1
|
CETIN GUVENC R, GUREN AK, ENGUR B, CELIK S, DEMIRTUNC R. Interatrial Block and Electrocardiographic Markers of Repolarization in Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19: Classical and Bayesian Analysis. Medeni Med J 2023; 38:236-242. [PMID: 38148690 PMCID: PMC10759943 DOI: 10.4274/mmj.galenos.2023.87400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) and ventricular arrhythmias. Several electrophysiological abnormalities on surface electrocardiography (ECG) are associated with AF and ventricular arrhythmias, either as markers of abnormal interatrial conduction or abnormal repolarization. The present study sought to understand whether such ECG markers are more common in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 infection during the pandemic. Methods A total of 87 COVID-19 patients formed the study group, whereas 64 patients who were hospitalized for any reason other than COVID-19 infection served as controls. The frequency of partial and advanced interatrial block (IAB), QT and corrected QT (QTc) durations, QT dispersion (QTd), and T peak-to-end duration (Tpe) were measured from ECGs at admission. Results Both partial and advanced IAB were more common in patients with COVID-19, although statistical significance was only observed for advanced IAB (11.5% in COVID-19 patients vs. 0.0% in controls, p=0.005). There were no differences between the groups for QTc, QTd or Tpe. On Bayesian analyses, there was strong evidence favoring an association between COVID-19 and advanced IAB (BF10:16), whereas there was no evidence for an association for partial IAB, QTc, QTd, or Tpe (BF10<1 for all). Conclusions Patients hospitalized with COVID-19 were more likely to have advanced IAB, which may explain why AF is more frequent in these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rengin CETIN GUVENC
- Okan University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ali Kaan GUREN
- University of Health Sciences Turkey, Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Internal Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Busra ENGUR
- University of Health Sciences Turkey, Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Internal Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Selin CELIK
- University of Health Sciences Turkey, Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Internal Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Refik DEMIRTUNC
- University of Health Sciences Turkey, Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Internal Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lampert J, Power D, Havaldar S, Govindarajulu U, Kawamura I, Maan A, Miller MA, Menon K, Koruth J, Whang W, Bagiella E, Bayes-Genis A, Musikantow D, Turagam M, Bayes de Luna A, Halperin J, Dukkipati SR, Vaid A, Nadkarni G, Glicksberg B, Fuster V, Reddy VY. Interatrial Block Association With Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients Without a History of Atrial Fibrillation. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2023; 9:1804-1815. [PMID: 37354170 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2023.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interatrial block (IAB) is associated with thromboembolism and atrial arrhythmias. However, prior studies included small patient cohorts so it remains unclear whether IAB predicts adverse outcomes particularly in context of atrial fibrillation (AF)/atrial flutter (AFL). OBJECTIVES This study sought to determine whether IAB portends increased stroke risk in a large cohort in the presence or absence of AFAF/AFL. METHODS We performed a 5-center retrospective analysis of 4,837,989 electrocardiograms (ECGs) from 1,228,291 patients. IAB was defined as P-wave duration ≥120 ms in leads II, III, or aVF. Measurements were extracted as .XML files. After excluding patients with prior AF/AFL, 1,825,958 ECGs from 458,994 patients remained. Outcomes were analyzed using restricted mean survival time analysis and restricted mean time lost. RESULTS There were 86,317 patients with IAB and 355,032 patients without IAB. IAB prevalence in the cohort was 19.6% and was most common in Black (26.1%), White (20.9%), and Hispanic (18.5%) patients and least prevalent in Native Americans (9.2%). IAB was independently associated with increased stroke probability (restricted mean time lost ratio coefficient [RMTLRC]: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.35-1.51; tau = 1,895), mortality (RMTLRC: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.07-1.21; tau = 1,924), heart failure (RMTLRC: 1.94; 95% CI: 1.83-2.04; tau = 1,921), systemic thromboembolism (RMTLRC: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.53-1.71; tau = 1,897), and incident AF/AFL (RMTLRC: 1.16; 95% CI: 1.10-1.22; tau = 1,888). IAB was not associated with stroke in patients with pre-existing AF/AFL. CONCLUSIONS IAB is independently associated with stroke in patients with no history of AF/AFL even after adjustment for incident AF/AFL and CHA2DS2-VASc score. Patients are at increased risk of stroke even when AF/AFL is not identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Lampert
- Helmsley Electrophysiology Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA. https://twitter.com/joshuamlampertmd
| | - David Power
- Mount Sinai Heart, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Shreyas Havaldar
- Hasso Plattner Institute for Digital Health at Mount Sinai, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Usha Govindarajulu
- Center for Biostatistics, Department of Population Health, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Iwanari Kawamura
- Helmsley Electrophysiology Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Abhishek Maan
- Helmsley Electrophysiology Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Marc A Miller
- Helmsley Electrophysiology Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kartikeya Menon
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jacob Koruth
- Helmsley Electrophysiology Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - William Whang
- Helmsley Electrophysiology Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Emilia Bagiella
- Center for Biostatistics, Department of Population Health, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Antoni Bayes-Genis
- Heart Institute, Hospital Universitario Germans trias I Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Daniel Musikantow
- Helmsley Electrophysiology Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Mohit Turagam
- Helmsley Electrophysiology Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Antoni Bayes de Luna
- Cardiovascular Research Foundation, Cardiovascular ICCC-Program, Research Institute Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Srinivas R Dukkipati
- Helmsley Electrophysiology Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Akhil Vaid
- Division of Data-Driven and Digital Medicine (D3M), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; The Charles Bronfman Institute of Personalized Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Girish Nadkarni
- Division of Data-Driven and Digital Medicine (D3M), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; The Charles Bronfman Institute of Personalized Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Benjamin Glicksberg
- Hasso Plattner Institute for Digital Health at Mount Sinai, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Valentin Fuster
- Mount Sinai Heart, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Vivek Y Reddy
- Helmsley Electrophysiology Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zagoridis K, Koutalas E, Intzes S, Symeonidou M, Zagoridou N, Karagogos K, Spanoudakis E, Kanoupakis E, Kochiadakis G, Dinov B, Dagres N, Hindricks G, Bollmann A, Nedios S. P-wave duration and interatrial block as predictors of new-onset atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Hellenic J Cardiol 2023; 72:57-64. [PMID: 37028490 DOI: 10.1016/j.hjc.2023.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early detection of atrial fibrillation (AF) could improve patient outcomes. P-wave duration (PWD) and interatrial block (IAB) are known predictors of new-onset AF and could improve selection for AF screening. This meta-analysis reviews the published evidence and offers practical implications. METHODS Publication databases were systematically searched, and studies reporting PWD and/or morphology at baseline and new-onset AF during follow-up were included. IAB was defined as partial (pIAB) if PWD≥120 ms or advanced (aIAB) if the P-wave was biphasic in the inferior leads. After quality assessment and data extraction, random-effects analysis calculated odds ratio (OR) and confidence intervals (CI). Subgroup analysis was performed for those with implantable devices (continuous monitoring). RESULTS Among 16,830 patients (13 studies, mean 66 years old), 2,521 (15%) had new-onset AF over a median of 44 months. New-onset AF was associated with a longer PWD (mean pooled difference: 11.5 ms, 13 studies, p < 0.001). The OR for new-onset AF was 2.05 (95% CI: 1.3-3.2) for pIAB (5 studies, p = 0.002) and 3.9 (95% CI: 2.6-5.8) for aIAB (7 studies, p < 0.001). Patients with pIAB and devices had higher AF-detection risk (OR: 2.33, p < 0.001) than those without devices (OR: 1.36, p = 0.56). Patients with aIAB had similarly high risk regardless of device presence. There was significant heterogeneity but no publication bias. CONCLUSION Interatrial block is an independent predictor of new-onset AF. The association is stronger for patients with implantable devices (close monitoring). Thus, PWD and IAB could be used as selection criteria for intensive screening, follow-up or interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Emmanuel Koutalas
- Cardiology Department, Heraklion University Hospital, Crete, Greece.
| | - Stergios Intzes
- Democritus University of Thrace, Medical School, Alexandroupoli, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Borislav Dinov
- Electrophysiology Department, Heart Center, University of Leipzig, Germany
| | - Nikolaos Dagres
- Electrophysiology Department, Heart Center, University of Leipzig, Germany
| | - Gerhard Hindricks
- Electrophysiology Department, Heart Center, University of Leipzig, Germany
| | - Andreas Bollmann
- Electrophysiology Department, Heart Center, University of Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sotirios Nedios
- Electrophysiology Department, Heart Center, University of Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Creta A, Venier S, Tampakis K, Providencia R, Sunny J, Defaye P, Earley MJ, Finlay M, Hunter RJ, Lambiase PD, Papageorgiou N, Schilling RJ, Sporton S, Andrikopoulos G, Deschamps E, Albenque JP, Cardin C, Combes N, Combes S, Vinolas X, Moreno-Weidmann Z, Huang T, Eichenlaub M, Müller-Edenborn B, Arentz T, Jadidi AS, Boveda S. Amplified sinus-P-wave analysis predicts outcomes of cryoballoon ablation in patients with persistent and long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation: A multicentre study. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1110165. [PMID: 37051067 PMCID: PMC10083273 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1110165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Outcomes of catheter ablation for non-paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) remain suboptimal. Non-invasive stratification of patients based on the presence of atrial cardiomyopathy (ACM) could allow to identify the best responders to pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). Methods Observational multicentre retrospective study in patients undergoing cryoballoon-PVI for non-paroxysmal AF. The duration of amplified P-wave (APW) was measured from a digitally recorded 12-lead electrocardiogram during the procedure. If patients were in AF, direct-current cardioversion was performed to allow APW measurement in sinus rhythm. An APW cut-off of 150 ms was used to identify patients with significant ACM. We assessed freedom from arrhythmia recurrence at long-term follow-up in patients with APW ≥ 150 ms vs. APW < 150 ms. Results We included 295 patients (mean age 62.3 ± 10.6), of whom 193 (65.4%) suffered from persistent AF and the remaining 102 (34.6%) from long-standing persistent AF. One-hundred-forty-two patients (50.2%) experienced arrhythmia recurrence during a mean follow-up of 793 ± 604 days. Patients with APW ≥ 150 ms had a significantly higher recurrence rate post ablation compared to those with APW < 150 ms (57.0% vs. 41.6%; log-rank p < 0.001). On a multivariable Cox-regression analysis, APW≥150 ms was the only independent predictor of arrhythmia recurrence post ablation (HR 2.03 CI95% 1.28-3.21; p = 0.002). Conclusion APW duration predicts arrhythmia recurrence post cryoballoon-PVI in persistent and long-standing persistent AF. An APW cut-off of 150 ms allows to identify patients with significant ACM who have worse outcomes post PVI. Analysis of APW represents an easy, non-invasive and highly reproducible diagnostic tool which allows to identify patients who are the most likely to benefit from PVI-only approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Creta
- Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sandrine Venier
- Department of Cardiology, Grenoble University Hospital and Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
| | - Konstantinos Tampakis
- Electrophysiology & Pacing Department, Henry Dunant Hospital Center, Athens, Greece
- Département de Rythmologie, Clinique Pasteur, Toulose, France
| | - Rui Providencia
- Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Juno Sunny
- Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pascal Defaye
- Department of Cardiology, Grenoble University Hospital and Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
| | - Mark J. Earley
- Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Malcolm Finlay
- Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ross J. Hunter
- Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pier D. Lambiase
- Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Simon Sporton
- Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - George Andrikopoulos
- Electrophysiology & Pacing Department, Henry Dunant Hospital Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Elodie Deschamps
- Department of Cardiology, Grenoble University Hospital and Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
| | | | | | - Nicolas Combes
- Département de Rythmologie, Clinique Pasteur, Toulose, France
| | - Stéphane Combes
- Département de Rythmologie, Clinique Pasteur, Toulose, France
| | - Xavier Vinolas
- Arrhythmia Unit, Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Zoraida Moreno-Weidmann
- Arrhythmia Unit, Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Taiyuan Huang
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Martin Eichenlaub
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Björn Müller-Edenborn
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Thomas Arentz
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Amir S. Jadidi
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Serge Boveda
- Département de Rythmologie, Clinique Pasteur, Toulose, France
- Correspondence: Serge Boveda
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Russo V, Albani S, Caturano A, Weisz SH, Parisi V, Conte M, Zaccaro L, D'Andrea A, Al-Turky A, Marchel M, Marano M, Sasso FC, Attena E. The prognostic role of interatrial block among COVID-19 patients hospitalized in medicine wards. Eur J Clin Invest 2022; 52:e13781. [PMID: 35342933 PMCID: PMC9111721 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Some abnormal electrocardiographic findings were independently associated with increased mortality in patients admitted for COVID-19; however, no studies have focussed on the prognosis impact of the interatrial block (IAB) in this clinical setting. The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence and clinical implications of IAB, both partial and advanced, in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. MATERIALS We retrospectively evaluated 300 consecutive COVID-19 patients (63.22 ± 15.16 years; 70% males) admitted to eight Italian Hospitals from February 2020 to April 2020 who underwent twelve lead electrocardiographic recording at admission. The study population has been dichotomized into two groups according to the evidence of IAB at admission, both partial and advanced. The differences in terms of ARDS in need of intubation, in-hospital mortality and thromboembolic events (a composite of myocardial infarction, stroke and transient ischaemic attack) have been evaluated. RESULTS The presence of IAB was noticed in 64 patients (21%). In the adjusted logistic regression model, the partial interatrial block was found to be an independent predictor of ARDS in need of intubation (HR: 1.92; p: .04) and in-hospital mortality (HR: 2.65; p: .02); moreover, the advanced interatrial block was an independent predictor of thrombotic events (HR: 7.14; p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Among COVID-19 patients hospitalized in medical wards, the presence of interatrial block is more frequent than in the general population and it might be useful as an early predictor for increased risk of incident thrombotic events, ARDS in need of intubation and in-hospital mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Russo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Monaldi and Cotugno Hospital, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Albani
- Cardiology Department, Aosta Valley Health Authority, Aosta, Italy
| | - Alfredo Caturano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Parisi
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maddalena Conte
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Zaccaro
- Cardiology Department, Aosta Valley Health Authority, Aosta, Italy
| | | | - Ahmed Al-Turky
- Division of Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | | | - Ferdinando Carlo Sasso
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Herrera C, Bruña V, María Barrio J, Cuerpo G, Fernández-Avilés F, Bayés de Luna A, Martínez-Sellés M. Atrial myxoma surgery and p-wave remodeling. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2022; 45:1160-1164. [PMID: 35898158 DOI: 10.1111/pace.14573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Data regarding atrial electrocardiographic parameters in patients with atrial myxomas are scarce. METHODS We aimed to study atrial electrocardiographic features in patients with atrial myxomas, before and after surgery. We also analyze the incidence of atrial fibrillation during follow-up and its correlation with different P-wave indexes. 32 patients in sinus rhythm that underwent atrial myxoma surgery were included. RESULTS Mean age was 55.0±12.6 years and 18 (56.3%) were women. Ten patients had left atrial enlargement (31.3%). Only one myxoma was located in the right atrium. At baseline 7 cases of partial interatrial block (IAB) were detected (21.9%), two in the absence of left atrial enlargement. There were significant differences in atrial electrocardiographic indexes before and after surgery, including P-wave duration (108.9±17.9 ms vs. 93.0±12.4 ms; p < 0.001), partial IAB (21.9% vs 3.1%; p = 0.012) and duration of P-wave terminal force in lead V1 negativity (-0.6±0.3 vs -0.5±0.3 mm; p = 0.034). At a mean follow up of 10.0±5.5 years, 10 patients (31.3%) had experienced at least one episode of atrial fibrillation. Post-operative P-wave duration was associated with atrial fibrillation occurrence during follow-up (Hazard ratio: 0.90, 95% confidence interval: 0.83-0.98; p = 0.020). CONCLUSIONS Abnormalities in atrial electrocardiographic indexes are common in atrial myxomas and frequently improve after surgery. Post-operative P-wave duration is associated with atrial fibrillation occurrence during follow-up. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristian Herrera
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón. CIBER-CV, Madrid, Spain
| | - Vanesa Bruña
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre. CIBER-CV, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose María Barrio
- Department of Anestesiology. Cardiac Surgery Postoperative Care Unit, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gregorio Cuerpo
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Fernández-Avilés
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón. CIBER-CV, Madrid, Spain.,Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Bayés de Luna
- Cardiovascular Research Foundation, Cardiovascular ICCC Program, Research Institute Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Martínez-Sellés
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón. CIBER-CV, Madrid, Spain.,Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain.,Universidad Europea, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Henkens MTHM, López Martínez H, Weerts J, Sammani A, Raafs AG, Verdonschot JAJ, van de Leur RR, Sikking MA, Stroeks S, van Empel VPM, Brunner‐La Rocca H, van Stipdonk AMW, Farmakis D, Hazebroek MR, Vernooy K, Bayés‐de‐Luna A, Asselbergs FW, Bayés‐Genís A, Heymans SRB. Interatrial Block Predicts Life-Threatening Arrhythmias in Dilated Cardiomyopathy. J Am Heart Assoc 2022; 11:e025473. [PMID: 35861818 PMCID: PMC9707810 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.121.025473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Interatrial block (IAB) has been associated with supraventricular arrhythmias and stroke, and even with sudden cardiac death in the general population. Whether IAB is associated with life-threatening arrhythmias (LTA) and sudden cardiac death in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) remains unknown. This study aimed to determine the association between IAB and LTA in ambulant patients with DCM. Methods and Results A derivation cohort (Maastricht Dilated Cardiomyopathy Registry; N=469) and an external validation cohort (Utrecht Cardiomyopathy Cohort; N=321) were used for this study. The presence of IAB (P-wave duration>120 milliseconds) or atrial fibrillation (AF) was determined using digital calipers by physicians blinded to the study data. In the derivation cohort, IAB and AF were present in 291 (62%) and 70 (15%) patients with DCM, respectively. LTA (defined as sudden cardiac death, justified shock from implantable cardioverter-defibrillator or anti-tachypacing, or hemodynamic unstable ventricular fibrillation/tachycardia) occurred in 49 patients (3 with no IAB, 35 with IAB, and 11 patients with AF, respectively; median follow-up, 4.4 years [2.1; 7.4]). The LTA-free survival distribution significantly differed between IAB or AF versus no IAB (both P<0.01), but not between IAB versus AF (P=0.999). This association remained statistically significant in the multivariable model (IAB: HR, 4.8 (1.4-16.1), P=0.013; AF: HR, 6.4 (1.7-24.0), P=0.007). In the external validation cohort, the survival distribution was also significantly worse for IAB or AF versus no IAB (P=0.037; P=0.005), but not for IAB versus AF (P=0.836). Conclusions IAB is an easy to assess, widely applicable marker associated with LTA in DCM. IAB and AF seem to confer similar risk of LTA. Further research on IAB in DCM, and on the management of IAB in DCM is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michiel T. H. M. Henkens
- Department of Cardiology, CARIMMaastricht University Medical CentreMaastrichtThe Netherlands
- Netherlands Heart InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | | | - Jerremy Weerts
- Department of Cardiology, CARIMMaastricht University Medical CentreMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Arjan Sammani
- Department of CardiologyDivision of Heart and LungsUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Anne G. Raafs
- Department of Cardiology, CARIMMaastricht University Medical CentreMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Job A. J. Verdonschot
- Department of Cardiology, CARIMMaastricht University Medical CentreMaastrichtThe Netherlands
- Department of clinical genetics, CARIMMaastricht University Medical CentreMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Rutger R. van de Leur
- Department of CardiologyDivision of Heart and LungsUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Maurits A. Sikking
- Department of Cardiology, CARIMMaastricht University Medical CentreMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Sophia Stroeks
- Department of Cardiology, CARIMMaastricht University Medical CentreMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Vanessa P. M. van Empel
- Department of Cardiology, CARIMMaastricht University Medical CentreMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | | | | | - Dimitrios Farmakis
- University of Cyprus Medical SchoolNicosiaCyprus
- Heart Failure UnitDepartment of CardiologyAttikon University HospitalNational and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical SchoolAthensGreece
| | - Mark R. Hazebroek
- Department of Cardiology, CARIMMaastricht University Medical CentreMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, CARIMMaastricht University Medical CentreMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Antoni Bayés‐de‐Luna
- Cardiovascular Research Foundation. Cardiovascular ICCC‐ ProgramResearch Institute Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauIIB‐Sant PauBarcelonaSpain
| | - Folkert W. Asselbergs
- Department of CardiologyDivision of Heart and LungsUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Institute of Cardiovascular ScienceFaculty of Population Health SciencesUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Health Data Research UK and Institute of Health InformaticsUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | | | - Stephane R. B. Heymans
- Department of Cardiology, CARIMMaastricht University Medical CentreMaastrichtThe Netherlands
- Netherlands Heart InstituteUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Department of Cardiovascular ResearchUniversity of LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen LY, Ribeiro ALP, Platonov PG, Cygankiewicz I, Soliman EZ, Gorenek B, Ikeda T, Vassilikos VP, Steinberg JS, Varma N, Bayés-de-Luna A, Baranchuk A. P Wave Parameters and Indices: A Critical Appraisal of Clinical Utility, Challenges, and Future Research-A Consensus Document Endorsed by the International Society of Electrocardiology and the International Society for Holter and Noninvasive Electrocardiology. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2022; 15:e010435. [PMID: 35333097 PMCID: PMC9070127 DOI: 10.1161/circep.121.010435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Atrial cardiomyopathy, characterized by abnormalities in atrial structure and function, is associated with increased risk of adverse cardiovascular and neurocognitive outcomes, independent of atrial fibrillation. There exists a critical unmet need for a clinical tool that is cost-effective, easy to use, and that can diagnose atrial cardiomyopathy. P wave parameters (PWPs) reflect underlying atrial structure, size, and electrical activation; alterations in these factors manifest as abnormalities in PWPs that can be readily ascertained from a standard 12-lead ECG and potentially be used to aid clinical decision-making. PWPs include P wave duration, interatrial block, P wave terminal force in V1, P wave axis, P wave voltage, P wave area, and P wave dispersion. PWPs can be combined to yield an index (P wave index), such as the morphology-voltage-P-wave duration ECG risk score. Abnormal PWPs have been shown in population-based cohort studies to be independently associated with higher risks of atrial fibrillation, ischemic stroke, sudden cardiac death, and dementia. Additionally, PWPs, either individually or in combination (as a P wave index), have been reported to enhance prediction of atrial fibrillation or ischemic stroke. To facilitate translation of PWPs to routine clinical practice, additional work is needed to standardize measurement of PWPs (eg, via semiautomated or automated measurement), confirm their reliability and predictive value, leverage novel approaches (eg, wavelet analysis of P waves and machine learning algorithms), and finally, define the risk-benefit ratio of specific interventions in high-risk individuals. Our ultimate goal is to repurpose the ubiquitous 12-lead ECG to advance the study, diagnosis, and treatment of atrial cardiomyopathy, thus overcoming critical challenges in prevention of cardiovascular disease and dementia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Yee Chen
- Lillehei Heart Institute & Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis' MN (L.Y.C.)
| | - Antonio Luiz Pinho Ribeiro
- Centro de Telessaúde, Hospital das Clínicas, & Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil (A.L.P.R.)
| | - Pyotr G Platonov
- Department of Cardiology, Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund' Sweden (P.G.P.)
| | - Iwona Cygankiewicz
- Department of Electrocardiology, Medical University of Lodz, Poland (I.C.)
| | - Elsayed Z Soliman
- Institute of Global Health & Human Ecology, American University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt (E.Z.S.).,Epidemiological Cardiology Research Center (EPICARE), Department of Internal Medicine, Section on Cardiovascular Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC (E.Z.S.)
| | - Bulent Gorenek
- Department of Cardiology, Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey (B.G.)
| | - Takanori Ikeda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Toho University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo' Japan (T.I.)
| | - Vassilios P Vassilikos
- Third Cardiology Department, Hippokrateio General Hospital, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece (V.P.V.)
| | - Jonathan S Steinberg
- Clinical Cardiovascular Research Center, Univ of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY (J.S.S.)
| | - Niraj Varma
- Cardiac Electrophysiology, Heart & Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland' OH (N.V.)
| | - Antoni Bayés-de-Luna
- Cardiovascular Research Foundation. Cardiovascular ICCC-Program, Research Institute Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain (A.B.-d.-L.)
| | - Adrian Baranchuk
- Division of Cardiology, Kingston Health Science, Center, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada (A.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Power DA, Lampert J, Camaj A, Bienstock SW, Kocovic N, Bayes-Genis A, Miller MA, Bayés-de-Luna A, Fuster V. Cardiovascular Complications of Interatrial Conduction Block: JACC State-of-the-Art Review. J Am Coll Cardiol 2022; 79:1199-1211. [PMID: 35331415 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2022.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Interatrial block (IAB) is an electrocardiographic pattern describing the conduction delay between the right and left atria. IAB is classified into 3 degrees of block that correspond to decreasing conduction in the region of Bachmann's bundle. Although initially considered benign in nature, specific subsets of IAB have been associated with atrial arrhythmias, elevated thromboembolic stroke risk, cognitive impairment, and mortality. As the pathophysiologic relationships between IAB and stroke are reinforced, investigation has now turned to the potential benefit of early detection, atrial imaging, cardiovascular risk factor modification, antiarrhythmic pharmacotherapy, and stroke prevention with oral anticoagulation. This review provides a contemporary overview of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of IAB, with a focus on future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David A Power
- The Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.
| | - Joshua Lampert
- The Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Anton Camaj
- The Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Solomon W Bienstock
- The Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Nikola Kocovic
- The Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Antoni Bayes-Genis
- Heart Institute, Hospital Universitario Germans Trias I Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Marc A Miller
- The Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Antoni Bayés-de-Luna
- Cardiovascular Research Foundation, Cardiovascular ICCC-Program, Research Institute Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Valentin Fuster
- The Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
de Leon A, Neira V, Alhammad N, Hopman W, Hansom S, Chacko S, Simpson C, Redfearn D, Abdollah H, Arauz A, Baranchuk A, Enriquez A. Electrocardiographic predictors of atrial fibrillation in patients with cryptogenic stroke. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2021; 45:176-181. [PMID: 34862978 DOI: 10.1111/pace.14418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Empiric anticoagulation is not routinely indicated in patients with cryptogenic stroke without documentation of atrial fibrillation (AF). Therefore, identification of patients at increased risk of AF from this vulnerable group is vital. OBJECTIVES To identify electrocardiographic (ECG) predictors of AF in patients with cryptogenic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) undergoing insertion of an implantable cardiac monitor (ICM). METHODS In this single-center study, 48 patients with cryptogenic stroke or TIA had an ICM implanted for detection of AF between January 2013 and September 2019. Patients with and without AF were compared in terms of p-wave duration and a novel index (MVP score). RESULTS During a mean follow-up of 16±14 months, AF was detected in 7 patients (15%). Diagnosis of AF was made after a mean of 10 ± 14 months, with time to first AF detection ranging between 1 and 40 months. Patients with AF had a longer p-wave duration (136±9 ms vs 116±10 ms; p = 0.0001) and a higher MVP score (4.5±1.2 vs 2.0±0.9, p = 0.0001) than those without AF. Advanced interatrial block was observed in 43% of patients with ICM evidence of AF and 0% of those without AF (p = 0.002). Age, LA size or LVEF were not predictors of AF. CONCLUSION An increased p-wave duration, advanced interatrial block and high MVP score are associated with AF occurrence in patients with cryptogenic stroke. Identifying patients with these markers may be helpful as they may benefit from more exhaustive and prolonged monitoring. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana de Leon
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston Health Science Centre, Ontario, Canada
| | - Victor Neira
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston Health Science Centre, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nasser Alhammad
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston Health Science Centre, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wilma Hopman
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston Health Science Centre, Ontario, Canada
| | - Simon Hansom
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston Health Science Centre, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sanoj Chacko
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston Health Science Centre, Ontario, Canada
| | - Chris Simpson
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston Health Science Centre, Ontario, Canada
| | - Damian Redfearn
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston Health Science Centre, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hoshiar Abdollah
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston Health Science Centre, Ontario, Canada
| | - Antonio Arauz
- Instituto Nacional de Neurologia y Neurocirugia, Manuel Velasco Suarez, Mexico
| | - Adrian Baranchuk
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston Health Science Centre, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andres Enriquez
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston Health Science Centre, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Relander A, Hellman T, Vasankari T, Nuotio I, Airaksinen JKE, Kiviniemi T. Advanced interatrial block predicts ineffective cardioversion of atrial fibrillation: a FinCV2 cohort study. Ann Med 2021; 53:722-729. [PMID: 34018453 PMCID: PMC8158202 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2021.1930139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Rhythm control using electrical cardioversion (CV) is a common treatment strategy for patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF). To guide clinical decision making, we sought to assess if electrocardiographic interatrial blocks could predict CV failure or AF recurrence as the phenomenon is strongly associated with atrial arrhythmias. METHODS This study included 715 patients who underwent a CV for persistent AF lasting >48 h. P-wave duration and morphology were analyzed in post-procedure or the most recent sinus rhythm electrocardiograms and compared with rates of CV failure and AF recurrence within 30 days after CV as well as their combination (ineffective CV). RESULTS CV was unsuccessful in 63 out of 715 patients (8.8%) and AF recurred in 209 out of 652 (29.2%) patients within 30 days after CV. Overall, 272 (38.0%) CVs turned out ineffective. Advanced interatrial block (AIAB) defined as P-wave duration ≥120 ms and biphasic morphology in inferior leads (II, III and aVF) was diagnosed in 72 (10.1%) cases. AIAB was an independent predictor for CV failure (OR 4.51, 95%CI 1.76-11.56, p = .002), AF recurrence (OR 2.93, 95%CI 1.43-5.99, p = .003) and ineffective CV (OR 3.87, 95%CI 2.04-7.36, p < .001). CONCLUSION AIAB predicted CV failure, AF recurrence as well as their composite. This study presents an easy electrocardiographic tool for the identification of patients with persistent AF who might not benefit from an elective CV in the future.KEY MESSAGESInteratrial blocks are very common in patients with atrial fibrillation.Advanced interatrial block predicts ineffective cardioversion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arto Relander
- Heart Center, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Tapio Hellman
- Department of Medicine, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Tuija Vasankari
- Heart Center, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Ilpo Nuotio
- Department of Medicine, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Tuomas Kiviniemi
- Heart Center, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ramos Jiménez J, Marco Del Castillo Á, Rodríguez Muñoz D, Borrego Bernabé L, Fontenla A, López Gil M. Complete interatrial block in a left-atrial dependent atrioventricular node. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2021; 32:2343-2345. [PMID: 34196993 DOI: 10.1111/jce.15138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A middle-age woman underwent an electrophysiologic study due to recurrent atypical atrial flutter. METHODS AND RESULT Radiofrequency ablation of cavotricuspid isthmus and anterior mitral line was performed. During energy delivery on the anterior left atrial wall, interatrial dissociation and complete block of the sinus impulse to the atrioventricular (AV) node was observed. AV node activation became dependent on a subsidiary left atrial rhythm. CONCLUSION Anatomical location of intra and inter-atrial connections must be taken into account when performing extensive ablation procedures, specially in cases with prior cardiac surgeries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javier Ramos Jiménez
- Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Unit, Cardiology Department, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Álvaro Marco Del Castillo
- Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Unit, Cardiology Department, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Rodríguez Muñoz
- Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Unit, Cardiology Department, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Borrego Bernabé
- Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Unit, Cardiology Department, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adolfo Fontenla
- Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Unit, Cardiology Department, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - María López Gil
- Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Unit, Cardiology Department, University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lindow T, Lindqvist P. The Prevalence of Advanced Interatrial Block and Its Relationship to Left Atrial Function in Patients with Transthyretin Cardiac Amyloidosis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:2764. [PMID: 34201866 PMCID: PMC8267751 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10132764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advanced interatrial block (aIAB), which is associated with incident atrial fibrillation and stroke, occurs in the setting of blocked interatrial conduction. Atrial amyloid deposition could be a possible substrate for reduced interatrial conduction, but the prevalence of aIAB in patients with transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CA) is unknown. We aimed to describe the prevalence of aIAB and its relationship to left atrial function in patients with ATTR-CA in comparison to patients with HF and left ventricular hypertrophy but no CA. METHODS The presence of aIAB was investigated among 75 patients (49 patients with ATTR-CA and 26 with HF but no CA). A comprehensive echocardiographic investigation was performed in all patients, including left atrial strain and strain rate measurements. RESULTS Among patients with ATTR-CA, 27% had aIAB and in patients with HF but no CA, this figure was 21%, (p = 0.78). The presence of aIAB was associated with a low strain rate during atrial contraction (<0.91 s-1) (OR: 5.2 (1.4-19.9)), even after adjusting for age and LAVi (OR: 4.5 (1.0-19.19)). CONCLUSIONS Advanced interatrial block is common among patients with ATTR-CA, as well as in patients with heart failure and left ventricular hypertrophy but no CA. aIAB is associated with reduced left atrial contractile function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Lindow
- Kolling Institute, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Research and Development, Växjö Central Hospital, Region Kronoberg, 351 88 Växjö, Sweden
- Clinical Physiology, Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Per Lindqvist
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Surgical and Perioperative Sciences, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden;
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Alves M, Abrantes AM, Portugal G, Cruz MM, Reimão S, Caldeira D, Ferro JM, Ferreira JJ. Does Parkinson's Disease Increase the Risk of Atrial Fibrillation? Insights From Electrocardiogram and Risk Scores From a Case-Control Study. Front Neurol 2021; 12:633900. [PMID: 34054687 PMCID: PMC8149901 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.633900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Previous studies suggested that Parkinson's Disease (PD) patients could have an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. However, data supporting this association is not robust. We aimed to compare the potential risk of atrial fibrillation associated with PD in an age and gender matched case-control study, comparing the p-wave indexes from electrocardiograms and clinical risk scores among groups. Methods: A cross-sectional case-control study was performed. All subjects included in the analysis were clinically evaluated and subjected to a 12-lead electrocardiogram. Two blinded independent raters measured the p-wave duration. Subjects were classified as having normal P-wave duration (<120 ms), partial IAB (P-wave duration ≥ 120 ms, positive in inferior leads), and advanced IAB (p-wave duration ≥ 120 ms with biphasic morphology in inferior leads). Atrial fibrillation risk scores (CHARGE-AF, HATCH, and HAVOC) were calculated. Results: From 194 potential participants, three were excluded from the control group due to a previous diagnosis of atrial fibrillation. Comparing the PD patients (n = 97) with controls (n = 95), there were no statistically significant differences regarding the mean p-wave duration (121 ms vs. 122 ms, p = 0.64) and proportion of advanced interatrial block (OR = 1.4, 95%CI = 0.37–5.80, p = 0.58). All patients had a low or medium risk of developing atrial fibrillation based on the clinical scores. There were no differences between the PD patients and controls regarding the mean values of CHARGE-AF, HATCH, and HAVOC. Conclusions: Our results do not support the hypothesis that PD patients have an increased risk of atrial fibrillation based on the p-wave predictors and atrial fibrillation clinical scores.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Alves
- Serviço de Medicina III, Hospital Pulido Valente, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon, Portugal.,Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Mafalda Abrantes
- Medicina 2, Clínica Universitária de Medicina, Hospital Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gonçalo Portugal
- Serviço de Medicina III, Hospital Pulido Valente, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - M Manuela Cruz
- Unidade de Saúde Familiar (USF) Benfica Jardim, Agrupamentos de Centros de Saúde (ACES) Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sofia Reimão
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Neurological Imaging Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon, Portugal.,Faculdade de Medicina, Imaging University Clinic, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Daniel Caldeira
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Faculdade de Medicina, Centro Cardiovascular da Universidade de Lisboa, Centro Académico de Medicina de Lisboa (CAML), Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Serviço de Cardiologia, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José M Ferro
- Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Serviço de Neurologia, Departamento de Neurociências e Saúde Mental, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joaquim J Ferreira
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Campus Neurológico Sénior, Torres Vedras, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Pérez-Riera AR, Barbosa-Barros R, Daminello-Raimundo R, de Abreu LC, Nikus K. The Vectorcardiogram and the Main Dromotropic Disturbances. Curr Cardiol Rev 2021; 17:50-59. [PMID: 32778036 PMCID: PMC8142362 DOI: 10.2174/1573403x16666200810105504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Until the mid-1980s, it was believed that the vectorcardiogram (VCG) presented a greater specificity, sensitivity and accuracy in comparison to the 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG), in the cardiology diagnosis. Currently, the VCG still is superior to the ECG in specific situations, such as in the evaluation of myocardial infarctions when associated with intraventricular conduction disturbances, in the identification and location of accessory pathways in ventricular preexcitation, in the differential diagnosis of patterns varying from normal of electrical axis deviation, in the evaluation of particular aspects of Brugada syndrome, Brugada phenocopies, concealed form of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy and zonal or fascicular blocks of the right bundle branch on right ventricular free wall.VCG allows us to analyze the presence of left septal fascicular block more accurately than ECG and in the diagnosis of the interatrial blocks and severity of some chambers enlargements. The three-dimensional spatial orientation of both the atrial and the ventricular activity provides a far more complete observation tool than the linear ECG. We believe that the ECG/VCG binomial simultaneously obtained by the technique called electro-vectorcardiography (ECG/VCG) brought a significant gain for the differential diagnosis of several pathologies. Finally, in the field of education and research, VCG provided a better and more rational tridimensional insight into the electrical phenomena that occurs spatially, and represented an important impact on the progress of electrocardiography.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrés R Pérez-Riera
- Laboratorio de Delineamento de Estudos e Escrita Científica, Centro Universitario Saude ABC, Santo Andre, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raimundo Barbosa-Barros
- Coronary Center of the Hospital de Messejana Dr. Carlos Alberto Studart Gomes, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Daminello-Raimundo
- Laboratorio de Delineamento de Estudos e Escrita Científica, Centro Universitario Saude ABC, Santo Andre, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz C de Abreu
- Laboratorio de Delineamento de Estudos e Escrita Científica, Centro Universitario Saude ABC, Santo Andre, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kjell Nikus
- Heart Center, Tampere University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Atrial conduction disorders result from impaired propagation of cardiac impulses from the sinoatrial node through the atrial conduction pathways. Disorders affecting interatrial conduction alter P-wave characteristics on the surface electrocardiogram. A variety of P-wave indices reflecting derangements in atrial conduction have been described and have been associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) and stroke. Interatrial block (IAB) is the most well-known of the different P-wave indices and is important clinically due to its ability to predict patients who are at risk of the development of AF and other supraventricular tachycardias. P-Wave Axis is a measure of the net direction of atrial depolarization and is determined by calculating the net vector of the P-wave electrical activation in the six limb-leads using the hexaxial reference system. It has been associated with stroke and it has been proposed that this variable be added to the existing CHA2DS2-VASc score to create a P2-CHA2DS2-VASc score to improve stroke prediction. P-Terminal Force in V1 is thought to be an epiphenomenon of advanced atrial fibrotic disease and has been shown to be associated with a higher risk of death, cardiac death, and congestive heart failure as well as an increased risk of AF. P-wave Dispersion is defined as the difference between the shortest and longest P-wave duration recorded on multiple concurrent surface ECG leads on a standard 12-lead ECG and has also been associated with the development of AF and AF recurrence. Pwave voltage in lead I (PVL1) is thought to be an electrocardiographic representation of cardiac conductive properties and, therefore, the extent of atrial fibrosis relative to myocardial mass. Reduced PVL1 has been demonstrated to be associated with new-onset AF in patients with coronary artery disease and may be useful for predicting AF. Recently a risk score (the MVP risk score) has been developed using IAB and PVL1 to predict atrial fibrillation and has shown a good predictive ability to determine patients at high risk of developing atrial fibrillation. The MVP risk score is currently undergoing validation in other populations. This section reviews the different P-wave indices in-depth, reflecting atrial conduction abnormalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bryce Alexander
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Gary Tse
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic- Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, China
| | | | - Adrian Baranchuk
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Rungpradubvong V. Resumption of interatrial conduction after atrial premature beat in baseline interatrial aberrancy. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2021; 26:e12838. [PMID: 33629496 PMCID: PMC8588376 DOI: 10.1111/anec.12838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Interatrial block (IAB) is a delay or blockage of interatrial conduction from the right atrium to the left atrium, causing prolongation of the P‐wave duration on the electrocardiogram. This condition is unfortunately not uncommon in clinical practice, especially among the elderly. It is often overlooked because the P wave is small and abnormalities can be difficult to detect. An isolated IAB does not usually cause any abnormal symptoms and may not require any specific treatment. Nevertheless, a relationship between an IAB and other cardiovascular conditions including left atrial electromechanical dysfunction, atrial remodeling, atrial fibrosis, atrial fibrillation, and stroke has been reported. Early diagnosis of this condition is critical. This case report presents a functional interatrial block or interatrial aberrancy that returned to normal after an atrial premature complex where the interatrial conduction remained normal in subsequent beats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Voravut Rungpradubvong
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Cardiac center, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Vicent L, Fernández-Cordón C, Nombela-Franco L, Escobar-Robledo LA, Ayesta A, Ariza Solé A, Gómez-Doblas JJ, Bernal E, Tirado-Conte G, Cobiella J, González-Saldivar H, López-Otero D, Díez-Villanueva P, Sarnago F, Armario X, Bayés-de-Luna A, Martínez-Sellés M. Baseline ECG and Prognosis After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: The Role of Interatrial Block. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e017624. [PMID: 33140688 PMCID: PMC7763710 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.017624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background The clinical significance of conduction disturbances after transcatheter aortic valve implantation has been described; however, little is known about the influence of baseline ECGs in the prognosis of these patients. Our aim was to study the influence of baseline ECG parameters, including interatrial block (IAB), in the prognosis of patients treated with transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Methods and Results The BIT (Baseline Interatrial Block and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation) registry included 2527 patients with aortic stenosis treated with transcatheter aortic valve implantation. A centralized analysis of baseline ECGs was performed. Patients were divided into 4 groups: normal P wave duration (<120 ms); partial IAB (P wave duration ≥120 ms, positive in the inferior leads); advanced IAB (P wave duration ≥120 ms, biphasic [+/–] morphology in the inferior leads); and nonsinus rhythm (atrial fibrillation/flutter and paced rhythm). The mean age of patients was 82.6±9.8 years and 1397 (55.3%) were women. A total of 960 patients (38.0%) had a normal P wave, 582 (23.0%) had partial IAB, 300 (11.9%) had advanced IAB, and 685 (27.1%) presented with nonsinus rhythm. Mean follow‐up duration was 465±171 days. Advanced IAB was the only independent predictor of all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.48; 95% CI, 1.10–1.98 [P=0.010]) and of the composite end point (death/stroke/new atrial fibrillation) (HR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.17–1.94 [P=0.001]). Conclusions Baseline ECG characteristics influence the prognosis of patients with aortic stenosis treated with transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Advanced IAB is present in about an eighth of patients and is associated with all‐cause death and the composite end point of death, stroke, and new atrial fibrillation during follow‐up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lourdes Vicent
- Department of Cardiology Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón CIBERCV Madrid Spain.,Department of Cardiology Hospital General Universitario 12 de Octubre CIBERCV Madrid Spain
| | - Clara Fernández-Cordón
- Department of Cardiology Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón CIBERCV Madrid Spain
| | | | - Luis Alberto Escobar-Robledo
- Department of Cardiology Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau. Fundación Investigación Cardiovascular. Programa-ICCC Cardiovascular Institut de Recerca del Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau IIB-Sant Pau Barcelona, Spain Barcelona Spain
| | - Ana Ayesta
- Department of Cardiology Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias Oviedo Asturias Spain
| | - Albert Ariza Solé
- Department of Cardiology Bellvitge University Hospital. L'Hospitalet de Llobregat Barcelona Spain
| | | | - Eva Bernal
- Department of Cardiology Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol Badalona Barcelona Spain
| | | | - Javier Cobiella
- Cardiovascular Institute Hospital Clinico San Carlos, IdISSC Madrid Spain
| | - Hugo González-Saldivar
- Department of Cardiology Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón CIBERCV Madrid Spain
| | - Diego López-Otero
- Department of Cardiology Hospital Cínico Universitario Santiago de Compostela Spain
| | | | - Fernando Sarnago
- Department of Cardiology Hospital General Universitario 12 de Octubre CIBERCV Madrid Spain
| | - Xavier Armario
- Department of Cardiology Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau. Fundación Investigación Cardiovascular. Programa-ICCC Cardiovascular Institut de Recerca del Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau IIB-Sant Pau Barcelona, Spain Barcelona Spain
| | - Antonio Bayés-de-Luna
- Department of Cardiology Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau. Fundación Investigación Cardiovascular. Programa-ICCC Cardiovascular Institut de Recerca del Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau IIB-Sant Pau Barcelona, Spain Barcelona Spain
| | - Manuel Martínez-Sellés
- Department of Cardiology Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón CIBERCV Madrid Spain.,Universidad Europea Universidad Complutense Madrid Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ciuffo L, Bruña V, Martínez-Sellés M, de Vasconcellos HD, Tao S, Zghaib T, Nazarian S, Spragg DD, Marine J, Berger RD, Lima JAC, Calkins H, Bayés-de-Luna A, Ashikaga H. Association between interatrial block, left atrial fibrosis, and mechanical dyssynchrony: Electrocardiography-magnetic resonance imaging correlation. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2020; 31:1719-1725. [PMID: 32510679 DOI: 10.1111/jce.14608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Advanced interatrial block (IAB) on a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is a predictor of stroke, incident atrial fibrillation (AF), and AF recurrence after catheter ablation. The objective of this study was to determine which features of IAB structural remodeling is associated with left atrium (LA) magnetic resonance imaging structure and function. METHODS/RESULTS We included 152 consecutive patients (23% nonparoxysmal AF) who underwent preprocedural ECG and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in sinus rhythm before catheter ablation of AF. IAB was defined as P-wave duration ≥120 ms, and was considered partial if P-wave was positive and advanced if P-wave had a biphasic morphology in inferior leads. From cine CMR and late gadolinium enhancement, we derived LA maximum and minimum volume indices, strain, LA fibrosis, and LA dyssynchrony. A total of 77 patients (50.7% paroxysmal) had normal P-wave, 52 (34.2%) partial IAB, and 23 (15.1%) advanced IAB. Patients with advanced IAB had significantly higher LA minimum volume index (25.7 vs 19.9 mL/m2 , P = .010), more LA fibrosis (21.9% vs 13.1%, P = .020), and lower LA maximum strain rate (0.99 vs 1.18, P = .007) than those without. Advanced IAB was independently associated with LA (minimum [P = .032] and fibrosis [P = .009]). P-wave duration was also independently associated with LA fibrosis (β = .33; P = .049) and LA mechanical dyssynchrony (β = 2.01; P = .007). CONCLUSION Advanced IAB is associated with larger LA volumes, lower emptying fraction, and more fibrosis. Longer P-wave duration is also associated with more LA fibrosis and higher LA mechanical dyssynchrony.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Ciuffo
- Division of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Vanesa Bruña
- Servicio de Cardiología, CIBERCV, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Martínez-Sellés
- Servicio de Cardiología, CIBERCV, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.,Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Europea, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Susumu Tao
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Tarek Zghaib
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Saman Nazarian
- Section for Cardiac Electrophysiology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - David D Spragg
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joseph Marine
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ronald D Berger
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joao A C Lima
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hugh Calkins
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Antonio Bayés-de-Luna
- Cardiovascular Research Foundation, Cardiovascular ICCC-Program, Research Institute Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hiroshi Ashikaga
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Lacalzada-Almeida J, Izquierdo-Gómez MM, Laynez-Cerdeña I, García-Niebla J, Bruña V, Bayés de Luna A, Martínez-Sellés M. Electrocardiogram and left atrial abnormality: Design of an observational study to clarify diagnostic criteria. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2020; 25:e12770. [PMID: 32468671 PMCID: PMC7679830 DOI: 10.1111/anec.12770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The criteria applied for diagnosis of left atrial (LA) abnormality using electrocardiogram (ECG) have high specificity but low sensitivity. In fact, some authors have suggested classifying P‐wave anomalies associated with LA abnormality and interatrial block as “atrial abnormalities.” The most widely known ECG criteria for LA abnormality include P‐wave duration, morphology and voltage of P wave in inferior leads, presence of P‐wave terminal force in V1 (PtfV1), and P‐wave axis and area. PtfV1 has also been reported to vary according to misplacement of the V1 and V2 electrodes. Methods The objective of this observational cohort study is to determine the degree of correlation between ECG criteria for LA abnormality and left atrium volume and functionality, as determined by speckle tracking echocardiography. The study also aims to investigate the correlation between these echocardiographic parameters and PtfV1 value by placing the V1 and V2 electrodes in the second, third, and fourth intercostal spaces. Results and Conclusions Our results could help to clarify whether the decrease in left atrial deformity, which is currently considered a surrogate target of fibrosis, correlates better with ECG criteria for LA abnormality than atrial volumes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Vanesa Bruña
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, CIBERCV, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Manuel Martínez-Sellés
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, CIBERCV, Madrid, Spain.,Universidad Europea, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This current study was performed to characterise the independent associations of obesity and hypertension with interatrial block (IAB) after adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors, echocardiographic left atrial diameter (LAD) and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) in a large general Chinese population. DESIGN A cross-sectional study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS A total of 11 956 permanent residents (≥35 years of age) from Liaoning Province in China were included in this study. Following the completion of a questionnaire, the enrolled participants were subjected to physical examinations, laboratory analyses, ECG and echocardiogram. Linear and logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the associations of hypertension and obesity with IAB. OUTCOME MEASURES IAB was defined as a prolongation of the P wave duration ≥120 ms on a digital 12-lead ECG. RESULTS The prevalence of IAB in hypertensive individuals was higher than the normotensive in both men (9.5 vs 5.9%; p<0.001) and women (6.6 vs 3.6%; p<0.001). In addition, the prevalence of IAB exhibited a sharp increase with advancing body mass index (BMI) in both men (from 4.9% to 13.0%) and women (from 3.5% to 6.9%) (ps- for trend <0.001). Multiple relevant clinical covariates, echocardiographic LAD and LVMI were adjusted in the multivariate linear and logistic regression analyses. The results revealed that systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and BMI were all independently associated with P wave duration (β=0.02, 0.09 and 0.25, respectively; all ps <0.005). Furthermore, hypertension was found to be independently associated with IAB (OR=1.27; p=0.018), while both overweight and obesity exhibited higher odds of IAB (OR=1.42 and 1.67, respectively; ps <0.005), compared with BMI <24.0 kg/m2. CONCLUSIONS The key findings of this study highlighted that hypertension and overweight/obesity were independently and significantly associated with IAB in general Chinese population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guozhe Sun
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Ning Ye
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Shaojun Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yingxian Sun
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lacalzada-Almeida J, Izquierdo-Gómez MM, García-Niebla J, Elosua R, Jiménez-Sosa A, Baranchuk A, Bayes de Luna A. Advanced interatrial block is a surrogate for left atrial strain reduction which predicts atrial fibrillation and stroke. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2019; 24:e12632. [PMID: 30719798 DOI: 10.1111/anec.12632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The association between advanced interatrial block (aIAB) and atrial fibrillation (AF) is known as "Bayes' Syndrome." There is little information on the prognostic role that new speckle tracking echocardiographic (STE) imaging techniques could play in it. We have examined the relationship between left atrial (LA) STE and the prediction of new-onset AF and/or stroke in IAB patients. METHODS This is an observational prospective and unicentric cohort study with 98 outpatients: 55 (56.2%) controls with normal ECG without IAB, 21 (21.4%) with partial IAB (pIAB) and 22 (22.4%) with aIAB. The end point was new-onset AF, ischemic stroke and the composite of both. RESULTS During a mean follow-up of 1.9 (1.7-2.3) years, 20 patients presented the end point (18 new-onset AF and two strokes): 8 (14.5%) in the control group, 3 (14.3%) in pIAB and 9 (40.9%) in aIAB, p = 0.03. In multivariable comprehensive Cox regression analyses, a decrease in absolute value of strain rate during the booster pump function phase (SRa) was the only variable independently related to the appearance in the evolution of the end point, in the first model (age, P-wave duration and SRa): HR 19.9 (95% CI, 3.12-127.5), p = 0.002 and in the second (age, presence of aIAB and SRa): HR 24.2 (95% CI, 3.15-185.4), p = 0.002. CONCLUSIONS In patients with IAB, a decrease in absolute value of LA SRa with STE predicts new-onset AF and ischemic stroke. Future studies should confirm our results and assess the prognostic usefulness of LA STE in patients with IAB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Javier García-Niebla
- Servicios Sanitarios del Área de Salud de El Hierro, Valle del Golfo Health Center, El Hierro, Spain
| | - Roberto Elosua
- Cardiovascular Epidemiology and Genetics Research Group, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Facultad de Medicina, CIBER Cardiovascular Diseases (CIBERCV), Universidad de Vic-Central de Cataluña, Vic, Spain
| | - Alejandro Jiménez-Sosa
- Research Unit, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Adrian Baranchuk
- Heart Rhythm Service, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Antonio Bayes de Luna
- Fundación Investigación Cardiovascular, Institut Català Ciències Cardiovasculars, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The past few years have given rise to extensive research on an interatrial block and its clinical relevance, mainly its association with supraventricular arrhythmias. In 2015, the authors of this article reviewed the Bayes syndrome for the first time and after three years there has been so much evidence accumulated that it seems reasonable to rewrite an update, based fundamentally on the new findings. Focused on its relationship with cardioembolic strokes, today efforts are being targeted at understanding its pathophysiology, its diagnosis, and its prognostic implications, in order to learn if it should be treated. Areas covered: A non-systematic review of the literature was developed using the Pubmed and Cochrane databases, focusing on randomized clinical trials and large observational studies that evaluated new physiopathological and epidemiological aspects, new clinical scenarios in which it has been assessed and its association with dementia. Finally, those studies that proposed new possible treatments were reviewed. Expert commentary: Interatrial block is not only a predictor of supraventricular arrhythmias, is a subclinical disease that might be considered as a marker of risk for adverse outcomes. Although there is some evidence to suggest that early treatment may be beneficial, potential therapies have yet to be investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Seoane
- a Department of Cardiology , Instituto Cardiovascular de Buenos Aires , Buenos Aires , Argentina
| | - Marcia Cortés
- a Department of Cardiology , Instituto Cardiovascular de Buenos Aires , Buenos Aires , Argentina
| | - Diego Conde
- a Department of Cardiology , Instituto Cardiovascular de Buenos Aires , Buenos Aires , Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Huang WA, Woo JP, Boyle NG. The Rogue P-wave: Atrial Dissociation Following Bicaval Heart Transplantation. J Innov Card Rhythm Manag 2019; 10:3472-3475. [PMID: 32494402 PMCID: PMC7252805 DOI: 10.19102/icrm.2019.100106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the first case, to our knowledge, of atrial dissociation in a patient who underwent bicaval orthotopic heart transplantation. It was believed that atrioventricular dissociation prompting pacemaker implantation likely represented donor sinus bradycardia/arrest with intact atrioventricular conduction with surgically isolated recipient atrial activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William A Huang
- UCLA Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, UCLA Health System, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer P Woo
- UCLA Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, UCLA Health System, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Noel G Boyle
- UCLA Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, UCLA Health System, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Çinier G, Tekkeşin Aİ, Genç D, Yıldız U, Parsova E, Pay L, Alexander B, Bozbeyoğlu E, Türkkan C, Alper AT, Baranchuk A. Interatrial block as a predictor of atrial fibrillation in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Clin Cardiol 2018; 41:1232-1237. [PMID: 30022507 DOI: 10.1002/clc.23029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Interatrial block (IAB) is strongly associated with recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in different clinical scenarios. Atrial fibrosis is considered the responsible mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of IAB. The aim of this study was to investigate whether IAB predicted AF at 12 months follow-up in a population of patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). HYPOTHESIS We aimed to investigate whether IAB predicted AF at 12 months follow up in a population of patients with STEMI. METHODS Prospective, single center, observational study of patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and referred to primary percutaneous coronary intervention (P-PCI). Surface electrocardiograms (ECG) were recorded on admission and at 6th hour post P-PCI. Patients were screened for the occurrence of AF at a 12-months visit. RESULTS A total of 198 patients were included between September 2015 and September 2016. IAB (partial and advanced) was detected in 102 (51.5%) patients on admission. Remodeling of the P-wave and subsequent normalization reduced the prevalence of IAB to 47 (23.7%) patients at 6th hour. AF was detected in 17.7% of study patients at 12 months. Partial IAB (p-IAB) on admission (OR 5.10; 95% CI, 1.46-17.8; P = 0.011) and on 6th hour (OR 4.15; 95% CI, 1.29-13.4; P = 0.017), presence of a lesion in more than one coronary artery (OR 3.29; 95% CI, 1.32-8.16; P = 0.010) found to be independent predictors of AF at 12 months. CONCLUSION IAB is common in patients with STEMI and along with the presence of diffuse coronary artery disease is associated with new onset of AF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Göksel Çinier
- Department of Cardiology, Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ahmet İlker Tekkeşin
- Department of Cardiology, Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Duygu Genç
- Department of Cardiology, Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ufuk Yıldız
- Department of Cardiology, Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Emrecan Parsova
- Department of Cardiology, Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Levent Pay
- Department of Cardiology, Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bryce Alexander
- Kingston General Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emrah Bozbeyoğlu
- Department of Cardiology, Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ceyhan Türkkan
- Department of Cardiology, Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Taha Alper
- Department of Cardiology, Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Adrian Baranchuk
- Kingston General Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Bayés de Luna A, Baranchuk A, Niño Pulido C, Martínez-Sellés M, Bayés-Genís A, Elosua R, Elizari MV. Second-degree interatrial block: Brief review and concept. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2018; 23:e12583. [PMID: 30175540 DOI: 10.1111/anec.12583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The advanced interatrial block (A-IAB) (P ≥ 120 ms plus ± pattern in II, III and aVF) corresponds at atrial level, to right or left advanced bundle branch block at ventricular level, and it is well known that these patterns may be seen transiently in relation to taquicardia or bradycardia (tachycardia or bradycardia dependent right or left bundle branch block). We present for the first time, the same phenomenon at atrial level. In one case, the A-IAB appears in relation to tachycardization and in the other disappears during a pause induced by ventricular premature complex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Bayés de Luna
- Cardiovascular Research Foundation. Cardiovascular ICCC-Program, Research Institute Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adrián Baranchuk
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - César Niño Pulido
- Cardiovascular Research Foundation. Cardiovascular ICCC-Program, Research Institute Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Martínez-Sellés
- Cardiology Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, CIBERCV, Universidad Complutense, Universidad Europea, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Bayés-Genís
- Heart Institute, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain.,Department of Medicine, CIBERCV, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roberto Elosua
- Cardiovascular Epidemiology and Genetics Research Group, REGICOR Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,CIBER Cardiovascular, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Medicine Department, Medical School, University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic, Catalonia, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Skov MW, Ghouse J, Kühl JT, Platonov PG, Graff C, Fuchs A, Rasmussen PV, Pietersen A, Nordestgaard BG, Torp-Pedersen C, Hansen SM, Olesen MS, Haunsø S, Køber L, Gerds TA, Kofoed KF, Svendsen JH, Holst AG, Nielsen JB. Risk Prediction of Atrial Fibrillation Based on Electrocardiographic Interatrial Block. J Am Heart Assoc 2018; 7:JAHA.117.008247. [PMID: 29848496 PMCID: PMC6015370 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.117.008247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Background The electrocardiographic interatrial block (IAB) has been associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). We aimed to test whether IAB can improve risk prediction of AF for the individual person. Methods and Results Digital ECGs of 152 759 primary care patients aged 50 to 90 years were collected from 2001 to 2011. We identified individuals with P‐wave ≥120 ms and the presence of none, 1, 2, or 3 biphasic P‐waves in inferior leads. Data on comorbidity, medication, and outcomes were obtained from nationwide registries. We observed a dose‐response relationship between the number of biphasic P‐waves in inferior leads and the hazard of AF during follow‐up. Discrimination of the 10‐year outcome of AF, measured by time‐dependent area under the curve, was increased by 1.09% (95% confidence interval 0.43–1.74%) for individuals with cardiovascular disease at baseline (CVD) and 1.01% (95% confidence interval 0.40–1.62%) for individuals without CVD, when IAB was added to a conventional risk model for AF. The highest effect of IAB on the absolute risk of AF was observed in individuals aged 60 to 70 years with CVD. In this subgroup, the 10‐year risk of AF was 50% in those with advanced IAB compared with 10% in those with a normal P‐wave. In general, individuals with advanced IAB and no CVD had a higher risk of AF than patients with CVD and no IAB. Conclusions IAB improves risk prediction of AF when added to a conventional risk model. Clinicians may consider monitoring patients with IAB more closely for the occurrence of AF, especially for high‐risk subgroups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morten W Skov
- Laboratory for Molecular Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jonas Ghouse
- Laboratory for Molecular Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen T Kühl
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pyotr G Platonov
- Center for Integrative Electrocardiography at Lund University and Arrhythmia Clinic, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Claus Graff
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Andreas Fuchs
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter V Rasmussen
- Laboratory for Molecular Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Adrian Pietersen
- Copenhagen General Practitioners' Laboratory, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Børge G Nordestgaard
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and the Copenhagen General Population Study, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Steen M Hansen
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Cardiology/Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Morten S Olesen
- Laboratory for Molecular Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stig Haunsø
- Laboratory for Molecular Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Køber
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas A Gerds
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Klaus F Kofoed
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Radiology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper H Svendsen
- Laboratory for Molecular Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders G Holst
- Laboratory for Molecular Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jonas B Nielsen
- Laboratory for Molecular Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet University of Copenhagen, Denmark .,Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Baranchuk A, Alexander B, Cinier G, Martinez-Selles M, Tekkesin AI, Elousa R, De Luna AB. Bayés' syndrome: Time to consider early anticoagulation? North Clin Istanb 2018; 5:370-8. [PMID: 30815636 DOI: 10.14744/nci.2017.60251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past few decades, extensive research has been conducted on atrial conduction disorders and their clinical relevance. An association between interatrial block (IAB) and supraventricular arrhythmias [most commonly atrial fibrillation (AF)] has been discovered and extensively investigated. We coined the term “Bayés Syndrome” to describe this association, and the medical community has accepted the eponym in recognition to the scientist who discovered most of the aspects associated with it. In this non-systematic review, we will focus on the association between IAB and AF, with special emphasis on the value of the surface 12-lead ECG as a valid tool to predict AF.
Collapse
|
29
|
Rubio Campal JM, Benezet-Mazuecos J, Iglesias Bravo JA, Sánchez Borque P, Miracle Blanco Á, de la Vieja Alarcón JJ, Martínez Mariscal J, Baranchuk AM, Farré Muncharaz J. P-wave and interatrial block: New predictor for atrial high rate episodes in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2018; 41:223-228. [PMID: 29327362 DOI: 10.1111/pace.13268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2017] [Revised: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of interatrial block (IAB) is associated with the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of this study was to determine whether P-wave duration and presence of IAB before the implantation of a cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) are associated with the presence of atrial high rate episodes (AHRE), during long-term follow-up. METHODS 380 patients (57% men; 75 ± 10 years) were included. IAB was defined according to the International Consensus Criteria. AHRE was defined as an episode of atrial rate ≥225 beats/min with a minimum duration of 5 minutes. RESULTS Documented paroxysmal AF before the implantation was present in 24% of the patients; 80% had hypertension and 32% structural heart disease. Mean P-wave duration was 123 ± 23 ms, and 39% of the patients had IAB (32% partial, 7% advanced). After a mean follow-up of 18 ± 12 months, 33% of the patients presented AHRE. Patients with AHRE had a P-wave duration significantly longer (130 ± 24 ms vs 119 ± 21 ms; P < 0.001) and a greater prevalence of IAB (53% vs 32%; P < 0.001). In a multivariate analysis, predictors of AHRE were: IAB (odds ratio [OR] 2.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.3-3.4], P < 0.001) and previous paroxysmal AF (OR 2.6; 95% CI [1.5-4.3], P < 0.001). In patients without previous AF, the presence of IAB was also a significant predictor of AHRE (OR 3.1; 95% CI [1.8-5.5], P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS IAB is a strong predictor of AHRE in patients with CIED. This finding is independent of the presence of prior paroxysmal AF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José M Rubio Campal
- Arrhythmia Unit, Cardiology Department, Fundación Jiménez Díaz - Quirón Salud, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Benezet-Mazuecos
- Arrhythmia Unit, Cardiology Department, Fundación Jiménez Díaz - Quirón Salud, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Pepa Sánchez Borque
- Arrhythmia Unit, Cardiology Department, Fundación Jiménez Díaz - Quirón Salud, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Miracle Blanco
- Arrhythmia Unit, Cardiology Department, Fundación Jiménez Díaz - Quirón Salud, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Jaime Martínez Mariscal
- Arrhythmia Unit, Cardiology Department, Fundación Jiménez Díaz - Quirón Salud, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adrian M Baranchuk
- Department of Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hernandez-Betancor I, Izquierdo-Gómez MM, García-Niebla J, Laynez-Cerdeña I, García-González MJ, Irribarren-Sarriá JL, Jimenez-Rivera JJ, Lacalzada-Almeida J. Bayes Syndrome and Imaging Techniques. Curr Cardiol Rev 2017; 13:263-273. [PMID: 28707575 PMCID: PMC5730959 DOI: 10.2174/1573403x13666170713122600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Revised: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interatrial block (IAB) is due to disruption in the Bachmann region (BR). According to whether interatrial electrical conduction is delayed or completely blocked through the BR, it can be classified as IAB of first, second or third degree. On the surface electrocardiogram, a P wave ≥ 120 ms (partial IAB) is observed or associated to the prolongation of the P wave with a biphasic (positive / negative) morphology in the inferior leads (advanced IAB). Bayes syndrome is defined as an advanced IAB associated with atrial arrhythmia, more specifically atrial fibrillation. Objective and Conclusion: The purpose of this review is to describe the latest evidence about an entity considered an anatomical and electrical substrate with its own name, which may be a predictor of supraventricular arrhythmia and cardioembolic cerebrovascular accidents, as well as the role of new imaging techniques, such as echocardiographic strain and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, in characterizing atrial alterations associated with this syndrome and generally in the study of anatomy and atrial function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iván Hernandez-Betancor
- Departamento de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, España
| | | | - Javier García-Niebla
- Centro de Salud Valle del Golfo, Servicios Sanitarios del Área de Salud de El Hierro, Frontera-El Hierro, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Tenerife, España
| | - Ignacio Laynez-Cerdeña
- Departamento de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, España
| | | | - Barragan-Acea
- Departamento de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, España
- Centro de Salud Valle del Golfo, Servicios Sanitarios del Área de Salud de El Hierro, Frontera-El Hierro, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Tenerife, España
- Departamento de Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, España
| | - A.
- Departamento de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, España
| | - Jose Luis Irribarren-Sarriá
- Departamento de Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, España
| | - Juan José Jimenez-Rivera
- Departamento de Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, España
| | - Juan Lacalzada-Almeida
- Departamento de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, España
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Britton S, Barbosa-Barros R, Alexander B, Baranchuk A. Progressive interatrial block associated with atrial fibrillation in a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2016; 22. [PMID: 27615799 DOI: 10.1111/anec.12403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Progressive interatrial block is a clinically significant condition that has previously been reported in various patient populations. It is a manifestation of progressive fibrosis affecting the Bachmann region. This report presents a case of progressive interatrial block associated with atrial fibrillation in the context of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Britton
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | | | - Bryce Alexander
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Adrian Baranchuk
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Conde D, Seoane L, Gysel M, Mitrione S, Bayés de Luna A, Baranchuk A. Bayés' syndrome: the association between interatrial block and supraventricular arrhythmias. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2015; 13:541-50. [PMID: 25907617 DOI: 10.1586/14779072.2015.1037283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The past few years have given rise to extensive research on atrial conduction disorders and their clinical relevance. Most notably, an association between interatrial block and supraventricular arrhythmias has been discovered. This disorder, recently termed 'Bayés' syndrome', has important clinical implications. In this article, the authors review normal atrial conduction and associated disorders. A particular focus is placed on Bayés' syndrome and the relationship between interatrial block and supraventricular arrhythmias in different clinical scenarios. The report also outlines the current progress in the study of this syndrome and highlights areas requiring further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Conde
- Instituto Cardiovascular de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Abadir S, Fournier A, Vobecky SJ, Rohlicek CV, Romeo P, Khairy P. Left Atrial Inexcitability in Children With Congenital Lupus-Induced Complete Atrioventricular Block. J Am Heart Assoc 2015; 4:JAHA.115.002676. [PMID: 26675254 PMCID: PMC4845288 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.115.002676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background Congenital atrioventricular block is a well‐established immunologic complication of maternal systemic lupus erythematosus. We sought to further characterize the electrophysiological manifestations of maternal systemic lupus erythematosus on neonatal atria. Methods and Results Cases of isolated congenital atrioventricular block treated at our center over the past 41 years were identified. Data were extracted from clinical charts, pacemaker interrogations, ECGs, echocardiograms, and histopathological reports, when available. Of 31 patients with isolated congenital atrioventricular block, 18 were negative for maternal antibodies and had normal epicardial atrial sensing and pacing thresholds. In contrast, 12 of 13 patients with positive maternal antibodies had epicardial pacemakers, 5 (42%) of whom had left atrial (LA) inexcitability and/or atrial conduction delay. In 3 patients, the LA could not be captured despite high‐output pacing. The fourth patient had acutely successful LA appendage and left ventricular lead placement. At early follow‐up, an increased delay between the surface P‐wave and intracardiac atrial depolarization was observed, indicative of atrial conduction delay. The fifth patient exhibited LA lead dysfunction, with atrial under‐sensing and an increased capture threshold, 2 weeks after implantation. Biopsies of LA appendages performed in 2 patients showed no evidence of atrial fibrosis or loss of atrial myocytes. Conclusions Herein, we report previously undescribed yet prevalent electrophysiological ramifications of maternal systemic lupus erythematosus, which extend beyond congenital atrioventricular block to encompass alterations in LA conduction, including LA inexcitability. These manifestations can complicate epicardial pacemaker implantation in newborns. In the absence of histological evidence of extensive atrial fibrosis, immune‐mediated functional impairment of electrical activity is suspected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Abadir
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, CHU mère-enfant Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada (S.A., A.F., S.J.V., P.K.) Department of Cardiology, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada (S.A., C.V.R.)
| | - Anne Fournier
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, CHU mère-enfant Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada (S.A., A.F., S.J.V., P.K.)
| | - Suzanne J Vobecky
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, CHU mère-enfant Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada (S.A., A.F., S.J.V., P.K.)
| | - Charles V Rohlicek
- Department of Cardiology, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada (S.A., C.V.R.)
| | - Philippe Romeo
- Department of Medicine and Pathology, Montreal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada (P.R., P.K.)
| | - Paul Khairy
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, CHU mère-enfant Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada (S.A., A.F., S.J.V., P.K.) Department of Medicine and Pathology, Montreal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada (P.R., P.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Abstract
The formulation of the syndrome of interatrial conduction block is an important step for improved identification of patients at high risk of developing atrial fibrillation (those with advanced, that is, third degree interatrial block, which includes retrograde instead of normal activation of the left atrium). The rationale and potential benefits of prophylactic antiarrhythmic treatment of patients with advanced interatrial block currently seems not sufficiently convincing and requires further study including prospective trials. In addition to the identified future directions for research in this syndrome, it seems important also to explore novel electrocardiogram (ECG) methods (e.g. new electrode positions and ECG leads) for improved characterisation of the atrial electrical events. Oesophageal electrocardiography and vectorcardiography are old, venerable and unjustifiably forgotten ECG techniques: their additional use of for better diagnosis of interatrial conduction block is highly commendable.
Collapse
|
35
|
Sadiq Ali F, Enriquez A, Conde D, Redfearn D, Michael K, Simpson C, Abdollah H, Bayés de Luna A, Hopman W, Baranchuk A. Advanced Interatrial Block Predicts New Onset Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Severe Heart Failure and Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2015; 20:586-91. [PMID: 25639950 DOI: 10.1111/anec.12258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advanced interatrial block (aIAB) on the surface electrocardiogram (ECG), defined as a P-wave duration ≥120 milliseconds with biphasic (±) morphology in inferior leads, is frequently associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of this study was to determine whether preoperative aIAB could predict new-onset AF in patients with severe congestive heart failure (CHF) requiring cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). METHODS Retrospective analysis of consecutive patients with CHF and no prior history of AF undergoing CRT for standard indications. A baseline 12-lead ECG was obtained prior to device implantation and analyzed for the presence of aIAB. ECGs were scanned at 300 DPI and maximized 8×. Semiautomatic calipers were used to determine P-wave onset and offset. The primary outcome was the occurrence of AF identified through analyses of intracardiac electrograms on routine device follow-up. RESULTS Ninety-seven patients were included (74.2% male, left atrial diameter 45.5 ± 7.8 mm, 63% ischemic). Mean P-wave duration was 138.5 ± 18.5 milliseconds and 37 patients (38%) presented aIAB at baseline. Over a mean follow-up of 32 ± 18 months, AF was detected in 29 patients (30%) and the incidence was greater in patients with aIAB compared to those without it (62% vs 28%; P < 0.003). aIAB remained a significant predictor of AF occurrence after multivariate analysis (OR 4.1; 95% CI, 1.6-10.7; P < 0.003). CONCLUSION The presence of aIAB is an independent predictor of new-onset AF in patients with severe CHF undergoing CRT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fariha Sadiq Ali
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andres Enriquez
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Diego Conde
- Cardiovascular Institute of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Damian Redfearn
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kevin Michael
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher Simpson
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hoshiar Abdollah
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Antoni Bayés de Luna
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Hospital of Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Cardiovascular Research Center, CSIC-ICCC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Wilma Hopman
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adrian Baranchuk
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Marano
- Hemodialysis Unit, Maria Rosaria Clinic, Pompeii, Italy
| | - Anna D'Amato
- Hemodialysis Unit, Maria Rosaria Clinic, Pompeii, Italy
| | | | - Adrian Baranchuk
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Interatrial conduction disorders are frequent in patients with structural heart diseases, including hypertension, coronary disease, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and they are strongly associated with atrial tachyarrhythmias, especially atrial fibrillation and flutter. Conduction delays lead to dispersion of refractory periods and participate in initiating and maintaining reentry circuits, facilitating atrial arrhythmias. In this case, the changing pattern over time is a manifestation of progressive atrial remodeling and conduction delay. The terminal negative component of the P wave in the inferior leads suggests block of the electrical impulse in the Bachman bundle zone, with retrograde activation of the left atria via muscular connections at the coronary sinus. This has been reproduced in experimental models and confirmed by endocardial mapping. Physicians should be aware of the association between advanced interatrial block and development of atrial arrhythmias as its recognition could prompt early and aggressive antiarrhythmic treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andres Enriquez
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Diego Conde
- Cardiovascular Institute from Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Damian P Redfearn
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adrian Baranchuk
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Baranchuk A, Conde D, Enriquez A, de Luna AB. P-wave duration or P-wave morphology? Interatrial block: seeking for the Holy Grail to predict AF recurrence. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2014; 19:406-8. [PMID: 24829074 DOI: 10.1111/anec.12156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Baranchuk
- Division of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Demircan S, Yuksel S, Gulel O. A rare cause of pacemaker failure: interatrial block. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2013; 18:479-83. [PMID: 24047493 DOI: 10.1111/anec.12031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Pacemaker and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD) systems are useful in detection and differentiation of many symptomatic and asymptomatic arrhythmias. In this report, we described a rare condition that caused by failure in detection of a clinical tachyarrhythmia by a dual chamber pacemaker that implanted because of intermittent atrioventricular (AV) block and sinus node disease in a 46-year-old patient. In our case, bidirectional interatrial block was demonstrated; and the symptoms associated with high ventricular rate caused by left atrial tachyarrhythmias relieved after AV node ablation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabri Demircan
- Department of Cardiology, Ondokuz Mayis University Medical Faculty, Samsun, Turkey
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Chhabra L, Chaubey VK, Kothagundla C, Bajaj R, Kaul S, Spodick DH. P-wave indices in patients with pulmonary emphysema: do P-terminal force and interatrial block have confounding effects? Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2013; 8:245-50. [PMID: 23690680 PMCID: PMC3656814 DOI: 10.2147/copd.s45127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pulmonary emphysema causes several electrocardiogram changes, and one of the most common and well known is on the frontal P-wave axis. P-axis verticalization (P-axis > 60°) serves as a quasidiagnostic indicator of emphysema. The correlation of P-axis verticalization with the radiological severity of emphysema and severity of chronic obstructive lung function have been previously investigated and well described in the literature. However, the correlation of P-axis verticalization in emphysema with other P-indices like P-terminal force in V1 (Ptf), amplitude of initial positive component of P-waves in V1 (i-PV1), and interatrial block (IAB) have not been well studied. Our current study was undertaken to investigate the effects of emphysema on these P-wave indices in correlation with the verticalization of the P-vector. MATERIALS AND METHODS Unselected, routinely recorded electrocardiograms of 170 hospitalized emphysema patients were studied. Significant Ptf (s-Ptf) was considered ≥40 mm.ms and was divided into two types based on the morphology of P-waves in V1: either a totally negative (-) P wave in V1 or a biphasic (+/-) P wave in V1. RESULTS s-Ptf correlated better with vertical P-vectors than nonvertical P-vectors (P = 0.03). s-Ptf also significantly correlated with IAB (P = 0.001); however, IAB and P-vector verticalization did not appear to have any significant correlation (P = 0.23). There was a very weak correlation between i-PV1 and frontal P-vector (r = 0.15; P = 0.047); however, no significant correlation was found between i-PV1 and P-amplitude in lead III (r = 0.07; P = 0.36). CONCLUSION We conclude that increased P-tf in emphysema may be due to downward right atrial position caused by right atrial displacement, and thus the common assumption that increased P-tf implies left atrial enlargement should be made with caution in patients with emphysema. Also, the lack of strong correlation between i-PV1 and P-amplitude in lead III or vertical P-vector may suggest the predominant role of downward right atrial distortion rather than right atrial enlargement in causing vertical P-vector in emphysema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lovely Chhabra
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Plantation Street #813,Worcester, MA 01604, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
We report about a case of a patient admitted to the Intensive Cardiac Care Unit for severe congestive heart failure which showed modification of P-wave morphology and duration, correlated with the clinical evolution. In the case here described, we show that ECG analysis, specifically P wave, allow us to assess the hemodynamic evolution of the acute decompensated heart failure patient. Electrocardiographic examination is the first and the most simple and available diagnostic tool in the evaluation of patients with cardiac diseases. Usually, P-wave evaluation is not carefully assessed, in spite of very useful informations we can draw from its interpretation. We report about a patient admitted to our Intensive Cardiac Care Unit (ICCU) for severe congestive heart failure which showed peculiar modification of P-wave morphology and duration, well correlated with the clinical course.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Proietti
- From the Cardiac Electrophysiology Laboratory, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - Antonio Mafrici
- Intensive Coronary Care Unit, Niguarda Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - David H. Spodick
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, St. Vincent Hospital, Worcester Medical Center, Worchester, MA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interatrial block (IAB: P wave > or = 110 ms) is a strong correlate of left atrial (LA) enlargement and an important predictor of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, notably atrial fibrillation and flutter. It is surprising that, despite its association with arrhythmias and its effects on the electromechanical properties of the left atrium, there is widespread neglect of this common abnormality. HYPOTHESIS The study was undertaken to investigate the prevalence of IAB in a general hospital population. METHODS We prospectively evaluated the electrocardiograms of 1,000 consecutive adult patients. analyzed for P-wave duration. RESULTS Our results showed a very high prevalence of IAB (41.1% of patients in sinus rhythm and 32.8% of all patients). As expected, it was more common in patients aged > 60 years. CONCLUSIONS Given this unusually high prevalence of IAB in hospital patients and its ominous portents (LA enlargement. thrombosis and embolism, arrhythmias), physicians should be aware of its frequency and computer software should be programmed to recognize it.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- U C Jairath
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease, Saint Vincent Hospital at Worcester Medical Center, Massachusetts 01608, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|