failure

OBJECTIVE

In chronic kidney disease (CKD), both anemia and deregulated phosphate metabolism are common and predictive of adverse outcome. Previous studies suggest that iron status influences phosphate metabolism by modulating proteolytic cleavage of FGF23 into C-terminal fragments. Red cell distribution width (RDW) was recently identified as a strong prognostic determinant for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, independently of iron status. We assessed whether RDW is associated with FGF23 cleaving in CKD patients with heart failure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The associations between RDW and either intact FGF23 (iFGF23), C-terminal FGF23 (cFGF23, reflecting iFGF23 and C-terminal fragments together) and the iFGF23/cFGF23 ratio were analyzed in 52 patients with CKD (eGFR 34,9 ± 13.9 ml/min/1.73m2) and chronic heart failure (CHF). Associations between RDW and FGF23 forms were studied by linear regression analysis adjusted for parameters of renal function, iron metabolism, phosphate metabolism and inflammation.

RESULTS

Median cFGF23 levels were 197.5 [110-408.5] RU/ml, median iFGF23 levels were 107.3 [65.1-162.2] pg/ml and median FGF23 ratio was 0.80 [0.37-0.86]. Mean RDW was 14.1 ± 1.2%. cFGF23 and RDW were associated (β = 1.63 x 10(-3), P < 0.001), whereas iFGF23 and RDW were not (β = -1.38 x 10(-3), P = 0.336). The iFGF23/cFGF23 ratio was inversely associated with RDW. The difference between cFGF23 and iFGF23 (cFGF23- iFGF23) was positively associated with RDW (β = 1.74 x 10(-3), P < 0.001). The association between cFGF23 and RDW persisted upon multivariable linear regression analysis, adjusted for parameters of renal function, phosphate metabolism, iron metabolism and inflammation (β = 0.97 x 10(-3), P = 0.047).

CONCLUSION

RDW is associated with cFGF23 but not with iFGF23 levels in patients with CKD and CHF. This suggests a connection between RDW and FGF23 catabolism, independent of iron status and inflammation. Future studies are needed to unravel underlying mechanisms and whether these pertain to the link between RDW and outcome.

Noncardiac comorbidities in heart failure with reduced versus preserved ejection fraction

Heart failure patients are classified by ejection fraction (EF) into distinct groups: heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) or heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Although patients with heart failure commonly have multiple comorbidities that complicate management and may adversely affect outcomes, their role in the HFpEF and HFrEF groups is not well-characterized. This review summarizes the role of noncardiac comorbidities in patients with HFpEF versus HFrEF, emphasizing prevalence, underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms, and outcomes. Pulmonary disease, diabetes mellitus, anemia, and obesity tend to be more prevalent in HFpEF patients, but renal disease and sleep-disordered breathing burdens are similar. These comorbidities similarly increase morbidity and mortality risk in HFpEF and HFrEF patients. Common pathophysiologic mechanisms include systemic and endomyocardial inflammation with fibrosis. We also discuss implications for clinical care and future HF clinical trial design. The basis for this review was discussions between scientists, clinical trialists, and regulatory representatives at the 10th Global CardioVascular Clinical Trialists Forum.

Left atrial function predicts heart failure events in patients with newly diagnosed left ventricular systolic heart failure during short-term follow-up

We assessed the effect of left atrial (LA) function index, LA ejection fraction, LA kinetic energy, and maximal LA volume on 6 months clinical outcome in patients with newly diagnosed systolic heart failure (HF). During a 36-month period, 179 consecutive patients (17% female, mean age 63 ± 14 years) were enrolled. During the follow-up, 46 patients had an event (32% event rate; 15 were fatal). Those with an adverse event were older, had lower creatinine clearance, advanced New York Heart Association stage, higher prevalence of ischemic HF, and lower values for right ventricle systolic wave in the tissue Doppler imaging evaluation, compared with those without an event. Multivariate analysis revealed that LA function and ischemic etiology of HF were the most significant prognostic indicators after index hospitalization. This study reveals the important role of LA function for the short-term prognosis of patients with newly diagnosed systolic HF in sinus rhythm.

Associations of anemia and renal dysfunction with outcomes among patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure with preserved or reduced ejection fraction

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The relationship among anemia, renal dysfunction, left ventricular ejection fraction, and outcomes of patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure is unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between cardiorenal anemia syndrome and postdischarge outcomes in patients hospitalized for heart failure with a preserved or reduced ejection fraction.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

Of 4842 patients enrolled in the Acute Decompensated Heart Failure Syndromes Registry between April 1, 2007 and December 31, 2011, 4393 patients were evaluated to investigate the association among anemia, renal dysfunction, preserved or reduced ejection fraction, and the primary end point (mortality and readmission for heart failure since discharge). The patients were divided into four groups on the basis of eGFR and hemoglobin at discharge. The median follow-up period after discharge was 432 (range=253-659) days.

RESULTS

The primary end point was reached in 37.6% and 34.8% of the preserved and reduced ejection fraction groups, respectively. After adjustment for multiple comorbidities, there was no significant association of either renal dysfunction or anemia alone with the primary end point in patients with preserved ejection fraction, but the combination of renal dysfunction and anemia was associated with a significantly higher risk than that without either condition (hazard ratio, 1.54; 95% confidence interval, 1.12 to 2.12; P<0.01). In patients with reduced ejection fraction, adjusted analysis showed that a significantly higher risk of the primary end point was associated with renal dysfunction alone (hazard ratio, 1.65; 95% confidence interval, 1.21 to 2.25; P=0.002) and also, renal dysfunction plus anemia relative to the risk without either condition (hazard ratio, 2.19; 95% confidence interval, 1.62 to 2.96; P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings show that renal dysfunction combined with anemia is associated with an increased risk of adverse postdischarge outcomes in patients with preserved ejection fraction, whereas renal dysfunction is an independent predictor of the risk of adverse outcomes in patients with reduced ejection fraction, regardless of anemia.

Impact of chronic kidney disease on myocardial blood flow regulation in dogs

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) increases cardiovascular risk possibly due to coronary microvessel dysfunction and impaired myocardial flow reserve. This study investigated the effects of CKD on the regulation and transmural distribution of myocardial blood flow along with oxygen demand during intravenous dobutamine-induced increases in cardiac work.

METHODS

CKD was produced in dogs by a two-stage subtotal nephrectomy (kidney ablation-infarction model). Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen were evaluated during the development of CKD along with systemic blood pressure (tail-cuff plethysmography). After 5 weeks, the CKD dogs were staged according to the International Renal Interest Society staging system; all dogs were anesthetized and surgically prepared for blood flow studies. Data analyses were performed between sham control (CTR) and stage 1 and 2 CKD dogs.

RESULTS

At baseline, myocardial blood flow and diastolic aortic pressure were similar for all groups. During intravenous dobutamine, myocardial blood flow was markedly higher than CTR even though hematocrit levels declined with the severity of CKD. In the CTR dogs, myocardial blood flow increased in direct relation to cardiac work. However, in the CKD dogs (stage 1 and 2), maximum blood flow was achieved with low-dose dobutamine, indicating that coronary autoregulation is more readily exhausted with minimal increases in cardiac work during CKD.

CONCLUSION

We report that CKD markedly impairs coronary vascular reserve and myocardial blood flow regulation which could contribute to greater cardiovascular risk and poor clinical outcomes in CKD patients.

Clinical profile and prognostic value of anemia at the time of admission and discharge among patients hospitalized for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: findings from the EVEREST trial

BACKGROUND

Anemia has been associated with worse outcomes in patients with chronic heart failure (HF). We aimed to characterize the clinical profile and postdischarge outcomes of hospitalized HF patients with anemia at admission or discharge.

METHODS AND RESULTS

An analysis was performed on 3731 (90%) of 4133 hospitalized HF patients with ejection fraction ≤40% enrolled in the Efficacy of Vasopressin Antagonist in Heart Failure Outcome Study with Tolvaptan (EVEREST) trial with baseline hemoglobin data, comparing the clinical characteristics and outcomes (all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality or HF hospitalization) of patients with and without anemia (hemoglobin <12 g/dL for women and <13 g/dL for men) on admission or discharge/day 7. Overall, 1277 patients (34%) were anemic at baseline, which persisted through discharge in 73% and resolved in 27%; 6% of patients without baseline anemia developed anemia by discharge or day 7. Patients with anemia were older, with lower blood pressure, and higher creatinine and natriuretic peptide levels compared with those without anemia (all P<0.05). After risk adjustment, anemia at discharge, but not admission, was independently associated with increased all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 1.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-1.60; P=0.015; and hazard ratio, 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.76-1.15; P=0.53, respectively) and cardiovascular mortality plus HF hospitalization early postdischarge (≤100 days; hazard ratio 1.73; 95% confidence interval, 1.37-2.18; P<0.001; and hazard ratio, 0.92; 95% confidence interval, 0.73-1.16; P=0.47, respectively). Neither baseline nor discharge anemia was associated with long-term cardiovascular mortality plus HF hospitalization (>100 days) on adjusted analysis (both P>0.1).

CONCLUSIONS

Among hospitalized HF patients with reduced ejection fraction, modest anemia at discharge but not baseline was associated with increased all-cause mortality and short-term cardiovascular mortality plus HF hospitalization.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00071331.

The additive burden of iron deficiency in the cardiorenal-anaemia axis: scope of a problem and its consequences

AIMS

Iron deficiency (ID), anaemia, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are common co-morbidities in chronic heart failure (CHF) and all independent predictors of unfavourable outcome. The combination of anaemia and CKD in CHF has been described as the cardiorenal-anaemia syndrome. However, the role of ID within this complex interplay of co-existing pathologies is unclear.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We studied the clinical correlates of ID (defined as ferritin <100 µg/L or 100-299 µg/L in combination with a transferrin saturation <20%, anaemia) and renal dysfunction (defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m(2) ) and their prognostic implications in an international pooled cohort, comprising 1506 patients with CHF. Mean age was 64 ± 13 years, 74.2% were male, and 47.3% were in NYHA functional class III. The presence of ID, anaemia, CKD, or a combination of these co-morbidities was observed in 69.3% of the patients. During a median (Q1-Q3) follow-up of 1.92 years (1.18-3.26 years), 440 patients (29.2%) died. Eight-year survival rates decreased significantly from 58.0% for no co-morbidities to 44.6, 33.0, and 18.4%, for one, two, or three co-morbidities, respectively (P < 0.001). Multivariate hazard models revealed ID to be the key determinant of prognosis, either individually (P = 0.04) or in combination with either anaemia (P = 0.006), CKD (P = 0.03), or both (P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Iron deficiency frequently overlaps with anaemia and/or CKD in CHF. The presence of ID amplifies mortality risk, either alone or in combination with anaemia, CKD, or both, making it a potential viable therapeutic target.

The Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation outperforms the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation for estimating glomerular filtration rate in chronic systolic heart failure

AIMS

The Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) formula estimates glomerular filtration rate (GFR) better than the simplified Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (sMDRD) formula in numerous populations. It has not previously been validated in heart failure patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The GFR was measured in 120 patients with chronic systolic heart failure (CHF) using [(125)I]iothalamate clearance (GFR(IOTH)) and estimated using the sMDRD and CKD-EPI equations. Accuracy, bias, and prognostic performance were compared. Cockcroft-Gault, CKD-EPI serum cystatin C, and CKD-EPI creatinine-serum cystatin C equations were compared in secondary analyses. Mean age was 59 ± 12 years, 80% were male. Mean LVEF was 29 ± 10%. Mean GFR(IOTH) was 74 ± 27 mL/min/1.73 m(2), and mean estimated GFR was 66 ± 23 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (CKD-EPI) and 63 ± 21 mL/min/1.73m(2) (sMDRD). CKD-EPI showed less bias than sMDRD (-8 ± 15 vs. -11 ± 16 mL/min/1.73 m(2), P < 0.001). Both equations underestimate at higher and overestimate at lower GFR(IOTH). Eleven patients (9%) were accurately reclassified into lower CKD classes with CKD-EPI. Cockcroft-Gault showed lower bias (-3 ± 16 mL/min/1.73 m(2)) but worse precision and accuracy. Cystatin C-based estimation showed the lowest bias (-3 ± 14 mL/min/1.73 m(2)) and the best precision and accuracy. Prognostic value did not differ between all GFR estimates

CONCLUSION

The CKD-EPI equation more accurately estimates measured GFR than the sMDRD equation in CHF patients, with less bias and greater accuracy and precision. The prognostic power of all GFR assessments was equivalent. Based on better performance and equal risk prediction, we believe the CKI-EPI equation should be the preferred creatinine-based GFR estimation method in heart failure patients, particularly those with preserved or moderately impaired renal function.

Renal issues in older adults in critical care

Renal issues are among the most commonly encountered complications in the intensive care unit, increasing mortality, morbidity, and health care costs. Older adult patients face an increased risk because of several factors, including the normal effects of aging and a higher rate of comorbid conditions that may affect kidney function. This article describes the classification of renal dysfunction, the effects of aging on kidney function, as well as additional risk factors, management strategies, and outcomes in the older adult population.

Renal impairment, worsening renal function, and outcome in patients with heart failure: an updated meta-analysis

AIMS

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and worsening renal function (WRF) have been associated with poor outcome in heart failure (HF).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Articles were identified by literature search of MEDLINE (from inception to 1 July 2012) and Cochrane. We included studies on HF patients and mortality risk with CKD and/or WRF. In a secondary analysis, we selected studies investigating predictors of WRF. We retrieved 57 studies (1,076,104 patients) that investigated CKD and 28 studies (49,890 patients) that investigated WRF. The prevalence of CKD was 32% and associated with all-cause mortality: odds ratio (OR) 2.34, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.20-2.50, P < 0.001). Worsening renal function was present in 23% and associated with unfavourable outcome (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.55-2.12, P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, moderate renal impairment: hazard ratio (HR) 1.59, 95% CI 1.49-1.69, P < 0.001, severe renal impairment, HR 2.17, 95% CI 1.95-2.40, P < 0.001, and WRF, HR 1.95, 95% CI 1.45-2.62, P < 0.001 were all independent predictors of mortality. Across studies, baseline CKD, history of hypertension and diabetes, age, and diuretic use were significant predictors for the occurrence of WRF.

CONCLUSION

Across all subgroups of patients with HF, CKD, and WRF are prevalent and associated with a strongly increased mortality risk, especially CKD. Specific conditions may predict the occurrence of WRF and thereby poor prognosis.

Cardiorenal anemia syndrome as a prognosticator for death in heart failure

Anemia and chronic kidney disease are common in patients with heart failure (HF) and are associated with adverse outcomes. We analyzed the effect of cardiorenal anemia (CRA) syndrome, defined as anemia (hemoglobin <130 g/L for men, <120 g/L for women) and stage 3 or greater chronic kidney disease (estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min/1.73 m(2)), in outpatients with HF. Consecutive patients with HF were prospectively enrolled from 2000 to 2005 (n = 748). The baseline clinical characteristics, pathology test results, and medication use were compared between those with and without CRA syndrome. The primary end point was all-cause mortality. The mean follow-up was 2.5 ± 1.6 years, with a left ventricular ejection fraction <45% present in 70% of patients. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, β blockers, and spironolactone were used in 87%, 67%, and 37%, respectively. CRA syndrome was present in 224 patients (30%). These patients had greater all-cause mortality (51% vs 26%, p <0.001), older age (mean 77 ± 8 vs 67 ± 14 years, p <0.001), and greater rates of diabetes mellitus (35% vs 23%, p <0.001) and ischemic heart disease (50% vs 35%, p <0.001). The independent predictors of mortality were CRA syndrome (hazard ratio 2.0, 95% confidence interval 1.4 to 2.8, p <0.001), left ventricular systolic dysfunction per grade (hazard ratio 1.5, 95% confidence interval 1.3 to 1.8, p <0.001), the absence of a β blocker (hazard ratio 1.6, 95% confidence interval 1.1 to 2.2, p = 0.005), New York Heart Association class per class (hazard ratio 1.5, 95% confidence interval 1.2 to 1.9, p <0.01), and age per decade (hazard ratio 1.6, 95% confidence interval 1.4 to 2.0, p <0.001). In conclusion, CRA syndrome was common in patients with HF and was an independent predictor of all-cause mortality. Consideration should be given to identifying CRA syndrome and modifying reversible factors.

Effect of lipo-prostaglandin E1 on cystatin C, β2-microglobulin, and estimated glomerular filtration rate in patients with decompensated heart failure and renal dysfunction: a single-center, nonrandomized controlled study

A nonrandomized controlled study was conducted to evaluate the effect of lipo-prostaglandin E1 (lipo-PGE1) on cystatin C (CysC), β2-microglobulin (B2MG), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in patients with decompensated heart failure (DHF) and renal dysfunction. A total of 286 enrolled patients with DHF and renal dysfunction were nonrandomly assigned a 7-day standard treatment without (n = 146) or with (n = 140) lipo-PGE1 intervention. According to the baseline eGFR, patients were further classified into mild, moderate, and severe renal dysfunction subgroups. By the end of study period, there was no evidence of an immense improvement in B2MG, CysC, and eGFR in response to standard treatment (all P > 0.05). On the contrary, a noticeable decrease of B2MG and CysC was observed in patients receiving lipo-PGE1 intervention, as well as an increase in eGFR (all P < 0.05). Moreover, lipo-PGE1 intervention led to greater changes in renal function variables from baseline than with standard management (all P < 0.05). Most important, the favorable renal protective effects of lipo-PGE1 were maintained in three subgroups. Lipo-PGE1 intervention brought a substantial renoprotective benefit to hospitalized DHF patients as compared with standard therapy, suggesting it might offer a promising therapeutic option for the management of renal dysfunction associated with DHF.

Chronic kidney disease and cardiac remodelling in patients with mild heart failure: results from the REsynchronization reVErses Remodeling in Systolic Left vEntricular Dysfunction (REVERSE) study

AIMS

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a risk factor for left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and heart failure. We evaluated the effect of CKD on left ventricular (LV) remodelling among patients with mild heart failure.

METHODS AND RESULTS

REVERSE was a randomized, controlled trial evaluating cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class I/II heart failure. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m(2). We compared changes in LV function and size over the course of 12 months by CKD status using linear mixed models adjusted for demographics, co-morbidities, medications, cardiomyopathy aetiology, and CRT status. Finally, we evaluated the effect of CKD on cardiac remodelling among patients randomized to CRT on or off. CKD was associated with worsening LV function and dilation compared with the non-CKD group {adjusted, 12-month β coefficients for the CKD group compared with the non-CKD referent group: LV ejection fraction (%) [-1.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) -3.36 to -0.24], LV end-systolic volume (mL) (14.16, 95% CI 3.96-24.36), LV end-diastolic volume (mL) (14.88, 95% CI 2.88-26.76), LV end-systolic diameter (cm) (0.36, 95% CI 0.12-0.48), LV end-diastolic diameter (cm) (0.24, 95% CI 0.012-0.36), mitral regurgitation (%) (3.12, 95% CI 0.48-5.76), and LV shape (0.036, 95% CI 0.012-0.060)}. In participants assigned to CRT, those without CKD had significantly greater improvements in LV structural parameters compared with the CKD group.

CONCLUSIONS

In comparison with participants with normal kidney function, CKD is an independent risk factor for ventricular dysfunction and dilation. CRT improves LV function and structure to a lesser extent in patients with CKD than in those with normal kidney function.