The role of selected adipokines and ghrelin in the prognosis after myocardial infarction in a 12-month follow-up in the presence of metabolic syndrome

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of selected adipokines in the improvement in the ejection fraction and in the development of adverse cardiac remodeling during 12 months of follow-up among patients with an ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI) in the presence of metabolic syndrome (MeS).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study population consisted of 69 patients (49 male; mean age: 59 ±10 years) with a first STEMI that was treated with a primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). In this group, 36 patients (18 male; mean age: 60 ±15 years) had MeS according to the definition of the International Diabetes Federation. The baseline clinical evaluation included a clinical examination and evaluation of the blood levels of C-reactive protein, ghrelin, resistin, and fasting glucose. Within 72 h after the STEMI, an echocardiographic examination was performed. A complete clinical evaluation was repeated after 12 months. Adverse cardiac remodeling was defined as an increase in the left ventricular end-diastolic volume of ≥ 8%. An improvement of the ejection fraction (EF) was defined as an increase of more than 5% in the EF.

RESULTS

A concentration of ghrelin ≤ 160.46 pg/ml (AUC = 0.71, p = 0.032) had a good predictive value for the occurrence of adverse left ventricular remodeling but only in the patients without MeS. Among the patients with MeS, a concentration of resistin ≤ 5196 pg/ml (AUC = 0.073, p = 0.024) had a good predictive value for the occurrence of left ventricular remodeling. A concentration of leptin > 52.18 pg/ml (AUC = 0.81, p < 0.0001) and resistin > 4419.27 ng/ml (AUC = 0.67, p = 0.049) had a good predictive value for improvement of the LVEF in the patients without MeS.

CONCLUSIONS

The selected adipokines had a good predictive value for the development of adverse cardiac remodeling and for improvement of the ejection fraction among patients after a STEMI in the presence of metabolic syndrome.

Prognostic value of platelet indices after acute myocardial infarction treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention

BACKGROUND

Mean platelet volume (MPV) is a strong predictor of impaired angiographic reperfusion and 6-month mortality in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (MI) treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). No data is available for other platelet volume indices: platelet distribution width (PDW) and platelet large cell ratio (P-LCR). The aim was to assess the impact of 3 platelet volume indices on long-term prognosis in patients treated with primary PCI in acute MI.

METHODS

This prospective study enrolled 538 patients who underwent primary PCI in acute MI. Admission blood samples were measured for MPV, PDW, and P-LCR. The patients were followed-up a mean period of 26 ± 11 months with regard to cardiac death, non-fatal reinfarction, re-PCI or coronary artery bypass grafting.

RESULTS

Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed a significantly higher 26-month mortalityrate in patients with high MPV (≥ 11.7 fL) than in those with low MPV (< 11.7 fL) (14.6% vs. 5.5%, p = 0.0008). Similar findings were related to high P-LCR (≥ 38.1%) vs. low P-LCR (< 38.1%) - mortality 13.8% vs. 5.8%, p = 0.0025. Higher PDW values (≥ 16 fL) correlated with higher mortality rate as compared to PDW < 16 fL (17.4% vs. 6.3%, p = 0.0012). PDW was found to be an independent prognostic factor for cardiac mortality and composite endpoint.

CONCLUSIONS

Mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width and platelet large cell ratio measured on admission are strong, independent prognostic factors in PCI-treated acute MI.

Predictors of successful acetylsalicylic acid resistance suppression after percutaneous coronary revascularisation

BACKGROUND AND AIM

There is no established management of resistance to acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). We hypothesised that simply doubling the usual daily dose of ASA could be effective in overcoming ASA resistance.

METHODS

Our study comprised 40 subjects with CAD (male 67.5%, mean age 60.5 ± 8.8 years, mean body mass index 26.9 ± 2.7 kg/m² and median aspirin reaction unit [ARU] value obtained with a Verify Now Aspirin Test 612 [573-634]) with resistance to 75 mg/daily ASA defined as ARU ≥ 550. According to the overcoming of resistance or lack there of in a repeated test after four weeks of 150 mg daily ASA treatment, we defined two subsets: subjects who regained ASA sensitivity, and those who did not.

RESULTS

Successful overcoming of ASA resistance was observed in 62.5% of patients. Multivariate analysis regression confirmed that two variables independently determined successful ASA resistance suppression: male gender (OR 6.88; 95% CI 1.29-36.75; p = 0.024), and ARU for 75 mg daily (OR 0.97 per unit at 75 mg; 95% CI 0.94-0.99; p = 0.039). ROC analysis indicated that the threshold value at which ARU at 75 mg ASA treatment was predictive of successful ASA resistance overcoming was ≤ 608 ARU. Using a simple point score (one point for male gender and one for initial ARU ≤ 608), we found that ASA resistance was overcome in 8%, 36% and 56% of patients, when zero, any single, or two predictors were present.

CONCLUSIONS

ASA resistance overcoming by dose doubling can be achieved more often in males and in subjects with lower ARU value at ASA 75 mg.

Transthoracic measurement of left coronary artery flow reserve improves the diagnostic value of routine dipyridamole-atropine stress echocardiogram

INTRODUCTION

We hypothesized that coronary flow reserve (CFR) in the left anterior descending artery (LAD) can be effectively measured during an accelerated dipyridamole-atropine stress echocardiography (DASE) protocol to improve the diagnostic performance of the test.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In 64 patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease scheduled for coronary angiography DASE with concomitant CFR measurement in LAD was performed.

RESULTS

Coronary flow reserve measurement and calculation were feasible in 83% of patients. The positive predictive value of undetectable LAD flow was 81% for severe LAD disease. Measured values of CFR were in the range 1.3-4.1 (mean: 2.2 ±0.7). Significantly lower CFR was found in patients with LAD disease (1.97 ±0.62 vs. 2.55 ±0.57, p = 0.0015). The optimal cutoff for detecting ≥ 50% stenosis was CFR ≤ 2.1 (ROC AUC 0.776), corresponding with 68% sensitivity and 84% specificity. In patients with negative DASE results 67% of patients with LAD disease had abnormal CFR, whereas in patients with a positive DASE result 92% of patients with normal LAD had normal CFR. The DASE diagnostic accuracy for the detection of coronary artery disease (CAD) increased from 75% to 85% when CFR measurement was added to wall motion abnormality (WMA) analysis. No test with both abnormalities was false positive for the detection of coronary disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Incorporation of CFR measurement into WMA-based stress echocardiography is feasible even in an accelerated DASE protocol and can be translated into an approximate gain of 10% in overall test accuracy.

Severe obesity impairs systolic and diastolic heart function - the significance of pulsed tissue Doppler, strain, and strain rate parameters

BACKGROUND

We assessed the impact of morbid obesity on systolic and diastolic heart function in severely obese, but otherwise healthy subjects and age-matched controls.

METHODS

Overall, 27 obese patients: 19 female (F) and 8 male (M) mean age 37 ± 9, mean body mass index (BMI) 46 ± 6 and 27 control subjects: mean age 36 ± 10, mean BMI 23 ± 3 were examined by transthoracic echocardiography, including tissue Doppler echocardiographic (TDE) assessment and speckle tracking echocardiography to measure left ventricular longitudinal, circumferential, and radial strain (S) and strain rate (SR) during systolic and early diastolic phase.

RESULTS

Obese patients presented with enlargement of both ventricles and the left atrium, and thicker left ventricular wall. Although left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) as well as amplitude of tricuspid annulus plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) was similar, the amplitude of mitral annulus plane systolic excursion (MAPSE) and ventricular systolic and early diastolic velocities measured by TDE were significantly lower for both ventricles in the obese group. (RV S' 13 ± 3 cm/sec vs. 15 ± 2 cm/sec, P = 0.0057; LV S' lat 8.5 ± 1.6 cm/sec vs. 12.1 ± 2.8, P < 0.0001, E' lat: 12.4 ± 2.9 vs. 16.4 ± 3.5 cm/sec for left ventricular and E' 12 ± 3 cm/sec vs. 18 ± 4 for right ventricular velocities, P < 0.0001). Among the deformation parameters, systolic and diastolic circumferential and systolic radial strain and SR were decreased in the obese subjects, whereas longitudinal strain did not differ significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

TDE parameters documented reduced systolic and diastolic function of both ventricles in obese patients. 2-dimensional speckle tracking analysis revealed that circumferential and radial but not longitudinal strain and SR were impaired in the obese group.

Presence of coronary collaterals in ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients does not affect long-term outcome

INTRODUCTION

The significance of coronary collateral circulation in the prognosis of patients after myocardial infarction remains disputable.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of coronary collateral circulation, assessed by the Rentrop score, on long-term prognosis in patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Coronary collateral flow was assessed by angiography in 330 patients with myocardial infarction using the Rentrop score. Patients were followed up for the mean period of 26 ±12 months with the clinical endpoints of cardiac death, nonfatal reinfarction, and repeat percutaneous or surgical revascularization.

RESULTS

 Collateral circulation was graded Rentrop 0 in 39%, Rentrop 1 in 36%, Rentrop 2 in 18%, and Rentrop 3 in 7% of the patients. The mortality rate was 8.7%. Reinfarction occurred in 4.7% of the subjects, and repeat coronary revascularization was performed in 10.9% of the patients. These endpoints were not correlated with the degree of collateral circulation. A significant inverse association was observed between the Rentrop score and the infarct-related artery antegrade flow (P <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The degree of collateral circulation assessed by the Rentrop score during primary PCI is not a useful long-term prognostic factor in the population with STEMI in the current therapeutic approach. This may result from the negative correlation between the Rentrop score and the degree of blood flow in the infarct-related artery. Thus, collateral circulation in a patient with STEMI should not discourage intensive cardiovascular risk factor control in secondary prevention of coronary artery disease.

The new oral adenosine A1 receptor agonist capadenoson in male patients with stable angina

BACKGROUND

Anti-ischaemic effect of A1 adenosine receptor agonists was shown in animal and preclinical studies. The present proof-of-concept study aimed at evaluation of the efficacy and safety of a new adenosine A1 receptor agonist capadenoson in patients with stable angina.

METHODS

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single dose-escalating, multicenter trial comparing the effect of capadenoson at 1, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 mg versus placebo. For each dose step patients were randomized to receive single doses of either capadenoson or matching placebo in a 5:1 ratio. The primary efficacy variable was the absolute difference in heart rate (HR) at maximum comparable level of workload between baseline and post dose exercise tolerance test at maximum concentration of capadenoson. Capadenoson effect on total exercise time and time to 1-mm ST-segment depression were also measured.

RESULTS

Sixty-two male patients with stable angina were enrolled in the study. There was a consistent trend for HR reduction at comparable maximum work load in active treatment groups, with significant differences against placebo for 10 and 20 mg (HR reduction by 12.2 and 6.8 beats per min, p = 0.0002 and p = 0.032, respectively). A statistically significant trend (p = 0.0003) for a reduction in HR with increasing doses of capadenoson was shown. Increases in total exercise time and time to 1-mm ST-segment depression were also observed.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with stable angina capadenoson lowers exercise HR at comparable maximum workload, which is associated with improved total exercise time and prolongation of time to ischaemia.

Melatonin - a somniferous option which does not aggravate sleep-disordered breathing in cardiac risk patients: a Holter ECG based study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

We hypothesised that melatonin may represent a safe somniferous drug for cardiac patients, and assessed the effects of administering 5 mg of melatonin daily before bedtime for 30 days in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) regarding changes in the nocturnal breathing pattern.

METHODS

Sixty patients with CAD (aged 48-80 years) were randomised to melatonin/placebo treatment in a 2:1 ratio. A Holter ECG-based method (Lifescreen Apnea software) which has been validated as a screening tool for sleep-disordered breathing was used to estimate the apnoea/hypopnoea index (AHI). A 24-h Holter ECG was used to detect nocturnal breathing abnormalities at the beginning and at the end of the observation. The values of estimated AHI (eAHI) ≤ 15 were classified as optimal (Opt) and those 〉 15 - as pathological (Pat). A change of the breathing pattern was classified on the basis of the transition between the initial and final eAHI status (Opt→Opt; Opt→Pat; Pat→Pat, Pat→Opt). The mean initial and final value of eAHI and the percent of Opt and Pat values of eAHI in the initial and final assessment were compared between the melatonin and the placebo groups.

RESULTS

The breathing pattern was not affected by melatonin - the mean initial value of the eAHI in the melatonin group was 18.2 ± 9.4, and in the placebo group 19.6 ± 12.3 (p = 0.64), whereas at the end of the observation in the melatonin group it increased by 1.2 ± 11.3, and in the placebo group - by 1.0 ± 9.0 (p = 0.44).

CONCLUSIONS

Hypnagogic treatment with melatonin did not worsen the eAHI in patients with CAD.

The prevalence and the prognostic value of microvolt T-wave alternans in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (nVT) may have ominous implications for patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The microvolt T-wave alternans (TWA) has been proposed as a noninvasive tool-identifying patients at risk of sudden cardiac death and ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation (VT/VF). The aim of the study was to determine the significance of TWA in predicting nVT episodes and compare how other electrocardiographic parameters can predict the occurrence of nVT.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 88 patients with HCM. TWA was assessed during exercise test using the CH2000 system. All patients underwent Holter monitoring (HM) within 2-4 weeks before TWA test (preexercise HM1) and immediately after (postexercise HM2). During HM, we analyzed: arrhythmias, QT intervals, the presence of late ventricular potentials (LP), heart rate variability, heart rate turbulence.

RESULTS

Depending on TWA results, the patients were divided into two groups: TWA+; 46 patients (52.3%) with positive/indeterminate results, and TWA-; 42 patients (47.7%) with negative results. The nVT episodes were more frequent among TWA(+) both in HM1 and HM2. The presence of TWA increases the risk of postexercise nVT over twenty times (OR = 21.03). Moreover, in HM1, QTc and LP, and in HM2, again QTc and N-terminal precursor of brain natriuretic peptide proved to be significant predictors of nVT. The addition of TWA to the models did not improve the arrhythmia risk assessment.

CONCLUSIONS

Repolarization abnormality plays an important role in generating nVT in patients with HCM, but TWA does not specifically predict the risk of arrhythmic end point.

Elevated resistin opposed to adiponectin or angiogenin plasma levels as a strong, independent predictive factor for the occurrence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events in patients with stable multivessel coronary artery disease over 1-year follow-up

Background

Adipokines such as adiponectin and resistin, as well as angiogenin, may be associated with inflammation and atherosclerosis. The relationship between their levels and prognosis in high risk patients is, however, still unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of these adipokines in patients with stable multivessel coronary artery disease (MCAD).

Material/Methods

The study group comprised 107 MCAD patients (74% males, mean age 63±8 years). Adiponectin, resistin and angiogenin plasma levels were measured at admission and after 1-year follow-up. Primary end point (major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events – MACCE) was defined as cardiac death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, stroke, and hospitalization for angina or heart failure over a 1-year period.

Results

After 1-year follow-up, 9 (8%) patients died, all from cardiovascular causes. Primary end point was experienced by 32% of patients. Surgical treatment (CABG) was received by 51% of patients, while 49% were treated medically alone. Total cholesterol concentration levels ≥173 mg/dl were associated with a 7-fold increase (OR 7.3; 95% CI, 1.6–33.0); LDL ≥93.5 mg/dl with a 16-fold increase (OR 16.3; 95% CI, 2.8–93.8), and resistin ≥17.265 ng/ml with a 13-fold increase in MACCE risk (OR 13.5; 95% CI, 2.3–80.3). In multivariate analysis, a medical treatment strategy (p=0.001), a higher CCS class (p=0.004), resistin levels (p=0.003) and a higher Gensini score (p=0.03) were independent predictors of MACCE.

Conclusions

In stable patients with MCAD, elevated plasma resistin (as opposed to adiponectin or angiogenin) is a strong, independent predictive factor for the occurrence of MACCE over 1-year follow-up.

Direct comparison of the diagnostic value of point-of-care tests detecting heart-type fatty acid binding protein or glycogen phosphorylase isoenzyme BB in patients with acute coronary syndromes with persistent ST-segment elevation

BACKGROUND

Myocardial infarction (MI) with its complications is one of the most serious challenges in contemporary cardiology. Among biochemical markers of myocardial necrosis, heart-type specific fatty acid binding protein (h-FABP) showed excellent sensitivity and specificity for the early diagnosis of an acute MI. The h-FABP is released rapidly (after 30 min) from the cardiomiocyte to the circulation in response to myocardial injury and may be useful for rapid confirmation or exclusion of MI. In recent years, glycogen phosphorylase BB (GP-BB) also emerged as a promising early specific marker of myocardial necrosis. Rapid, qualitative "point of care" tests (POCT) detecting h-FABP (Cardio Detect med) and GP-BB (Diacordon) have recently become available.

AIM

To evaluate and compare qualitative POCTs detecting h-FABP and GP-BB in patients with an acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

METHODS

We studied 52 patients with a strong suspicion of ACS with persistent ST-segment elevation and chest pain lasting less than 6 hours. The ultimate diagnosis of ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI) was confirmed in case of a second (6 h after admission) positive quantitative result of a cardiac troponin T (cTnT) test. On admission, POCTs to detect both h-FABP and GP-BB were performed. The study population was divided into two groups, with chest pain lasting 〈 3 h (n = 20) or 4-6 h (n = 32). All patients underwent coronary angiography and angioplasty if indicated. The sensitivity of the analysed biomarkers of myocardial necrosis was calculated.

RESULTS

The sensitivity of h-FABP (84%) was superior in comparison to the other biomarkers, GP-BB and cTnT, which had sensitivity of 64% and 50%, respectively. Comparison of typical parameters of the diagnostic value of a test (sensitivity, predictive values and accuracy) in both time periods demonstrated that h-FABP was superior to GP-BB. In particular, sensitivity and accuracy of h-FABP was excellent in the group of patients with chest pain lasting 〈 3 h, with sensitivity of 79% for h-FABP and only 47% for GP-BB. Sensitivity and accuracy of cTnT were significantly lower (32% and 35%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The h-FABP seems to be an excellent early biomarker of cardiac necrosis in the group of patients with chest pain lasting 〈 3 h. The GP-BB can be also used as a biomarker of myocardic necrosis, but its sensitivity in the early phase of MI is limited.

The effects of intracoronary delivery of mononuclear bone marrow cells in patients with myocardial infarction: a two year follow-up results

BACKGROUND

Transplantation of bone marrow stem cells (BMSC) is a new method of prevention of left ventricular (LV) remodelling in post-infarction patients. Studies published to date point to LV systolic and diastolic function improvement following this therapy however only a few studies assessed the long-term effects of BMSC.

AIM

To assess the 2 year prognosis in patients with anterior myocardial infarction (MI) treated with BMSC transplantation in the acute phase.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 60 patients with first anterior ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI), treated with primary percutaneous angioplasty, with baseline LV ejection fraction (LVEF) 〈 40%, who were randomly assigned to undergo BMSC transplantation on day 7 of the STEMI (40 patients, BMSC group) or to receive standard treatment (20 patients, control group). In all the patients echocardiography was performed at baseline and after 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. The composite end-point (death, MI, admission for heart failure or repeat revascularisation) was assessed after 2 years of follow-up.

RESULTS

Absolute increase of LVEF compared to baseline values was higher in the BMSC group than in the control group. The LVEF increase in BMSC group at 1 month was 7.1% (95% CI 3.1-11.1%), at 6 months - 9.3% (95% CI 5.3-13.3%), at 12 months - 11.0% (95% CI 6.2-13.3%) and at 24 months - 10% (95% CI 7.2-12.1%). In the control group, LVEF increase was 3.7% (95% CI 2.3-9.7%) at 1 month, 4.7% (95% CI 1.2-10.6%) at 6 months, 4.8% (95% CI 1.5-11.0%) at 12 months and 4.7% (95% CI 1.4-10.7%) at 24 months. The composite end-point occurred significantly more frequently in the control group (55%) than in the BMSC group (23%): OR 2.72; 95% CI 1.06-7.02, p = 0.015.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with mononuclear bone marrow cells on day 7 of the first anterior MI in patients with significant baseline systolic dysfunction improves 2-year outcome.

Influence of treatment strategy on serum adiponectin, resistin and angiogenin concentrations in patients with stable multivessel coronary artery disease after one-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Adiponectin and resistin, as well as the novel angiogenetic factor angiogenin, may be associated with inflammation and atherosclerosis. However, the available data are limited regarding adipocytokines and angiogenesis factors long-term serum concentration changes in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

AIM

To evaluate the treatment strategy-dependent changes in serum concentrations of adiponectin, resistin and angiogenin in patients with stable multivessel CAD (MCAD) and their association with cardiovascular events.

METHODS

The study group comprised 107 MCAD patients (80 males, mean age 63±8 years); 55 (51%) patients were treated surgically (coronary artery bypass grafting-CABG), while the other 52 (49%) were treated medically. Adiponectin, resistin and angiogenin plasma levels were measured on admission and after one-year follow-up. Major adverse cardiac events (MACE) were defined as cardiac death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, stroke or hospitalisation for angina or heart failure over the 12 month period.

RESULTS

During one-year follow-up, nine (8%) patients died, all from cardiovascular causes, and 34 (32%) patients experienced MACE. The CABG group revealed significant decrease in angiogenin (p<0.0001) and adiponectin (p=0.03) serum levels. In the medically treated group, we noted a significant reduction in the adiponectin serum concentration (p=0.003), with no change in resistin and angiogenin serum levels.

CONCLUSIONS

In stable patients with MCAD, the choice of treatment strategy (optimal medical therapy or surgery) influences cytokines profile and modifies serum concentration of angiogenin and adiponectin during 12 months of follow-up. Assessing the dynamic concentration changes of these novel biomarkers may be useful for clinical practice.

[Simultaneous subacute thrombosis in bare metal stents implanted into right coronary artery and left anterior descending artery without coexistence of resistance to antiplatelet therapy]

In-stent thrombosis is a rare but devastating complication of coronary stent implantation, occurring in 0.5% to 1.9% of patients with bare metal stents (BMS). The most frequent clinical manifestation of stent thrombosis is ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and 30 day mortality is 50%. In-stent thrombosis can present as acute (within 24 h), subacute (within 30 days), late or very late after stent placement. We describe a case of a patient presented with STEMI due to subacute stent thrombosis, which occurred simultaneously in BMS, 3 days after implantation. The patient was successfully treated with balloon coronary angioplasty and discharged from a hospital in good condition.

Acute myocardial infarction as the first presentation of thyrotoxicosis in a 31-year old woman - case report

A 31-year old woman, previously fit & well was admitted with pressing retrosternal chest pain and palpitations of sudden onset. Her body weight was normal (BMI 20.5 kg/m²) and there was no significant family history of cardiac disease. She smoked, however, about 15 cigarettes a day and she had been taking combined oral contraceptive pill (Cilest^®) for about three years. On admission she appeared sweaty and in pain, blood pressure 130/70 mmHg, heart rate about 110/min, mild lid-lag sign. Heart sounds were normal and chest was clear. ECG revealed 2-3 mm ST segment elevations in II, III, aVF as well as V2 to V5. Troponin I was raised and she was qualified to an emergency coronary angiography. This revealed a massive spasm of left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery that responded to intracoronary glyceryl trinitrite administration, however, with the presence of critical narrowing of the LAD apical segment with possible superimposed thrombus. Cardiac ultrasound revealed akinesis of 1/2 of apical area consistent with myocardial infarction

Treatment and progress

She was started on Aspirin, Simvastatin, and Diltiazem, but continued to have persistent tachycardia and tremor. Thyroid function tests were ordered and showed thyrotoxicosis [free T4-46.9 pmol/l (ref. range 9-25), free T3-11.9 pmol/l (2-5), TSH - 0.02 mIU/l (0.27-4.2)]. She was referred for an endocrine opinion and started on Thiamazole. Other investigations revealed elevated anti-TPO and anti-TSH receptor antibodies consistent with Graves' disease. Thrombophilia screen was negative. She had remained euthyroid on a "block & replace" regimen (Thiamazole plus L-Thyroxine) that was discontinued after 18 months. She denies any anginal symptoms, but continues to smoke against medical advice.

Conclusions

Our case highlights the possibility of development of an acute myocardial infarction in a young subject with thyrotoxicosis. We speculate that patient's smoking habit combined with subtle thyrotoxicosis-induced prothrombotic state and/or coronary-artery spasm had lead to the above-mentioned acute coronary event.

Quality of life in high-risk patients with stable multivessel coronary artery disease treated either medically or with coronary artery bypass graft surgery - 12-month follow-up

BACKGROUND

Treatment of chronic diseases, such as atherosclerosis, usually leads to significant short-term improvement. Mid- and long-term results are not always as satisfactory. That is why improvement of quality of life should be the leading qualification criterion for invasive procedures, which sometimes carry a risk of complications.

AIM

To determine the quality of life in patients with stable, multivessel coronary artery disease (MCAD), treated surgically or medically.

METHODS

The study group comprised 107 patients (pts; 80 males) suffering from MCAD, assigned to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) (55 pts) or to medical treatment alone (52 pts). The mean Gensini score in the whole group was 90 (66-132). To evaluate quality of life we used a Short Form-36 (SF-36) health status survey by the International Quality of Life Assessment Project.

RESULTS

During a 12-month follow-up 9 pts died (6 pts in the medically treated group and 3 in the CABG group), all for cardiovascular reasons. Patients treated conservatively were more often hospitalised due to angina symptoms (20 vs. 5, p = 0.003). Analysis of SF-36 showed that pts treated surgically had better improvement of quality of life in comparison with medically treated patients. Significant differences were found for physical functioning, bodily pain, vitality, mental health and mental component summary.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has shown that there is a significant difference in health-related quality of life 12 months after CABG surgery and medical treatment alone in high-risk patients with MCAD. Surgical treatment decreases the number of adverse events, better attenuates of anginal and heart failure symptoms, and improves the quality of life, especially the mental component. Our results should encouraged selecting patients with advanced atherosclerosis for revascularisation procedures, even if there is a very high peri-procedural risk.

A coronary fistula diagnosed in the eighth decade of life: The utility of non-invasive methods in the selection of treatment approach

A 77-year-old woman was referred to our Department of Cardiology because of exacerbation of chest pain and decreased exercise intolerance. No acute ischemic electrocardiography changes were seen in an electrocardiogram recorded on admission. An exercise test was terminated at 7 METS because of shortness of breath without evidence of ischemia. The patient was referred for a coronary angiography which showed a coronary artery fistula filling from the left anterior descending (LAD) artery and resulting in a large inflow to the main pulmonary artery, without other significant coronary lesions. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a coronary artery fistula draining to the main pulmonary artery. Coronary steal was suspected and coronary flow reserve was evaluated in LAD, showing normal values for age. Due to the overall clinical picture, with the predominance of heart failure symptoms and the lack of significant abnormalities of flow reserve in LAD, medical therapy was selected. The patient remained free from cardiovascular symptoms at 6-month follow-up.

Relationship of serum angiogenin, adiponectin and resistin levels with biochemical risk factors and the angiographic severity of three-vessel coronary disease

BACKGROUND

Patients with advanced coronary artery disease (CAD) have an unfavorable prognosis. Therefore, early identification of this high-risk group is important. The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of clinical, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic parameters supported by novel atherogenesis and angiogenesis markers in identifying patients with stable, three-vessel coronary artery disease.

METHODS

The study group comprised 107 patients suffering from three-vessel CAD and a control group of 15 patients presenting with typical angina, a positive exercise stress test and abnormal segmental contractility, but no hemodynamically significant coronary stenosis in their angiograms. In each patient, we characterized a biochemistry test panel including novel markers: angiogenin, resistin, adiponectin, IL-8 and a TNF-a. The angiographic severity of CAD was expressed as a Gensini score.

RESULTS

There were significant differences between three-vessel CAD patients and control groups with respect to the serum levels of: hsCRP (2.8 vs 1.4 mg/L, p = 0.01), HDL-cholesterol (45 vs 54 mg/dL, p = 0.04), LDL-cholesterol (102 vs 95 mg/dL, p = 0.04), NT-proBNP (392 vs 151 pg/mL, p = 0.008) and a marker of angiogenetic activity, angiogenin (414 vs 275 ng/mL, p = 0.02), However, no significant differences were found between three-vessel CAD and the control group with respect to the serum level of adiponectin (8.08 vs 7.82 μg/mL), resistin (17.5 vs 21 ng/mL), IL-8 (20.7 vs 26.8 pg/mL) and TNF-a (4.1 vs 4.3 pg/mL). Angiogenin tended to be higher in patients with higher Gensini scores (p = 0.06) but no influence of ejection fraction was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Angiogenin is a novel marker of three-vessel coronary disease showing a relationship with the angiographic severity of the disease.

M-mode speckle tracking--a novel echocardiographic approach to assess left ventricular torsional deformation

BACKGROUND

Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) requires special image processing for complex assessment of left ventricular (LV) function, including strain and rotation.

AIM

To evaluate a novel M-mode STE technique as a readily applicable approach, providing potential insights into LV deformation.

METHODS

Fifty one patients (mean age 52 +/- 14 years, 24 women) with normal or impaired LV function (mean LVEF 51 +/- 16%, range between 14% and 66%) were studied. Left ventricular rotation at mitral valve and apical level was measured using dedicated conventional STE software. Grey-scale short axis digital loops at mitral valve level were also used to obtain M-mode STE images, presenting the movement of LV wall speckles along the cursor, with the LV cavity left out. Then, the distance of peak systolic shift (PSS) was measured for one selected speckle.

RESULTS

Mean rotation at mitral valve level was 7.4 +/- 3.1 degrees , apical rotation was 7.6 +/- 6.4 degrees and LV torsion was 14.9 +/- 7.1 degrees . Measurement of PSS with a novel M-mode STE approach was feasible in all patients, producing a mean value of 7 +/- 2 mm. Subsequently, two subsets with PSS of less than 7 mm and PSS equal to or above 7 mm showed a significant difference between mean LV torsion of 10.7 degrees and 17.0 degrees , respectively (p = 0.002). In the ROC analysis, PSS cut-off value of less than or equal to 7 mm yielded a sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 61% to predict LV torsion < 10.7 degrees (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

M-mode STE appears to be a feasible approach to detect movement of speckles and to measure PSS within the LV inferior and septal wall in short axis view images. PSS cut-off value of less than 7 mm indicates significantly lower LV torsion. Further studies are required to assess the potential role of M-mode STE in cardiac imaging.

Is Hsp27 a marker of myocardial ischaemia?

BACKGROUND

Heat shock protein (Hsp) 27 expression in cardiomyocytes increases in response to ischaemia. The extracellular release of Hsp27 from cardiomyocytes is proportional to its intracellular levels.

AIM

To assess the influence of significant coronary artery disease (CAD), which by definition results in chronic myocardial ischaemia, on blood serum levels of Hsp27.

METHODS

Blood serum levels of Hsp27 in 62 patients with at least 50% lumen diameter narrowing in at least one main epicardial coronary artery on angiography and in 21 controls with normal coronaries were measured.

RESULTS

Patients with CAD tended to have higher serum level of Hsp27 than controls [0.463 (0.158-0.809) vs. 0.184 (0.099-0.337) ng/ml, p = 0.084]. Serum Hsp27 level in patients with CAD affecting more than a single vessel was significantly increased [0.529 (0.192-1.004) ng/ml] compared with controls (p = 0.035) and with one artery narrowed [0.276 (0.087-0.549) ng/ml, p = 0.041]. No correlation between Hsp27 serum levels and severity of coronary narrowings assessed by Gensini score was found (r = 0.21, p = 0.11).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum level of Hsp27 seems to be a potential marker of myocardial ischaemia caused by advanced 2- or 3-vessel CAD.

Tissue Doppler echocardiographic identification of ischemic etiology in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy

OBJECTIVE

To compare the left ventricular function in patients with ischemic and nonischemic cardiomyopathy using tissue Doppler echocardiography (TDE).

METHODS

We studied 30 patients after myocardial infarction (MI group), 30 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM group) and 60 healthy volunteers in corresponding control groups. TDE velocities, time intervals of cardiac cycle were measured and dispersion index of TDE parameters was calculated.

RESULTS

Early diastolic velocities were lower in MI group than in DCM group, with similar systolic and late diastolic velocities. The dispersion index of systolic velocities was significantly higher in MI than in DCM group and in controls (respectively 33.1+/-6.0% vs 12.6+/-3.7% vs 15.9+/-5.6%; p < 0.001) and differentiated ischemic from idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy. In MI group, preejection period was shorter and isovolumic relaxation and diastasis time were longer than in DCM group, with no differences in dispersion index of time intervals between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

TDE parameters: early diastolic velocity, preejection period, isovolumic relaxation time and the dispersion index of systolic velocities differentiate ischemic and nonischemic etiology of dilated cardiomyopathy.

The effects of intracoronary autologous mononuclear bone marrow cell transplantation on cardiac arrhythmia and heart rate variability

BACKGROUND

The results of stem cell therapy after myocardial infarction (MI) have been conflicting. The effects of this therapy on ventricular arrhythmias and autonomic control of heart rate have not yet been established.

AIM

To assess the effects of bone marrow cell (BMC) transplantation on the occurrence of arrhythmias and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters in short-term observation after ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

METHODS

Sixty patients with STEMI who underwent primary PCI, were randomly assigned to two groups: Group 1 - 36 patients selected for active treatment (autologous BMC, intracoronary injection mean 7 days after STEMI), and Group 2 - 24 control patients not treated with BMC transplantation. In all patients the infarct-related artery was the left anterior descending, and the left ventricular ejection fraction was < 40%. Two Holter sessions were performed: at baseline (HM1), on average 6 days after MI, and another one (HM2), 1 month after BMC implantation. From these recordings the frequency of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (nsVT) episodes and the parameters of HRV were calculated.

RESULTS

Both groups were comparable with regard to demographic data, the presence of risk factors and electrocardiographic parameters. In HM2 examination the frequency of nsVT tended to be higher in Group 1 (25 vs. 12.5%, NS). The HRV analysis showed lower HF and significant SDNN increase in the BMC group. In controls all the HRV parameters increased. The increase in HF was significantly lower in the BMC group than in controls (22.4 vs. 89.2 ms(2), p $lt 0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

1. During the first month after the intracoronary injection of BMC, non-significant increase of nsVT was observed. 2. The lack of significant increase in HF power after BMC infusion may be a sign of depressed parasympathetic tone.

Interleukin-1b and interleukin-1 receptor inhibitor gene cluster polymorphisms in patients with coronary artery disease after percutaneous angioplasty or coronary artery bypass grafting

BACKGROUND

Pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1b (IL-1b) plays a role in atherosclerosis. The results of several studies on the association between polymorphism of the IL-1b gene cluster and the course of coronary atherosclerosis have been inconclusive.

AIM

To investigate retrospectively whether the patients with the most common variants of polymorphism of the IL-1b gene cluster differ with respect to localisation and extent of coronary atherosclerosis to a degree which may influence the treatment strategy.

METHODS

Ninety-two consecutive out-patients (age 39-83, male sex 74%) with coronary artery disease confirmed by angiography were included. In this group, 23 patients underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and 69 percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) of whom in 16 repeated treatment was performed. The polymorphisms of the IL-1b gene - transition C/T at -511 and -31 position - as well as of the IL-1 receptor antagonist gene (IL-1RN) - an 86-base pair variable-number tandem repeat in intron 2 - were determined by PCR. Out of the 54 theoretically possible combinations of polymorphisms, 17 were found in the studied group. The three most common combinations of polymorphisms were selected. The fraction of patients treated by means of primary or elective percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI, ePCI) and by means of CABG were compared between the subgroups with one of the 3 most common combinations of polymorphisms.

RESULTS

The most frequent combinations of polymorphisms were - Variant A: -31 C/T, -511C/T, RN 1/1 - 32.6%; Variant B: -31T/T, -511C/C, RN 1/1 - 27.1%; Variant C: -31C/T, -11C/T, RN 1/2 - 10.8%. The remaining patients (29.5%) represented 14 variants present in very small subgroups consisting only of 1, 2 or 3 persons. Statistical analysis showed that patients with the second most common variant of studied polymorphisms (variant B) were significantly more frequently treated with CABG in comparison to the two other variants. Also, repeated PCI was most frequent in this subgroup.

CONCLUSION

The data presented here suggest that carriers of the two relatively frequent variants of the IL-1b gene at -31 and -511 position, i.e. -31TT and -511CC, are at a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease requiring surgical treatment or two-stage percutaneous angioplasty.

Intracoronary administration of stem cells in patients with acute myocardial infarction - angiographic follow-up

BACKGROUND

Even up-to-date reperfusion therapy using primary percutaneous intervention (PCI) in acute myocardial infarction does not result in improvement of the left ventricular (LV) function in all patients. Cellular myoblasty, a novel method using mononuclear bone marrow cells (BMC), can be applied in the infarcted myocardium area to stimulate regeneration and to limit the organ damage. However, the impact of intracoronary BMC administration on the effect of PCI is not clear.

AIM

To assess angiographic outcomes in patients with anterior myocardial infarction and LV dysfunction, undergoing intracoronary BMC administration after a successful primary PCI.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 40 patients (mean age 56.2 years) with LV ejection fraction below 40%, in whom 20 ml of BMC were administered to the infarct-related artery (IRA) distally to the occlusion. The control group comprised 25 age- and sex-matched patients with similar values of LV ejection fraction undergoing bare metal stenting of IRA without BMC administration. Quantitative coronary angiography was performed 6 months later to assess IRA patency.

RESULTS

The reference diameter of the stented artery decreased in the study group from 3.22 +/- 0.28 mm to 3.16 +/- 0.18 mm (p < 0.05) and in the control group from 3.22 +/- 0.31 mm to 3.15 +/- 0.28 mm (p < 0.082); also in the area of the implanted stent the diameter decreased from 3.57 +/- 0.21 mm to 2.96 +/- 0.79 mm in the study group vs. 3.48 +/- 0.22 mm to 3.01 +/- 0.35 mm in the control group. For lumen diameter measured 10 mm distally to the stent, the diameter loss was similar in both groups. In 6 patients from the BMC treated group and in 3 patients from the control group there was asymptomatic lumen reduction > 70% (NS).

CONCLUSION

The results of our study show that BMC administration into IRA is safe. The degree of lumen loss in the stent area was larger in the BMC group than in the control group. There was no significant difference in the lumen change distally to the stent; the artery diameter loss in both groups was similar, and the improvement in LV ejection fraction was greater in the BMC-treated group.

Acute coronary syndrome or steal phenomenon - a case of right coronary to right ventricle fistula

We report a case of 53-year-old male admitted to the hospital with severe chest pain and elevation of troponin I levels, who was transferred to our department for a coronary angiography. Contrast injection into the right coronary artery (RCA) demonstrated no evidence of coronary artery disease. However, a double outlet coronary artery fistula which drained into the right ventricle was visualised. With standard 2-dimensional echocardiographic imaging abnormal flow was detected in the inflow part of the right ventricular free wall. Three-dimensional colour Doppler imaging clearly demonstrated the presence of double outlet RCA - right ventricle coronary fistula with sufficient quality.

Myocardial infarction in young people

An estimated 6 to 10% of myocardial infarctions occur in patients under the age of 45. Usually this applies to men, but an increasing prevalence is being observed among women. Atherosclerosis, often one vessel disease, is the main cause. The presence of classic risk factors affects the dynamics of coronary artery disease: the strongest risk factor is smoking, regardless of gender. Environmental influence is also possible. No atherosclerosis is found in 20% of young patients. In such cases, the most frequent mechanisms of ischemia are: coronary artery embolism (5%), thrombosis (5%), anomalies (4%) and inflammation or spasm of the vessel. Age is an independent prognostic factor. Thus the clinical outcome after myocardial infarction is better in younger than in older patients.

Relationship between echocardiographic parameters and exercise test duration in patients after myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

The interdependence between echocardiographic parameters of left ventricle function, severity of heart failure (HF) and exercise test duration has not been thoroughly examined.

METHODS

We compared echocardiographic data in patients after myocardial infarction divided according to NYHA class to mild (class I and II, group 1 = 24 subjects) and advanced HF group (III and IV, group 2 = 36) and assessed their correlation with exercise duration (ED) in a symptom-limited treadmill test. Then we tried to determine independent predictors of ED.

RESULTS

The group with advanced HF had lower left ventricle ejection fraction, shorter duration and deceleration times of both mitral inflow waves (Et and At, Edt and Adt) and higher E/A ratio (1.4 +/- 1.1 vs. 0.9 +/- 0.4; p < 0.05) with more frequent restriction and pseudonormalization pattern (56% vs. 12%). Also early wave propagation (21 +/- 7 vs. 29 +/- 11 cm/s; p < 0.001) and all tissue Doppler velocities were lower, but ratio of early wave peak velocity to early diastolic velocity of mitral annulus was higher (E/E' 10.5 +/- 5 vs. 6.1 +/- 1.3 for velocity ratio; p < 0.001) in subjects with more severe clinical symptoms. Significant negative correlation with ED was observed for difference between duration of pulmonary vein atrial reversal flow and atrial wave of mitral inflow (DeltaAt; r = -0.54) and for E/E' ratio (r = -0.48), the highest positive correlation for left ventricular ejection fraction and duration of mitral inflow atrial phase (EF; r = 0.48, At; r = 0.46). In multivariate stepwise regression analysis two independent predictors of ED were identified: age and DeltaAt (Art-At).

CONCLUSIONS

Diastolic parameters showing the strongest correlation with ED (DeltaAt and E/E') are connected with restrictive left ventricle physiology. The only independent predictors of exercise duration in patients after myocardial infarction were: age and DeltaAt.

Novel atherogenesis markers for identification of patients with a multivessel coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND

Patients with advanced coronary artery disease (CAD) have an unfovourable prognosis. Therefore, early identification of this high-risk group is important.

AIM

To asses the utility of clinical, electrographic and echocardiographic parameters, supported by novel atherogenesis markers, to identify patients with triple vessel coronary artery disease (CAD).

METHODS

The study group comprised 37 patients (29 males, mean age 64+/-8 years) suffering from multivessel CAD and a control group of 16 patients (8 males, mean age 60+/-10 years), in whom - despite typical stenocardial symptoms, positive exercise stress test and segmental contractility disturbances - coronary angiography did not reveal any haemodynamically significant CAD. Apart from coronary angiography, each patient had additionally an entire test panel performed assessing both the disease severity and the presence of other systemic dysfunction. Mean Gensini score in the study group was 91.9+/-43.8, including proximal Gensini score 52.6+/-45.6 and distal one 39.4+/-29.7.

RESULTS

Patients with triple vessel disease had a long history of angina (mean 84 months), of whom 30 (81%) experienced at least Q-wave myocardial infarction (MI). ECG changes typical for ischaemia were observed more often than in the control group. Also in patients with triple vessel disease echocardiography showed more escalated segmental contractility disorders, and left ventricular ejection fraction in this group was significantly lower than in the control group (44 vs. 55%, p <0.001). There were significant differences between CAD patients and control groups with respect to serum levels of: adiponectin (10.5+/-4.2 vs. 17.6+/-3 microg/ml, p=0.001), resistin (13.7+/-6.1 vs. 7.2+/-2.4 ng/ml, p=0.007), TNF-alpha (4.2+/-2.9 vs. 2.1+/-1.1 pg/ml, p=0.02) and IL-8 (18.4+/-4.1 vs. 12.2+/-4.1 pg/ml, p=0.008). Significant differences were also noted in lipid profile (total cholesterol: 201+/-47.1 vs. 183+/-18 mg/dl, NS; HDL cholesterol: 45+/-8.5 vs. 54+/-11 mg/dl, p=0.005; LDL cholesterol: 126.1+/-46.9 vs. 102+/-29 mg/dl, p=0.004), NT-proBNP [516 (174-1426) vs. 187 (39-573) pg/ml, p=0.02] and fasting blood glucose levels (97+/-14 vs. 94+/-11 mg/dl, p=0.03). Significantly lower serum adiponectin levels were observed in men and tobacco smokers.

CONCLUSIONS

Medical history, supported by interpretation of selected, routine imaging studies and novel biochemical markers, such as adiponectin, resistin, TNF-alpha, IL-8 or NT-proBNP, seem to be the key factors when assessing the risk of presence of advanced coronary artery atherosclerosis.

Heart rate turbulence in patients with chronic heart failure

BACKGROUND

Heart rate turbulence (HRT) has been shown to predict the prognosis after myocardial infarction (MI), but its prognostic value in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) has not yet been well established.

AIM

To evaluate HRT in patients with CHF and assess the prognostic significance of HRT in this group.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 82 patients with CHF and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <35%. All the patients underwent 24-hour Holter monitoring (HM). The heart rate variability (HRV) and HRT parameters were assessed using HRT view software. Two HRT parameters - turbulence slope (TS) and turbulence onset (TO), were calculated. We analysed the clinical course and survival during a two-year follow-up (mean 25+/-9 months).

RESULTS

The patients were divided into three groups according to the HRT parameters. Group 1 (23 patients) with both normal TO and TS (TO <0%, TS >2.5 m/s), group 2 (30 patients) with abnormal TO or TS, group 3 (29 patients) with abnormal TO and TS (TO >0% and TS <2.5 m/s). Patients from group 1 was significantly younger. There were no differences between patients in aetiology, treatment and the frequency of ventricular premature beats. Significant correlations between HRV and HRT parameters were observed. The correlation was the strongest between TS and SDNN and LF. During the follow-up 9 patients died and 15 were hospitalised for non-fatal infarction or worsening of CHF. Using a multivariate logistic regression model, it was shown that TS <2.5 ms/RR interval, and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT) significantly increased the risk of a serious cardiac events in CHF patients.

CONCLUSION

HRT parameters are often abnormal in patients with CHF. An abnormal turbulence slope (TS) and VT episodes are significantly associated with increased risk of cardiac complications in CHF.

Mitral valve regurgitation is a powerful factor of left ventricular hypertrophy

INTRODUCTION

Mitral valve regurgitation (MR) is a common abnormality found on echocardiography which in its advanced stage is a major cause of congestive heart failure. Cardiac remodeling associated with MR is caused by volume overload, dilatation and enlargement of the left ventricle and atrium.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to evaluate hemodynamic consequences of MR both for the cardiac chambers and hypertrophy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included 1432 patients (mean age 54 +/-15 years, male - 55%) with MR recorded in the transthoracic echocardiography database. Associations between the stage of MR and other variables in these patients were analyzed.

RESULTS

More advanced grades of MR were associated with progressive enlargement of left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic dimensions. LV ejection fraction (LVEF) was significantly decreasing with increased MR severity. A significant increase in the left atrial dimension and LV mass was observed. In multivariate regression analysis the grade of MR (p < 0.0001), age (p < 0.0001), endsystolic stress of LV (p < 0.0001), LV fractional shortening (p < 0.0001) and LVEF (p < 0.05) were found to be independently associated with LV mass. The strongest linear correlations were found between LV mass and endsystolic stress of LV (r = 0.52, p < 0.0001), the grade of MR (r = 0.32, p < 0.0001) and ejection fraction (r = -0.29, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

MR alters cardiac dimensions and function parameters and is also one of the strongest factors that increase LV hypertrophy.

Selected mutations in the myosin binding protein C gene in the Polish population of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Mutations in the gene of myosin binding protein C (MYBPC3) are currently considered the most frequent cause of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

AIM

To assess the frequency of selected mutations in MYBPC3 in the Polish population of HCM patients.

METHODS

One hundred eighteen patients with HCM and 118 healthy, age and sex-matched controls were screened for the presence of 14 mutations of MYBPC3 using real time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Five different mutations were found in six patients in the HCM group whereas no mutations were present in the control group. In three cases the mutations were missense (Arg502Gln, Cys566Arg, Asn755Lys) and in three cases terminal (Gln425ter, Gln1061ter in two unrelated probands).

CONCLUSION

Mutations in MYBPC3 should be considered a frequent cause of HCM in Poland.

The relationship between left ventricular late-systolic rotation and twist, and classic parameters of ventricular function and geometry

BACKGROUND

Using speckle tracking echocardiography we investigated left ventricular (LV) twist and rotation (ROT) at the papillary muscle (PM) level and their correlation with standard echocardiographic and demographic parameters.

AIM

To assess whether the fulcrum of LV short axis ROT is shifted in myocardial disease.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 33 patients (54+/-13 years old, 18 women). Left ventricular systolic function was normal in 6, and various degrees of wall motion abnormalities were present in the others [LV ejection fraction (LVEF) 49+/-15, wall motion score index (WMSI) 1.43+/-0.38]. Short axis images at basal, PM and apical level were analysed offline. The direction of ROT was determined from the apical aspect and expressed in degrees: clockwise (CW) in negative values, counter CW in positive. Twist is the arithmetic difference between apical and basal ROT.

RESULTS

Left ventricular twist was in the range of 0.4-27.5 (14+/-7) degrees and correlated with LV systolic diameter (LVS), r=-0.46, 95% CI from -0.69 to -0.13, p <0.01; LV diastolic diameter (LVD), r=-0.40, 95% CI from -0.65 to -0.06, p=0.02; and systolic motion score index of 6 mid segments (6S-MSI), calculated as WMSI at PM level, r=-0.37, 95% CI from -0.63 to -0.03, p <0.04. Linear regression resulted in a model including interventricular septum systolic thickness (IVSS) and 6S-MSI, which predicted twist correctly in 21% of cases. Twist was independent of LVEF and overall WMSI. The PM ROT value correlated with: apical ROT, r=0.36, 95% CI 0.02-0.63, p <0,04; posterior wall systolic thickness (PWS), r=0.39, 95% CI 0.05-0.64, p <0.03. We distinguished Group A, n=14, with CW direction of PM ROT - negative values, range from -5.2 to -0.9; Group B, n=19, with counter CW, range 0.4-4.9. Apical ROT was 5 vs. 10 degrees, p <0.03; PWS 14 vs. 15 mm, p <0.03; diastolic posterior wall thickness 10 vs. 12 mm, p <0.04, respectively. In univariate logistic regression, we identified independent factors related to counter CW PM ROT: apical ROT (OR=1.15, 95% CI 1.00-1.33, p <0.05) and PWS (OR=1.71, 95% CI 1.03-2.84, p <0.04). Multiple logistic regression resulted in a model predicting counterCW rotation at PM (p <0.01) including: apical ROT (OR=1.18, 95% CI 1.00-1.38, p <0.05) and PWS (OR=1.77, 95% CI 1.02-3.08, p <0.05). ROC curves identified cut-off values of apical ROT >11.3 deg and PWS >13 mm. We found counterCW PM ROT in all patients with both conditions, 59% of patients with one, 22% with none.

CONCLUSIONS

Left ventricular twist is related to mid segments function and IVSS, while PM ROT value and its direction (associated with 'zero ROT level') is related to PWS and apical ROT, rather than to LVEF or WMSI. Thus twist and rotation may reflect novel aspects of LV function.

Age-dependency of classic and new parameters of diastolic function

Age-dependency has been demonstrated for classic diastolic parameters but is less documented for novel markers. We compared wide spectrum of diastolic measurements in healthy subjects younger and older than 50 and 70 years.

METHOD

In 80 subjects (17 to 91 year, 38 male, mean age 53 +/- 16) we assessed in transthoracic echocardiography mitral inflow, pulmonary vein flow, propagation velocity, and tissue Doppler parameters. The data were compared between the groups: A < 50, B 50-70, and C > 70 years and their correlation with age was analyzed.

RESULT

In the older groups a longer duration of isovolumic relaxation, higher velocity of mitral inflow atrial phase, and lower early to atrial mitral inflow velocity ratio (E/A) were observed. In pulmonary veins ratio of peak systolic to diastolic velocity (S/D) was higher and atrial reversal flow faster. Among the new parameters in older groups a lower propagation velocity of early wave (Ep) (30 +/- 8 in C, 44 +/- 10 in B vs 49+/-9 cm/s in A;P< 0.05) and peak early diastolic velocity of mitral annulus (E' 9.5 +/- 1.8 in C and 11.2 +/- 2.9 in B vs 15.8 +/- 4.1 cm/s in A,P< 0.05) were recorded.

CONCLUSIONS

Besides the evolution of mitral inflow toward the delayed relaxation profile in elderly, a decrease of propagation and tissue Doppler velocities were documented. The strongest positive correlation with age was observed for atrial velocity of mitral inflow (A, r = 0.63) and inverse correlation for E/A ratio (r =-0.6) and early diastolic velocity of mitral annulus (r =-0.69).

[Implantation of the Figulla Occlutech device in a patient with an ostium secundum atrial septal defect]

A case of a 50 year old female with a secundum atrial septal defect is described. The patient underwent successful implantation of a new occluder - Figulla Occlutech device. Differences in the types of occluders used for this purpose are discussed.

Accelerated stress real-time myocardial contrast echocardiography for the detection of coronary artery disease: comparison with 99mTc single photon emission computed tomography

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this prospective study were to compare the diagnostic value of accelerated vasodilator stress real-time myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) against coronary angiography and to evaluate whether the addition of MCE perfusion data improves the diagnostic accuracy of stress echocardiography.

METHODS

A total of 103 patients with suspected or known stable coronary artery disease (CAD) underwent SPECT and accelerated high-dose dipyridamole (0.84 mg/kg intravenously for 4 minutes) atropine (up to 1 mg intravenously) stress real-time qualitative MCE. The presence of CAD was detected by coronary angiography.

RESULTS

CAD defined as >or= 70% stenosis was detected in 77% of patients, whereas 86% of patients had CAD defined as >or= 50% stenosis. In a territory-by-territory analysis, the concordance between MCE and SPECT in detecting perfusion defects varied from 72.8% (kappa = 0.386) to 89.3% (kappa = 0.642). There were no significant differences between MCE and SPECT in sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy for identifying patients with CAD. Combining MCE and wall motion abnormality analysis significantly improved the sensitivity of the test compared with wall motion abnormality analysis alone.

CONCLUSIONS

Accelerated vasodilator stress real-time MCE yields a good concordance with SPECT in detection of perfusion defects and a similar diagnostic value for the detection of CAD. The addition of MCE perfusion data improves the diagnostic value of stress echocardiography.

Comparison of apical left ventricular segments strain imaging by tissue Doppler and speckle tracking echocardiography

BACKGROUND

Spatial orientation of left ventricular (LV) apical segments is a potential limitation to assessment by tissue Doppler echocardiography (TDE). Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) is a recently developed quantification technique and has the advantage of being angle-independent as compared to TDE.

AIM

To assess matching apical segments' longitudinal strain data from TDE and STE.

METHODS

A 16-segment LV model was used. The study was based on a dataset of 306 myocardial segments from 22 consecutive patients with various degrees of wall motion abnormalities. 82 available apical lateral, septal, anterior and inferior segments from 2-chamber and 4-chamber views were selected for further assessment. The Bland-Altman method was used for comparison of mean strain values of corresponding segments.

RESULTS

An acceptable overall agreement between the two modalities was shown by the Bland-Altman method. The correlation ratio was 0.7. The measurements of apical lateral and anterior segments' longitudinal strain showed no significant difference. Speckle tracking echocardiography tended to produce lower strain results than TDE with mean values of -9 and -14%, respectively, p=0.0025.

CONCLUSIONS

Although angle-dependency of TDE may be a potential limitation in the strain imaging of apical LV segments, the overall agreement between TDE and angle independent STE technique is still acceptable.

Heart-type fatty acid binding protein--a reliable marker of myocardial necrosis in a heterogeneous group of patients with acute coronary syndrome without persistent ST elevation

BACKGROUND

Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the most serious challenges of contemporary cardiology. Among biochemical markers, heart-type specific fatty acid binding protein (h-FABP) has a high potential as a marker for the early diagnosis of acute MI. The h-FABP is released early to the bloodstream and may be useful for both rapid confirmation and exclusion of infarction. As opposed to patients with ST segment elevation MI (STEMI), patients with unstable angina (UA)/non-ST segment elevation MI (NSTEMI) present a heterogeneous group in which the confirmation of MI often meets diagnostic difficulties. A rapid, qualitative immunoenzymatic 'point of care' type test, revealing h-FABP in blood, has recently been made available (CardioDetect med).

AIM

To evaluate diagnostic value of early measurements of h-FABP and other markers of necrosis (cTnT, CK-MB, CK-MB mass) in a group of 100 patients with an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) without persistent ST segment elevation (NSTE ACS).

METHODS

We studied 100 consecutive patients (34 women, 66 men; mean age 61.6 years) with strong suspicion of NSTE ACS and chest pain lasting <24 h before admission. During admission and after 3 and 6 hours patients had measured a panel of conventional biomarkers as well as quantitative measurements of h-FABP (on admission and 3 hours later) using CardioDetect med. The ultimate diagnosis of infarction (NSTEMI) was confirmed in case of a second (6 h after admission) positive quantitative result of cardiac troponin. Non-ST segment elevation MI was finally diagnosed in 56 patients.

RESULTS

The comparison of diagnostic utility of all analysed biomarkers of necrosis revealed that h-FABP was superior to other parameters, when measured on admission, and was characterised by 94.7% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% positive predictive value, 93.4% negative predictive value and 97% accuracy. Other biomarkers had on admission lower sensitivity - 70.1% for CK-MB mass, 66.7% for CK-MB, 64.9% for cTnT, whereas their specificity was 97.6% for CK-MB mass, 93% for CK-MB and 100% for cTnT.

CONCLUSIONS

Qualitative h-FABP test (CardioDetect med) showed excellent sensitivity, higher than measurements of CK-MB mass, CK-MB, and cTnT on hospital admission, and high specificity in the patient group with NSTE ACS. The h-FABP seems to be an excellent biochemical cardiac marker for diagnosing NSTEMI, especially in its early phase, allowing exclusion of myocardial necrosis.

Implantation of a Occlutech Figulla PFO occluder in a patient with patent foramen ovale and history of embolic stroke

The most common interventions in structural heart diseases for various age groups are percutaneous occlusions of septal defects. We present the case of a woman with patent foramen ovale (PFO) periodically causing a right-to-left shunt, after an incident of stroke, with migraine attacks, treated by percutaneous closure of PFO with use of a novel occluder device--an Occlutech Figulla. The procedure was performed under X-ray and transesophageal echocardiographic monitoring. The novel Occlutech device described above features easy manipulation, good safety and some constructional innovations that enable the time of antiplatelet prophylaxis to be shortened, thus potentially minimizing procedure related risk.

Impact of the time to reperfusion on early outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction undergoing primary angioplasty

BACKGROUND

The ACC/AHA guidelines for management of patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) have recommended primary PCI (pPCI) as the preferred reperfusion therapy, when it can be performed in a timely fashion, within 90-110 min from the first contact with medical personnel. The impact of treatment delays on outcomes in patients undergoing pPCI has been controversial.

AIM

To evaluate the impact of time delays on in-hospital mortality and on the frequency of cardiac events during 30 days after STEMI.

METHODS

1723 patients were stratified on the basis of their time delays: from symptom onset until balloon inflation. The patients were divided into 4 groups: group 1 (311 patients) - time from symptom onset <90 min; group 2 (731 patients) - time delays of 90-180 min; group 3 (535 patients) - time delays of 180-360 min, and group 4 (146 patients) - time from symptom onset >360 min.

RESULTS

The median time delay was 268.5+/-206 min, the median door to balloon time was 36.12+/-11.2 min. The patients with longer time delays (group 4) were older, more often were women, and had a higher frequency of diabetes, anterior MI and Killip class 4. During hospitalisation, 70 (4.1%) patients died. In-hospital mortality was significantly higher in group 4 (13.6%) than in other groups. Complications of STEMI such as cardiogenic shock considerably influenced mortality (45.6%). During a 30-day follow- -up, the patients with cardiogenic shock and the elderly had an increased risk of cardiac events. Also, time delays >360 min and failed pPTCA were independent adverse risk factors in multivariate regression analysis.

CONCLUSION

Delays in time to pPCI have an impact on outcomes, especially in those treated >6 hours from the onset of symptoms.

Factors affecting the progression of atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries

BACKGROUND

The induction and progression of atherosclerotic changes is complex and influenced by many factors. The most important are enhanced concentration of LDL cholesterol, enlarged production of free radicals, the inflammatory reaction, endothelial damage, decreased concentration of HDL and increased prothrombotic activity.

AIM

To define the factors influencing the atherosclerotic process in the coronary arteries of patients with coronary disease in serial coronary examinations.

METHODS

In the 2nd Department of Cardiology in the Medical University of Lodz, 8989 coronary angiography studies were performed between January 1999 and May 2004. The second intervention in the earlier studied patients was made because of clinical indications. The investigation included 177 consecutive patients (128 men and 49 women) in whom the coronary angiography was executed at least twice.

RESULTS

A significantly larger degree of atherosclerotic process occurred in the group of patients younger than the average age of the studied group (p=0.004), in those with a family history of circulatory diseases (p=0.02), as well as in patients with numerous risk factors of coronary disease (p=0.01). In the well-fitted model of the prediction of progression of vascular changes, according to the Gensini Score in individual time (p <0.02), two independent parameters were identified - gender (p=0.04) and statin therapy (p=0.03). The odds ratio with 95% confidence interval in males was 2.1 (1.1-5.2), and for the use of statin - 0.48 (0.21-0.91).

CONCLUSIONS

Significant progression of atherosclerotic changes in the coronary vessels was confirmed in the studied population. In the group of men faster progression of atherosclerotic changes, in particular of lesions in the proximal parts of the coronary arteries, was confirmed, whereas therapy with statins significantly slowed down this process in all studied sections of the coronary arteries, especially in their distal parts.

[Acute mitral regurgitation caused by infarction-related papillary muscle rupture with successful surgical treatment: case report]

We present a case of severe complication of myocardial infarction -- acute mitral regurgitation caused by papillary muscle rupture. A 69-year-old man was admitted with chest pain lasting 1 hour and pulmonary oedema. ECG revealed ST-segment depression in leads II, III, aVF, V2-V6. Soon after admission the patient experienced respiratory disorders and consequently arrest. The patient was transferred in shock to the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, where he underwent successful artificial mitral valve implantation. One year later the patient is in good condition (NYHA class I) and the valve is fully functional.

Nitroglycerin infusion after percutaneous coronary intervention does not influence short- and long-term outcome--a prospective NAPI (Nitroglycerin Administration after Percutaneous Intervention) study

BACKGROUND

Although the benefit of nitroglycerin infusion in patients after elective coronary angioplasty has not been established, this regimen is routinely used in some centres.

AIM

The Nitroglycerin Administration after Percutaneous Intervention (NAPI) study tested the efficacy of routine nitroglycerin infusion on the 1st day after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in a double-blind randomised single-centre clinical trial.

METHODS

We randomly assigned 200 patients scheduled for elective PCI to treatment with nitroglycerin (100 patients, age 58+/-6 years, infusion up to 100 microg/min) or placebo (100 patients, age 57+/-5 years, p=NS, NaCl 0.9%) for 12 hours after PCI. Patients with acute myocardial infarction, haemodynamic instability during PCI and known intolerance to nitrates were excluded. Patients who were randomised to the placebo group had the possibility to receive nitroglycerin infusion according to the attending physician's decision. Clinical endpoints (cardiac death, myocardial infarction, postprocedural chest pain, unstable angina and repeated PCI) were assessed in hospital and out of hospital with follow-up extended to 24 months.

RESULTS

There were no differences during in-hospital stay between those receiving nitroglycerin and receiving placebo, regarding mortality (0 vs. 0%, NS), myocardial infarction (0 vs. 2%, NS), postprocedural chest pain (10 vs. 8%, NS) or repeated PCI (0 vs. 2%, NS). Similarly, 24-month follow-up also revealed no significant differences between those receiving nitroglycerin and placebo (mortality: 0 vs. 0%, NS; myocardial infarction: 4 vs. 4%, NS; repeated PCI: 10 vs. 8%, NS or CABG: 0 vs. 0%, NS).

CONCLUSIONS

Routine use of intravenous nitroglycerin after elective PCI has no influence on in-hospital and long-term outcome, including cardiac death, myocardial infarction, postprocedural chest pain, unstable angina and repeated PCI.

[Severe valvular aortic stenosis in a 78-year-old woman]

We present a case of a 78-year-old woman with severe valvular aortic stenosis which was diagnosed for the first time ever in our department despite the patient having been treated by general practitioners for several years because of diabetes mellitus. The patient complained of recurrent syncope, effort dyspnea and angina. During echocardiographic evaluation calcified stenotic aortic valve with extremely high maximal aortic gradient (199 mmHg) was found. The patient was qualified for surgical intervention. She died several hours after aortic valve replacement because of an acute aortic rupture and massive pericardial bleeding.