Diastolic Dysfunction Group Research Articles

Left atrial reservoir strain for diastolic function grading and its associations with long-term outcomes in a community-based cohort

Abstract Background Diastolic dysfunction (DD) often precedes symptomatic heart failure and is a predictor of adverse outcomes; thus, accurate assessment and grading are crucial for early interventions. Current guidelines recommend combining multiple echocardiographic parameters, including left atrial volume index (LAVi), for diagnosing DD in patients with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Recently, left atrial reservoir strain (LASr) emerged as a more sensitive marker of left atrial function, although its added value in the grading of DD and associated adverse outcomes is scarcely explored. Purpose We aimed to investigate the impact of replacing LAVi with LASr on DD grading by its associations with long-term all-cause mortality in a low-risk, community-based sample. Methods We retrospectively identified 1431 volunteers from a population-based screening program (mean age 53.7±14.9 years, 58.9% female) with LVEF>50%. Subjects underwent echocardiography to measure mitral annular early diastolic velocities (e’), the ratio between mitral inflow early diastolic velocity (E) and e' (E/e'), tricuspid regurgitation peak velocity, LAVi, and LASr by speckle tracking. Diastolic function was initially classified according to the 2016 ASE/EACVI guidelines into normal, indeterminate, and DD groups and then reclassified by replacing LAVi>34 ml/m2 with a standard LASr cut-off of <23%. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. Results During the median follow-up time of 11 years, 154 (10,8%) subjects met the primary endpoint. According to guideline definitions, 58 subjects were diagnosed with DD, 133 were indeterminate, and 1240 showed normal function. Kaplan-Meier analysis (Figure 1) showed significant differences in mortality between normal versus indeterminate and DD groups (log-rank p<0.001), with a three-fold (HR [95% CI]: 3.231 [1.797 – 5.809], and four-fold increased risk (HR [95% CI]: 4.285 [1.711 – 10.736], respectively. Notably, no significant difference was observed between the outcomes of the indeterminate and DD groups. When subjects were reclassified using LASr instead of LAVi, 32 had DD, 71 were indeterminate, and 1328 had normal function. This classification resulted in different outcomes between groups (Figure 2, log-rank p<0.001). Compared to the normal, the indeterminate group exhibited a three-fold increase in mortality risk (HR: 3.205 [95% CI: 1.463-7.022]), while the DD group had a more than eight-fold increased risk (HR: 8.501 [95% CI: 2.372-30.475]). DD was associated with a nearly three-fold increase in mortality risk (HR: 2.824 [95% CI: 1.343-5.936]) compared to the indeterminate group. Conclusions In a community-based sample with normal LVEF, replacing LAVi with LASr in diastolic function classification separated groups with significant differences in their long-term all-cause mortality. This adjustment also reduced the size of the indeterminate group and refined its mortality risk. Figure 1 Figure 2

Peak atrial longitudinal strain to replace atrial volume in diastolic function grading: associations with long-term outcomes in a community-based sample with normal left ventricular ejection fraction

Abstract Background Diastolic dysfunction (DD) often precedes symptomatic heart failure and is a predictor of adverse outcomes; thus, accurate assessment and grading are crucial for early interventions. Current guidelines recommend combining multiple echocardiographic parameters, including left atrial volume index (LAVi), for diagnosing DD in patients with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Recently, peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) emerged as a more sensitive marker of left atrial function, although its added value in the grading of DD and associated adverse outcomes is scarcely explored. Purpose We aimed to investigate the impact of replacing LAVi with PALS on DD grading by its associations with long-term all-cause mortality in a low-risk, community-based sample. Methods We retrospectively identified 1319 volunteers from a population-based screening program (mean age 53.8±14.9 years, 59.1% female) with LVEF>50%. Subjects underwent echocardiography to measure mitral annular early diastolic velocities (e’), the ratio between mitral inflow early diastolic velocity (E) and e' (E/e'), tricuspid regurgitation peak velocity, LAVi, and PALS by speckle tracking. Diastolic function was initially classified according to the 2016 ASE/EACVI guidelines into normal, indeterminate, and DD groups and then reclassified by replacing LAVi>34 ml/m² with a standard PALS cut-off of <24%. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. Results During the median follow-up time of 11 years, 135 (10,2%) subjects met the primary endpoint. According to guideline definitions, 59 subjects were diagnosed with DD, 128 were indeterminate, and 1132 showed normal function. Kaplan-Meier analysis (Figure 1) showed significant differences in mortality between normal versus indeterminate and DD groups (log-rank p<0.001), with a three-fold (HR [95% CI]: 3.363 [1.802 - 6.274], and nearly five-fold increased risk (HR [95% CI]: 4.935 [1.919 - 12.690], respectively. Notably, no significant difference was observed between the outcomes of the indeterminate and DD groups. When subjects were reclassified using PALS instead of LAVi, 35 had DD, 75 were indeterminate, and 1209 had normal function. This classification resulted in different outcomes between groups (Figure 2, log-rank p=0.003). Compared to the normal, the indeterminate group exhibited a two-fold increase in mortality risk (HR: 2.277 [95% CI: 1.038-4.997]), while the DD group had a ten-fold increased risk (HR: 10.180 [95% CI: 2.870-36.130]). DD was associated with a nearly five-fold increase in mortality risk (HR: 4.724 [95% CI: 2.177-10.250]) compared to the indeterminate group. Conclusions In a community-based sample with normal LVEF, replacing LAVi with PALS in diastolic function classification separated groups with significant differences in their long-term all-cause mortality. This adjustment also reduced the size of the indeterminate group and refined its mortality risk.Figure 1Figure 2

The Relationship between Vascular Biomarkers (Serum Endocan and Endothelin-1), NT-proBNP, and Renal Function in Chronic Kidney Disease, IgA Nephropathy: A Cross-Sectional Study

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerular disease. Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is one of the strongest vasoconstrictor materials in the blood. The N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is associated with renal function and poor outcomes in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Serum endocan is a biomarker associated with proinflammatory cytokines, and the increase in the serum level plays a critical role in inflammatory, proliferative, and neovascularization processes and is associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes in patients with CKD too. Identifying high-risk patients using biomarkers could help to optimize their treatment. Ninety patients with biopsy-confirmed IgAN were included in the study (50 males/40 females, mean age: 54.9 ± 14.4 years). Serum endocan, ET-1, and NT-proBNP were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Echocardiography was performed, and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) was measured by SphygmoCor in this cross-sectional study. Patients were divided into two groups based on serum endocan median level (cut-off: 44 ug/L). There was significantly higher aorta systolic blood pressure (SBPao) (p = 0.013), NT-proBNP (p = 0.028), albumin/creatinine ratio (p = 0.036), and uric acid (p = 0.045) in the case of the higher endocan group compared to the lower. There was also significantly higher SBPao (p = 0.037) and NT-proBNP (p = 0.038) in the case of higher endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels compared to the lower (cut-off: 231 pg/mL) group by the two-sample t-test. Then, we divided the patients into two groups based on the eGFR (CKD 1–2 vs. CKD 3–5). The levels of serum endocan, NT-proBNP, cfPWV, SBPao, left ventricular mass index (LVMI), uric acid, and albuminuria were significantly higher in the CKD 3–5 group compared to the CKD 1–2 group. The serum endocan and NT-proBNP levels were significantly higher in the diastolic dysfunction group (p = 0.047, p = 0.015). There was a significant increase in serum endocan levels (CKD 1 vs. CKD 5; p = 0.008) with decreasing renal function. In IgAN, vascular biomarkers (endocan, ET-1) may play a role in endothelial dysfunction through vascular damage and elevation of SBPao. Serum endocan, ET-1, and NT-proBNP biomarkers may help to identify IgAN patients at high risk.

The Interplay between Severe Cirrhosis and Heart: A Focus on Diastolic Dysfunction.

Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular involvement in severe cirrhosis presents diagnostic challenges and carries significant prognostic implications. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between liver disease severity and portal hypertension with the burden of diastolic dysfunction. Methods: We prospectively enrolled patients with hepatic cirrhosis, classified according to the Child-Pugh criteria. Of the 102 patients included, 65 were classified as Group A (non-severe cirrhosis: Child-Pugh Classes A and B) and 37 as Group B (severe cirrhosis: Child-Pugh Class C). Portal vein and spleen diameters were assessed using abdominal ultrasound. All patients underwent echocardiographic evaluation. LV systolic function was assessed by measuring ejection fraction, while diastolic function was evaluated using three parameters: E/Em ratio, E/Vp ratio, and indexed left atrial volume. Results: We observed a significantly greater burden of diastolic dysfunction in Group B compared to Group A. Specifically, the E/Vp ratio was 2.2 ± 0.4 in Group B versus 1.9 ± 0.3 in Group A (p < 0.001); the indexed LA volume was 34.5 ± 3.2 mL/m2 in Group B versus 30.1 ± 2.9 mL/m2 in Group A (p < 0.001); and the E/Em ratio was 17.0 ± 3.0 in Group B versus 11.5 ± 2.8 in Group A (p < 0.001). Additionally, the mean diameters of the portal vein and spleen were larger in Group B, with measurements of 14.3 ± 2.1 mm versus 11.5 ± 1.6 mm for the portal vein and 15.0 ± 1.2 mm versus 11.7 ± 1.5 mm for the spleen (p < 0.001), which correlated with the extent of diastolic dysfunction. Conclusions: Diastolic dysfunction was prevalent in 55% of patients with liver cirrhosis. The burden of diastolic dysfunction was higher in patients with severe hepatic cirrhosis compared to those with milder forms, and it correlated with the severity of portal hypertension, as assessed by measuring portal vein diameter and spleen diameter.

Effect of Sevoflurane Anesthesia on Diastolic Function: A Prospective Observational Study.

The effect of sevoflurane on left ventricular diastolic function is not well understood. We hypothesized that parameters of diastolic function may improve under sevoflurane anesthesia in patients with preexisting diastolic dysfunction compared to patients with normal diastolic function. This observational study included 60 patients undergoing breast surgery or laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Patients were assigned to diastolic dysfunction (n = 34) or normal (n = 26) groups of septal e' < 8 or ≥ 8.0 cm/s on the first thoracic echocardiography (TTE) performed before anesthesia. During anesthesia, sevoflurane was maintained at 1 to 2 minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) to maintain the bispectral index at 40 to 50. At the end of surgery, the second TTE was performed under 0.8 to 1 MAC of sevoflurane with the patient breathing spontaneously without ventilator support. Primary end point was the percentage change (Δ) of e' on 2 TTEs (Δe'). Secondary end points were ΔE/e', Δleft atrial volume index (ΔLAVI), and Δtricuspid regurgitation maximum velocity (ΔTR Vmax). These percentage changes (Δ) were compared between diastolic dysfunction and normal groups. e' (Δe': 30 [6, 64] vs 0 [-18, 11]%; P < .001), mitral inflow E wave velocity (E), mitral inflow E/A ratio (E/A), and mitral E velocity deceleration time (DT) improved significantly in diastolic dysfunction group compared to normal group. LAVI decreased in diastolic dysfunction group but did not reach statistical significance between the 2 groups (ΔLAVI:-15 [-31, -3] vs -4 [-20, 10]%, P = .091). ΔE/e' was not different between the 2 groups (11 [-16, 26] vs 12 [-9, 22]%, P = .853) (all: median [interquartile range, IQR]). TR was minimal in both groups. In this study, echocardiographic parameters of diastolic function, including septal e', E, E/A, and DT, improved with sevoflurane anesthesia in patients with preexisting diastolic dysfunction, but remained unchanged in patients with normal diastolic function.

The association of plasma connective tissue growth factor levels with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with overt hyperthyroidism.

Left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction is an independent predictor of future cardiovascular events. Early detection of patients with LV diastolic dysfunction can improve clinical outcomes through active management. However, the assessment of diastolic function is very complicated, and there are currently lack of effective biomarkers to assess the risk of LV diastolic dysfunction. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) plays a significant role in cardiac remodeling and dysfunction. We aimed to investigate the associations between plasma CTGF level and the risk of LV diastolic dysfunction in this study and judge its effectiveness in diagnosing LV diastolic dysfunction. A total of 169 patients with overt hyperthyroidism were included. LV diastolic function was evaluated and the subjects were divided into normal LV diastolic function group and LV diastolic dysfunction group. Routine clinical medical data, biochemical data, thyroid related parameters and echocardiographic parameters were recorded for analysis. Compared with normal LV diastolic function group, the LV diastolic dysfunction group had higher age and BMI, as well as lower heart rate, lower serum albumin, lower eGFR, higher serum TgAb and BNP level, and the incidences of hypertension were also higher (all P <0.05). Circulating plasma CTGF levels in the LV diastolic dysfunction group were significantly higher (normal LV diastolic function group: 7.026 [5.567-8.895], LV diastolic dysfunction group: 8.290 [7.054-9.225] ng/ml, median [(Interquartile range)], P = 0.004); Compared with the lowest quartile group, the crude odds ratios (OR) of LV diastolic dysfunction in the second, third, and fourth quartile group were 3.207, 5.032 and 4.554, respectively (all P<0.05). After adjustment for the potentially confounding variables, the adjusted OR values of the third and fourth quartile group had no obvious change. The results of ROC showed that the plasma CTGF had the largest area under the ROC curve, and the value was 0.659 (P = 0.005). The level of circulating plasma CTGF in the LV diastolic dysfunction group was significantly increased. Plasma CTGF level is an independent risk factor for LV diastolic dysfunction. Compared with serum BNP level, the plasma CTGF level may have auxiliary diagnostic value for LV diastolic dysfunction in hyperthyroid patients.

The Role of Arterial Elasticity in Determining the Degree of Chronic Heart Failure in Myocardial Infarction.

Aim To study the left ventricular (LV) contractile and pumping function during the recovery phase following ligation of the anterior descending coronary artery (CA).Material and methods Cardiodynamic parameters were studied in Wistar rats 2-4 weeks after experimental myocardial infarction (MI). MI was induced by ligation of the anterior descending CA under zoletil anesthesia. LV catheterization was performed with a standard FTH-1912B-8018 PV catheter inserted into the LV through the right carotid artery.Results After the induction of MI, the mortality rate of animals was 50%. Survived animals developed significant LV dilatation and a decrease in ejection fraction (EF) by an average of 31%. However, major indexes of the pumping function, including minute volume, heart work, and maximum ejection velocity, were within a normal range whereas the maximum filling velocity was almost doubled. Approximately 50% of hearts with dilated LV had normal EF, delayed relaxation, and increased LV diastolic pressure, which qualified this group as a diastolic dysfunction group. The systolic dysfunction group with EF less than 50% of normal had similar values of myocardial contractility and relaxation but differed from the diastolic dysfunction group in more than 50% reduced maximum LV ejection velocity and 1.7 times increased elasticity of the arterial wall. A close inverse correlation was found between these values (r= -0.91).Conclusion The study results showed that, with a similar myocardial contractile function, the cardiac pumping function is determined by the elasticity of the aortic wall. Therefore, restriction of reactive fibrosis during MI is an important task of modern cardiology.

Relationship between β1-AA and AT1-AA and Cardiac Function in Patients with Hypertension Complicated with Left Ventricular Diastolic Function Limitation.

To investigate the association between β1 adrenergic receptor autoantibodies (β1-AA) and angiotensin II type-1 receptor autoantibodies (AT1-AA) and cardiac function in patients with hypertension complicated with left ventricular diastolic function limitation. A total of 120 patients with essential hypertension who were not taking drug treatment and were hospitalised in the Department of Cardiology at the authors' hospital from April 2018 to December 2018 were enrolled in this study and divided into a diastolic dysfunction group (65 cases) and a normal diastolic group (55 cases) according to their left ventricular diastolic function. The levels of cardiac parameters, β1-AA, AT1-AA, and other indicators were compared. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyse the related factors affecting left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD). The diagnostic efficacy of related factors in the diagnosis of diastolic dysfunction was evaluated. Univariate analysis demonstrated that the left ventricular posterior wall diameter (10.29 ± 1.23 vs. 9.12 ± 1.53), left ventricular systolic dysfunction (10.56 ± 1.37 vs. 9.43 ± 1.44), systolic blood pressure (152.37 ± 10.24 vs. 140.33 ± 5.99), diastolic blood pressure (95.66 ± 6.34 vs. 87.33 ± 7.28), β1-AA (33 vs. 9 cases), and AT1-AA (35 cases vs. 12 cases) were higher in the dysfunction group than in the control group (all P < 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis showed that β1-AA (odds ratio (OR) = 1.96, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.369-4.345) and AT1-AA (OR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.332-6.720) were independent risk factors for cardiac diastolic dysfunction (P < 0.05). Both autoimmune antibodies had a certain predictive value, and the combined prediction value of the two was the highest, with an area under the curve of 0.942 (95% CI: 0.881~0.985). The positive rate of β1-AA and AT1-AA in essential hypertension patients with LVDD was higher than that in the normal group. Both β1-AA and AT1-AA could be used as early markers of LVDD in essential hypertension patients.

The influence of early post-STEMI inflammation on diastolic function: diagnostic and therapeutic implications

Abstract Introduction We know that diastolic dysfunction (DD) after ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is associated with patients prognosis. Systolic dysfunction is easy to diagnose but the identification of DD remains difficult. After STEMI, inflammation can lead to DD and vice- versa. Less information exists on the relationship DD - inflammation in the specific post-infarction setting, while the potential prognostic and therapeutic impact is important. We focused on the relationship between the level of main inflammatory biomarkers in the first 48 hours post-STEMI and the presence of DD at 1 month. Purpose Our aim was to look for a post-STEMI early inflammatory phenotype that could be able to identify a group of patients at high risk of developing DD at one month. Methods The study cohort was constituted by patients admitted to our institution with a diagnosis of STEMI from 2016 to 2019. Serum from patients were collected at 4 time-points: Admission, 4 hours after revascularization (H4), H24 , and H48. Inflammatory biomarkers serum levels were assessed using ELISA assays (cytokines, chemokines and endothelial activation biomarkers).Diastolic function and infarct size were assessed at one month by transthoracic echocardiogram and cardiac MRI, respectively. Diastolic function was evaluated using the latest EACVI guidelines. Patients were followed for 12 months, all individual data were collected in a prospective database. Results We included 236 patients. 163 patients had normal diastolic function and 73 patients had DD. The probability of having a MACE during the first 12 months after STEMI was higher in the DD group than in the normal diastolic function group (HR = 3.0 CI [1.1-7.9], p=0.01), as well as the level of BNP (197.0 ng/L versus 68 ng/L, p&amp;lt;0.001). There was no significant difference in Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF) (58 versus 54%, p=0.0523), or in infarct size (13 versus 17% of left ventricular mass, p = 0.06) between the two groups. In the first 48 hours post STEMI, in the DD group we found significantly higher seric levels for : CRP AUC (660.2 mg.h.L -1 vs 361.4 mg.h.L -1 p=0.02), IL-6 AUC (206.0 pg.h.mL -1 vs 173.1 pg.h.mL -1 p=0.03) sTNFR1 AUC (27.6 ng.h.mL -1 versus 24.1 ng.h.mL -1 , p=0.03), sTNFR2 AUC (44.7 ng.h.mL -1 vs 43.5 ng.h.mL -1 ,p=0.03) sST2 AUC (30.4 pg.h.mL -1 vs 27.3 pg.h.mL -1 , p=0.046), GDF15 AUC (10.8 ng.h.mL -1 vs 8.1 ng.h.mL -1 , p=0.050) and IL-10 AUC (174.6 pg.h.mL -1 vs 122.8 pg.h.mL -1 , p=0.02). No significant difference was found for Leucocytes, MCP1, MET, HSP 70, VCAM, RANTES, HGF 24-48h between the two groups. Conclusions Early inflammation is critical post-STEMI and could play a key role in DD development or progression. The proposed inflammatory biomarker profile has shown a significant association with DD at 1 month, potentially identifying a subgroup of patients at high risk (of MACE and death) and in which tailored anti-inflammatory therapy might be efficient.

A Study on Evaluation of Relationship between Left Atrial Volume and Diastolic Dysfunction in Bangladeshi Patients

Background: An increase in the left atrial volume index (LAVI) has been recognized as an important indicator of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction (DD), which is considered a significant risk factor for cardiovascular events. The left atrium plays a crucial role in maintaining efficient cardiac function by facilitating proper blood flow between the pulmonary veins and the left ventricle during diastole. Objective: In this study our main goal is to evaluate the relationship between Left Atrial Volume and Diastolic Dysfunction in 500 Bangladeshi Patients. Method: From January 2022 to January 2023, researchers at a tertiary hospital in Bangladesh analyzed data from 500 patients in need of a transthoracic echo in the cardiology department. Patients were people aged 20 to 86 with a history free of atrial or ventricular arrhythmias, pacemaker usage, valvular disease (other than minor), or congenital cardiopathy who presented with sinus rhythm. Forty-five people were left out because their tests were either too limited to assess mitral diastolic flow (n = 35) or too limited to assess left atrial volume index (n = 10). Five hundred patients were used as the study's final sample size. Results: The average age and proportion of men in the DD groups were both greater than in the normal function group. The DD groups had more left ventricular mass than the controls. Only in the group with ventricular filling limitation pattern (grade III DD), was the ejection fraction significantly decreased. LAVI and dimensions both rose as DD severity increased, from 21 4.2 mL/m2 in grade I to 26.1 7.5 mL/m2 in grade II to 50.4 2.8 mL/m2 in grade III (p 0.001). In addition, the grade I DD groups (altered relaxation) showed a relative decrease in the E-wave and the E/A ratio, and an increase in the mitral deceleration time, when compared to the normal diastolic function group; the opposite was seen in the group with grade III DD (restrictive pattern). All DD subtypes had weaker e' waves compared to those with normal diastolic function. As DD progressed, a rise in the E/e' ratio was seen. LAVI was positively correlated with age, left ventricular (LV) diastolic and systolic volumes, LV wall relative thickness, LV mass indexed to height raised to the 2.7th power, and E/e' ratio (all p 0.01). There was a statistically significant negative relationship between left atrial volume index and left ventricular ejection fraction, as well as between the e' wave and the septal mitral anulus. Conclusion: According to this study in a Bangladeshi population, DD contributes to left atrial remodelling, and a rise in LAVI is an indicator of DD severity. In this cohort with preserved or slightly reduced mean ejection fraction and no substantial valvular heart disease, LAVI increase determinants are related to age, left ventricular hypertrophy, higher filling pressure, and impaired LV systolic performance.

The Role of Two Heart Biomarkers in IgA Nephropathy.

Cardiovascular mortality is a leading cause of death in chronic kidney disease (CKD), as is IgA nephropathy (IgAN). The purpose of this study is to find different biomarkers to estimate the outcome of the disease, which is significantly influenced by the changes in vessels (characterized by arterial stiffness) and the heart. In our cross-sectional study, 90 patients with IgAN were examined. The N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) was measured as a heart failure biomarker by an automated immonoassay method, while the carboxy-terminal telopeptide of collagen type I (CITP) as a fibrosis marker was determined using ELISA kits. Arterial stiffness was determined by measuring carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV). Renal function and routine echocardiography examinations were performed as well. Based on eGFR, patients were separated into two categories, CKD 1-2 and CKD 3-5. There were significantly higher NT-proBNP (p = 0.035), cfPWV (p = 0.004), and central aortic systolic pressure (p = 0.037), but not CITP, in the CKD 3-5 group. Both biomarker positivities were significantly higher in the CKD 3-5 group (p = 0.035) compared to the CKD 1-2 group. The central aortic systolic pressure was significantly higher in the diastolic dysfunction group (p = 0.034), while the systolic blood pressure was not. eGFR and hemoglobin levels showed a strong negative correlation, while left ventricular mass index (LVMI), aortic pulse pressure, central aortic systolic pressure, and cfPWV showed a positive correlation with NT-proBNP. cfPWV, aortic pulse pressure, and LVMI showed a strong positive correlation with CITP. Only eGFR was an independent predictor of NT-proBNP by linear regression analysis. NT-proBNP and CITP biomarkers may help to identify IgAN patients at high risk for subclinical heart failure and further atherosclerotic disease.

Risk factors of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in maintenance hemodialysis patients

ObjectiveTo investigate the risk factors of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients.MethodWe retrospectively collected data from 363 hemodialysis patients who were on dialysis for at least 3 months at January 1, 2020. According to the echocardiogram results, these patients were divided into left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) group and non-LVDD group. The differences in basic data, cardiac structure and functiona between the two groups were analyzed. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the risk factors of cardiac diastolic dysfunction in MHD patients.ResultsCompared with the non-LVDD group, patients in the LVDD group were older, with an increased proportion of coronary heart disease, more prone to chest tightness, shortness of breath. Simultaneously, they had a significantly increased (p < 0.05) proportion of cardiac structural abnormalities such as left ventricular hypertrophy, left heart enlargement and systolic dysfunction. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of LVDD was significantly increased in elderly MHD patients older than 60 years (OR = 3.86, 95%CI 1.429–10.429), and left ventricular hypertrophy was also significantly associated with LVDD (OR = 2.227, 95% CI 1.383–3.586).ConclusionAccording to research, both age and left ventricular hypertrophy are risk factors for LVDD in MHD patients. It is recommended that early intervention for LVDD should be implemented to improve the quality of dialysis and reduce the incidence of cardiovascular events in MHD patients.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ARTERIAL STIFFNESS, SUBCLINICAL HEART FAILURE, CARDIAC FIBROSIS AND RENAL FUNCTION IN CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE, IGA NEPHROPATHY

Objective: IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerular disease worldwide. Arterial stiffness may predict cardiovascular (CV) mortality and morbidity in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Heart failure is very common in advanced CKD stages. Onset of myocardial fibrosis may be a pathophysiological alteration in CKD patients with heart failure. Design and method: In our cross-sectional study, we examined 90 patients who cared for IgAN in our clinic. Arterial stiffness was determined by measuring carotis-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) using the ShygmoCor device. N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and carboxy-terminal telopeptide of collagen type I (CITP) were measured using ELISA kits. Renal function was detected by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR-CKD-EPI). Furthermore, a routine echocardiography examination was performed. Results: Of the 90 patients included in the study, 50 were male, with a mean age of 54.9 ± 14.4 years. Patients were divided into two groups based on eGFR (CKD 1-2 and CKD 3-5). There were significantly higher NT-proBNP (p = 0.035), cfPWV (p = 0.004), and central aortic systolic pressure (p = 0.037), but not CITP, in the CKD 3-5 group. The number of patients with combined biomarker positivity (NT-proBNP and CITP) was also significantly higher in the CKD3-5 group (p = 0.035) compared to the CKD 1-2 group. The central aortic systolic pressure was significantly higher in the diastolic dysfunction group (p = 0.034), but the systolic blood pressure was not. eGFR and hemoglobin level showed a strong negative correlation, while left ventricular mass index (LVMI), aortic pulse pressure, central aortic systolic pressure, and cfPWV showed a positive correlation with NT-proBNP. cfPWV, aortic pulse pressure, and LVMI showed a strong positive correlation with CITP by Spearman's correlation. Only eGFR was an independent predictor of NT-proBNP by linear regression analysis. Conclusions: A possible mechanism for the development of heart failure in CKD patients may be an elevation of central aortic systolic pressure. NT-proBNP and CITP biomarkers may help to identify IgAN patients at high risk for subclinical heart failure and further atherosclerotic disease.

A prospective exploratory study to assess echocardiographic changes in patients with supratentorial tumors - Effect of craniotomy and tumor decompression.

Functional changes in the myocardium secondary to increased intracranial pressure (ICP) are studied sparingly. Direct echocardiographic changes in patients with supratentorial tumors have not been documented. The primary aim was to assess and compare the transthoracic echocardiography changes in patients with supratentorial tumors presenting with and without raised intracranial pressure for neurosurgery. Patients were divided into two groups based on preoperative radiological and clinical evidence of midline shift of <6 mm without features of raised ICP (Group 1) or greater than 6mm with features of raised ICP (Group 2). Hemodynamic, echocardiographic, and optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) parameters were obtained during the preoperative period and 48 h after the surgery. Ninety patients were assessed, 88 were included for analysis. Two were excluded based on a poor echocardiographic window (1) and change in the operative plan (1). Demographic variables were comparable. About 27% of the patients in Group 2 had ejection fraction <55% and 21.2% had diastolic dysfunction in Group 2 in the preoperative period. There was a decrease in the number of patients with a left ventricular (LV) function <55% from 27% before surgery to 19% in the postoperative period in group 2. About 5.8% patients with moderate LV dysfunction in the preoperative period had normal LV function postoperatively. We found a positive correlation between ONSD parameters and radiological findings of raised intracranial pressure. The study demonstrated that in patients with supratentorial tumors with ICP, cardiac dysfunction might be present in the preoperative period.

Leucine-Rich Alpha-2-Glycoprotein: A Novel Predictor of Diastolic Dysfunction.

Leucine-rich α2-glycoprotein (LRG1) mediates cardiac fibrocyte activation. It is upregulated in inflammatory conditions, atherosclerosis, and fibrosis. Diastolic dysfunction (DD) is due to myocardial fibrosis. This cross-sectional study examined the relationship between LRG1 and DD. Patients with symptoms of chronic coronary ischemia were recruited. Patients with symptoms of overt heart failure, ejection fraction (EF) < 55%, impaired renal function, infection, and recent trauma were excluded from the study. Clinical parameters examined were SYNergy between percutaneous coronary intervention with TAXus and cardiac surgery (SYNTAX) score, echocardiographic assessment, and LRG1 levels. Binary stepwise logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between LRG1 and DD. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to determine optimal cut-off values and predictive performance of LRG1. A total of 94 patients were enrolled in the study, with 47 having a clinical diagnosis of DD. Plasma LRG1 was significantly (U = 417.00, p < 0.001) higher in the DD group (M = 14) compared to the No-DD group (M = 8) by Mann-Whitney U test. There were higher SYNTAX scores in the DD group (M = 24.5) compared with No-DD (M = 7). LRG1 had significant predictability of DD (OR = 1.32 (95% CI: 1.14-1.53)). The ROC showed an AUC = 0.89 (95% CI: 0.82-0.95). LRG1 had a 78% sensitivity (95% CI: 65.3-87.7) and 72.3% specificity (95% CI: 57.4-84.4) for predicting DD at a cut-off value of "9". In conclusion, we identified LRG1 as a novel independent predictor of DD. Further studies are warranted to validate the utility of LRG1 in predicting DD.

The Long-Term Impact of Diastolic Dysfunction After Routine Cardiac Surgery

To determine the impact of diastolic dysfunction (DD) on survival after routine cardiac surgery. This was an observational study of consecutive cardiac surgeries from 2010 to 2021. At a single institution. Patients undergoing isolated coronary, isolated valvular, and concomitant coronary and valvular surgery were included. Patients with a transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) longer than 6 months prior to their index surgery were excluded from the analysis. Patients were categorized via preoperative TTE as having no DD, grade I DD, grade II DD, or grade III DD. A total of 8,682 patients undergoing a coronary and/or valvular surgery were identified, of whom 4,375 (50.4%) had no DD, 3,034 (34.9%) had grade I DD, 1,066 (12.3%) had grade II DD, and 207 (2.4%) had grade III DD. The median (IQR) time of the TTE prior to the index surgery was 6 (2-29) days. Operative mortality was 5.8% in the grade III DD group v 2.4% for grade II DD, 1.9% for grade I DD, and 2.1% for no DD (p=0.001). Atrial fibrillation, prolonged mechanical ventilation (>24 hours), acute kidney injury, any packed red blood cell transfusion, reexploration for bleeding, and length of stay were higher in the grade III DD group compared to the rest of the cohort. The median follow-up was 4.0 (IQR: 1.7-6.5) years. Kaplan-Meier survival estimates were lower in the grade III DD group than in the rest of the cohort. These findings suggested that DD may be associated with poor short-term and long-term outcomes.

The predictive value of revised diastolic dysfunction in outcomes of liver transplantation: A propensity score matching analysis.

Diastolic dysfunction (DD), one of the earliest signs of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM), is included in the revised 2019 CCM criteria. Nonetheless, relevant research regarding the effects of revised DD on post-liver transplantation (LT) outcomes remains limited. This retrospective study enrolled patients who underwent LT for decompensated cirrhosis, from January 2018 to March 2021. Patients were divided into DD and non-DD groups. Clinical data were collected. Patients were followed up with, for at least 1 year post-LT; cardiovascular adverse events (AEs) and survival status were recorded. Risk factors were identified using 1:2 propensity score matching (PSM), after adjusting for confounding factors. The caliper value was set to 0.02. Of 231 patients, 153 were diagnosed with DD (male, 81.8%; mean age, 51.5 ± 9.5 years). Nineteen patients with DD died within 1 year, post-LT. After PSM, 97 and 60 patients were diagnosed with and without DD, respectively. Patients with DD had longer intensive care unit (ICU) stays, higher perioperative cardiovascular AEs, and higher mortality rates than those without DD. In a multivariate analysis, interventricular septum (IVS), left atrial volume index (LAVI), and potassium levels were independent prognostic factors of perioperative cardiovascular AEs, while a decreased early diastolic mitral annular tissue velocity (e'), increased neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and tumor markers were predictors of mortality within 1 year post-LT after PSM (P < 0.05). Cardiac DD may contribute to perioperative cardiovascular AEs and mortality post-LT. Clinicians should be aware of decompensated cirrhosis in patients with DD.

The Relationship between Left Atrial Volume and Diastolic Dysfunction in 500 Bangladeshi Patients

Background: An increase in the left atrial volume index (LAVI) has been linked to left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction (DD), a risk factor for cardiovascular events. Objective: In this study our main goal is to evaluate the relationship between Left Atrial Volume and Diastolic Dysfunction in 500 Bangladeshi Patients. Method: This cross sectional study was carried out at tertiary hospital from January 2021 to January 2022 among 500 Bangladeshi patients in whom a transthoracic echo was indicated were studied at cardiology department. The eligible patients were adults aged 20 to 86 years, who presented sinus rhythm and had no history of atrial or ventricular arrhythmia, pacemaker use, valvular disease (other than mild) or congenital cardiopathy. Forty five individuals were excluded since their exams were not adequate for analyzing mitral diastolic flow (n = 35) or LAVI (n = 10). The 500 remaining patients comprised the final sample for this study. Results: Mean age and male percentage were higher in the DD groups as compared to the normal function group left ventricular mass were higher in the DD groups as compared to the normal function group. The ejection fraction was markedly reduced only in the grade III DD group (ventricular filling restriction pattern).LAVI and dimensions progressively increased with DD grade increase: 21 ± 4.2 mL/m2, 26.1 ± 7.5mL/m2 (grade I), 33.4 ± 4.6mL/m2 (grade II), 50.4 ± 2.8mL/m2 (grade III) (p &lt; 0.001). Plus, as expected, there was a relative decrease of the E- wave and E/A ratio, and an increase of the mitral deceleration time in the grade I DD groups (altered relaxation) in comparison to the group with normal diastolic function; the opposite was observed in the group with grade III DD (restrictive pattern). The e' wave was significantly smaller in all DD grades, in comparison to the group with preserved diastolic function. Progressive increase of the E/e' ratio was observed with worsening DD. There was a significant and ......

Impact of diastolic dysfunction in patients with preserved ejection fraction undergoing permanent cardiac pacemaker placement

BackgroundChronic right-ventricular (RV) pacing can exacerbate heart failure in patients with a low ejection fraction (EF). There is little information on the effects of diastolic dysfunction (DD) in patients with preserved EF undergoing permanent pacemaker (PPM) placement. We aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes in these patients.MethodsThis multicenter, retrospective analysis of PPM use in Chonnam, South Korea, included all patients with preserved EF undergoing transvenous PPM implantation for atrioventricular blockage from 2017 to 2019. Patients were divided into two groups according to DD, which were assessed by including mitral flow velocities (E′ velocity, E/E′ ratio), peak velocity of the tricuspid regurgitant, and left atrial maximum volume index. Composite outcomes were defined as (1) cardiovascular death, and (2) hospitalization by heart failure during the follow-up period.ResultsOne hundred sixty-seven patients (66 men; overall mean age, 75.3 ± 11.9 years) were divided into two groups: 125 normal versus 42 DD. Compared with normal subjects, the DD group included older patients (mean age, 79.1 ± 9.9 vs. 74.0 ± 12.3; p = 0.016), and had longer paced QTc interval (pQTc, 168.5 ± 20.1 vs. 159.1 ± 16.3 ms; p < 0.001). Fifteen patients were hospitalized and two died. In a Cox proportional regression analysis, DD (hazard ratio [HR], 7.343; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.035–26.494; p = 0.002) and pQRSd (HR, 1.046; 95% CI, 1.004–1.091; p = 0.033) were independent predictors of composite outcomes.ConclusionIn patients with DD, RV pacing raised the risk of pacing-induced heart failure despite preserved left-ventricular function. Thus, patients with DD should be monitored intensively.

Effect of positive end-expiratory pressure on cardiac function in patients with early left ventricular diastolic dysfunction: a prospective cohort study

To evaluate the effect of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) ventilation on cardiac function in patients with early left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction undergoing laparoscopic radical gastrectomy. Patients who underwent laparoscopic radical gastrectomy under elective general anesthesia from July 2021 to February 2022 at the Subei People's Hospital were enrolled [age 60-75 years old, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade I-II, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) > 0.50]. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was performed before operation, and the peak early diastolic velocity (E peak) and peak late diastolic velocity (A peak) at the mitral ostium were recorded and the E/A and E peak deceleration time (DT) were calculated. Then isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT) and early peak mitral annular diastolic velocity (e') were recorded and left ventricular E/e' (LVE/e') was calculated. According to the E/A, mitral e', LVE/e', DT, and IVRT, the patients were divided into early LV diastolic dysfunction group (E/A < 1, mitral e' < 7 cm/s, LVE/e' > 14, DT > 200 ms, and IVRT > 100 ms) and normal cardiac function group (1 < E/A < 2, 160 ms < DT < 240 ms, and 70 ms < IVRT < 90 ms), with 35 patients in each group. Both groups were received fixed 5 cmH2O (1 cmH2O ≈ 0.098 kPa) PEEP 5 minutes after the beginning of the pneumoperitoneum until the end of the procedure. A volume controlled ventilation was used with a tidal volume (VT) of 7 mL/kg, an inspired oxygen concentration of 0.60, and an inspiratory to expiratory ratio of 1:2. Left and right myocardial systolic and diastolic function related parameters, including LVEF, LV global longitudinal strain (LVGLS), tricuspid annulus plane systolic migration (TAPSE), the peak early diastolic velocity (E peak) at the mitral and tricuspid valve ostia and the peak early diastolic velocity (e') at the corresponding annulus were measured by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) before tracheal intubation (T0), 5 minutes after the pneumoperitoneum (T1), 5 minutes after PEEP ventilation (T2), 30 minutes after PEEP ventilation (T3), and 5 minutes after the end of pneumoperitoneum (T4), respectively. The left and right ventricular myocardial performance index (LVMPI/RVMPI) was calculated. Finally, 60 patients were included in the analysis, including 28 patients in the early LV diastolic dysfunction group and 32 patients in the normal cardiac function group. Compared with those at T0, mean arterial pressure (MAP), LVEF, mitral e', LVGLS, tricuspid e' and TAPSE were significantly lower in the normal cardiac function group at T1, and the early LV diastolic dysfunction group at T1, T2, and T3, and LVMPI, LVE/e', RVE/e', and RVMPI were significantly higher. At T4, the LVE/e' and the RVE/e' were significantly higher in the early LV diastolic dysfunction group than those at T0 (LVE/e': 16.52±1.26 vs. 14.32±1.09, and RVE/e': 18.71±1.74 vs. 16.51±1.93, respectively, both P < 0.05), Mitral e' and tricuspid e' were significantly lower than those at T0 [mitral e' (m/s): 0.07±0.01 vs. 0.09±0.01, tricuspid e' (m/s): 0.06±0.01 vs. 0.08±0.01, both P < 0.05]. Compared with the normal cardiac function group, MAP, LVEF, mitral e', LVGLS, tricuspid e', and TAPSE at T1, T2, and T3 were significantly lower in the early LV diastolic dysfunction group, while LVMPI, LVE/e', RVE/e', and RVMPI were significantly higher. At T4, the LVE/e' and the RVE/e' were significantly higher in the early LV diastolic dysfunction group than those in the normal cardiac function group (LVE/e': 16.52±1.26 vs. 9.87±1.25, RVE/e': 18.71±1.74 vs. 10.97±1.70, both P < 0.05). Mitral e' and tricuspid e' were significantly lower in the normal cardiac function group [mitral e' (m/s): 0.07±0.01 vs. 0.11±0.02, tricuspid e' (m/s): 0.06±0.01 vs. 0.10±0.02, both P < 0.05]. In early LV diastolic dysfunction patients, compared with patients with normal cardiac function, 5 cmH2O PEEP can further exacerbate left and right myocardial systolic and diastolic function in patients during pneumoperitoneum; when the pneumoperitoneum was ended, 5 cmH2O PEEP only worsen left and right myocardial diastolic function in patients, and did not affect left and right myocardial systolic function.