1
|
Fernandez-Falgueras A, Coll M, Iglesias A, Tiron C, Campuzano O, Brugada R. The importance of variant reinterpretation in inherited cardiovascular diseases: Establishing the optimal timeframe. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297914. [PMID: 38691546 PMCID: PMC11062523 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Inherited cardiovascular diseases are rare diseases that are difficult to diagnose by non-expert professionals. Genetic analyses play a key role in the diagnosis of these diseases, in which the identification of a pathogenic genetic variant is often a diagnostic criterion. Therefore, genetic variant classification and routine reinterpretation as data become available represent one of the main challenges associated with genetic analyses. Using the genetic variants identified in an inherited cardiovascular diseases unit during a 10-year period, the objectives of this study were: 1) to evaluate the impact of genetic variant reinterpretation, 2) to compare the reclassification rates between different cohorts of cardiac channelopathies and cardiomyopathies, and 3) to establish the most appropriate periodicity for genetic variant reinterpretation. All the evaluated cohorts (full cohort of inherited cardiovascular diseases, cardiomyopathies, cardiac channelopathies, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, Brugada syndrome, long QT syndrome and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia) showed reclassification rates above 25%, showing even higher reclassification rates when there is definitive evidence of the association between the gene and the disease in the cardiac channelopathies. Evaluation of genetic variant reclassification rates based on the year of the initial classification showed that the most appropriate frequency for the reinterpretation would be 2 years, with the possibility of a more frequent reinterpretation if deemed convenient. To keep genetic variant classifications up to date, genetic counsellors play a critical role in the reinterpretation process, providing clinical evidence that genetic diagnostic laboratories often do not have at their disposal and communicating changes in classification and the potential implications of these reclassifications to patients and relatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Fernandez-Falgueras
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Trueta, Girona, Spain
- Molecular Diagnostics and Personalized Medicine Unit, Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Trueta, Girona, Spain
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, University of Girona-IDIBGI, Girona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Monica Coll
- Molecular Diagnostics and Personalized Medicine Unit, Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Trueta, Girona, Spain
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, University of Girona-IDIBGI, Girona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Anna Iglesias
- Molecular Diagnostics and Personalized Medicine Unit, Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Trueta, Girona, Spain
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, University of Girona-IDIBGI, Girona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Coloma Tiron
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Trueta, Girona, Spain
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, University of Girona-IDIBGI, Girona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
- Medical Science Department, School of Medicine, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Oscar Campuzano
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, University of Girona-IDIBGI, Girona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
- Medical Science Department, School of Medicine, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Ramon Brugada
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Trueta, Girona, Spain
- Molecular Diagnostics and Personalized Medicine Unit, Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Trueta, Girona, Spain
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, University of Girona-IDIBGI, Girona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
- Medical Science Department, School of Medicine, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Walsh N, Cooper A, Dockery A, O'Byrne JJ. Variant reclassification and clinical implications. J Med Genet 2024; 61:207-211. [PMID: 38296635 DOI: 10.1136/jmg-2023-109488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Genomic technologies have transformed clinical genetic testing, underlining the importance of accurate molecular genetic diagnoses. Variant classification, ranging from benign to pathogenic, is fundamental to these tests. However, variant reclassification, the process of reassigning the pathogenicity of variants over time, poses challenges to diagnostic legitimacy. This review explores the medical and scientific literature available on variant reclassification, focusing on its clinical implications.Variant reclassification is driven by accruing evidence from diverse sources, leading to variant reclassification frequency ranging from 3.6% to 58.8%. Recent studies have shown that significant changes can occur when reviewing variant classifications within 1 year after initial classification, illustrating the importance of early, accurate variant assignation for clinical care.Variants of uncertain significance (VUS) are particularly problematic. They lack clear categorisation but have influenced patient treatment despite recommendations against it. Addressing VUS reclassification is essential to enhance the credibility of genetic testing and the clinical impact. Factors affecting reclassification include standardised guidelines, clinical phenotype-genotype correlations through deep phenotyping and ancestry studies, large-scale databases and bioinformatics tools. As genomic databases grow and knowledge advances, reclassification rates are expected to change, reducing discordance in future classifications.Variant reclassification affects patient diagnosis, precision therapy and family screening. The exact patient impact is yet unknown. Understanding influencing factors and adopting standardised guidelines are vital for precise molecular genetic diagnoses, ensuring optimal patient care and minimising clinical risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Walsh
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Children's Health Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aislinn Cooper
- Next Generation Sequencing Lab, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Adrian Dockery
- Next Generation Sequencing Lab, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - James J O'Byrne
- National Centre for Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Verheul LM, van der Ree MH, Groeneveld SA, Mulder BA, Christiaans I, Kapel GFL, Alings M, Bootsma M, Barge-Schaapveld DQCM, Balt JC, Yap SC, Krapels IPC, Ter Bekke RMA, Volders PGA, van der Crabben SN, Postema PG, Wilde AAM, Dooijes D, Baas AF, Hassink RJ. The genetic basis of apparently idiopathic ventricular fibrillation: a retrospective overview. Europace 2023; 25:euad336. [PMID: 37967257 PMCID: PMC10665040 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS During the diagnostic work-up of patients with idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (VF), next-generation sequencing panels can be considered to identify genotypes associated with arrhythmias. However, consensus for gene panel testing is still lacking, and variants of uncertain significance (VUS) are often identified. The aim of this study was to evaluate genetic testing and its results in idiopathic VF patients. METHODS AND RESULTS We investigated 419 patients with available medical records from the Dutch Idiopathic VF Registry. Genetic testing was performed in 379 (91%) patients [median age at event 39 years (27-51), 60% male]. Single-gene testing was performed in 87 patients (23%) and was initiated more often in patients with idiopathic VF before 2010. Panel testing was performed in 292 patients (77%). The majority of causal (likely) pathogenic variants (LP/P, n = 56, 15%) entailed the DPP6 risk haplotype (n = 39, 70%). Moreover, 10 LP/P variants were found in cardiomyopathy genes (FLNC, MYL2, MYH7, PLN (two), TTN (four), RBM20), and 7 LP/P variants were identified in genes associated with cardiac arrhythmias (KCNQ1, SCN5A (2), RYR2 (four)). For eight patients (2%), identification of an LP/P variant resulted in a change of diagnosis. In 113 patients (30%), a VUS was identified. Broad panel testing resulted in a higher incidence of VUS in comparison to single-gene testing (38% vs. 3%, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Almost all patients from the registry underwent, albeit not broad, genetic testing. The genetic yield of causal LP/P variants in idiopathic VF patients is 5%, increasing to 15% when including DPP6. In specific cases, the LP/P variant is the underlying diagnosis. A gene panel specifically for idiopathic VF patients is proposed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Verheul
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, Utrecht 3584 CX, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn H van der Ree
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Heart Failure and Arrhythmias, Amsterdam, Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne A Groeneveld
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, Utrecht 3584 CX, The Netherlands
| | - Bart A Mulder
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Imke Christiaans
- Department of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gijs F L Kapel
- Department of Cardiology, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Marco Alings
- Department of Cardiology, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne Bootsma
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jippe C Balt
- Department of Cardiology, St.Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Sing-Chien Yap
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ingrid P C Krapels
- Department of Human Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rachel M A Ter Bekke
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Paul G A Volders
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia N van der Crabben
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter G Postema
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Heart Failure and Arrhythmias, Amsterdam, Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arthur A M Wilde
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Heart Failure and Arrhythmias, Amsterdam, Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dennis Dooijes
- Department of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Annette F Baas
- Department of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rutger J Hassink
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, Utrecht 3584 CX, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Christian S, Dzwiniel T. Principles of Genetic Counseling in Inherited Heart Conditions. Card Electrophysiol Clin 2023; 15:229-239. [PMID: 37558294 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccep.2023.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac genetic counseling is the process of helping individuals adapt to a personal diagnosis or family history of an inherited heart condition. The process is shown to benefit patients and includes specialized skills, such as counseling children and interpreting complex genetic results. Emerging areas include: evolving service delivery models for caring for patients and communicating risk to relatives, new areas of need including postmortem molecular autopsy, and new populations of individuals found to carry a likely pathogenic/pathogenic cardiac variant identified through genomic screening. This article provides an overview of the cardiac genetic counseling process and evolving areas in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Christian
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Tara Dzwiniel
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Davies B, Allan KS, Carroll SL, Gibbs K, Roberts JD, MacIntyre C, Steinberg C, Tadros R, Dorian P, Healey JS, Gardner M, Laksman ZWM, Krahn AD, Fournier A, Seifer C, Lauck SB. Perceived self-efficacy and empowerment in patients at increased risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:955060. [PMID: 37255708 PMCID: PMC10225561 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.955060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The role of multidisciplinary clinics for psychosocial care is increasingly recognized for those living with inherited cardiac conditions (ICC). In Canada, access to healthcare providers differ between clinics. Little is known about the relationship between access to specialty care and a patient's ability to cope with, and manage their condition. Methods We leveraged the Hearts in Rhythm Organization (HiRO) to conduct a cross-sectional, community-based survey of individuals with ICC and their family members. We aimed to describe access to services, and explore the relationships between participants' characteristics, cardiac history and self-reported health status and self-efficacy (GSE: General Self-Efficacy Scale) and empowerment (GCOS-24: Genetic Counseling Outcome Scale). Results We collected 235 responses from Canadian participants in 10 provinces and territories. Overall, 63% of participants reported involvement of a genetic counsellor in their care. Access to genetic testing was associated with greater empowerment [mean GCOS-24: 121.14 (SD = 20.53) vs. 105.68 (SD = 21.69); p = 0.004]. Uncertain genetic test results were associated with lower perceived self-efficacy (mean GSE: uncertain = 28.85 vs. positive = 33.16, negative = 34.13; p = 0.01). Low global mental health scores correlated with both lower perceived self-efficacy and empowerment scores, with only 11% of affected participants reporting involvement of psychology services in their care. Conclusion Differences in resource accessibility, clinical history and self-reported health status impact the perceived self-efficacy and empowerment of patients with ICC. Future research evaluating interventions to improve patient outcomes is recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Davies
- Centre for Cardiovascular Innovation, St. Paul’s and Vancouver General Hospitals, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Katherine S. Allan
- Division of Cardiology, St. Michael’s Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sandra L. Carroll
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Science, Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Karen Gibbs
- Centre for Cardiovascular Innovation, St. Paul’s and Vancouver General Hospitals, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jason D. Roberts
- Section of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, Department ofMedicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | | | - Christian Steinberg
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et Pneumologie de Québec, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Rafik Tadros
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Paul Dorian
- Division of Cardiology, St. Michael’s Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jeff S. Healey
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Science, Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Zachary W. M. Laksman
- Centre for Cardiovascular Innovation, St. Paul’s and Vancouver General Hospitals, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andrew D. Krahn
- Centre for Cardiovascular Innovation, St. Paul’s and Vancouver General Hospitals, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Anne Fournier
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montreal,QC, Canada
| | - Colette Seifer
- Department of Internal Medicine, St Boniface Hospital, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Sandra B. Lauck
- Centre for Cardiovascular Innovation, St. Paul’s and Vancouver General Hospitals, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yee LA, Han H, Davies B, Pearman CM, Laksman ZWM, Roberts JD, Steinberg C, Tadros R, Cadrin‐Tourigny J, Simpson CS, Gardner M, MacIntyre C, Arbour L, Leather R, Fournier A, Green MS, Kimber S, Angaran P, Sanatani S, Joza J, Khan H, Healey JS, Atallah J, Seifer C, Krahn AD. Sex Differences and Utility of Treadmill Testing in Long‐QT Syndrome. J Am Heart Assoc 2022; 11:e025108. [DOI: 10.1161/jaha.121.025108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background
Diagnosis of congenital long‐QT syndrome (LQTS) is complicated by phenotypic ambiguity, with a frequent normal‐to‐borderline resting QT interval. A 3‐step algorithm based on exercise response of the corrected QT interval (QTc) was previously developed to diagnose patients with LQTS and predict subtype. This study evaluated the 3‐step algorithm in a population that is more representative of the general population with LQTS with milder phenotypes and establishes sex‐specific cutoffs beyond the resting QTc.
Methods and Results
We identified 208 LQTS likely pathogenic or pathogenic
KCNQ1
or
KCNH2
variant carriers in the Canadian NLQTS (National Long‐QT Syndrome) Registry and 215 unaffected controls from the HiRO (Hearts in Rhythm Organization) Registry. Exercise treadmill tests were analyzed across the 5 stages of the Bruce protocol. The predictive value of exercise ECG characteristics was analyzed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis to identify optimal cutoff values. A total of 78% of male carriers and 74% of female carriers had a resting QTc value in the normal‐to‐borderline range. The 4‐minute recovery QTc demonstrated the best predictive value for carrier status in both sexes, with better LQTS ascertainment in female patients (area under the curve, 0.90 versus 0.82), with greater sensitivity and specificity. The optimal cutoff value for the 4‐minute recovery period was 440 milliseconds for male patients and 450 milliseconds for female patients. The 1‐minute recovery QTc had the best predictive value in female patients for differentiating LQTS1 versus LQTS2 (area under the curve, 0.82), and the peak exercise QTc had a marginally better predictive value in male patients for subtype with (area under the curve, 0.71). The optimal cutoff value for the 1‐minute recovery period was 435 milliseconds for male patients and 455 milliseconds for femal patients.
Conclusions
The 3‐step QT exercise algorithm is a valid tool for the diagnosis of LQTS in a general population with more frequent ambiguity in phenotype. The algorithm is a simple and reliable method for the identification and prediction of the 2 major genotypes of LQTS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A. Yee
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Heart Rhythm Services, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Hui‐Chen Han
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Heart Rhythm Services, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Brianna Davies
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Heart Rhythm Services, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Charles M. Pearman
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Heart Rhythm Services, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Zachary W. M. Laksman
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Heart Rhythm Services, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Jason D. Roberts
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, and Hamilton Health Sciences Hamilton Ontario Canada
| | - Christian Steinberg
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et Pneumologie de Québec, Laval University Quebec City Quebec Canada
| | - Rafik Tadros
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal Montreal Quebec Canada
| | - Julia Cadrin‐Tourigny
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal Montreal Quebec Canada
| | | | - Martin Gardner
- Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Center Halifax Nova Scotia Canada
| | - Ciorsti MacIntyre
- Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Center Halifax Nova Scotia Canada
| | - Laura Arbour
- Department of Medical Genetics University of British Columbia, and Island Health Victoria British Columbia Canada
| | | | - Anne Fournier
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte‐Justine Montréal Quebec Canada
| | | | | | - Paul Angaran
- St. Michael’s Hospital, University of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
| | | | - Jacqueline Joza
- McGill University Health Sciences Center Montreal Quebec Canada
| | - Habib Khan
- London Health Sciences Center London Ontario Canada
| | | | | | | | - Andrew D. Krahn
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Heart Rhythm Services, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Krahn AD, Laksman Z, Sy RW, Postema PG, Ackerman MJ, Wilde AAM, Han HC. Congenital Long QT Syndrome. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2022; 8:687-706. [PMID: 35589186 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2022.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS) encompasses a group of heritable conditions that are associated with cardiac repolarization dysfunction. Since its initial description in 1957, our understanding of LQTS has increased dramatically. The prevalence of LQTS is estimated to be ∼1:2,000, with a slight female predominance. The diagnosis of LQTS is based on clinical, electrocardiogram, and genetic factors. Risk stratification of patients with LQTS aims to identify those who are at increased risk of cardiac arrest or sudden cardiac death. Factors including age, sex, QTc interval, and genetic background all contribute to current risk stratification paradigms. The management of LQTS involves conservative measures such as the avoidance of QT-prolonging drugs, pharmacologic measures with nonselective β-blockers, and interventional approaches such as device therapy or left cardiac sympathetic denervation. In general, most forms of exercise are considered safe in adequately treated patients, and implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy is reserved for those at the highest risk. This review summarizes our current understanding of LQTS and provides clinicians with a practical approach to diagnosis and management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Krahn
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Heart Rhythm Services, Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Zachary Laksman
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Heart Rhythm Services, Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Raymond W Sy
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Pieter G Postema
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology, Heart Center, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Michael J Ackerman
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Division of Heart Rhythm Services, Windland Smith Rice Genetic Heart Rhythm Clinic, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA; Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA; Departments of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Windland Smith Rice Sudden Death Genomics Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Arthur A M Wilde
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology, Heart Center, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; European Reference Network for Rare and Low Prevalence Complex Diseases of the Heart (ERN GUARD-Heart), Academic University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hui-Chen Han
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Heart Rhythm Services, Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Victorian Heart Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Grondin S, Davies B, Cadrin-Tourigny J, Steinberg C, Cheung CC, Jorda P, Healey JS, Green MS, Sanatani S, Alqarawi W, Angaran P, Arbour L, Antiperovitch P, Khan H, Leather R, Guerra PG, Rivard L, Simpson CS, Gardner M, MacIntyre C, Seifer C, Fournier A, Joza J, Gollob MH, Lettre G, Talajic M, Laksman ZW, Roberts JD, Krahn AD, Tadros R. OUP accepted manuscript. Eur Heart J 2022; 43:3071-3081. [PMID: 35352813 PMCID: PMC9392649 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Genetic testing is recommended in specific inherited heart diseases but its role remains unclear and it is not currently recommended in unexplained cardiac arrest (UCA). We sought to assess the yield and clinical utility of genetic testing in UCA using whole-exome sequencing (WES). Methods and results Survivors of UCA requiring external defibrillation were included from the Cardiac Arrest Survivor with Preserved Ejection fraction Registry. Whole-exome sequencing was performed, followed by assessment of rare variants in previously reported cardiovascular disease genes. A total of 228 UCA survivors (mean age at arrest 39 ± 13 years) were included. The majority were males (66%) and of European ancestry (81%). Following advanced clinical testing at baseline, the likely aetiology of cardiac arrest was determined in 21/228 (9%) cases. Whole-exome sequencing identified a pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) variant in 23/228 (10%) of UCA survivors overall, increasing the proportion of ‘explained’ cases from 9% only following phenotyping to 18% when combining phenotyping with WES. Notably, 13 (57%) of the 23 P/LP variants identified were located in genes associated with cardiomyopathy, in the absence of a diagnosis of cardiomyopathy at the time of arrest. Conclusions Genetic testing identifies a disease-causing variant in 10% of apparent UCA survivors. The majority of disease-causing variants was located in cardiomyopathy-associated genes, highlighting the arrhythmogenic potential of such variants in the absence of an overt cardiomyopathy diagnosis. The present study supports the use of genetic testing including assessment of arrhythmia and cardiomyopathy genes in survivors of UCA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steffany Grondin
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, 5000 Belanger, Montreal, QC, Canada H1T 1C8
| | - Brianna Davies
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Julia Cadrin-Tourigny
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, 5000 Belanger, Montreal, QC, Canada H1T 1C8
| | - Christian Steinberg
- Institut universitaire de cardiologie et pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Christopher C Cheung
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Paloma Jorda
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, 5000 Belanger, Montreal, QC, Canada H1T 1C8
| | - Jeffrey S Healey
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, and Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Martin S Green
- Division of Cardiology, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Shubhayan Sanatani
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, British Columbia Children’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Wael Alqarawi
- Division of Cardiology, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Paul Angaran
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service, St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Laura Arbour
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Pavel Antiperovitch
- Section of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Habib Khan
- Section of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Richard Leather
- Division of Cardiology, Royal Jubilee Hospital, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Peter G Guerra
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, 5000 Belanger, Montreal, QC, Canada H1T 1C8
| | - Lena Rivard
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, 5000 Belanger, Montreal, QC, Canada H1T 1C8
| | | | - Martin Gardner
- Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Center, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | - Colette Seifer
- St Boniface Hospital, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Anne Fournier
- Ste-Justine Hospital, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jacqueline Joza
- Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Michael H Gollob
- Division of Cardiology, University Health Network, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Guillaume Lettre
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, 5000 Belanger, Montreal, QC, Canada H1T 1C8
| | - Mario Talajic
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, 5000 Belanger, Montreal, QC, Canada H1T 1C8
| | - Zachary W Laksman
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jason D Roberts
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, and Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Section of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Andrew D Krahn
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Rafik Tadros
- Corresponding author. Tel: +1 514 376 3330, Fax: +1 514 593 2158, , Twitter: @rafik_tadros
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Comber DA, Davies B, Roberts JD, Tadros R, Green MS, Healey JS, Simpson CS, Sanatani S, Steinberg C, MacIntyre C, Angaran P, Duff H, Hamilton R, Arbour L, Leather R, Seifer C, Fournier A, Atallah J, Kimber S, Makanjee B, Alqarawi W, Cadrin-Tourigny J, Joza J, Gibbs K, Robb L, Zahavich L, Gardner M, Talajic M, Virani A, Krahn AD, Lehman A, Laksman ZWM. Return of Results Policies for Genomic Research: Current Practices & The Hearts in Rhythm Organization Approach. Can J Cardiol 2021; 38:526-535. [PMID: 34715283 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2021.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Research teams developing biobanks and/or genomic databases must develop policies for the disclosure and reporting of potentially actionable genomic results to research participants. Currently, a broad range of approaches to the return of results exist, with some studies opting for non-disclosure of research results while others follow clinical guidelines for the return of potentially actionable findings from sequencing. In this review, we describe current practices and highlight decisions a research team must make when designing a return of results policy, from informed consent to disclosure practices and clinical validation options. The unique challenges of returning incidental findings in cardiac genes, including reduced penetrance and the lack of clinical screening standards for phenotype-negative individuals are discussed. Lastly, the National Hearts in Rhythm Organization (HiRO) Registry approach is described to provide a rationale for the selective return of field-specific variants to those participating in disease-specific research. Our goal is to provide researchers with a resource when developing a return of results policy tailored for their research program, based on unique factors related to study design, research team composition and availability of clinical resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Drake A Comber
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Brianna Davies
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jason D Roberts
- Section of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Rafik Tadros
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, and Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Martin S Green
- University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Christian Steinberg
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et Pneumologie de Québec, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | | | - Paul Angaran
- St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Henry Duff
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Robert Hamilton
- The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Laura Arbour
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia and Island Health, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | | | - Colette Seifer
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Anne Fournier
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Joseph Atallah
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Shane Kimber
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Bhavanesh Makanjee
- Heart Health Institute, Scarborough Health Network, Scarborough, ON, Canada
| | - Wael Alqarawi
- University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Julia Cadrin-Tourigny
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, and Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jacqueline Joza
- Division of Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Karen Gibbs
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Laura Robb
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, and Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Laura Zahavich
- The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Mario Talajic
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, Montreal Heart Institute, and Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alice Virani
- Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British, Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrew D Krahn
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Anna Lehman
- Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British, Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Zachary W M Laksman
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Process of Care and a Practical Toolkit for Evaluating and Managing Arrhythmic Risk in the Cardiogenetic Pregnant Patient. Can J Cardiol 2021; 37:2001-2013. [PMID: 34416260 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with inherited arrhythmia syndromes (IASs) and inherited cardiomyopathies (ICs) are periodically encountered in both general and specialist practices. These syndromes include long QT syndrome, catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, Brugada syndrome, early repolarisation syndrome, and hypertrophic and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathies. In general, the presence of an IAS or IC is not a contraindication to pregnancy, but does require additional expertise and patient engagement. In this review, we summarise the various pregnancy-related considerations in patients with IAS and IC, including the impact of physiologic/hemodynamic changes on heart failure progression or arrhythmia propensity, maternal and fetal pregnancy risk stratification, prenatal genetic testing, and the specialised care and monitoring required through pregnancy, labour, and delivery and into the postpartum period. Management of patients with IASs and IC during pregnancy and the postpartum period requires collaboration between patient and provider, with a shared understanding of the general safety and potential risks during the pregnancy and postpartum periods. Patients should be aware of the safety of various medications throughout pregnancy, and those with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators should be managed according to device guidelines. A peripartum care and delivery plan should be established, with multidisciplinary input from various specialists including obstetrics, cardiac obstetrics, and inherited arrhythmia specialists wherever appropriate.
Collapse
|