Non-invasive characterization of pancoronary inflammation by computed tomography angiography in patients with recent spontaneous coronary dissection

Background

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a non-atherosclerotic cause of myocardial infarction of unclear aethiology. Histopathological analyses have identified increased coronary inflammation in patients with SCAD [1]. Recently the peri-coronary adipose tissue attenuation (PCAT) derived from standard computed tomography angiography (CTA) has been established as a reproducible method for measuring vascular inflammation which enhances risk stratification in patients with coronary atherosclerosis [2].

Purpose

To characterize the pancoronary and vessel-specific inflammation by means of CTA-derived PCAT in patients with recent SCAD compared with individuals without prior SCAD.

Methods

Patients with confirmed SCAD referred to a tertiary center between 2017 and 2021 who underwent CTA as a routine cardiac evaluation were included in this retrospective study. Subjects were matched 1:1 with individuals with no prior SCAD who underwent CTA within the same timespan, using the same scanner and imaging protocol, with coronary arteries free of obstructive disease and similar clinical characteristics (Table 1). PCAT was analyzed on end-diastolic CTA reconstructions with a semi-automated software using standard methodology (Figure 1A) [3]. Proximal 40 mm of all major coronary vessels >2 mm in diameter as well as the SCAD-related vessel were included. The primary outcome was pancoronary PCAT defined as mean PCAT in the right (RCA), left anterior descending (LAD) and circumflex (LCX) artery. Secondary outcome was vessel-specific PCAT defined as PCAT in RCA and averaged PCAT in LAD and LCX (PCAT LCA).

Results

The final cohort comprised 35 patients with recent SCAD (median 6.1 mo. [4.0–16.8] since SCAD, 94.3% female) and 35 patients in the non-SCAD group. Pancoronary PCAT was higher in patients with SCAD compared with non-SCAD group (−80.1 [IQR: −74.5, −84.6] vs. −83.4 HU [−78.7, −88.0], P=0.008) suggestive of increased coronary inflammation. Vessel-specific PCAT was higher for the RCA (−80.7 [−70.4, −86.9] vs. −85.3 [−80.4, −90.6] HU, P<0.001) and borderline higher for the LCA (−79.2 [−73.9, −83.2] vs. −83.4 [−78.0, −88.3] HU, P=0.056) in patients with SCAD compared with non-SCAD respectively (Figure 1B). In patients with SCAD, PCAT in previously dissected vessel was not significantly different from averaged PCAT in unaffected vessels (−78.4 [−73.7, −89.0] vs. −80.9 [−74.9, −83.3], P=0.77; Figure 1C). While PCAT numerically decreased with time since SCAD, the association was not statistically significant when patients were stratified into tertiles according to time from SCAD (Figure 1D).

Conclusions

Patients with recent SCAD have higher pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation compared with non-SCAD patients suggesting increased perivascular inflammatory activity. This association is not restricted to the dissected vessel, nor reflected in routine serum inflammatory analysis and persists over time.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Aortic invovement in fibromuscular dysplasia. 3-dimensional CT, case-control study. THE ARCADIA-POL BIS study

Background

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a non-atherosclerotic arterial disease that manifests as the presence of beaded or focal lesions in medium or small-sized arteries and may also include arterial dissection, aneurysm, and tortuosity. FMD could be revealed in various manifestations, however limited data on the involvement of the thoracic aorta is reported.

Purpose

To measure and evaluate involvement of thoracic aorta in patients with FMD.

Methods

We analysed aortas of 144 consecutive patients (mean age 50.2±14.0, 116 women) with confirmed FMD in at least one vascular bed. The control group consisted of 144 (mean age 50.5±14.0, 116 women) age and sex matched individuals. All patients underwent detailed clinical evaluation including angio-CT scan including aortic valve, thoracic aorta and coronary arteries. We measured the aortic valve annulus, sinus of valsalva, sinotubular junction, the diameters of ascending and descending aorta, aortic unfolding, the height of ostium of RCA and LCA and diameter of right and left coronary artery ostia in patients with fibromuscular dysplasia and compared them to matched controls.

Results

The FMD group had significantly smaller dimensions of aortic valve annulus and sinus of Valsalva than control group (2.3 [2.1–2.6] vs 2.9 [2.7–3.1] p<0,0001; 2.9 [2.7–3.2] vs 3.1 [2.8–3.3] p=0,0011 respectively). In addition the FMD group had a significantly greater mean diameter of the ascending and the descending aorta than the control group (3.1 [2.7–3.3] vs 3 [2.9–3] p=0,0436; 2.4 [2.2–2.7] vs 2.3 [1.8–2.5] p<0,0001 respectively). The height of the ostium of the left and of the right coronary artery was smaller in FMD than in the control group (1.2 [1.1–1.4] vs 1.3 [1.2–1.4] p=0,0001; 1.1 [1–1.3] vs 1.3 [1.1–1.4] p<0,0001 respectively). There was no difference in the diameter of sinotubular junction and the right and the left coronary artery ostias between the FMD and control groups (2.7 [2.5–2.9] vs 2.7 [2.5–2.9]; 0.3 [0.2–0.3] vs 0.3 [0.2–0.3]; 0.3 [0.3–0.3] vs 0.3 [0.3–0.4] respectively).

Conclusions

Patients with fibromuscular dysplasia display smaller dimensions of aortic valve and larger diameter of ascending and descending aorta as compared to control subjects. Despite the predominant clinical significance of focal pathologies in FMD patients, the disease may display a specific, pan-vascular phenotype.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Low Quality of Reports on Blood Pressure in Patients Adrenalectomized for Unilateral Primary Aldosteronism

CONTEXT

Adrenalectomy is the preferred treatment for unilateral primary aldosteronism but the results of long-term control of blood pressure (BP) are far from optimal. One possible explanation relates to the quality of the assessment of treatment effects on BP.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

To examine the quality of reporting BP measurements in studies assessing the outcome of adrenalectomy on BP.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review searching 3 databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science) for articles published from January 1, 1990, onwards. Sixty-six studies, each reporting on more than 50 adrenalectomized patients, were eligible for full analysis.

RESULTS

In 37 of the analyzed 66 studies (56.1%) BP values both before and after adrenalectomy were reported. In 19.7% (13/66) of the studies the method of BP measurement was described. The number of visits and number of BP recordings per visit on which BP results were based were reported in <15% of papers. The criteria for the diagnosis of hypertension were described in 72.7% (48/66) of the studies. The used definitions of improvement of BP control after adrenalectomy were variable, with 84.8% of the studies not providing any quantitative criteria to define reduction in BP.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the quality of reporting on BP control after adrenalectomy for primary aldosteronism shows substantial deficiencies and inconsistencies, thus impacting negatively on accurate assessment of effects of adrenalectomy on BP control. Future studies should adhere to accepted recommendations of correct BP measurement and should provide detailed description of the methods used for BP measurement.

The clinical utility of circulating neuroendocrine gene transcript analysis in well-differentiated paragangliomas and pheochromocytomas

CONTEXT

Paragangliomas and pheochromocytomas (PPGLs) exhibit variable malignancy, which is difficult to determine by histopathology, amine measurements or tissue genetic analyses.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether a 51-neuroendocrine gene blood analysis has clinical utility as a diagnostic and prognostic marker.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study. Well-differentiated PPGLs (n = 32), metastatic (n = 4); SDHx mutation (n = 25); 12 biochemically active, Lanreotide treated (n = 4). Nine patients had multiple sampling. Age- and gender-matched controls and GEP-NETs (comparators).

METHODS

Circulating neuroendocrine tumor mRNA measured (qPCR) with multianalyte algorithmic analysis. Metabolic, epigenomic and proliferative genes as well as somatostatin receptor expression were assessed (averaged, normalized gene expression: mean ± s.e.m.). Amines were measured by HPLC and chromogranin A by ELISA. Analyses (2-tailed): Fisher's test, non-parametric (Mann-Whitney), receiver-operator curve (ROC) and multivariate analysis (MVA). All data are presented as mean ± s.e.m.

RESULTS

PPGL were NETest positive (100%). All exhibited higher scores than controls (55 ± 5% vs 8 ± 1%, P = 0.0001), similar to GEP-NETs (47 ± 5%). ROC analysis area under curve was 0.98 for differentiating PPGLs/controls (cut-off for normal: 26.7%). Mutation status was not directly linked to NETest. Genetic and molecular clustering was associated (P < 0.04) with NETest scores. Metastatic (80 ± 9%) and multicentric (64 ± 9%) disease had significantly (P < 0.04) higher scores than localized disease (43 ± 7%). Progressive disease (PD) had the highest scores (86 ± 2%) vs stable (SD, 41 ± 2%) (P < 0.0001). The area under the curve for PD from SD was 0.93 (cut-off for PD: 53%). Proliferation, epigenetic and somatostatin receptor gene expression was elevated (P < 0.03) in PD. Metabolic gene expression was decreased in SDHx mutations. Repeat NETest measurements defined clinical status in the 9 patients (6 SD and 3 PD). Amine measurement was non-informative. Multivariate analysis identified NETest >53% as an independent prognostic factor.

CONCLUSION

Circulating NET transcript analysis is positive (100% diagnostic) in well-differentiated PCC/PGL, scores were elevated in progressive disease irrespective of mutation or biochemical activity and elevated levels were prognostic.

Next-generation sequencing for diagnosis of thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections: diagnostic yield, novel mutations and genotype phenotype correlations

Background

Thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections (TAAD) are silent but possibly lethal condition with up to 40 % of cases being hereditary. Genetic background is heterogeneous. Recently next-generation sequencing enabled efficient and cost-effective examination of gene panels. Aim of the study was to define the diagnostic yield of NGS in the 51 TAAD patients and to look for genotype–phenotype correlations within families of the patients with TAAD.

Methods

51 unrelated TAAD patients were examined by either whole exome sequencing or TruSight One sequencing panel. We analyzed rare variants in 10 established thoracic aortic aneurysms-associated genes. Whenever possible, we looked for co-segregation in the families. Kaplan–Meier survival curve was constructed to compare the event-free survival depending on genotype. Aortic events were defined as acute aortic dissection or first planned aortic surgery.

Results and discussion

In 21 TAAD patients we found 22 rare variants, 6 (27.3 %) of these were previously reported, and 16 (73.7 %) were novel. Based on segregation data, functional analysis and software estimations we assumed that three of novel variants were causative, nine likely causative. Remaining four were classified as of unknown significance (2) and likely benign (2). In all, 9 (17.6 %) of 51 probands had a positive result when considering variants classified as causative only and 18 (35.3 %) if likely causative were also included. Genotype-positive probands (n = 18) showed shorter mean event free survival (41 years, CI 35–46) than reference group, i.e. those (n = 29) without any plausible variant identified (51 years, CI 45–57, p = 0.0083). This effect was also found when the ‘genotype-positive’ group was restricted to probands with ‘likely causative’ variants (p = 0.0092) which further supports pathogenicity of these variants. The mean event free survival was particularly low (37 years, CI 27–47) among the probands with defects in the TGF beta signaling (p = 0.0033 vs. the reference group).

Conclusions

This study broadens the spectrum of genetic background of thoracic aneurysms and dissections and supports its potential role as a prognostic factor in the patients with the disease.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12967-016-0870-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Cardiovascular Risk in Primary Hyperaldosteronism

After the first cases of primary aldosteronism were described and characterized by Conn, a substantial body of experimental and clinical evidence about the long-term effects of excess aldosterone on the cardiovascular system was gathered over the last 5 decades. The prevalence of primary aldosteronism varies considerably between different studies among hypertensive patients, depending on patient selection, the used diagnostic methods, and the severity of hypertension. Prevalence rates vary from 4.6 to 16.6% in those studies in which confirmatory tests to diagnose primary aldosteronism were used. There is also growing evidence indicating that prolonged exposure to elevated aldosterone concentrations is associated with target organ damage in the heart, kidney, and arterial wall, and high cardiovascular risk in patients with primary aldosteronism. Therefore, the aim of treatment should not be confined to BP normalization and hypokalemia correction, but rather should focus on restoring the deleterious effects of excess aldosterone on the cardiovascular system. Current evidence convincingly demonstrates that both surgical and medical treatment strategies beneficially affect cardiovascular outcomes and mortality in the long term. Further studies can be expected to provide better insight into the relationship between cardiovascular risk and complications and the genetic background of primary aldosteronism.

Efficacy and safety of canagliflozin compared with placebo and sitagliptin in patients with type 2 diabetes on background metformin monotherapy: a randomised trial

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

The aim of this work was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of canagliflozin vs placebo and sitagliptin in patients with type 2 diabetes who were being treated with background metformin.

METHODS

This randomised, double-blind, four-arm, parallel-group, Phase 3 study was conducted at 169 centres in 22 countries between April 2010 and August 2012. Participants (N = 1,284) with type 2 diabetes aged ≥ 18 and ≤ 80 years who had inadequate glycaemic control (HbA1c ≥ 7.0% [53 mmol/mol] and ≤10.5% [91 mmol/mol]) on metformin therapy received canagliflozin 100 mg or 300 mg, sitagliptin 100 mg, or placebo (n = 368, 367, 366, 183, respectively) for a 26 week, placebo- and active-controlled period followed by a 26 week, active-controlled period (placebo group switched to sitagliptin [placebo/sitagliptin]) and were included in the modified intent-to-treat analysis set. Randomisation was performed using a computer-generated schedule; participants, study centres and the sponsor were blinded to group assignment. The primary endpoint was change from baseline in HbA1c at week 26; secondary endpoints included changes in HbA1c (week 52) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG), body weight, and systolic blood pressure (BP; weeks 26 and 52). Adverse events (AEs) were recorded throughout the study.

RESULTS

At week 26, canagliflozin 100 mg and 300 mg reduced HbA1c vs placebo (-0.79%, -0.94%, -0.17%, respectively; p < 0.001). At week 52, canagliflozin 100 mg and 300 mg demonstrated non-inferiority, and canagliflozin 300 mg demonstrated statistical superiority, to sitagliptin in lowering HbA1c (-0.73%, -0.88%,-0.73%, respectively); differences (95% CI) vs sitagliptin were 0% (-0.12, 0.12) and -0.15% (-0.27, -0.03), respectively. Canagliflozin 100 mg and 300 mg reduced body weight vs placebo (week 26: -3.7%, -4.2%, -1.2%, respectively; p < 0.001) and sitagliptin (week 52: -3.8%, -4.2%, -1.3%, respectively; p < 0.001). Both canagliflozin doses reduced FPG and systolic BP vs placebo (week 26) and sitagliptin (week 52) (p < 0.001). Overall AE and AE-related discontinuation rates were generally similar across groups, but higher with canagliflozin 100 mg. Genital mycotic infection and osmotic diuresis-related AE rates were higher with canagliflozin; few led to discontinuations. Hypoglycaemia incidence was higher with canagliflozin.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Canagliflozin improved glycaemia and reduced body weight vs placebo (week 26) and sitagliptin (week 52) and was generally well tolerated in patients with type 2 diabetes on metformin.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01106677 FUNDING: This study was supported by Janssen Research & Development, LLC.

Mortality associated with phaeochromocytoma

Two major categories of mortality are distinguished in patients with phaeochromocytoma. First, the effects of excessive circulating catecholamines may result in lethal complications if the disease is not diagnosed and/or treated timely. The second category of mortality is related to development of metastatic disease or other neoplasms. Improvements in disease recognition and diagnosis over the past few decades have reduced mortality from undiagnosed tumours. Nevertheless, many tumours remain unrecognised until they cause severe complications. Death resulting from unrecognised or untreated tumour is caused by cardiovascular complications. There are also numerous drugs and diagnostic or therapeutic manipulations that can cause fatal complications in patients with phaeochromocytoma. Previously it has been reported that operative mortality was as high as 50% in unprepared patients with phaeochromocytoma who were operated and in whom the diagnosis was unsuspected. Today mortality during surgery in medically prepared patients with the tumour is minimal. Phaeochromocytomas may be malignant at presentation or metastases may develop later, but both scenarios are associated with a potentially lethal outcome. Patients with phaeochromocytoma run an increased risk to develop other tumours, resulting in an increased mortality risk compared to the general population. Phaeochromocytoma during pregnancy represents a condition with potentially high maternal and foetal mortality. However, today phaeochromocytoma in pregnancy is recognised earlier and in conjunction with improved medical management, maternal mortality has decreased to less than 5%.

Long-term postoperative follow-up in patients with apparently benign pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma

Patients with pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma are at risk of developing tumor recurrences or new tumors after successful resection of the primary tumor. This review summarizes current knowledge concerning the incidence and risk factors for such events. The overall incidence exceeds 15%. Patients with inherited tumors have a higher probability of recurrence or new tumors. Most recurrences are metastatic, particularly in patients with SDHB mutations or nonhereditary tumors. We recommend the determination of plasma or urinary metanephrines (normetanephrine and metanephrine) 1 month after surgery. In patients with sporadic, single tumors ≤5 cm in diameter, clinical and biochemical follow-up should be performed every 2 years. However, this follow-up period can be reduced to yearly, if it is more simple and more convenient for patients and physicians. Patients with larger or multiple but apparently benign tumors and/or inherited disease should be tested 6 months after surgery and then every year for the rest of their lives. Imaging follow-up is also required in patients with inherited or malignant tumors.

Determinants of urinary albumin excretion within the normal range in patients with type 2 diabetes: the Randomised Olmesartan and Diabetes Microalbuminuria Prevention (ROADMAP) study

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

In contrast to microalbuminuric type 2 diabetic patients, the factors correlated with urinary albumin excretion are less well known in normoalbuminuric patients. This may be important because even within the normoalbuminuric range, higher rates of albuminuria are known to be associated with higher renal and cardiovascular risk.

METHODS

At the time of screening for the Randomised Olmesartan and Diabetes Microalbuminuria Prevention (ROADMAP) Study, the urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) was 0.44 mg/mmol in 4,449 type 2 diabetic patients. The independent correlates of UACR were analysed.

RESULTS

Independent correlates of UACR during baseline were (in descending order): night-time systolic BP (r(s) = 0.19); HbA(1c) (r(s) = 0.18); mean 24 h systolic BP (r(s) = 0.16); fasting blood glucose (r(s) = 0.16); night-time diastolic BP (r(s) = 0.12); office systolic BP, sitting (r(s) = 0.11), standing (r(s) = 0.10); estimated GFR (r(s) = 0.10); heart rate, sitting (r(s) = 0.10); haemoglobin (r(s) = -0.10); triacylglycerol (r(s) = 0.09); and uric acid (r(s) = -0.08; all p <or= 0.001). Significantly higher albumin excretion rates were found for the following categorical variables: higher waist circumference (more marked in men); presence of the metabolic syndrome; smoking (difference more marked in males); female sex; antihypertensive treatment; use of amlodipine; insulin treatment; family history of diabetes; and family history of cardiovascular disease (more marked in women).

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Although observational correlations do not prove causality, in normoalbuminuric type 2 diabetic patients the albumin excretion rate is correlated with many factors that are potentially susceptible to intervention.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov ID no.: NCT00185159

FUNDING

This study was sponsored by Daichii-Sankyo.

Plasma Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP) Concentration in Patients with Pheochromocytoma

The interaction between catecholamines (CA) and ANP is not clearly established. The effects of excess endogenous CA on ANP secretion can be investigated in patients with pheochromocytoma. We studied 27 patients with surgically and histologically proven pheochromocytoma (P) aged 19-70 years. In 16 of these patients plasma ANP study was repeated after surgical removal of the tumour. The control group (C) consisted of 20 healthy volunteers aged 21-48 years. Moreover, 42 patients with uncomplicated mild to moderate essential hypertension (EH) aged 18-48 years were also studied. In P higher plasma ANP concentration versus C, EH was found (51.9 +/- 8.1; 25.5 +/- 1.5; 19.3 +/- 1.5 fmol/ml, respectively). In 16 patients with P, increased plasma ANP level (mean 63.3 +/- 12.6 fmol/ml) declined after surgical removal of the tumour (mean 22.4 +/- 2.9 fmol/ml). In the P patients no relationship was found between plasma ANP and hormonal patterns of the tumour or between plasma ANP and plasma catecholamines, whereas significant positive correlations between plasma ANP and both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate were demonstrated. These results suggest that excess CA produced by the chromaffin tumour induce ANP secretion via stimulation of adrenergic receptors. However, influence of the haemodynamic changes evoked by CA cannot be excluded. It is suggested that increased secretion of ANP may be of some importance in maintaining blood pressure homeostasis in patients with pheochromocytoma.

Renal artery aneurysms: presentation of five cases

We are presenting clinical characteristics, management and follow-up of five consecutive patients with renal artery aneurysm. Renal artery aneurysms are relatively uncommon, they rarely give rise to clinical manifestations and they are usually found incidentally. However with the introduction of Doppler ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, the diagnosis of renal artery aneurysms became more frequent.

Genetic influence on blood pressure and lipid parameters in a sample of Polish twins

We studied 76 healthy monozygotic (MZ) and same-sex dizygotic (DZ) twin pairs (mean age 35 +/- 8 years, body mass index, BMI, 23.6 +/- 3.9 kg/m2) to determine genetic and environmental contributions to systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure, heart rate (HR) and serum lipids [total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-chol), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-chol) and triglycerides (TG)I. SBP, DBP and HR were measured clinically and by ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). Parameters of the genetic models for age-, sex- and BMI-adjusted data were estimated by model fitting and path analysis technique using LISREL 8. We found significant genetic effect on SBP and DBP for both clinical and ABP measurements, ranging from 37% for night-time ambulatory DBP to 79% for daytime ambulatory SBP. Estimates of genetic effects were higher for daytime than night-time ABP values, and higher for ambulatory 24-h SBP than office SBP measurements, with the reverse true for DBP. Significant genetic effect on HR ranged from 59% for office measurements to 69% for 24-h mean values. In summary, we also found genetic effect on TC, LDL-chol and HDL-chol with estimates ranging from 36% to 64%, but not on TG. Furthermore, a shared environmental component for TG was found, estimated at 36%. We showed significant genetic effect on both office and ambulatory BP and HR, with stronger genetic effect on daytime than night-time BP. We also found genetic effect on TC and lipoprotein fractions, but no significant genetic effect on TG. Environmental factors influencing serum TG, such as alcohol consumption, may explain the apparent lack of genetic effect in this healthy, non-obese population.

Arteriovenous fistula of the kidney: a case report of 47-year-old female patient treated by embolisation

Arteriovenous fistulas of the kidney are rare. They may be acquired, idiopathic or arise in congenital arteriovenous malformations. There are only few reports in the current literature describing the successful embolisation of idiopathic arteriovenous fistulas. We report a 47-year-old hypertensive female patient with a successfully embolised arteriovenous fistula. Diagnosis was made on the basis of colour duplex Doppler examination and this method enabled further successful embolisation of the fistula.

Dopamine and dopa urinary excretion in patients with pheochromocytoma--diagnostic implications

Pheochromocytoma, a potentially life-threatening disease, is a rare cause of hypertension. Most pheochromocytomas secrete excessive amounts of noradrenaline and adrenaline. It has been suggested by some authors that high circulating levels of dopamine and the catecholamine precursor dihydroxyphenylalanine (dopa) are more often associated with malignant rather than benign pheochromocytomas. Therefore the aim of this study was to evaluate urinary excretion of dopamine and dopa in patients with pheochromocytoma and to determine their role as a potential marker for malignancy of the tumour. We retrospectively analysed 120 consecutive patients (mean age 41 +/- 12 years) with histopathologically confirmed pheochromocytomas. All subjects were divided as follows: group 1 included patients with both elevated and normal dopamine urinary excretion; group 2 was characterized by increased and normal dopa urinary excretion. Dopamine urinary excretion was increased in all patients with malignant pheochromocytoma, but higher levels were also observed in some patients with a benign tumour included in group 1. Urinary excretion of dopa was in the normal range in all subjects with malignant pheochromocytoma. The results indicate that in some pheochromocytoma patients excessive dopamine excretion may point to malignant tumour, but is not a discriminating marker for malignancy in the whole studied group.

The Genetic Basis of Pheochromocytoma

Until very recently, the majority of hereditary pheochromocytomas were related to the MEN 2 and the VHL. In rare instances, hereditary pheochromocytoma was reported in patients with NF1. In addition, nonsyndromic hereditary pheochromocytomas have been reported. Recently, three more genes (SDHD, SDHB, and SDHC) which are all related subunits of the mitochondrial complex II have been identified to cause susceptibility to pheochromocytoma and/or paraganglioma. Hence, mutation analysis of VHL, RET, SDHB, and SDHD is generally recommended in patients with pheochromocytoma regardless of their family history or other features suggestive for a hereditary form. Mutation analysis should start with VHL and RET. However, in the presence of extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma, it may be more useful to screen for VHL, SDHD and SDHB mutations. It is of interest that various different genes can lead to one type of tumor formation. A common pathway (i.e. oxygen sensing) has been shown for VHL and SDHX. However, although several genes that are involved in the pathogenesis of hereditary pheochromocytoma are known, the precise molecular steps in tumorigenesis are widely unknown. In addition, recent data in MEN 2 pheochromocytomas point to a 'second hit' mechanism as a trigger for tumor formation. The molecular pathogenesis of sporadic pheochromocytomas remains obscure [114].

[Efficacy of spiral computed tomography in evaluation of renal arteries in patients with renovascular hypertension]

The aim of this study is an estimation of efficacy of spiral computed tomography (SCT) in evaluation renal arteries in patients with renovascular hypertension. SCT was performed in 54 patients (32 females and 22 males) by means of Picker PQ 2000. The thickness 4 mm, index 4 mm, pitch 1.0. Contrast agents-Uropolinum 75% or Ultravist 350 were applied automatically 3-4 mm/sec. with delay 20-22 sec. Secondary reconstruction with 2 mm leyers was performed by Maximum Intensity Projection (MIP). In all patients the abdominal arteriography was performed as a reference method. The coincidence of both methods in evaluation of renal arteries occlusion or stenosis was estimated by Cohen kappa coefficient. In addition, sensitivity and specificity of SCT were estimated.

RESULTS

Consistence of SCT and arteriography for right, left and additional renal artery were as follows: 0.914, 0.92, 0.85. Sensitivity and specificity SCT for rigt, left and additional renal artery were as follows: 95.5% and 95.8%, 96.5% and 95.8%, 50% and 100%. The highest efficacy of SCT was noted in ostium, the most difficult place in evaluation of renal artery during arteriography examination.

Incidence and clinical relevance of RET proto-oncogene germline mutations in pheochromocytoma patients

BACKGROUND

Autosomal dominant cancer syndrome--multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2), may exist more often than expected in patients with pheochromocytoma. Germline mutations identified recently in MEN 2 can be revealed by genetic screening.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the frequency of RET (rearranged during transfection) mutations in patients with pheochromocytoma.

DESIGN AND METHODS

We genetically screened germline mutations in the RET proto-oncogene and clinically re-evaluated patients with pheochromocytoma. A pentagastrin test and other biochemical studies were performed in all patients.

SETTING

Department of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, The Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland and the Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany.

PARTICIPANTS

Seventy seven unselected patients with pheochromocytoma (19 men, 58 women, mean age: 51.55 +/- 1.5 years; pheochromocytoma confirmed histopathologically) out of 162 diagnosed and treated in the years 1957-1998 in the Department of Internal Medicine and Hypertension in Warsaw, Poland. The other 85 patients did not respond to the written invitation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The finding of RET mutations and diagnosis of MEN 2 in patients with pheochromocytoma.

RESULTS

Genetic testing revealed germline mutations in the RET proto-oncogene in six patients (7.8%). All carriers had mutation of exon 11, codon 634: TGC to CGC. In four patients with this mutation, medullary thyroid carcinoma (MIC) was diagnosed and in three cases, surgically treated. Biochemical parameters: parathormone 31.88 +/- 2.87 pg/ml, calcitonin: 0 min 0.23 +/- 0.14 ng/ml; 2 min 0.49 +/- 0.21 ng/ml; 5 min 0.48 +/- 0.21 ng/ml, metoxycatecholamines: 601.62 +/- 42.71 microg/24h, epinephrine: 1.94 +/- 0.17 microg/24h, norepinephrine 13.96 +/- 1.3 microg/24h, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) 9.94 +/- 4.3 ng/ml. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM): systolic blood pressure (SBP): 116 +/- 1.9 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure (DBP): 73.7 +/- 0.9 mmHg. Clinical, biochemical and imaging procedures did not reveal any recurrence of pheochromocytoma in the 77 patients studied.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with pheochromocytoma should be genetically screened for mutations of the RET proto-oncogene. These patients should undergo clinical screening for MEN 2. In addition, genetic studies can be useful for the screening of the families of the carriers.

Endothelin-1 inactivating peptidase in the human kidney and urine

OBJECTIVE

Recently, an apparently novel, specific endothelin-1 inactivating metalloendopeptidase (ET-1 peptidase) has been isolated from the rat kidney. In this study we attempted to determine whether the same or a similar peptidase is present in the human kidney, and whether the enzyme is excreted into the urine. The urinary ET-1 peptidase could serve as an indirect index of the renal endothelin system, both in physiology and pathophysiology.

METHODS

Kidney specimens were obtained from part of nephrectomized kidneys unaffected by any neoplastic process from six adult patients. The enzyme was purified using differential centrifugation, detergent solubilization of the membrane proteins, ultrafiltration and nondenaturing gel electrophoresis. The enzyme activity assays were performed at pH 5.5 and 37 degrees C in the presence of increasing concentrations of unlabelled peptides and inhibitors using a fixed amount of [125I]ET-1 as substrate. The degradation extent was quantified with trichloroacetic acid precipitation and high performance liquid chromatography. The degrading activity of ET-1 was determined in urine samples from adult patients with hypertension, children with chronic renal failure and those with stable renal allograft

RESULTS

ET-1 peptidase from the human kidney displays characteristics close to that of the rat ET-1 peptidase we have recently described (J. Hypertens 1994; 12:1155-1162). The enzyme, a membrane-bound metalloendopeptidase, exhibits low electro- phoretical mobility on nondenaturing gel (Rf 0.08); it is an apparently heterologous structure comprising three enzymatically inactive subunits, it has a pH optimum at 5.5, a nanomolar range affinity to the ET-1 (KM 180 nmol/l) that is hydrolysed to two main degradation products, and a 10-100-fold lower affinity to big ET-1 (KM 11.5 micromol/l), endothelin 11 21 fragment (KM 15.3 micromol/l), endothelin antagonist Trp-Leu-Asp-Ile-Ile-Trp (KM 3.1 micromol/I), gastrin (KM 2.2 micromol/l) and cholecystokinin (KM 4.0 micromol/l). Substance P, neuropeptide Y, atrial natriuretic peptide, bradykinin, angiotensin II and enkephalin were poor substrates for the enzyme. The most powerful inhibitors of the ET-1 peptidase included thiorphan (IC50 0.28 nmol/l), phosphoramidon (IC50 0.55 nmol/l), phenanthroline (IC50 11.5 micromol/l), cyclosporin (IC50 400 micromol/l), phosphate (IC50 1.2 mmol/l), citrate (IC50 0.6 mmol/l) and aniline naphthalene sulphonic acid (IC50 0.25 mmol/l). Our data suggest that three ET-1 degrading peptidases with optimal activity at pH 4.5, 5.5 and 7.0, respectively, are excreted into the urine. The enzyme with a pH optimum 4.5 is of lysosomal origin whereas the two other enzymes correspond by their pH optima to the renal ET-1 peptidase and neutral endopeptidase. We have found statistically significant increases (P < 0.001) in the activity of both lysosomal and ET-1 peptidase in the urine in patients with hypertension and in children with chronic renal failure compared with healthy subjects or children with stable renal allograft

CONCLUSIONS

Human kidney contains an acidic, highly specific endothelin-1 inactivating metalloendopeptidase that may have a key role in the regulation of concentrations of renal and circulating endothelins. The enzyme is excreted into the urine where its activity seems to be increased in patients with hypertension and chronic renal failure; it may potentially serve as an indirect index of the renal endothelin system.

Discriminatory power of MRI for differentiation of adrenal non-adenomas vs adenomas evaluated by means of ROC analysis: can biopsy be obviated?

The purpose of our study was to evaluate the discriminatory power of MRI in high-field magnet (1.5 T) for differentiation of adrenal non-adenomas vs adenomas assessing the following parameters separately and in combination: mean diameter of adrenal mass; previously described and new ratios as well as index calculated from signal intensity (SI) on SE T2-weighted images, chemical shift imaging (CSI), and Gd-DTPA-enhanced dynamic studies. One hundred eight adrenal masses (36 non-hyperfunctioning adenomas, 27 pheochromocytomas, 23 aldosterone-secreting adenomas, 20 malignant masses and 2 cortisol-secreting adenomas) in 95 patients were evaluated with SE sequences, CSI and Gd-DTPA dynamic studies. Indices and ratios of SI for all examined MRI methods were calculated and examined retrospectively for significance of differences between the groups with calculation of sensitivity and specificity. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis of calculated parameters in combination was performed. The multifactorial analysis of all four parameters, including size of the tumor, T2(liver) index, CSI ratio reflecting lipid content in the tumor and Wo(max/last) ratio reflecting maximal washout of contrast agent from the tumor had 100 % sensitivity and 100 % specificity in characterization of adrenal non-adenoma. The best performance of combination of mean tumor diameter with single MRI SI parameter was achieved in combination with T2(liver) index for all adrenal masses (area under ROC 0.987) and CSI ratio for non-hyperfunctioning adrenal masses (area under ROC 0.991). Magnetic resonance imaging enables sensitive and specific diagnosis of adrenal non-adenoma.

Effects of the correction of renal artery stenosis on blood pressure, renal function and left ventricular morphology

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of renal artery stenosis (RAS) correction in hypertensive patients on 24 h SBP, 24 h DBP, creatinine clearance (GFR), urinary albumin excretion (UAE) and LV morphology and mass (LVMI). A total of 61 hypertensive patients with RAS undergoing PTRA and/or surgical treatment entered the prospective study. The final analysis was done in 44 patients (age range 45.8 +/- 16.2 years) with RAS (atherosclerosis (ASC) 31 patients, fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) 12 patients, arteritis 1 patient) who underwent PTRA (34 patients) or surgical treatment (10 patients) and presented no Doppler signs of restenosis (or a new stenosis) during 1-year observation. The pre-interventional assessment repeated after 6 and 12 months included ABPM, GFR, UAE and echocardiography. The results were analysed in the combined group (CG) and in according aetiology. 24 h SBP and 24 h DBP decreased in all groups 6 months post-intervention and did not change further. Cure of HT was observed in 35% and 29% of ASC patients at 6 and 12 months respectively; and in 58% of FMD patients. Failure rate at 12 months was 48% in ASC against 25% in FMD. The mean GFR in CG was higher 12 months after intervention. The increase in GFR was noted in 45% of patients, the decrease in 25% of patients at 12 months. Normal values of UAE were found in 71% of patients, pre- and post-intervention alike. Mean LVMI and number of patients with LVH in CG decreased already during the initial 6 months post-intervention and did not change further. In conclusion, correction of RAS leads to cure of or improved control of hypertension in the majority of the patients with FMD, but in the ASC group in about half of cases no BP cure or improvement was seen. The renal function was improved or stable in two-thirds of patients after revascularization. Successful renal revascularization was followed by regression of LVH, which was evident within 6 months post-intervention.

Plasma fibrinogen as a risk factor for restenosis after percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty in patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis

BACKGROUND

In contrast to those for coronary restenosis, the data regarding the risk factors for renal restenosis are limited.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate potential humoral risk factors for restenosis after percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA).

METHODS

We studied 27 patients aged 54+/-10 years with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis in a 1-year prospective follow-up. Restenosis (confirmed by angiography) occurred in eight patients 1-6 months after PTRA. We detected no Doppler ultrasound evidence of restenosis in 19 patients throughout 1 year. Blood studies were done before PTRA for all patients, at the time of diagnosis of restenosis and, for those without restenosis, after 1 year. including determinations of fibrinogen, lipids, platelets and leukocytes.

RESULTS

The mean level of fibrinogen in patients who experienced restenosis was higher than that in those who did not (450+/-150 mg% versus 337+/-57 mg%, P < 0.01) and remained unchanged for both groups during follow-up. The other parameters did not differ between the groups before PTRA and did not change over time, with the exception of platelet count in patients who did not experience restenosis, which had decreased from 253+/-93G/l to 200+/-63G/l (P < 0.01) 1 year after PTRA. The logistic multiple regression analysis disclosed that an increment of fibrinogen level by 100 mg% was linked with an odds ratio for restenosis of 3.2 (95% confidence interval 1.1-9.8).

CONCLUSIONS

Restenosis was associated with higher than normal levels of fibrinogen before PTRA. A high plasma fibrinogen level might play a role in the development of restenosis after PTRA.

Alterations in plasma neuropeptide Y immunoreactivity and catecholamine levels during surgical removal of pheochromocytoma

BACKGROUND

Neuropeptide Y, an abundant neurohormone present with catecholamines in the adrenal medulla, is a potent non-adrenergic vasoconstrictor and a vascular growth factor.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the mechanism of the release from, and possible role of neuropeptide Y in, pheochromocytomas, compared with those of catecholamines.

METHODS

Plasma and tumour levels of neuropeptide Y-immunoreactivity (by, radioimmunoassay) and of noradrenaline and adrenaline (by a radioenzymatic method) in 29 patients (19 women and 10 men, aged 22-68 years) were measured during surgical removal of the tumour, during alpha-adrenergic and beta-adrenergic blockade. Arterial systemic blood samples were withdrawn before the ligation of the vessels supplying the tumour, during its surgical manipulations and after its removal, while haemodynamics was monitored.

RESULTS

Plasma neuropeptide Y levels in 17 patients (58.6%, group I) significantly increased during manipulations of the pheochromocytoma and returned completely to normal after its removal. This response was independent of the plasma neuropeptide Y immunoreactivity manipulation and was correlated to increases in plasma noradrenaline (r = 0.638, P < 0.02) but not adrenaline levels. Manipulation-induced increases in plasma neuropeptide Y-immunoreactivity were associated with greater neuropeptide Y content in tumours (r = 0.508, P < 0.05) but neither plasma nor tumour levels of neuropeptide Y immunoreactivity were correlated to tumour mass. Plasma levels of neuropeptide Y immunoreactivity in the remaining 12 patients (41.4%, group II) remained unchanged throughout the experimental period, while levels of circulating catecholamine rose. In all, in spite of our attempt at complete adrenergic blockade, tumour manipulation elevated arterial blood pressure and these changes were significantly correlated to increases in levels of catecholamines in patients in both groups but also to plasma neuropeptide Y immunoreactivity in patients in group I.

CONCLUSION

Pheochromocytomas exhibit different patterns of secretion. For about half of the patients either the secretion of neuropeptide Y is uncoupled from that of catecholamines or its secretion could be obscured by an increase in degradation of neuropeptide Y to inactive fragments undetectable by radioimmunoassay.

[Evaluation of the usefulness for measuring catecholamines and their principle metabolites in the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma]

Objective of the study was assessment of the usefulness of determination of noradrenaline (NA) and adrenaline (A) in urine and blood as well as the total methoxycatecholamines (MNA +MA), vanillylmandelic acid (VMA), DOPA and dopamine (DA) urinary excretion in diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. The experience based on 155 patients with pheochromocytoma (105F, 50M, age 18-82 yrs) diagnosed in the Department of Hypertension and Angiology Academy of Medicine in Warsaw will be discussed. In all patients excluding 2 cases pheochromocytoma has been proven histopathologically. The most considerable diagnostic usefulness of MNA + MA indication was proven. MNA + MA was increased in 96.6 patients. In 89.6% patients an increased excretion of NA and A or one of this catecholamines was demonstrated. An increased excretion of VMA was demonstrated in 75%. The excretion of DOPA and dopamine was tested in 120 cases. An increased excretion of DA was shown in 31% and DOPA in 16%.

Functioning thoracic paraganglioma: association with Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome

Functioning thoracic paraganglioma (pheochromocytoma) is unusual and therefore suggestive of a pathogenesis distinct from that of sporadic adrenal pheochromocytoma. To determine whether the pheochromocytoma-associated syndromes Von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL) and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2) play a role in the development of thoracic functioning paragangliomas, germline DNA from five unselected patients with this rare tumor was analyzed for mutations in the genes that predispose to VHL and MEN 2. Genetic investigations and further clinical data revealed that three had VHL, with two different germline mutations of the vhl gene, but no individual was affected by MEN 2. Two of the three patients with VHL did not show any additional VHL-associated lesions. This result suggests that VHL should be considered in the differential diagnosis of thoracic pheochromocytoma, as such a diagnosis carries further important implications for the patient and family. Conversely, in patients suspected of a catecholamine-secreting tumor and known VHL, thoracic localization should be considered if an adrenal pheochromocytoma cannot be detected.

Hemorrheological indices, catecholamines, neuropeptide Y and serotonin in patients with essential hypertension

Hemorrheological and humoral abnormalities and excessive platelet activity can predict the development of cardiovascular complications in patients with essential hypertension. A study was conducted to assess the influence of gender on these factors and the interrelations between changes in hemorrheology and the sympatho-adrenal system in 54 patients (18 women, 36 men) with essential hypertension (aged 39.6 +/- 9.7 years) and 25 healthy volunteers (10 women, 15 men; aged 36.0 +/- 7.2 years). A decrease in erythrocyte deformability (p < 0.01) was found in the hypertensive men compared with the hypertensive women. Hematocrit (p < 0.01), blood viscosity at the shear rates of 0.3 s-1 (p < 0.01) and 6 s-1 (p < 0.01), plasma viscosity (p < 0.01), erythrocyte aggregation (p < 0.01), and neuropeptide Y (p < 0.02) concentrations were higher in the hypertensive men than in the hypertensive women. A positive correlation between blood fibrinogen and serotonin was found in the pooled hypertensive group and in the hypertensive men (p < 0.01) and between blood viscosity (shear rate 6 s-1) and neuropeptide Y in the pooled hypertensive group (p < 0.01). Neuropeptide Y correlated with filtration time of 1 mL blood in the hypertensive men (p < 0.05) and in the pooled normotensive group (p < 0.01) and with beta-thromboglobulin in the hypertensive women (p < 0.001). A positive correlation was also found in the hypertensive men between erythrocyte and platelet aggregation (p < 0.01) and between beta-thromboglobulin and adrenaline (p < 0.01). Hemorrheological and humoral abnormalities are more pronounced in men than in women with essential hypertension and may contribute to the increased incidence of cardiovascular events in men.

[Pheochromocytoma in a 81 year old woman treated with surgery--case report]

A case of pheochromocytoma in 81 year old woman hospitalized due to choledocholithiasis is reported. During premedication pronounced blood pressure elevation was observed. Operation was discontinued and diagnostic of pheochromocytoma was carried out. USG and CT scanning revealed right sided adrenal tumor. Elevated urine catecholamines and methoxycatecholamines were found. The patient underwent adrenalectomy and cholecystectomy. Histological examination confirmed diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. The patients done uneventful recovery.