3165: The relation of left ventricular hypertrophy to aortic valve calcification and arterial stiffness in hemodialysis patients

Abstract

Objectives: Left ventricular hypertrophy(LVH) and calcification aortic valve (AV) are frequently found in hemodialysis patients. Recent studies have shown that arterial stiffness is increased and is associated with media calcinosis in chronic dialysis patients. Methods: With echocardiography, we examined LV mass index(LVMI) and AV calcification. We also measured baPWV for the assessment of arterial stiffness. On the basis of LVMI with cut-off value of 125g/m2, we classified the subjects into LVH and non-LVH groups. Results: Of 112 hemodialysis patients, 64 patients belonged to LVH group and 48 patients to non-LVH group. Systolic and diastolic pressures and pulse pressure (PP) were greater in LVH group than in non-LVH group. LVH group had greater baPWV as compared with non-LVH group. We found that LVH group had lower ejection fraction (EF) and worse diastolic function. The incidence of AV calcification was higher in LVH group. The LVMI was correlated positively with baPWV, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, PP, and AV calcification and negatively with EF and E′. Systolic blood pressure, AV calcification and baPWV were independently associated with LVH. Conclusions: In ESRD patients treated with hemodialysis, LVH was associated with hypertension, increased arterial stiffness, AV calcification and decreased LV systolic and diastolic function.