Right Heart Dysfunction and Readmission Risk Across Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Status in Patients With Acute Heart Failure.

BACKGROUND: Right heart dysfunction (RHD) parameters are increasingly important in heart failure (HF). This study aimed to evaluate the association of advanced RHD with the risk of recurrent admissions across the spectrum of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). METHODS AND RESULTS: We included 3383 consecutive patients discharged for acute HF. Of them, in 1435 patients (42.4%), the pulmonary artery systolic pressure could not be measured accurately, leaving a final sample size of 1948 patients. Advanced RHD was defined as the combination of a ratio of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion/pulmonary artery systolic pressure of less than 0.36 and significant tricuspid regurgitation…

Effect of insulin on readmission for heart failure following a hospitalization for acute heart failure

AIMS: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is common in patients with heart failure (HF) and is related with worse outcomes. Insulin treatment is associated with sodium and water retention, weight gain, and hypoglycaemia-all pathophysiological mechanisms related to HF decompensation. This study aimed to evaluate the association between insulin treatment and the risk of 1year readmission for HF in patients discharged for acute HF.; METHODS AND RESULTS: We prospectively included 2895 consecutive patients discharged after an episode of acute HF in a single tertiary hospital. Multivariable Cox regression, adapted for competing events, was used to assess the association between insulin treatment and …

El suero de seno coronario tras un infarto de miocardio induce angiogénesis y reparación de la obstrucción microvascular. Implicación del factor inducible por hipoxia-1A

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos El objetivo es estudiar la angiogenesis coronaria inducida por el suero coronario y la implicacion del factor inducible por hipoxia-1A (FIH-1A) en la reparacion de la obstruccion microvascular (OMV) tras un infarto agudo de miocardio (IAM). Metodos Se indujo un IAM en cerdos mediante oclusion coronaria durante 90 min. Se dividio a los animales entre 1 grupo de control y 4 grupos con IAM: sin reperfusion y 1 min, 1 semana y 1 mes tras la reperfusion. Se cuantificaron la OMV y la densidad microvascular. Se determino la capacidad angiogenica del suero coronario mediante una prueba de tubulogenesis in vitro. Se determinaron las concentraciones circulantes del FI…

ST2 and left ventricular remodeling after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: A cardiac magnetic resonance study.

Background: The association of soluble interleukin-1 receptor-like 1 (ST2) with left ventricular (LV) remodeling is unclear in patients with a first ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The objective of this work was to assess the relationship between ST2, a marker of inflammation, and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging-derived LV remodeling after a first STEMI. Methods: We prospectively evaluated 109 patients with a first STEMI treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention who had ST2 assessed 24 h post-reperfusion. All patients underwent CMR imaging 1 week and 6 months after STEMI. The independent associations between ST2, LV diastolic and systolic volume in…

Burden of Recurrent Hospitalizations Following an Admission for Acute Heart Failure: Preserved Versus Reduced Ejection Fraction.

Abstract Introduction and objectives Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and reduced ejection fraction share a high mortality risk. However, differences in the rehospitalization burden over time between these 2 entities remains unclear. Methods We prospectively included 2013 consecutive patients discharged for acute heart failure. Of these, 1082 (53.7%) had heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and 931 (46.2%) had heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Cox and negative binomial regression methods were used to evaluate the risks of death and repeat hospitalizations, respectively. Results At a median follow-up of 2.36 years (interquartile range: 0.96-4.65), 1018 pat…

Sex-differential effect of frailty on long-term mortality in elderly patients after an acute coronary syndrome.

Background The potential sex-differential effect of frailty in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) has not been well-evaluated. We sought to examine the sex-differential association between frailty status on long-term mortality in elderly patients with an ACS. Methods and results This is a prospective observational single-center study that included 488 elderly patients (>65 years) hospitalized for ACS who survived the index hospitalization. Multivariate Cox regression was used to determine the association among the exposures (interaction of sex with Fried score and sex with Fried ≥ 3) and all-cause mortality. The mean age of the sample was 78 ± 7 years; 41% were female and the medi…

Long-term prognostic value of a comprehensive assessment of cardiac magnetic resonance indexes after an ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Abstract Introduction and objectives A variety of cardiac magnetic resonance indexes predict mid-term prognosis in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients. The extent of transmural necrosis permits simple and accurate prediction of systolic recovery. However, its long-term prognostic value beyond a comprehensive clinical and cardiac magnetic resonance evaluation is unknown. We hypothesized that a simple semiquantitative assessment of the extent of transmural necrosis is the best resonance index to predict long-term outcome soon after a first ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Methods One week after a first ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction we carried out a comp…

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis as a therapeutic alternative in patients with advanced congestive heart failure.

Aims Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) has been proposed as an additional therapeutic resource for patients with advanced congestive heart failure (CHF). The objective of this study was to determine the therapeutic role of CAPD, in terms of surrogate endpoints, in the management of patients with advanced CHF and renal dysfunction. A total of 57 candidates with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III/IV CHF, renal dysfunction (glomerular filtration rate , 60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ), persistent fluid congestion despite loop diuretic treatment, and at least two previous hospitalizations for acute heart failure (AHF) were invited to be included in the CAPD programme; however, 25 pa…

Estatinas en la insuficiencia cardiaca

Changes in myocardial iron content following administration of intravenous iron (Myocardial‐IRON): Study design

Treatment with intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) has been shown to improve symptoms, functional capacity, and quality of life in patients with heart failure and iron deficiency. However, the underlying mechanisms for these beneficial effects remain undetermined. The aim of this study is to quantify cardiac magnetic resonance changes in myocardial iron content after administration of intravenous FCM in patients with heart failure and iron deficiency and contrast them with parameters of heart failure severity. This is a multicenter, double-blind, randomized study. Fifty patients with stable symptomatic heart failure, left ventricular ejection fraction <50%, and iron deficiency will be r…

Limitations of Clinical History for Evaluation of Patients With Acute Chest Pain, Non-Diagnostic Electrocardiogram, and Normal Troponin

Decision making and risk stratification for patients with acute chest pain, nondiagnostic electrocardiogram results, and normal troponin levels are challenging. The aim of this study was to optimize the clinical history for the evaluation of these patients. A total of 1,011 patients presenting to an emergency department were included. The following data were collected: clinical presentation (pain characteristics and number of pain episodes), coronary risk factors, previous ischemic heart disease, and extracardiac vascular disease (peripheral artery disease, stroke, or creatinine >1.4 mg/dl). Two different predictive models were calculated according to the end points: model 1 for 1-year majo…

Initial experience with the novel BioMime 60 mm-long sirolimus-eluting tapered stent system in long coronary lesions

Plasma neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and long-term mortality in patients with acute heart failure and normal renal function

Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) has emerged as a renal tubular marker for early renal dysfunction [1]. Recent studies highlighted its role in predicting acute kidney injury (AKI) and clinical outcomes in a wide range of cardiovascular diseases [2], [3], [4] and [5]. However, in heart failure (HF), conflicting results have been reported [4], [5], [6] and [7] and some ambiguities still prevail about the prognostic utility of NGAL beyond standard prognosticators and traditional renal biomarkers. We aimed to evaluate the independent ability of serum NGAL for predicting long-term mortality in patients admitted for acute HF (AHF). We prospectively enrolled 206 patients consecuti…

Síndrome cardiorrenal en la insuficiencia cardiaca aguda: revisando paradigmas

Resumen El sindrome cardiorrenal se ha definido como la disfuncion simultanea de corazon y rinon. El empeoramiento de la funcion renal en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca aguda se ha clasificado como sindrome cardiorrenal tipo 1. En este contexto, el empeoramiento de la funcion renal es un hecho frecuente y se produce como resultado de procesos fisiopatologicos complejos, multifactoriales y no del todo conocidos, que incluyen factores hemodinamicos (hipoperfusion arterial renal y congestion venosa renal) y no hemodinamicos. Tradicionalmente, el empeoramiento de la funcion renal se ha asociado a peor pronostico; sin embargo, algunas observaciones han puesto de manifiesto unos resultados …

Magnetic Resonance Assessment of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction at Any Time Post-Infarction for Prediction of Subsequent Events in a Large Multicenter STEMI Registry

Background Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most accurate imaging technique for left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) quantification, but as yet the prognostic value of LVEF assessment at any time after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) for subsequent major adverse cardiac event (MACE) prediction is uncertain. Purpose To explore the prognostic impact of MRI-derived LVEF at any time post-STEMI to predict subsequent MACE (cardiovascular death or re-admission for acute heart failure). Study Type Prospective. Population One thousand thirteen STEMI patients were included in a multicenter registry. Field Strength/Sequence 1.5-T. Balanced steady-state free precession (c…

Prognostic value of the interaction between galectin-3 and antigen carbohydrate 125 in acute heart failure

AIM:Galectin-3 (Gal-3) and carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) have emerged as robust prognostic biomarkers in heart failure. Experimental data have also suggested a potential molecular interaction between CA125 and Gal-3; however, the biological and clinical relevance of this interaction is still uncertain. We sought to evaluate, in patients admitted for acute heart failure, the association between plasma Gal-3 with all-cause mortality and the risk for rehospitalizations among high and low levels of CA125. METHODS AND RESULTS: We included 264 consecutive patients admitted for acute heart failure to the Cardiology Department in a third-level center. Both biomarkers were measured on admission. …

Inspiratory Muscle Training and Functional Electrical Stimulation for Treatment of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: The TRAINING-HF Trial

Introduction and objectives: Despite the prevalence of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), there is currently no evidence-based effective therapy for this disease. This study sought to evaluate whether inspiratory muscle training (IMT), functional electrical stimulation (FES), or a combination of both (IMT + FES) improves 12- and 24-week exercise capacity as well as left ventricular diastolic function, biomarker profile, and quality of life in HFpEF. Methods: A total of 61 stable symptomatic patients (New York Heart Association II-III) with HFpEF were randomized (1:1:1:1) to receive a 12-week program of IMT, FES, or IMT + FES vs usual care. The primary endpoint of the st…

Coronary Serum Obtained After Myocardial Infarction Induces Angiogenesis and Microvascular Obstruction Repair. Role of Hypoxia-inducible Factor-1A.

Microvascular obstruction (MVO) exerts deleterious effects following acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We investigated coronary angiogenesis induced by coronary serum and the role of hypoxia-inducible factor-1A (HIF-1A) in MVO repair.Myocardial infarction was induced in swine by transitory 90-minute coronary occlusion. The pigs were divided into a control group and 4 AMI groups: no reperfusion, 1minute, 1 week and 1 month after reperfusion. Microvascular obstruction and microvessel density were quantified. The proangiogenic effect of coronary serum drawn from coronary sinus on endothelial cells was evaluated using an in vitro tubulogenesis assay. Circulating and myocardial HIF-1A levels an…

Usefulness of the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in predicting long-term mortality in ST segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (N/L) has been associated with poor outcomes in patients who underwent cardiac angiography. Nevertheless, its role for risk stratification in acute coronary syndromes, specifically in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), has not been elucidated. We sought to determine the association of N/L maximum value (N/L max) with mortality in the setting of STEMI and to compare its predictive ability with total white blood cell maximum count (WBC max). We analyzed 515 consecutive patients admitted with STEMI to a single university center. White blood cells (WBC) and differential count were measured at admission and daily for the first 96 hour…

Intracoronary Infusion of Thioflavin-S to Study Microvascular Obstruction in a Model of Myocardial Infarction

Abstract Introduction and objectives Microvascular obstruction exerts deleterious effects after myocardial infarction. To elucidate the role of ischemia-reperfusion injury on the occurrence and dynamics of microvascular obstruction, we performed a preliminary methodological study to accurately define this process in an in vivo model. Methods Myocardial infarction was induced in swine by means of 90-min of occlusion of the mid left anterior descending coronary artery using angioplasty balloons . Intracoronary infusion of thioflavin-S was applied and compared with traditional intra-aortic or intraventricular instillation. The left anterior descending coronary artery perfused area and microvas…

Relationship between low lymphocyte count and major cardiac events in patients with acute chest pain, a non-diagnostic electrocardiogram and normal troponin levels.

Risk stratification of patients with acute chest pain, non-diagnostic electrocardiogram and normal troponin (ACPneg) remains a challenge, partly because no standardized set of biomarkers with prognostic ability has been identified in this population. Lymphopenia has been associated with atherosclerosis progression and adverse outcomes in cardiovascular diseases; although its prognostic value in ACPneg is unknown. We sought to determine the relationship between the lymphocyte count obtained in the Emergency Department (ED) and the risk of the long-term all-cause mortality or myocardial infarction (MI) in patients with ACPneg.We analyzed 1030 consecutive patients admitted with ACPneg in our i…

Coronary Revascularization and Long-Term Survivorship in Chronic Coronary Syndrome

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) persists as the leading cause of death in the Western world. In recent decades, great headway has been made in reducing mortality due to IHD, based around secondary prevention. The advent of coronary revascularization techniques, first coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery in the 1960s and then percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in the 1970s, has represented one of the major breakthroughs in medicine during the last century. The benefit provided by these techniques, especially PCI, has been crucial in lowering mortality rates in acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, in the setting where IHD is most prevalent, namely chronic coronary syndrome (CC…

Programmed death-1 (PD-1): A novel mechanism for understanding the acute immune deregulation in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

Short‐term changes in left and right systolic function following ferric carboxymaltose: a substudy of the Myocardial‐IRON trial

Funding: This work was supported in part by an unrestricted grant from Vifor Pharma and Proyectos de Investigación de la Sección de Insuficiencia Cardiaca 2017 from Sociedad Española de Cardiología. The mechanisms underlying the beneficial effect of ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) in patients with heart failure (HF) and iron deficiency (ID) have not been completely characterized. The Myocardial-IRON trial was a double-blind, randomized trial that evaluated myocardial iron repletion following FCM vs. placebo in 53 patients with HF and ID. In this post hoc analysis, we evaluated whether treatment with FCM was associated with cardiac magnetic resonance changes in left and right ventricular functio…

Diálisis peritoneal en pericarditis constrictiva: a propósito de 3 casos

International Normalized Ratio and Mortality Risk in Acute Heart Failure and Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation Patients Receiving Vitamin K Antagonists

Introduction and objectives: Heart failure patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) on treatment with vitamin K antagonists (VKA) often have suboptimal international normalized ratio (INR) values. Our aim was to evaluate the association between INR values at admission due to acute heart failure and mortality risk during follow-up. Methods: In this observational study, we retrospectively assessed INR on admission in 1137 consecutive patients with acute heart failure and NVAF who were receiving VKA treatment. INR was categorized into optimal values (INR = 2-3, n = 210), subtherapeutic (INR 3, n = 267). Because INR did not meet the proportional hazards assumption for mortality, res…

Antigen carbohydrate 125 and brain natriuretic peptide serial measurements for risk stratification following an episode of acute heart failure.

Abstract Background The prognostic utility of combining serial measurements of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and antigen carbohydrate 125 (CA125) is largely unknown. The aim of this work is to assess the prognostic utility of serial measurements of BNP, CA125, and their optimal combination for predicting long-term mortality, following a hospitalization for acute heart failure (AHF). Methods and results We analyzed 293 consecutive patients admitted with AHF where CA125 and BNP were measured at discharge (T1) and at the first ambulatory visit (T2: median 31days after discharge). Biomarkers were evaluated as snapshot determinations or as serial changes in absolute, relative or categorical ch…

Iron deficiency and risk of early readmission following a hospitalization for acute heart failure

Factors associated with plasma antigen carbohydrate 125 and amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide concentrations in acute heart failure

Background: Plasma amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide and antigen carbohydrate 125 levels are positively associated with a higher risk of adverse clinical outcomes in acute heart failure. As a proxy of congestion, antigen carbohydrate 125 has also been proposed as a right-sided heart failure marker. Thus, we aimed to determine in this population the main factors – including echocardiographic right-sided heart failure parameters – associated with antigen carbohydrate 125 and amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide. Methods and results: We prospectively included 2949 patients admitted with acute heart failure. Amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide and antigen carbohy…

Sex differences in mortality in stable patients undergoing vasodilator stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance

Abstract Introduction The prognostic value and therapeutic implications of ischemia as derived from vasodilator stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) could differ in men and women, but it has not been stablished. Purpose We assessed the influence of the ischemic burden as derived from CMR on the risk of death and the effect of revascularization across sex. Methods We evaluated 6,237 consecutive patients with known or suspected chronic coronary syndrome (CCS). Extensive ischemia was defined as &amp;gt;5 segments with perfusion deficit. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression models were used. Results A total of 2,371 (38.0%) patients were women and 583 (9.3%) underwent CMR-r…

Prediction of long-term major events soon after a first ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction by cardiovascular magnetic resonance.

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) predicts combined clinical events in post-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. However, its contribution to predicting long-term major events (ME: cardiac death and non-fatal myocardial infarction [MI]) is unknown. We aimed to assess whether CMR predicts long-term MEs when performed soon after STEMI.We prospectively recruited 546 STEMI patients between 2004 and 2012. The Left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (LVEF,%), infarct size (IS), edema, hemorrhage, microvascular obstruction, and myocardial salvage were quantified by CMR at pre-discharge. During a mean follow-up of 840 days, 57 ME events (10%; 23 cardiac deaths, 34 non-…

Usefulness of pain presentation characteristics for predicting outcome in patients presenting to the hospital with chest pain of uncertain origin

Background Decision making in chest pain of uncertain origin is challenging. Objectives To evaluate the predictive value of simple characteristics of pain presentation in patients coming to the emergency department with chest pain and without electrocardiogram ischaemia or raised troponin. Methods 789 patients were studied. The following categorical pain characteristics were collected: effort related pain, pressing character, radiation, associated symptoms, and ≥2 episodes in 24 h. Additionally, a predefined semi-quantitative pain score including seven items (Geleijnse score) was completed. Risk factors and co-morbidities were also recorded. The primary and secondary endpoints were cardiac …

Combined assessment of stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance and angiography to predict the effect of revascularization in chronic coronary syndrome patients

Abstract Aims The role of revascularization in chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) and the value of ischaemia vs. anatomy to guide decision-making are in constant debate. We explored the potential of a combined assessment of ischaemic burden by vasodilator stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) and presence of multivessel disease by angiography to predict the effect of revascularization on all-cause mortality in CCS. Methods and results The study group comprised 1066 CCS patients submitted to vasodilator stress CMR pre-cardiac catheterization (mean age 66 ± 11 years, 69% male). Stress CMR-derived ischaemic burden (extensive if &amp;gt;5 ischaemic segments) and presence of multivessel di…

Long-term serial kinetics of N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide and carbohydrate antigen 125 for mortality risk prediction following acute heart failure.

Aim: Baseline values of N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) predict all-cause mortality in acute heart failure (AHF). However, there is limited information about the added prognostic benefit of using longitudinal values, and how this predictive ability is modified when modelling together. The aim of this study was to determine the mutually-adjusted association between the longitudinal trajectories of NT-proBNP and CA125 with all-cause mortality after an episode of AHF. Methods and results: We included 946 consecutive patients discharged for AHF. NT-proBNP and CA125 were measured at each physician-patient encounter (median (interquartile…

Effect of invasive treatment on prognosis in non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome with or without systolic dysfunction.

Introduction and objectives. Few data are available on the use of invasive treatment in patients with non-STsegment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTEACS) and systolic dysfunction. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of invasive treatment on the prognosis of patients with NSTEACS, with or without systolic dysfunction. Methods. The study included 972 consecutive patients admitted for NSTEACS (i.e. ST-segment depression or an elevated troponin-I level). Systolic dysfunction was defined as an ejection fraction <50% on transthoracic echocardiography. The primary long-term endpoint was death or myocardial infarction. The effect of invasive treatment on prognosis was evaluated …

Papel de la lipocalina asociada a la gelatinasa neutrófila en la detección precoz de la nefropatía inducida por contraste tras una coronariografía

Ejection Fraction by Echocardiography for a Selective Use of Magnetic Resonance After Infarction

[EN] Background Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) permits robust risk stratification of discharged ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction patients, but its indiscriminate use in all cases is not feasible. We evaluated the utility of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) by echocardiography for a selective use of CMR after ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction. Methods Echocardiography and CMR were performed in 1119 patients discharged for ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction included in a multicenter registry. The prognostic power of CMR beyond echocardiography-LVEF was assessed using adjusted C statistic, net reclassification improvement index, and integrated discriminati…

Randomized Comparison of Exercise Intervention Versus Usual Care in Older Adult Patients with Frailty After Acute Myocardial Infarction.

Abstract Background Older adult patients with frailty are rarely involved in rehabilitation programs after myocardial infarction. Our aim was to investigate the benefits of exercise intervention in these patients. Methods A total of 150 survivors after acute myocardial infarction, ≥70 years and with pre-frailty or frailty (Fried scale ≥1 points), were randomized to control (n = 77) or intervention (n = 73) groups. The intervention consisted of a 3-month exercise program, under physiotherapist supervision, followed by an independent home-based program. The main outcome was frailty (Fried scale) at 3 months and 1 year. Secondary endpoints were clinical events (mortality or any readmission) at…

Prognostic value of NT-proBNP and CA125 across glomerular filtration rate categories in acute heart failure.

This study aimed to evaluate whether glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) during admission modifies the predictive value of plasma amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) in patients hospitalized for acute heart failure (AHF).We retrospectively evaluated 4595 patients consecutively discharged after admission for AHF at three tertiary-care hospitals from January 2008 through October 2019. To investigate the effect of kidney function on the association of NT-proBNP and CA125 with 1-year mortality (all-cause and cardiovascular mortality), we stratified patients according to four eGFR categories:30 mL•minAt 1-year follow-up, 748 of 4595 (16.3%)…

Estrategia invasiva frente a conservadora en pacientes frágiles con IAMSEST. Diseño del ensayo clínico MOSCA-FRAIL

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Aunque las guias de practica clinica recomiendan una estrategia invasiva para el infarto agudo de miocardio sin elevacion del segmento ST (IAMSEST), en la practica clinica esta estrategia se infrautiliza en ancianos fragiles. Ademas estos enfermos habitualmente quedan excluidos de los ensayos clinicos, por lo que la evidencia es escasa. Nuestra hipotesis es que una estrategia invasiva para el anciano con fragilidad y IAMSEST mejorara el pronostico. Metodos Se trata de un estudio prospectivo, multicentrico y aleatorizado que compara una estrategia invasiva frente a una conservadora en ancianos fragiles con IAMSEST. Los criterios de inclusion son: IAMSEST, eda…

Efecto pronóstico de una estrategia terapéutica guiada por los valores del antígeno carbohidrato 125 (CHANCE-HF). Diseño del estudio

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos La morbilidad y la mortalidad despues de un ingreso por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda siguen siendo extremadamente elevadas. En este contexto, se ha demostrado que las concentraciones plasmaticas del antigeno carbohidrato 125 muestran correlacion con la gravedad de la sobrecarga hidrica y el riesgo de muerte y reingreso. Los datos preliminares indican un posible papel del antigeno carbohidrato 125 como guia para el tratamiento. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar el efecto pronostico de una estrategia de tratamiento guiada por el antigeno carbohidrato 125 comparada con el tratamiento estandar en pacientes dados de alta recientemente tras un ingreso por ins…

Resultados inmediatos e impacto funcional y pronóstico tras la recanalización de oclusiones coronarias crónicas. Resultados del Registro Ibérico

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos El impacto de la intervencion coronaria percutanea (ICP) sobre oclusiones coronarias cronicas totales (OCT) presenta controversias. Se analizan los resultados agudos y al seguimiento en nuestro entorno. Metodos Registro prospectivo de ICP sobre OCT en 24 centros durante 2 anos. Resultados Se realizaron 1.000 ICP sobre OCT en 952 pacientes. La mayoria tenia sintomas (81,5%) y cardiopatia isquemica previa (59,2%), y hubo intentos de desobstruccion previos en un 15%. El SYNTAX anatomico fue 19,5 ± 10,6 y tenia J-score > 2 el 17,3%. El procedimiento fue retrogrado en 92 pacientes (9,2%). La tasa de exito fue del 74,9%, mayor en aquellos sin ICP previa (el 82,2 f…

Effects of empagliflozin on CA125 trajectory in patients with chronic congestive heart failure

INTRODUCTION: We aimed to evaluate the trajectory of two surrogates of fluid overload -antigen carbohydrate 125 (CA125) and amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP)- after the addition of oral empagliflozin to usual care in a cohort of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). METHODS AND RESULTS: From October 2015 to February 2019, 60 ambulatory patients with CHF and T2D were retrospectively included. The primary endpoint was to assess the longitudinal trajectory of plasma levels of CA125 and NT-proBNP after empagliflozin initiation. Changes in quantitative variables were evaluated using linear mixed regression. Median CA125 and NT-proBNP at basel…

Venous Leg Compression for Tissue Decongestion in Patients With Worsening Congestive Heart Failure

AimsVenous leg compression (VLC) with elastic bandages has been proposed as a potentially useful strategy for decreasing tissue congestion. We aimed to evaluate the effect of VLC on short-term changes on intravascular refill, assessed by inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter in patients with worsening heart failure (WHF) requiring parenteral furosemide. Additionally, we sought to evaluate whether early changes in IVC were related to short-term decongestion.MethodsThis is a prospective study in which we included 20 consecutive ambulatory patients with WHF treated with subcutaneous furosemide and VLC for at least 72 h. The endpoints were (a) short-term changes in IVC, (b) the association between …

Sex differences on new-onset heart failure in patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease

Abstract Aims The impact of sex in patients with CAD has been widely reported, but little is known about the influence of sex on the risk of new-onset HF in patients with known or suspected CAD. We aimed to examine sex-related differences and new-onset heart failure (HF) risk in patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing vasodilator stress cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Methods and results We prospectively evaluated 5899 consecutive HF-free patients submitted to stress CMR for known or suspected CAD. Ischaemic burden (number of segments with stress-induced perfusion deficit) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were assessed by CMR. The association…

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis and clinical outcomes in patients with refractory congestive heart failure.

A B S T R A C T Introduction and objectives: Peritoneal dialysis has been proposed as a therapeutic alternative for patients with refractory congestive heart failure. The objective of this study was to assess its effect on long-term clinical outcomes in patients with advanced heart failure and renal dysfunction. Methods: A total of 62 patients with advanced heart failure (class III/IV), renal dysfunction (glomerular filtration<60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ), persistent fluid congestion despite loop diuretic treatment and at least 2 previous hospitalizations for heart failure were invited to participate in a continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis program. Of these, 34 patients were excluded and adj…

Clinical Role of CA125 in Worsening Heart Failure

Abstract Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between antigen carbohydrate 125 (CA125) and the risk of 1-year clinical outcomes in patients with worsening heart failure (HF). Background CA125 is a widely available biomarker that is up-regulated in patients with acute HF and has been postulated as a useful marker of congestion and risk stratification. Methods In a large multicenter cohort of patients with worsening HF, either in-hospital or in the outpatient setting, the independent associations between CA125 and 1-year death and the composite of death/HF readmission (adjusted for outcome-specific prognostic risk score [BIOSTAT risk score]) were determined by usin…

Low lymphocyte count in acute phase of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction predicts long-term recurrent myocardial infarction

Objective We sought to determine the relationship between the lowest lymphocyte count (lymphocyte(min))obtained within the first 96 h of symptoms onset and the risk of postdischarge recurrent spontaneous myocardial infarction (re-MI) in patients admitted with ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI). Methods We analyzed 549 consecutive patients admitted with STEMI from a single academic hospital. Lymphocyte counts were determined at admission and routinely during the first 96 h. Lymphocyte(min) was selected as the main exposure. Patients with inflammatory or infectious diseases, in-hospital death, or reinfarction were excluded from the analysis (final sample= 426 patients). Lymphocyte(min) was divid…

Optimal carbohydrate antigen 125 cutpoint for identifying low-risk patients after admission for acute heart failure

Introduction and objectives: Carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) has been shown to be useful for risk stratification in patients admitted with acute heart failure (AHF). We sought to determine a CA125 cutpoint for identifying patients at low risk of 1-month death or the composite of death/HF readmission following admission for AHF.Methods: The derivation cohort included 3231 consecutive patients with AHF. CA125 cutoff values with 90% negative predictive value (NPV) and sensitivity up to 85% were identified. The adequacy of these cutpoints and the risk of 1-month death/HF readmission was then tested using the Royston-Parmar method. The best cutpoint was selected and externally validated in a co…

Prevalence and prognostic implications of active cytomegalovirus infection in patients with acute heart failure

AHF (acute heart failure) causes significant morbidity and mortality. Recent studies have postulated that the expression of inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and chemokines, plays an important role in the development and progression of heart failure. A pro-inflammatory state has been postulated as a key factor in triggering CMV (cytomegalovirus) reactivation. Therefore we sought to determine the prevalence of active CMV infection in immunocompetent patients admitted for AHF and to quantify the association with the risk of the combined end point of death or AHF readmission. A total of 132 consecutive patients admitted for AHF were enrolled in the present study. Plasma CMV DNAaemia wa…

Punto de corte óptimo del antígeno carbohidrato 125 para la identificación de pacientes con bajo riesgo tras un ingreso por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos El antigeno carbohidrato 125 (CA125) se ha mostrado util para la estratificacion del riesgo de los pacientes ingresados por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda (ICA). Se intenta determinar un punto de corte para identificar a los pacientes con bajo riesgo de muerte y muerte/reingreso por insuficiencia cardiaca 1 mes tras el ingreso por ICA. Metodos La cohorte de derivacion incluyo a 3.231 pacientes con ICA consecutivos. Se identificaron valores de corte de CA125 con un valor predictivo negativo (VPN) del 90% y una sensibilidad de hasta el 85%. La idoneidad de estos puntos de corte y el riesgo de muerte/reingreso al mes se evaluaron mediante el metodo de Royston-Par…

Predictors of cardiovascular magnetic resonance-derived microvascular obstruction on patient admission in STEMI

Early stratification of patients according to the risk for developing microvascular obstruction (MVO) after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is desirable. We aimed to identify predictors of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR)-derived MVO from clinical+ECG, laboratory and angiographic parameters available on admission.Characteristics available on admission were documented in 97 STEMI patients referred for primary angioplasty. MVO was determined using contrast-enhanced CMR.MVO was present in 44 patients (45%). The C-statistic for predicting MVO was: clinical+ECG (.832), laboratory (.743), and angiographic parameters (.669). Adding laboratory to clinical+ECG information d…

CA125 outperforms NT-proBNP in acute heart failure with severe tricuspid regurgitation.

In acute heart failure (AHF) with right ventricular dysfunction, the roles of amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) are poorly understood, and functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) severity is thought to indicate a poor prognosis. We examined the prognostic abilities of NT-proBNP and CA125 according to TR status among patients with AHF.TR severity was assessed during index hospitalization (108 ± 24 h after admission) and classified as none/trivial, mild, moderate, or severe. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was performed to assess how pre-discharge CA125 and NT-proBNP were associated with long-term all-cause mortality relative t…

Improvement in risk stratification with the combination of the tumour marker antigen carbohydrate 125 and brain natriuretic peptide in patients with acute heart failure.

Aim Elevated brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and tumour marker antigen carbohydrate 125 (CA125) levels have shown to be associated with higher risk for adverse outcomes in patients with acute heart failure (AHF). Nevertheless, no attempt has been made to explore the utility of combining these two biomarkers. We sought to assess whether CA125 adds prognostic value to BNP in predicting 6-month all-cause mortality in patients with AHF. Methods and results We analysed 1111 consecutive patients admitted for AHF. Antigen carbohydrate 125 (U/mL) and BNP (pg/mL) were measured at a median of 72 ± 12 h after instauration of treatment. Antigen carbohydrate 125 and BNP were dichotomized based on propos…

Impacto pronóstico de una estrategia invasiva en el síndrome coronario agudo sin elevación del segmento ST según la presencia o no de disfunción sistólica

Introduccion y objetivos Escasa evidencia respalda la implantacion de una estrategia invasiva (EI) en pacientes con sindrome coronario agudo sin elevacion del segmento ST (SCASEST) y disfuncion sistolica (DS). El objetivo de este trabajo es evaluar el impacto pronostico atribuible a una EI en sujetos con SCASEST segun tengan DS o no. Metodos Se incluyo a 972 pacientes consecutivos ingresados por SCASEST (descenso del segmento ST y/o elevacion de troponina I). Se definio la DS como fraccion de eyeccion Resultados El 23,4% presento DS. Un total de 303 (31%) pacientes alcanzaron el objetivo primario, hecho que fue mas frecuente en los pacientes con DS (el 49,8 frente al 25,5%; p Conclusiones L…

Early effects of empagliflozin on exercise tolerance in patients with heart failure: A pilot study

BackgroundSodium-glucose linked transporter 2 inhibition recently emerged as a promising therapy for reducing the risk of heart failure (HF) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, there is a lack of data endorsing its role in symptomatic HF patients. We sought to evaluate the short-term effects of empagliflozin on maximal exercise capacity in these patients. HypothesisWe postulate tretament with empagliflozin may improve functional capacity in patients with T2DM and established HF. MethodsNineteen T2DM patients with symptomatic HF were prospectively included and underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing before and 30days after initiation of empagliflozin therapy. A mixe…

Early Spot Urinary Sodium and Diuretic Efficiency in Acute Heart Failure and Concomitant Renal Dysfunction

&lt;b&gt;&lt;i&gt;Objective:&lt;/i&gt;&lt;/b&gt; In acute heart failure (AHF), early assessment of spot urinary sodium (U&lt;sub&gt;Na&lt;/sub&gt;) has emerged as a useful biomarker for risk stratification and monitoring. The objective of this study was to investigate (a) whether early spot U&lt;sub&gt;Na&lt;/sub&gt; predicts 24-h diuretic efficiency and (b) the clinical factors associated with early spot U&lt;sub&gt;Na&lt;/sub&gt; in patients with AHF and concomitant renal dysfunction (RD). &lt;b&gt;&lt;i&gt;Methods:&lt;/i&gt;&lt;/b&gt; This is a post hoc analysis of the IMPROVE-HF trial, in which 160 patients with AHF and RD (estimated glomerular filtrate rate [eGFR] &amp;#x3c;60 mL/min/1…

Lipoprotein(a) and long-term recurrent infarction after an episode of ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction

Background In established ischemic heart disease, the relationship between lipoprotein(a) and new cardiovascular events showed contradictory results. Our aim was to assess the relationship between lipoprotein(a) and very long-term recurrent myocardial infarction (MI) after an index episode of ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods We included 435 consecutive STEMI patients discharged from October 2000 to June 2003 in a single teaching center. The relationship between lipoprotein(a) at discharge and recurrent MI was evaluated through negative binomial regression and Cox regression analysis. Results The mean age was 65 years (55-74 years), 25.5% were women, 34.7% we…

Comparación entre CA125 y NT-proBNP para valorar la congestión en insuficiencia cardíaca aguda

Resumen Antecedentes El antigeno carbohidrato 125 (CA125) y los peptidos natriureticos tipo B son marcadores subrogados de congestion en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca aguda (ICA). El objetivo del estudio fue valorar la asociacion entre CA125 y NT-proBNP y parametros de congestion en pacientes con ICA. Metodos y resultados Estudio observacional prospectivo multicentrico, que incluyo a 191 pacientes hospitalizados por ICA. Se registro la presencia de derrame pleural, edema periferico y diametro de vena cava inferior (V C I) durante las primeras 24-48 horas tras el ingreso y se evaluo su asociacion independiente con las concentraciones de CA125 y la fraccion amino-terminal del peptido n…

Iron deficiency testing and treatment in heart failure: the eyes are useless when the mind is blind

Definition, clinical implications, and rate of iron deficiency assessment and treatment in the Swedish Heart Failure Registry. FCM, ferric carboxymaltose; HF, heart failue; ID, iron deficiency; TSAT, transferrin sauration.

Carbohydrate Antigen-125–Guided Therapy in Acute Heart Failure

Abstract Objectives This study sought to evaluate the prognostic effect of carbohydrate antigen-125 (CA125)–guided therapy (CA125 strategy) versus standard of care (SOC) after a hospitalization for acute heart failure (AHF). Background CA125 has emerged as a surrogate of fluid overload and inflammatory status in AHF. After an episode of AHF admission, elevated values of this marker at baseline as well as its longitudinal profile relate to adverse outcomes, making it a potential tool for treatment guiding. Methods In a prospective multicenter randomized trial, 380 patients discharged for AHF and high CA125 were randomly assigned to the CA125 strategy (n = 187) or SOC (n = 193). The aim in th…

Effect of ischemic postconditioning on microvascular obstruction in reperfused myocardial infarction. Results of a randomized study in patients and of an experimental model in swine.

Background: Ischemic postconditioning (PCON) appears as a potentially beneficial tool in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We evaluated the effect of PCON on microvascular obstruction (MVO) in STEMI patients and in an experimental swine model. Methods: A prospective randomized study in patients and an experimental study in swine were carried out in two university hospitals in Spain. 101 consecutive STEMI patients were randomized to undergo primary angio-plasty followed by PCON or primary angioplasty alone (non-PCON). Using late gadolinium enhancement cardiovascular magnetic resonance, infarct size and MVO were quantified (% of left ventricular mass). In swine, using an ang…

Choice of CTO scores to predict procedural success in clinical practice. A comparison of 4 different CTO PCI scores in a comprehensive national registry including expert and learning CTO operators

Background We aimed to compare the performance of the recent CASTLE score to J-CTO, CL and PROGRESS CTO scores in a comprehensive database of percutaneous coronary intervention of chronic total occlusion procedures. Methods Scores were calculated using raw data from 1,342 chronic total occlusion procedures included in REBECO Registry that includes learning and expert operators. Calibration, discrimination and reclassification were evaluated and compared. Results Mean score values were: CASTLE 1.60±1.10, J-CTO 2.15±1.24, PROGRESS 1.68±0.94 and CL 2.52±1.52 points. The overall percutaneous coronary intervention success rate was 77.8%. Calibration was good for CASTLE and CL, but not for J-CTO…

Frailty Tools for Assessment of Long-term Prognosis After Acute Coronary Syndrome

Objective: To evaluate the 5 components of the Fried frailty phenotype (self-reported unintentional weight loss, physical activity questionnaire, gait speed, grip strength, and self-reported exhaustion) for long-term outcomes in elderly survivors of acute coronary syndrome. Methods: A total of 342 consecutive patients (from October 1, 2010, to February 1, 2012) were included. The 5 components of the Fried score and albumin concentration, as malnutrition index, were assessed before hospital discharge. Patients were followed up until April 2020 (median follow-up, 8.7 years). The end point was postdischarge all-cause mortality. Results: Mean ± SD age was 77±7 years and mean ± SD Fried score wa…

Cell-free DNA and Microvascular Damage in ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Treated With Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction might originate from hyperactivated leukocytes at the coronary lesion. Our aim was to investigate the relationship between cfDNA and coronary reperfusion. METHODS We studied 116 patients treated with primary angioplasty using thrombus aspiration. Coronary (during aspiration) and peripheral (at the end of the procedure) blood samples were drawn for cfDNA, as well as high-sensitivity troponin T and myeloperoxidase quantification. The primary endpoint was no ST-segment resolution (STR) (≥ 70%) and the secondary endpoint was lack of final Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction flow 3 (TIMI 3). RESULTS…

Prognostic implications of pericardial effusion in acute heart failure: Does size matter?

Somedegreeofpericardialeffusion(PE)occurredinupto20%ofpa-tientswithheartfailure(HF)[1].Arecentstudyshowedthatinpatientswithchronicheartfailure(CHF),evenahemodynamicallyirrelevantPEwasassociated withincreasedriskofadverseevents [2,3]. Should thesefindings be extrapolated to patients with AHF? Moreover, the patho-physiology of such association remains to be determined. Thus, thisstudy sought to evaluate the association between PE and the risk of 1-year mortality in patients with AHF.Weincluded1827consecutivepatientsadmittedforAHFintheCar-diology department of a tertiary university hospital from January 2004to July 2013. Patients with a hemodynamically compromised PE wereexcluded (n = 16). In a…

Echocardiographic pulmonary artery pressure estimation and heart failure rehospitalization burden in patients with acute heart failure

Abstract Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a strong predictor of mortality in patients with heart failure (HF). However, the relationship between PH, through echocardiographic pulmonary artery pressure (PASP) estimation, and the risk of HF rehospitalizations remains unclear. Methods We prospectively included 2343 consecutive patients discharged for acute heart failure (AHF). PH was estimated by echocardiography through PASP determination during the index admission. Patients were categorized as follows across PASP: non-measurable, normal (≤35mmHg), mild (36–45mmHg), moderate (46–60mmHg), or severe PH (>60mmHg). Negative binomial regression method was used to evaluate the association between PAS…

Long-Term Potassium Monitoring and Dynamics in Heart Failure and Risk of Mortality

Background: The prognostic value of long-term potassium monitoring and dynamics in heart failure has not been characterized completely. We sought to determine the association between serum potassium values collected at follow-up with all-cause mortality in a prospective and consecutive cohort of patients discharged from a previous acute heart failure admission. Methods: Serum potassium was measured at every physician-patient encounter, including hospital admissions and ambulatory settings. The multivariable-adjusted association of serum potassium with mortality was assessed by using comprehensive state-of-the-art regression methods that can accommodate time-dependent exposure modeling. Res…

Clinical profile and 1-year clinical outcomes of super elderly patients admitted with acute heart failure

There is scarce information about the clinical profile and prognosis of acute heart failure (AHF) at the extreme ranges of age. We aimed to evaluate the 1-year death (all-cause mortality and HF-death) and HF-rehospitalizations of patients ≥85 years admitted for AHF.We prospectively evaluated a cohort of 3054 patients admitted with AHF from 2007 to 2018 in a third-level center. Age was categorized per 10-year categories (65 years; 65-74 years, 75-84 years, and ≥85 years). The risk of mortality and HF-rehospitalizations across age categories was evaluated with Cox regression analysis and Cox regression adapted for competing events as appropriate.The mean age was 73.6 ± 11.2 years, 48.9% were …

Efecto de la implantación del cuidado transicional en una unidad de insuficiencia cardiaca tras un ingreso por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Los expertos recomiendan un seguimiento clinico especifico en los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca (IC). El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de la implantacion de un modelo de cuidado transicional en una unidad de IC (UIC) tras una hospitalizacion por IC sobre el riesgo de muerte e ingresos recurrentes por IC. Metodos Estudio observacional retrospectivo que incluyo a todos los pacientes dados de alta por IC aguda en un hospital terciario en Espana entre 2004 y 2017. Desde el 2010 el seguimiento tras el alta se realizo en una UIC. Se compararon 2 cohortes cronologicas: antes (2004-2009) y despues del inicio de la UIC (2010-2017). Se evaluo e…

Noninvasive Imaging Estimation of Myocardial Iron Repletion Following Administration of Intravenous Iron : The Myocardial- Trial

Background Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose ( FCM ) improves symptoms, functional capacity, and quality of life in heart failure and iron deficiency. The mechanisms underlying these effects are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to examine changes in myocardial iron content after FCM administration in patients with heart failure and iron deficiency using cardiac magnetic resonance. Methods and Results Fifty‐three stable heart failure and iron deficiency patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive intravenous FCM or placebo in a multicenter, double‐blind study. T2* and T1 mapping cardiac magnetic resonance sequences, noninvasive surrogates of intramyocardial iron, were eval…

Prognostic implications of dipyridamole cardiac MR imaging: a prospective multicenter registry

Purpose: To evaluate dipyridamole cardiac magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in the prediction of major events (MEs) in patients with ischemic chest pain in a large multicenter registry. Materials and Methods: Institutional ethics committee approval and written informed consent were obtained. A total of 1722 patients who were undergoing cardiac MR imaging for chest pain were included. Wall motion abnormalities (WMAs) at rest, hyperemia perfusion defect (PD), late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), and inducible WMA were analyzed (abnormal if more than one abnormal segment was seen) with the 17-segment model. A cardiac MR categorization was created: category 1, no PD, LGE, or inducible WMA; category…

Prognostic Value of Geriatric Conditions Beyond Age After Acute Coronary Syndrome

The aim of the present study was to investigate the prognostic value of geriatric conditions beyond age after acute coronary syndrome. This was a prospective cohort design including 342 patients (from October 1, 2010, to February 1, 2012) hospitalized for acute coronary syndrome, older than 65 years, in whom 5 geriatric conditions were evaluated at discharge: frailty (Fried and Green scales), comorbidity (Charlson and simple comorbidity indexes), cognitive impairment (Pfeiffer test), physical disability (Barthel index), and instrumental disability (Lawton-Brody scale). The primary end point was all-cause mortality. The median follow-up for the entire population was 4.7 years (range, 3-2178 …

Inhomogeneity of collagen organization within the fibrotic scar after myocardial infarction: results in a swine model and in human samples.

We aimed to characterize the organization of collagen within a fibrotic scar in swine and human samples from patients with chronic infarctions. Swine were subjected to occlusion of the left anterior descending artery followed by reperfusion 1 week (acute myocardial infarction group) or 1 month (chronic myocardial infarction group) after infarction. The organization of the collagen fibers (Fast Fourier Transform of samples after picrosirius staining; higher values indicate more disorganization) was studied in 100 swine and 95 human samples. No differences in collagen organization were found between the acute and chronic groups in the core area of the scar in the experimental model. In the ch…

Hyperuricemia in acute heart failure. More than a simple spectator?

Hyperuricemia is a prevalent condition in chronic heart failure (CHF), describing increased oxidative stress and inflammation. Although there is evidence that serum uric acid (UA) predicts mortality in CHF, its role as a prognostic biomarker in acute heart failure (AHF) has not yet been well assessed. The aim of this study was to determine if UA levels predict all-cause mortality. Additionally, as a secondary endpoint we sought the clinical predictors of UA serum level in this population.We analyzed 560 consecutive patients with AHF admitted in a single university center. UA (mg/dl) was measured during early hospitalization. Patient survival status was followed up after discharge (median fo…

Prognostic Value and Kinetics of Soluble Neprilysin in Acute Heart Failure

Abstract Objectives This study sought to examine the prognostic value of the soluble form of neprilysin (sNEP) in acute heart failure (AHF) and sNEP kinetics during hospital admission. Background sNEP was recently identified in chronic heart failure (HF) and was associated with cardiovascular outcomes. Methods A total of 350 patients (53% women, mean 72.6 ± 10.7 years of age) were included in the study. Primary endpoints were composites of cardiovascular death or HF hospitalizations at short-term (2 months) and long-term (mean: 1.8 ± 1.2 years) follow-up. sNEP was measured using an ad hoc–modified enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and its prognostic value was assessed using Cox regression …

Risk score for early risk prediction by cardiac magnetic resonance after acute myocardial infarction.

BACKGROUND: Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) performed early after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) can improve major adverse cardiac event (MACE) risk prediction. We aimed to create a simple clinical-CMR risk score for early MACE risk stratification in STEMI patients.; METHODS: We performed a multicenter prospective registry of reperfused STEMI patients (n=1118) in whom early (1-week) CMR-derived left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), infarct size and microvascular obstruction (MVO) were quantified. MACE was defined as a combined clinical endpoint of cardiovascular (CV) death, non-fatal myocardial infarction (NF-MI) or re-admission for acute decompensated heart failur…

Efecto pronóstico diferencial de la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 en mujeres y varones con insuficiencia cardiaca y fracción de eyección conservada

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos La diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2) es una comorbilidad comun en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca (IC) con fraccion de eyeccion conservada (ICFEP). Estudios anteriores han demostrado que las mujeres diabeticas tienen mayor riesgo de desarrollar insuficiencia cardiaca que los hombres. Sin embargo, el pronostico a largo plazo de los pacientes diabeticos con insuficiencia cardiaca en funcion del sexo no se ha explorado ampliamente. En este estudio, nuestro objetivo fue evaluar el impacto diferencial de la DM2 en la mortalidad por todas las causas en hombres frente a mujeres con ICFEP tras un ingreso por IC aguda. Metodos Se incluyeron prospectivamente 1.019 p…

Clinical utility of antigen carbohydrate 125 for planning the optimal length of stay in acute heart failure.

BACKGROUND: The optimal length of stay (LOS) in patients hospitalized for acute heart failure (AHF) remains controversial. Plasma antigen carbohydrate 125 (CA125) has emerged as a reliable proxy of congestion. We aimed to evaluate whether there is a differential impact of LOS on the risk of 6-month AHF readmission across CA125 levels. METHODS: This is a retrospective study that included 1,387 patients discharged for AHF in two third-level centers. CA125 was measured 48±24h after admission. The association between CA125 and LOS with the risk of subsequent AHF readmission at 6 months was analyzed by Cox regression analysis accounting for death as a competing event. RESULTS: The median (IQR) a…

Long-term prognostic implications of revascularization in patients with known or suspected chronic coronary syndromes without ischemia in vasodilator stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance

In this study, we evaluated the association between symptoms-guided revascularization occurred within three months following a negative vasodilator stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (negative stress-CMR) and long-term adverse events in patients with known or suspected chronic coronary syndrome (CCS).We retrospectively evaluated 3517 patients in which the stress first-pass perfusion imaging revealed no ischemia. The primary endpoint was the composite of death, spontaneous myocardial infarction, heart failure (HF), or stroke. The association between symptoms-guided revascularization after a negative stress-CMR and the endpoint was assessed using the multivariable Cox proportional hazar…

Feasibility of Implanting 50-60 mm-Tapered Drug Eluting Stents in Chronic Total Occlusions.

Abstract Background Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of chronic total occlusions (CTO) usually involves multiple overlapping stents implantation to cover long coronary segments. A higher rate of restenosis has been described with stent overlapping. Recently, new long tapered stents emerged as a potential tool for treating long coronary lesions. Feasibility of using these new devices for the CTO PCI has not been described. The aim of this work was to describe our initial experience with 50 and 60 mm-long tapered sirolimus-eluting stents (SES) in CTO PCI. Methods We included 54 consecutive patients who underwent a CTO PCI and in whom an attempt to implant a 50 or 60 mm-long tapered SE…

ADN libre y daño microvascular en el infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST tratado con intervención coronaria primaria

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos En el infarto agudo de miocardio con elevacion del segmento ST, el ADN libre circulante podria originarse de los leucocitos activados en la lesion coronaria. El objetivo fue investigar la relacion entre el ADN libre y la reperfusion coronaria. Metodos Se incluyo a 116 pacientes, tratados con angioplastia primaria y tromboaspiracion. Se cuantifico el ADN libre coronario (durante la aspiracion) y periferico (al final del procedimiento), asi como la troponina T ultrasensible y la mieloperoxidasa. El objetivo primario fue la no resolucion del segmento ST (RST) (≥ 70%) y el secundario la ausencia de flujo Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction 3 (TIMI 3) final. Re…

Diuretic Strategies in Acute Heart Failure and Renal Dysfunction: Conventional vs Carbohydrate Antigen 125-guided Strategy. Clinical Trial Design

Abstract Introduction and objectives The optimal treatment of patients with acute heart failure (AHF) and cardiorenal syndrome type 1 (CRS-1) is far from being well-defined. Arterial hypoperfusion in concert with venous congestion plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of CRS-I. Plasma carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) has emerged as a surrogate of fluid overload in AHF. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical usefulness of CA125 for tailoring the intensity of diuretic therapy in patients with CRS-1. Methods Multicenter, open-label, parallel clinical trial, in which patients with AHF and serum creatinine ≥ 1.4 mg/dL on admission will be randomized to: a) standard diuretic str…

Differential prognostic effect of systolic blood pressure on mortality according to left-ventricular function in patients with acute heart failure.

Aims To evaluate the relationship between systolic blood pressure (SBP) and long-term mortality in patients with acute heart failure (AHF) stratified by ejection fraction (LVEF): reduced (≤40%) vs. preserved (≥50%). Methods and results We studied 1049 consecutive patients admitted with AHF. Systolic blood pressure was determined in the emergency department. Left-ventricular ejection fraction was categorized as ≤40% (n = 288), 41–49% (n = 174), or ≥50% (n = 587). Cox regression analysis was used for multivariable analysis. Mean age and SBP were 73 ± 11 years and 150 ± 36 mmHg, respectively. During a median follow-up of 18 months, 290 deaths (33.1%) were identified. Higher SBP was associated …

Early serum creatinine changes and outcomes in patients admitted for acute heart failure: the cardio-renal syndrome revisited.

Background: The changes in renal function that occurred in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) are prevalent, and have multifactorial etiology and dissimilar prognosis. To what extent the prognostic role of such changes may vary according to the presence of renal insufficiency at admission is not clear. Accordingly, we sought to determine whether early creatinine changes (Cr) (admission to 48-72 hours) had an effect on 1-year mortality relative to the presence of renal insufficiency at admission. Methods: We included 705 consecutive patients admitted with the diagnosis of ADHF. Admission renal insufficiency was defined as serum creatinine 1.4mg/dl (A-RIcr) or estimated gl…

Trefoil factor-3 and galectin-4 as new candidates for prognostic biomarkers in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

Effect of ischemic postconditioning on microvascular obstruction in reperfused myocardial infarction. Results of a randomized multicenter study in patients and data of an experimental model

Purpose: Ischemic Postconditioning (PCON) appears as a potentially beneficial tool to complement primary angioplasty in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We evaluated the impact of PCON on Microvascular Obstruction (MVO) both in patients and in a highly controlled swine model. Methods: In a multicenter study, 101 patients with a first STEMI were randomized to undergo primary angioplasty followed by PCON or primary angioplasty alone (non-PCON). MVO (lack of contrast uptake in the core of the hyperenhanced infarcted area) was quantified in late enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. In an anterior STEMI swine model based on a 90-min angioplasty balloon coronary occl…

CA125 but not NT-proBNP predicts the presence of a congestive intrarenal venous flow in patients with acute heart failure

Abstract Background Intrarenal venous flow (IRVF) measured by Doppler ultrasound has gained interest as a potential surrogate marker of renal congestion and adverse outcomes in heart failure. In this work, we aimed to determine if antigen carbohydrate 125 (CA125) and plasma amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) are associated with congestive IRVF patterns (i.e., biphasic and monophasic) in acute heart failure (AHF). Methods and results We prospectively enrolled a consecutive cohort of 70 patients hospitalized for AHF. Renal Doppler ultrasound was assessed within the first 24-h of hospital admission. The mean age of the sample was 73.5 ± 12.3 years; 47.1% were female, and…

Iron deficiency and long-term mortality in elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Aim: We evaluated the relationship between iron deficiency (ID) and long-term mortality risk in elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods: In this prospective observational study, we included 252 patients older than 65 years with ACS. Transferrin saturation (TSAT) and ferritin were collected before discharge. Results: Mean age, hemoglobin and GRACE score were 78 ± 7 years, 12.4 ± 1.8 g/dl and 138.8 ± 25.3, respectively, 112(44.4%) patients were women, and 151(59.9%) presented ID. During the follow-up, 121 (48%) patients died. Mortality rates among TSAT quartiles were: 2.38, 1.60, 0.90 and 0.95 × 10 person-years for Q1TSAT to Q4TSAT, respectively (p &lt; 0.001) and did no…

Entrenamiento de la musculatura inspiratoria y la electroestimulación muscular funcional en el tratamiento de la insuficiencia cardiaca con función sistólica conservada: estudio TRAINING-HF

SEC 2017: Congreso de las Enfermedades Cardiovasculares Introducción y objetivos No se dispone de tratamientos farmacológicos que demuestren reducir la morbimortalidad asociada en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca y función sistólica conservada (IC-FEc). El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar si en pacientes con IC-FEc, el entrenamiento de la musculatura inspiratoria (EMI), la electroestimulación muscular funcional (EMF) o la combinación de ambas (EMI + EMF) puede mejorar la capacidad funcional, calidad de vida, parámetros de disfunción diastólica o biomarcadores a las 12 y 24 semanas. Métodos Un total de 61 pacientes estables con IC-FEc (clase funcional de la New York Heart Associ…

Diálisis peritoneal ambulatoria continua y evolución clínica de pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca congestiva refractaria

Introduccion y objetivos Se ha propuesto el empleo de la dialisis peritoneal como alternativa para los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca congestiva refractaria. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar su efecto en la evolucion clinica a largo plazo de los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca avanzada y disfuncion renal. Metodos Se invito a un total de 62 pacientes, con insuficiencia cardiaca avanzada (clase III/IV), disfuncion renal (filtrado glomerular < 60ml/min/1,73 m2), congestion persistente por exceso de liquidos a pesar del tratamiento con diureticos de asa y al menos dos hospitalizaciones previas por insuficiencia cardiaca, a participar en un programa de dialisis peritoneal ambula…

Razón internacional normalizada y mortalidad de los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca y fibrilación auricular tratados con antagonistas de la vitamina K

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca en tratamiento con antagonistas de la vitamina K (AVK) por fibrilacion auricular no valvular (FANV) a menudo presentan valores alterados de la razon internacional normalizada (INR). El objetivo es evaluar la asociacion entre la INR al ingreso por insuficiencia cardiaca y el riesgo de mortalidad en el seguimiento. Metodos Estudio observacional retrospectivo en el que se evaluo la INR al ingreso de 1.137 pacientes consecutivos con insuficiencia cardiaca aguda en tratamiento con AVK por FANV. Esta se categorizo en: INR en rango optimo (INR = 2-3, n = 210), infraterapeutica (INR 3, n = 267). La asociacion independiente en…

Tricuspid Regurgitation and Mortality Risk Across Left Ventricular Systolic Function in Acute Heart Failure.

BACKGROUND Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a common echocardiographic finding that has been related to adverse outcome under various clinical scenarios. Nevertheless, evidence supporting its prognostic value in heart failure (HF) is scarce, and, in most cases, contradictory. We evaluated the association of TR grade with 1-year all-cause mortality in acute HF (AHF). METHODS AND RESULTS: We included 1,842 consecutive patients admitted for AHF. Mean age was 72.8±11.3 years, 51% were female and 45.5% had LVEF <50%. The severity of TR was graded in non-TR, mild (1), moderate (2), moderate-severe (3) and severe (4). At 1-year follow-up, 370 patients (20.1%) had died. In patients with LVEF ≥50%, a…

Procedural, Functional and Prognostic Outcomes Following Recanalization of Coronary Chronic Total Occlusions. Results of the Iberian Registry.

Introduction and objectives: There is current controversy regarding the benefits of percutaneous recanalization (PCI) of chronic total coronary occlusions (CTO). Our aim was to determine acute and follow-up outcomes in our setting. Methods: Two-year prospective registry of consecutive patients undergoing PCI of CTO in 24 centers. Results: A total of 1000 PCIs of CTO were performed in 952 patients. Most were symptomatic (81.5%), with chronic ischemic heart disease (59.2%). Previous recanalization attempts had been made in 15%. The mean SYNTAX score was 19.5 +/- 10.6 and J-score was > 2 in 17.3%. A retrograde procedure was performed in 92 patients (9.2%). The success rate was 74.9% and was hi…

Refractory congestive heart failure: when the solution is outside the heart

Abstract Refractory congestive heart failure is associated with an ominous prognosis in which the treatments strategies remain scarce and not well validated. In the last years, continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) has emerged as a therapeutic alternative in this subset of patients. So far, it has been associated with a significant improvement in functional capacity and quality of life, together with a striking reduction in the risk of readmissions. We present the case of an elderly patient with severe left ventricular dysfunction and severe mitral and tricuspid regurgitation who presents recurrent admissions for anasarca. After its inclusion in a CAPD programme, the patient expe…

Undetectable high-sensitivity troponin in combination with clinical assessment for risk stratification of patients with chest pain and normal troponin at hospital arrival

Background Undetectable high-sensitivity cardiac troponin (hs-cTn) in a single determination upon admission may rule out acute coronary syndrome. We investigated undetectable hs-cTnT (&amp;lt;detection limit; &amp;lt;5 ng/l) together with clinical risk scores (GRACE, TIMI, HEART and a previously published simple score), for one-year outcomes in patients with chest pain and normal hs-cTnT (&amp;lt;99th percentile; &amp;lt;14 ng/l) upon admission. Methods This study was a retrospective design involving 2254 consecutive patients (July 2016–November 2017). The primary endpoint was one-year death or acute myocardial infarction; the secondary endpoint added unstable angina requiring revasculariz…

Prognostic implications of arterial blood gases in acute decompensated heart failure

The prognostic value of arterial blood gases (ABG) in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is not well-established. We therefore conducted the present study to determine the relationship between ABG on admission and long-term mortality in patients with ADHF.We studied 588 patients consecutively admitted to our department with ADHF. ABG and classical prognostic variables were determined at patients' arrival to the emergency department. The independent association among the main variables of ABG (pO2, pCO2 and pH) and mortality was assessed with Cox regression analysis.At a median follow-up of 23months, 221 deaths (37.6%) were registered. 308 (52.4%), 54 (9.2%) and 50 (8.5%)…

Insuficiencia cardiaca aguda post-alta hospitalaria tras un síndrome coronario agudo sin elevación del segmento-ST y riesgo de muerte e infarto agudo de miocardio subsiguiente

Introduccion y objetivos. La informacion disponible acerca del impacto pronostico de un episodio de rehospitalizacion por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda (ICA) tras un sindrome coronario agudo sin elevacion del segmento ST (SCASEST) es escasa. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el valor pronostico atribuible a un primer ingreso por ICA en cuanto a riesgo de infarto agudo de miocardio (IAM) y mortalidad en pacientes supervivientes a un episodio de SCASEST de alto riesgo. Metodos. Analizamos consecutivamente a 972 pacientes supervivientes a la fase hospitalaria de un SCASEST de alto riesgo. El reingreso por ICA se considero como la variable principal de estudio, y su asociacion con IAM y mo…

Efficacy of coronary revascularization in patients with acute chest pain managed in a chest pain unit.

To investigate the safety of discharge of patients deemed at low risk of cardiac events after evaluation in a chest pain unit and to determine the prognostic effect of revascularization of patients deemed at high risk.The study population consisted of 1088 patients presenting at the emergency department from January 15, 2001, to September 1, 2006, with chest pain but without ischemia on electrocardiography or troponin elevation. Patients were managed by a chest pain unit protocol that included early exercise testing. Three groups of patients were distinguished: (1) those discharged after exercise testing (424 [39%]); (2) those in whom unstable angina was ruled out after in-hospital evaluati…

Percutaneous coronary intervention and recurrent hospitalizations in elderly patients with non ST-segment acute coronary syndrome: The role of frailty

Differential Effect of Glycosylated Hemoglobin Value and Antidiabetic Treatment on the Risk of 30-day Readmission Following a Hospitalization for Acute Heart Failure.

In patients with heart failure and type 2 diabetes, low glycosylated hemoglobin has been related with higher risk of mortality but information regarding morbidity is scarce. We sought to evaluate the association between glycosylated hemoglobin and 30-day readmission in patients with type 2 diabetes and acute heart failure.Glycosylated hemoglobin was measured before discharge in 835 consecutive patients with acute heart failure and type 2 diabetes. Cox regression analysis adapted for competing events was used.Mean (standard deviation) age was 72.9 (9.6) years and median glycosylated hemoglobin was 7.2% (6.5%-8.0%). Patients treated with insulin or insulin/sulfonylurea/meglitinides were 41.1%…

Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: An Urgent Need for Precision Medicine

Heart failure with preserved (HFpEF) and mid-range ejection fraction (HFmrEF) constitute two heart failure categories, representing about 50–70% of the total [...]

Rehospitalization burden and morbidity risk in patients with heart failure with mid-range ejection fraction

Aims Heart failure with mid-range ejection fraction (HFmrEF) has been proposed as a distinct HF phenotype, but whether patients on this category fare worse, similarly, or better than those with HF with reduced EF (HFrEF) or preserved EF (HFpEF) in terms of rehospitalization risks over time remains unclear. Methods and results We prospectively included 2961 consecutive patients admitted for acute HF (AHF) in our institution. Of them, 158 patients died during the index admission, leaving the sample size to be 2803 patients. Patients were categorized according to their EF: HFrEF if EF ≤ 40% (n = 908, 32.4%); HFmrEF if EF = 41–49% (n = 449, 16.0%); and HFpEF if EF ≥ 50% (n = 1446, 51.6%). Covar…

Prognostic Value of Strain by Tissue Tracking Cardiac Magnetic Resonance After ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of strain as assessed by tissue tracking (TT) cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) soon after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).The prognostic value of myocardial strain as assessed post-STEMI by TT-CMR is unknown.The authors studied the prognostic value of TT-CMR in 323 patients who underwent CMR 1 week post-STEMI. Global (average of peak segmental values [%]) and segmental (number of altered segments) longitudinal (LS), circumferential, and radial strain were assessed using TT-CMR. Global and segmental strain cutoff values were derived from 32 control patients. CMR-derived left ventricular ejection fraction, microvasc…

Vasodilator Stress CMR and All-Cause Mortality in Stable Ischemic Heart Disease

Abstract Objectives This study explored the association of ischemic burden, as measured by vasodilator stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), with all-cause mortality and the effect of revascularization on all-cause mortality in patients with stable ischemic heart disease (SIHD). Background In patients with SIHD, the association of ischemic burden, derived from vasodilator stress CMR, with all-cause mortality and its role for decision-making is unclear. Methods The registry consisted of 6,389 consecutive patients (mean age: 65 ± 12 years; 38% women) who underwent vasodilator stress CMR for known or suspected SIHD. The ischemic burden (at stress first-pass perfusion imaging) was com…

Differential mortality association of loop diuretic dosage according to blood urea nitrogen and carbohydrate antigen 125 following a hospitalization for acute heart failure.

Recent observations in chronic stable heart failure suggest that high-dose loop diuretics (HDLDs) have detrimental prognostic effects in patients with high blood urea nitrogen (BUN), but recent findings have also indicated that diure- tics may improve renal function. Carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) has been shown to be a surrogate of systemic congestion. We sought to explore whether BUN and CA125 modulate the mortality risk associated with HDLDs following a hospitalization for acute heart failure (AHF). Methods and results We analysed 1389 consecutive patients discharged for AHF. CA125 and BUN were measured at a mean of 72+12 h after admission. HDLDs (≥120 mg/day in furosemide equivalent d…

Role of PCSK9 in the course of ejection fraction change after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: a pilot study

Altres ajuts: Conselleria d'Educació, Investigació, Cultura i Esport GV/2018/116 Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has emerged as a therapeutic target for reducing plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Beyond lipid control, recent findings suggest a deleterious effect of this protein in the pathogenesis of postmyocardial infarction left ventricle remodelling and heart failure-related complications. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between circulating PCSK9 and 6 month cardiac magnetic resonance imaging-derived left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) after a first ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We prospectively evaluated 40…

Estrategias diuréticas en insuficiencia cardiaca aguda con disfunción renal: terapia convencional frente a guiada por el antígeno carbohidrato 125. Diseño de ensayo clínico

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos El tratamiento optimo de pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca aguda (ICA) y sindrome cardiorrenal tipo 1 (SCR-1) no esta bien definido. La hipoperfusion arterial y la congestion venosa tienen un papel fundamental en la fisiopatologia del SCR-1. El antigeno carbohidrato 125 (CA125) ha emergido como marcador indirecto de sobrecarga de volumen en la ICA. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar la utilidad del CA125 para el ajuste del tratamiento diuretico de pacientes con SCR-1. Metodos Ensayo clinico multicentrico, abierto y paralelo, que incluye a pacientes con ICA y creatinina ≥ 1,4 mg/dl al ingreso, aleatorizados a: a)  estrategia convencional: titulacion ba…

Therapeutic implications of low lymphocyte count in non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndromes

Abstract Background Low lymphocyte count (LLC), a surrogate for inflammation, has emerged as a potential risk factor for cardiovascular outcomes, especially new ischemic events. To identify patients with non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTEACS) who benefit from an invasive revascularization strategy remains a challenge. We sought to determine if patients with high-risk NSTEACS who exhibited LLC have a greater reduction in long-term post-discharge myocardial infarction (MI) when managed under a revascularization invasive strategy (RIS) as compared with conservative strategy (CS). Methods Nine hundred seventy two consecutive patients with high-risk NSTEACS were treated unde…

Functional Mitral Regurgitation Predicts Short-Term Adverse Events in Patients With Acute Heart Failure and Reduced Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction

Functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) is a common finding in patients with acute heart failure (AHF) and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (heart failure and reduced ejection fraction [HFrEF]). However, its clinical impact remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the association between the severity of FMR after clinical stabilization and short-term adverse outcomes after a hospitalization for AHF. We prospectively included 938 consecutive patients with HFrEF discharged after a hospitalization for AHF, after excluding those with organic valve disease, congenital heart disease, or aortic valve disease. FMR was assessed semiquantitatively by color Doppler analysis of the regurgitant jet…

Comparison between CA125 and NT-proBNP for evaluating congestion in acute heart failure

Abstract Background Carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) and B-type natriuretic peptides are surrogate markers of congestion in patients with acute heart failure (AHF). The aim of the study was to assess the association between CA125 and NT-proBNP and congestion parameters in patients with AHF. Methods and results Prospective multicentre observational study that included 191 patients hospitalised for AHF. We recorded the presence of pleural effusion, peripheral oedema and inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter during the first 24–48 h after admission and evaluated their independent association with CA125 concentrations and the amino-terminal fraction of pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). Th…

Role of Neutrophil Gelatinase-associated Lipocalin in the Detection of Contrast-induced Nephropathy in Patients Undergoing a Coronary Angiography

Right Ventricular Dysfunction Staging System for Mortality Risk Stratification in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

Right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) parameters are increasingly important features in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). We sought to evaluate the prognostic impact of a progressive RVD staging system by combining the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) to pulmonary artery systolic pressure (TAPSE/PASP) ratio with functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) severity. We prospectively included 1355 consecutive HFpEF patients discharged for acute heart failure (HF). Of them, in 471 (34.7%) patients, PASP could not be accurately measured, leaving the final sample size to be 884 patients. Patients were categorized as Stage 1: TAPSE/PASP &ge

Soluble ST2 and Diuretic Efficiency in Acute Heart Failure and Concomitant Renal Dysfunction

Abstract Background Identifying patients at risk of poor diuretic response in acute heart failure (AHF) is critical to make prompt adjustments in therapy. The objective of this study was to investigate whether the circulating levels of soluble ST2 predict the cumulative diuretic efficiency (DE) at 24 and 72 hours in patients with AHF and concomitant renal dysfunction. Methods and Results This is a post hoc analysis of the IMPROVE-HF trial, in which we enrolled 160 patients with AHF and renal dysfunction (estimated glomerular filtrate rate of Conclusions In patients with AHF and renal dysfunction at presentation, circulating levels of sST2 were independently and negatively associated with a …

Beneficios del tratamiento con estatinas según los valores plasmáticos del antígeno carbohidrato 125 tras un ingreso por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda

Introduccion y objetivos La utilidad de las estatinas en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca es motivo de controversia. Bajo la hipotesis de que el tratamiento con estatinas seria util en los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca y mayor actividad inmunoinflamatoria, pretendimos conocer si la elevacion del antigeno carbohidrato 125, un biomarcador asociado a la congestion sistemica y actividad inflamatoria, identificaria a los que se beneficiarian, en cuanto a mortalidad, del tratamiento con estatinas tras un ingreso por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda. Metodos Analizamos a 1.222 pacientes consecutivos ingresados por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda. El antigeno carbohidrato 125 se determino duran…

Heart rate in acute heart failure, lower is not always better.

Statins in Heart Failure

Valor pronóstico a largo plazo del análisis completo de los índices de resonancia magnética cardiaca tras un infarto de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Se ha demostrado el valor pronostico de varios indices de resonancia magnetica cardiaca a medio plazo tras un infarto agudo de miocardio con elevacion del segmento ST. La extension de la necrosis transmural permite una prediccion simple y exacta de viabilidad miocardica. Sin embargo, se desconoce su valor pronostico a largo plazo mas alla de una completa evaluacion clinica y por resonancia. Nuestra hipotesis es que la evaluacion semicuantitativa de la extension de la necrosis transmural es el mejor indice de resonancia para predecir el pronostico a largo plazo tras un infarto con elevacion del segmento ST. Metodos Se realizo un estudio cuantitativo con reson…

Metabolomic Profile of Human Myocardial Ischemia by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy of Peripheral Blood Serum

Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the metabolomic profile of acute myocardial ischemia (MIS) using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy of peripheral blood serum of swine and patients undergoing angioplasty balloon‐induced transient coronary occlusion. Background Biochemical detection of MIS is a major challenge. The validation of novel biosignatures is of utmost importance. Methods High-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy was used to profile 32 blood serum metabolites obtained (before and after controlled ischemia) from swine (n 9) and patients (n 20) undergoing transitory MIS in the setting of planned coronary angioplasty. Additionally, blood serum of c…

Congestión venosa en insuficiencia cardiaca aguda: mucho más que un epifenómeno

Clinical History and Detectable Troponin Concentrations below the 99th Percentile for Risk Stratification of Patients with Chest Pain and First Normal Troponin

Decision-making is challenging in patients with chest pain and normal high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT

Low Lymphocyte Count and Cardiovascular Diseases

Inflammation plays a crucial pathophysiological role in the entire continuum of the atherosclerotic process, from its initiation, progression, and plaque destabilization leading ultimately to an acute coronary event. Furthermore, once the clinical event has occurred, inflammation also influences the left ventricular remodelling process. Under the same paradigm, there is evidence that lymphocytes play an important role in the modulation of the inflammatory response at every level of the atherosclerotic process. Low lymphocyte count (LLC) is a common finding during the systemic inflammatory response, and clinical and animal studies suggest that LCC plays a putative role in accelerated atheros…

Right ventricular function and iron deficiency in acute heart failure

Abstract Aims Iron deficiency (ID) is a frequent finding in patients with chronic and acute heart failure (AHF) along the full spectrum of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Iron deficiency has been related to ventricular systolic dysfunction, but its role in right ventricular function has not been evaluated. We sought to evaluate whether ID identifies patients with greater right ventricular dysfunction in the setting of AHF. Methods and results We prospectively included 903 patients admitted with AHF. Right systolic function was evaluated by tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and the ratio TAPSE/pulmonary artery systolic pressure (TAPSE/PASP). Iron deficiency was de…

Relation of Low Lymphocyte Count to Frailty and its Usefulness as a Prognostic Biomarker in Patients &gt;65 Years of Age With Acute Coronary Syndrome

Low lymphocyte count, as a marker of inflammation and immunosuppression, may be useful for identifying frail patients. In this work, we aimed to evaluate the association between low-relative lymphocyte count (Lymph%) and frailty status in patients >65 years old with acute coronary syndromes (ACS), and whether Lymph% is associated with morbimortality beyond standard prognosticators and frailty. In this prospective observational study, we included 488 hospital survivors of an episode of an ACS >65 years old. Total and differential white blood cells and frailty status were assessed at discharge. Frailty was evaluated using the Fried score at discharge and defined as Fried≥3. The independent as…

Usefulness of Right Ventricular to Pulmonary Circulation Coupling as an Indicator of Risk for Recurrent Admissions in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction.

In recent years, the study of right ventricular (RV) to pulmonary circulation (PC) coupling in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has been a matter of special interest. Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) to pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) ratio has emerged as a reliable noninvasive index of RV to PC coupling. Thus, we hypothesized that TAPSE/PASP would be a predictor of readmission burden in HFpEF. One thousand one hundred and twenty seven consecutive HFpEF patients discharged for acute HF were included. In 367 patients (32.6%), PASP could not be accurately measured by echocardiography, leaving the final sample size to be 760 patients. Negative …

Peritoneal Dialysis in Constrictive Pericarditis: A Report of Three Cases

Intrarenal venous flow in cardiorenal syndrome: a shining light into the darkness

The aim of this case report is to assess the potential role of intrarenal Doppler ultrasonography as a non‐invasive method to evaluate intrarenal venous flow (IRVF) in acute heart failure (AHF) and concomitant renal dysfunction. We report a case of an 81‐year‐old woman with valvular heart disease (previous mitral valve replacement) that presented with acutely decompensated heart failure and concomitant worsening renal function (WRF). In addition to complete physical examination, laboratory analysis, and echocardiography, IRVF was assessed at baseline and 48 h after the administration of diuretic treatment. At admission, physical examination and echocardiography revealed signs of intravascul…

Use of acetazolamide in the treatment of patients with refractory congestive heart failure

Aims Optimal diuretic treatment of patients with refractory congestive heart failure (CHF) remains to be elucidated. In this work, we aimed to evaluate the serial changes of functional class and surrogates of fluid overload (weight and antigen carbohydrate 125) after addition of oral acetazolamide in patients with refractory CHF. Likewise, serial changes in renal function, serum electrolytes and pH were evaluated. Method This is an observational retrospective study in which 25 ambulatory patients with refractory CHF that received acetazolamide in addition to standard intensive diuretic strategy were evaluated. Longitudinal assessment of New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class and…

Valor pronóstico de la fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca aguda

Fundamento y objetivo La influencia de la fraccion de eyeccion del ventriculo izquierdo (FEVI) en el pronostico de los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca es motivo de controversia. El objetivo de nuestro estudio ha sido determinar, durante un seguimiento a largo plazo, el valor pronostico de la FEVI sobre la mortalidad y el reingreso hospitalario por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda (ICA) en una poblacion no seleccionada de pacientes ingresados por ICA. Pacientes y metodo Estudiamos a 507 pacientes consecutivos ingresados por ICA en el Servicio de Cardiologia de nuestro centro. Se determino la FEVI mediante ecocardiografia transtoracica durante el ingreso indice, y durante el seguimiento se r…

Efecto diferencial de la glucohemoglobina y el tratamiento antidiabético sobre el riesgo de reingreso a 30 días después de un ingreso por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda

Introduccion y objetivos En los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca y diabetes tipo 2, las cifras bajas de glucohemoglobina se han relacionado con un riesgo mas elevado de mortalidad, pero la informacion relativa a la morbilidad es escasa. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la asociacion existente entre la glucohemoglobina y el reingreso en un plazo de 30 dias en los pacientes con diabetes tipo 2 e insuficiencia cardiaca aguda. Metodos Se determino la glucohemoglobina antes del alta en 835 pacientes consecutivos con insuficiencia cardiaca aguda y diabetes tipo 2. Se utilizo un analisis de regresion de Cox adaptado para eventos competitivos. Resultados La media de edad fue de 72,9 ± 9,…

Differential prognostic impact of type 2 diabetes mellitus in women and men with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Introduction and objectives Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) is a common comorbidity in patients with heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Previous studies have shown that diabetic women are at higher risk of developing HF than men. However, the long-term prognosis of diabetic HFpEF patients by sex has not been extensively explored. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the differential impact of DM2 on all-cause mortality in men vs women with HFpEF after admission for acute HF. Methods We prospectively included 1019 consecutive HFpEF patients discharged after admission for acute HF in a single tertiary referral hospital. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to …

Apoptosis and Mobilization of Lymphocytes to Cardiac Tissue Is Associated with Myocardial Infarction in a Reperfused Porcine Model and Infarct Size in Post-PCI Patients

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is the most severe outcome of coronary artery disease. Despite rapid reperfusion of the artery, acute irrigation of the cardiac tissue is associated with increased inflammation. While innate immune response in STEMI is well described, an in-depth characterization of adaptive immune cell dynamics and their potential role remains elusive. We performed a translational study using a controlled porcine reperfusion model of STEMI and the analysis of lymphocyte subsets in 116 STEMI patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). In the animal model, a sharp drop in circulating T lymphocytes occurred within the first hours after reper…

Antigen carbohydrate 125 and creatinine on admission for prediction of renal function response following loop diuretic administration in acute heart failure.

The use of loop diuretics in acute heart failure (AHF) is largely empirical and has been associated with renal function impairment by reducing renal perfusion but also renal improvement by decreasing renal venous congestion. Antigen carbohydrate 125 (CA125) has emerged as a proxy for fluid overload. We sought to evaluate whether the early changes in creatinine (ΔCr) induced by intravenous furosemide doses (ivFD) differ among clinical groups defined by overload status (CA125) and creatinine on admission (Cr).We included 526 consecutive patients admitted for AHF. All patients received intravenous furosemide for the first 48 hours. CA125 and Cr were dichotomized at 35 U/ml and 1.4 mg/dl, respe…

Low rate of detection of active cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection early following acute myocardial infarction

Iron deficiency and functional capacity in patients with advanced heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Left ventricular ejection fraction recovery in patients with heart failure treated with intravenous iron: a pilot study

Aims In patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and iron deficiency, treatment with intravenous iron has shown a clinical improvement regardless of anaemic status. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) T2* sequence has shown a potential utility for evaluating myocardial iron deficiency. We aimed to evaluate whether T2* sequence significantly changes after ferric carboximaltose (FCM) administration, and if such changes correlate with changes in left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF). Methods and results In this pilot study, we included eight patients with chronic symptomatic (New York Heart Association II–III) HFrEF and iron deficiency. A CMR, including T2* analysis, w…

Benefits of Statin Therapy Based on Plasma Carbohydrate Antigen 125 Values Following an Admission for Acute Heart Failure

The prognostic benefit of statins in patients with heart failure is a topic of controversy. Under the hypothesis that statins may provide greater benefit in a subgroup of patients with heightened inflammatory activity, we sought to explore whether statins are associated with a decreased risk of long-term mortality in patients with acute heart failure based on elevated levels of carbohydrate antigen 125, a biomarker related to systemic congestion and proinflammatory status.We analysed 1222 consecutive patients admitted with acute heart failure in a single teaching center during a median follow-up of 20 months. carbohydrate antigen 125 was measured during index hospitalization and dichotomize…

Early urinary sodium trajectory and risk of adverse outcomes in acute heart failure and renal dysfunction.

Introduction and objectives: Urinary sodium (UNa+) has emerged as a useful biomarker of poor clinical outcomes in acute heart failure (AHF). Here, we sought to evaluate: a) the usefulness of a single early determination of UNa+ for predicting adverse outcomes in patients with AHF and renal dysfunction, and b) whether the change in UNa+ at 24 hours (Delta UNa24 h) adds any additional prognostic information over baseline values. Methods: This is a post-hoc analysis of a multicenter, open-label, randomized clinical trial (IMPROVE-HF) (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02643147) that randomized 160 patients with AHF and renal dysfunction on admission to a) the standard diuretic strategy, or b) a carbohydra…

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis as a promising therapy for light chain amyloidosis with congestive heart failure

Prognostic Implications of Tissue Doppler Imaging-Derived E/Ea Ratio in Acute Heart Failure Patients

Background Tissue Doppler–derived transmitral to mitral annular early diastolic velocity ratio (E/Ea), as a noninvasive estimation of left ventricular (LV) filling pressures, is a strong prognosticator in various cardiac scenarios including chronic heart failure; nevertheless, its utility for risk stratification in the whole spectrum of acute heart failure (AHF) patients remains elusive. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the association between E/Ea ratio and 1-year mortality in nonselected patients with AHF. Methods The study included 417 consecutive patients admitted for AHF. Twenty-two patients were excluded due to nonaccurate Ea measurements, leaving the final sample to be 39…

Long-term outcome of patients with NSTEMI and nonobstructive coronary arteries by different angiographic subtypes

Discordant data have been reported on the prognosis of myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA). Moreover, few data are available on the impact of angiographic subtypes. The objectives of this study were to assess the prognostic impact on the long-term follow-up of the diagnosis of MINOCA and its angiographic subtypes.We included 591 consecutive patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) who underwent coronary angiography. MINOCA was classified according to angiographic findings as smooth coronary arteries, mild irregularities (30% stenosis), and moderate atherosclerosis (30%-49% stenosis). The primary endpoint was a composite of mortal…

Characterization and implications of the dynamics of eosinophils in blood and in the infarcted myocardium after coronary reperfusion.

Objective We characterized the dynamics of eosinophils in blood and in the infarcted myocardium in patients and in a swine model of reperfused myocardial infarction (MI). The association of eosinophil dynamics with various outcomes was assessed. Methods Serial eosinophil count and pre-discharge cardiac magnetic resonance were carried out in a prospective series of 620 patients with a first ST-elevation MI. In a swine model of reperfused MI, the dynamics of circulating eosinophils and their presence in the infarcted myocardium were determined. In autopsies from chronic MI patients, eosinophils were quantified. Results Patient eosinophil count sharply decreased 12h post-reperfusion compared t…

Homocysteine and long-term recurrent infarction following an acute coronary syndrome.

En Cardiology Journal. Gdańsk (Polonia) : Via Medica. Vol. 28, n. 4 (01 jul. 2021), pp. 598-606. ISSN 1897-5593. e-ISSN 1898-018X. Este artículo se encuentra disponible en la siguiente URL: https://journals.viamedica.pl/cardiology_journal/article/view/CJ.a2020.0170/52602 En este artículo de investigación también participan: Maria Marco, Teresa García-Ballester, Begoña Zorio, Eduardo Núñez, Francisco J. Chorro, Juan Sanchis y Julio Núñez. Background: There are no well-established predictors of recurrent ischemic coronary events after an acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Higher levels of homocysteine have been reported to be associated with an increased atherosclerotic burden. The primary endpoi…

CA125-Guided Diuretic Treatment Versus Usual Care in Patients With Acute Heart Failure and Renal Dysfunction

BACKGROUND: The optimal diuretic treatment strategy for patients with acute heart failure and renal dysfunction remains unclear. Plasma carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) is a surrogate of fluid overload and a potentially valuable tool for guiding decongestion therapy. The aim of this study was to determine if a CA125-guided diuretic strategy is superior to usual care in terms of short-term renal function in patients with acute heart failure and renal dysfunction at presentation. METHODS: This multicenter, open-label study randomized 160 patients with acute heart failure and renal dysfunction into 2 groups (1:1). Loop diuretics doses were established according to CA125 levels in the CA125-gui…

Procalcitonin and long-term prognosis after an admission for acute heart failure

Abstract Background Traditionally, procalcitonin (PCT) is considered a diagnostic marker of bacterial infections. However, slightly elevated levels of PCT have also been found in patients with heart failure. In this context, it has been suggested that PCT may serve as a proxy for underrecognized infection, endotoxemia, or heightened proinflammatory activity. Nevertheless, the clinical utility of PCT in this setting is scarce. We aimed to evaluate the association between PCT and the risk of long-term outcomes. Methods and results We measured at admission PCT of 261 consecutive patients admitted for acute heart failure (AHF) after excluding active infection. Cox and negative binomial regressi…

Differential Prognostic Effect of Revascularization According to a Simple Comorbidity Index in High-Risk Non-ST-Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome

Background: Data on the effect of revascularization on outcome in patients with high-risk non–ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTEACS) and significant comorbidities are scarce. Recently, a simple comorbidity index (SCI) including 5 comorbidities (renal failure, dementia, peripheral artery disease, heart failure, and prior myocardial infarction [MI]) has shown to be a useful tool for risk stratification. Nevertheless, therapeutic implications have not been derived. Hypothesis: We sought to evaluate the prognostic effect attributable to revascularization in NSTEACS according the SCI score. Methods: We included 1017 consecutive patients with NSTEACS. The effect of revascularizati…

Length of stay and risk of very early readmission in acute heart failure

In patients admitted for acute heart failure (AHF), optimal length of stay (LOS) remains controversial. Longer hospitalizations are associated with worse prognosis, but little is known about short hospitalizations. The aim of this work was to evaluate the relationship between LOS and the risk of short-term readmission in patients discharged after a hospitalization for AHF.We included 2110 consecutive patients. The independent associations between LOS and unplanned 10, 15 and 30-day readmissions were evaluated by Cox regression analysis adjusted for competing events. LOS was categorized as LOS1: ≤4days, LOS2: 5-7days, LOS3: 8-10days, and LOS4:10days.The mean age was 73±11years and 52.6% exhi…

Beta‐blockers withdrawal in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and chronotropic incompetence: Effect on functional capacity rationale and study design of a prospective, randomized, controlled trial (The Preserve‐HR trial)

Abstract Background The pathophysiology of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is complex and multifactorial. Chronotropic incompetence (ChI) has emerged as a crucial pathophysiological mechanism. Beta‐blockers, drugs with negative chronotropic effects, are commonly used in HFpEF, although current evidence does not support its routine use in these patients. Hypothesis We postulate beta‐blockers may have deleterious effects in HFpEF and ChI. This work aims to evaluate the short‐term effect of beta‐blockers withdrawal on functional capacity assessed by the maximal oxygen uptake (peakVO2) in patients with HFpEF and ChI. Methods This is a prospective, crossover, randomized (1…

Cardiorenal Syndrome in Acute Heart Failure: Revisiting Paradigms

A B S T R A C T Cardiorenal syndrome has been defined as the simultaneous dysfunction of both the heart and the kidney. Worsening renal function that occurs in patients with acute heart failure has been classified as cardiorenal syndrome type 1. In this setting, worsening renal function is a common finding and is due to complex, multifactorial, and not fully understood processes involving hemodynamic (renal arterial hypoperfusion and renal venous congestion) and nonhemodynamic factors. Traditionally, worsening renal function has been associated with worse outcomes, but recent findings have revealed mixed and heterogeneous results, perhaps suggesting that the same phenotype represents a dive…

Effect of β-Blocker Withdrawal on Functional Capacity in Heart Failure and Preserved Ejection Fraction

BACKGROUND Chronotropic incompetence has shown to be associated with a decrease in exercise capacity in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), yet b-blockers are commonly used in HFpEF despite the lack of robust evidence. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the effect of b-blocker withdrawal on peak oxygen consumption (peak VO2) in patients with HFpEF and chronotropic incompetence. METHODS This is a multicenter, randomized, investigator-blinded, crossover clinical trial consisting of 2 treatment periods of 2 weeks separated by a washout period of 2 weeks. Patients with stable HFpEF, New York Heart Association functional classes II and III, previous treatment with b-bloc…

Frailty Scales for Prognosis Assessment of Older Adult Patients after Acute Myocardial Infarction

We aimed to compare the prognostic value of two different measures, the Fried’s Frailty Scale (FFS) and the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), following myocardial infarction (MI). We included 150 patients ≥ 70 years admitted from AMI. Frailty was evaluated on the day before discharge. The primary endpoint was number of days alive and out of hospital (DAOH) during the first 800 days. Secondary endpoints were mortality and a composite of mortality and reinfarction. Frailty was diagnosed in 58% and 34% of patients using the FFS and CFS scales, respectively. During the first 800 days 34 deaths and 137 admissions occurred. The number of DAOH decreased significantly with increasing scores of both FFS…

Comorbidity assessment for mortality risk stratification in elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Background The Charlson's is the most used comorbidity index. It comprises 19 comorbidities, some of which are infrequent in elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), while some others are manifestations of cardiac disease rather than comorbidities. Our goal was to simplify comorbidity assessment in elderly non-ST-segment elevation ACS patients. Methods The study group consisted of 1 training (n = 920, 76 ± 7 years) and 1 testing (n = 532; 84 ± 4 years) cohorts. The end-point was all-cause mortality at 1-year follow-up. Comorbidities were assessed selecting those medical disorders other than cardiac disease that were independently associated with mortality by multivariable analys…

Invasive Versus Conservative Strategy in Frail Patients With NSTEMI: The MOSCA-FRAIL Clinical Trial Study Design

Abstract Introduction and objectives Although clinical guidelines recommend invasive management in non–ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), this strategy is underused in frail elderly patients in the real world. Furthermore, these patients are underrepresented in clinical trials and therefore the evidence is scarce. Our hypothesis is that an invasive strategy will improve prognosis in elderly frail patients with NSTEMI . Methods This will be a prospective, multicenter, randomized trial, in which the conservative and invasive strategies will be compared in patients meeting all of the following inclusion criteria: NSTEMI diagnosis, age ≥ 70 years, and frailty defined by a cate…

Serum neprilysin and recurrent hospitalizations after acute heart failure

Factor trefoil-3 y galectina-4 como nuevos candidatos para biomarcadores pronósticos en infarto de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST

Trayectoria precoz del sodio urinario y riesgo de eventos adversos en insuficiencia cardiaca aguda y disfunción renal

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos El sodio urinario (UNa+) ha surgido como un biomarcador util para predecir eventos clinicos desfavorables en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca aguda (ICA). En este estudio pretendemos evaluar: a) la utilidad de una unica determinacion precoz de UNa+ para predecir eventos adversos en pacientes con ICA e insuficiencia renal (IR) concomitante, y b) si los cambios en el UNa+ a las 24 horas (ΔUNa24 h) anaden informacion pronostica adicional sobre los valores basales. Metodos Analisis post-hoc del ensayo clinico multicentrico, abierto y paralelo (IMPROVE-HF), (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02643147) en el que 160 pacientes con ICA e IR concomitante al ingreso fueron al…

Uncontrolled immune response in acute myocardial infarction

Recently, the theory that hyperinflammation is the body's primary response to potent stimulus has been challenged. Indeed, a deregulation of the immune system could be the cause of multiple organ failure. So far, clinicians have focused on the last steps of the inflammatory cascade. However, little attention has been paid to lymphocytes, which play an important role as strategists of the inflammatory response. Experimental evidence suggests a crucial role of T lymphocytes in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis and acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In summary, from the bottom of an imaginary inverted pyramid, a few regulatory T-cells control the upper parts represented by the wide spectr…

Clinical Evaluation Versus Undetectable High-Sensitivity Troponin for Assessment of Patients With Acute Chest Pain.

Decision-making in acute chest pain remains challenging despite normal (below ninety-ninth percentile) high-sensitivity troponin (hs-cTn). Some studies suggest that undetectable hs-cTn, far below the ninety-ninth percentile, might rule out acute coronary syndrome. We investigated clinical data in comparison to undetectable hs-cTnT. The study comprised 682 patients (November 2010 to September 2011) presenting at the emergency department with chest pain and normal hs-cTnT (14 ng/l). The main end point was major adverse cardiac events (MACE: death, myocardial infarction, readmission for unstable angina, or revascularization) at a 4-year median follow-up; secondary end point was 30-day MACE. A …

Infusión intracoronaria de tioflavina-S para el estudio de la obstrucción microvascular en un modelo de infarto de miocardio

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos La obstruccion microvascular produce efectos nocivos despues del infarto de miocardio. Con objeto de esclarecer el papel de la lesion por isquemia-reperfusion en la aparicion y la dinamica de la obstruccion microvascular, se llevo a cabo un estudio metodologico preliminar para definir con exactitud este proceso en un modelo in vivo . Metodos Se indujo un infarto de miocardio en cerdos mediante una oclusion de 90 min en la parte media de la arteria coronaria descendente anterior izquierda empleando balones de angioplastia. Se aplico una infusion intracoronaria de tioflavina-S y se comparo con la instilacion tradicional intraaortica o intraventricular. Se cuan…

Carga de hospitalizaciones recurrentes tras una hospitalización por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda: insuficiencia cardiaca con función sistólica conservada frente a reducida

Introduction and objectives: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and reduced ejection fraction share a high mortality risk. However, differences in the rehospitalization burden over time between these 2 entities remains unclear. Methods: We prospectively included 2013 consecutive patients discharged for acute heart failure. Of these, 1082 (53.7%) had heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and 931 (46.2%) had heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Cox and negative binomial regression methods were used to evaluate the risks of death and repeat hospitalizations, respectively. Results: At a median follow-up of 2.36 years (interquartile range: 0.96-4.65), 1018 patients …

Microvascular obstruction in the right ventricle in reperfused anterior myocardial infarction. Macroscopic and pathologic evidence in a swine model.

article i nfo Introduction: Data on right ventricular (RV) involvement in anterior myocardial infarction are scarce. The presence of RV microvascular obstruction (MVO) in this context has not been analyzed yet. The aim of the present study was to characterize the presence of MVO in the RV in a controlled experimental swine model of reperfused anterior myocardial infarction. Materials and Methods: Left anterior descending (LAD) artery-perfused area (thioflavin-S staining after selective infusioninLADartery),infarctsize(lackof triphenyltetrazolium-chloride staining) andMVO (lack of thioflavin-S staininginthe core oftheinfarctedarea) inthe RVwere studied.A quantitative(%of theventricularvolume…

Serum Neprilysin and Recurrent Admissions in Patients With Heart Failure

Background Our aim was to evaluate the association between the soluble form of neprilysin ( sNEP ) levels and long‐term all‐cause, cardiovascular, and acute heart failure ( AHF ) recurrent admissions in an ambulatory cohort of patients with heart failure. sNEP has emerged as a new biomarker with promising implications for prognosis and therapy in patients with heart failure. Reducing the recurrent admission rate of heart failure patients has become an important target of public health planning strategies. Methods and Results We measured sNEP levels in 1021 consecutive ambulatory heart failure patients. End points were the number of all‐cause, cardiovascular, and AHF hospitalizations during…

The Tumor Marker CA125 and Heart Failure

Serum Heat Shock Protein 60 in Acute Heart Failure: A New Biomarker?

Heat shock protein 60 (HSP60) is a mitochondrial protein constitutively expressed in the majority of cells, and its expression is up-regulated by a variety of stressors. In heart failure, HSP60 is released from cardiomyocytes. The authors speculate that increased serum HSP60 (sHSP60) may be related to the severity of heart failure. This investigation sought to assess the association between sHSP60 and the composite end point of death ⁄ readmission in patients with acute heart failure (AHF). A total of 132 consecutive patients were admitted for AHF. The independent association between sHSP60 and the end point was assessed with Cox regression. During a median follow-up of 7 months (interquart…

Effect of acute heart failure following discharge in patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome on the subsequent risk of death or acute myocardial infarction.

Little is known about how prognosis is influenced by readmission for acute heart failure (AHF) following non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTEACS). The aim of this study was to determine the prognostic effect of a first admission for AHF on the risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or death in patients who survived an episode of high-risk NSTEACS.The study involved 972 consecutive patients with high-risk NSTEACS who survived after hospital admission. Readmission for AHF was selected as the main exposure variable, and its association with subsequent AMI or all-cause death was assessed using Cox proportional hazards models for time-dependent covariates that also included …

Renal function dynamics following co-administration of sacubitril/valsartan and empagliflozin in patients with heart failure and type 2 diabetes

Abstract Aims The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety profile in terms of changes in renal function after co‐treatment with sacubitril/valsartan and empagliflozin in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Methods and results This multicentre observational analysis included 108 patients with T2D and HFrEF treated with both agents: baseline sacubitril/valsartan (Group A; n = 43), baseline empagliflozin (Group B; n = 42), or both agents initiated simultaneously (Group C; n = 23). The primary endpoint was estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) dynamics across treatment groups. A binary characterization of worsening renal funct…

Antigen carbohydrate 125 as a biomarker in heart failure: a narrative review.

Congestion explains many of the signs and symptoms of acute heart failure (AHF) and disease progression. However, accurate quantification of congestion is challenging in daily practice. Antigen carbohydrate 125 (CA125) or mucin 16 (MUC16), a large glycoprotein synthesized by mesothelial cells, has emerged as a reliable proxy of congestion and inflammation in patients with heart failure. In AHF syndromes, CA125 is strongly associated with right-sided heart failure parameters and a higher risk of adverse clinical events beyond standard prognostic factors, including natriuretic peptides. Furthermore, CA125 has the potential for both monitoring and guide HF treatment following a decompensated H…

Effectiveness of the Relative Lymphocyte Count to Predict One-Year Mortality in Patients With Acute Heart Failure

Several works have endorsed a significant role of the immune system and inflammation in the pathogenesis of heart failure. As indirect evidence, an association between a low relative lymphocyte count (RLC%) and worse outcomes found in this population has been suggested. Nevertheless, the role of RLC% for risk stratification in a large and nonselected population of patients with acute heart failure (AHF) has not yet been determined. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the association between low RLC% and 1-year mortality in patients with AHF and consequently to define whether it has any role for early risk stratification. A total of 1,192 consecutive patients admitted for AHF were a…

Pronóstico a largo plazo de pacientes con IAMSEST y coronarias sin lesiones obstructivas según los distintos subtipos angiográficos

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Hay evidencia discordante sobre el pronostico del infarto sin lesiones coronarias obstructivas (MINOCA). Ademas, existen pocos datos del impacto de sus subtipos angiograficos. Los objetivos del estudio son evaluar el impacto pronostico del MINOCA y sus subtipos angiograficos en el seguimiento a largo plazo. Metodos Se incluyo a 591 pacientes consecutivos con IAMSEST a los que se realizo una coronariografia. Los pacientes con MINOCA se clasificaron segun la angiografia en: coronarias lisas, irregularidades leves (estenosis  Resultados En total, 121 pacientes (20,5%) no tenian lesiones obstructivas. El MINOCA se asocio con una menor ocurrencia de MACE (p = 0,0…

Long-Term Prognostic Value of Cognitive Impairment on Top of Frailty in Older Adults after Acute Coronary Syndrome

Frailty is a marker of poor prognosis in older adults after acute coronary syndrome. We investigated whether cognitive impairment provides additional prognostic information. The study population consisted of a prospective cohort of 342 older (&gt

Antigen carbohydrate 125 in heart failure: Not just a surrogate for serosal effusions?

Wehave readwith interest the letter CA-125andheart failure:Deja vu or “still to be seen” by Topatan B and Basaran A [1] where the authors concisely reviewed the current pathophysiological knowledgeof CA125 in heart failure (HF). As discussed by these authors, the pathogenesis of this biomarker's elevation inHF is complex andmultifactorial,with apparently different driven forces. For instances, a proinflammatory stimulus (IL-1, tumour necrosis factor-α, lipopolysaccharide) and mesothelial-induced stress appear thekeymechanisms related to the increaseof this biomarker in HF [1–5]. However, no clear evidence exists in regard to how these two mechanisms differentially participate in CA-125 elev…