Acetylsalicylic Acid Intake Research Articles

#2849 A change in the paradigm of onconephrology

Abstract Background and Aims Recently, with the emergence of checkpoint inhibitors and other new oncological therapies, the cancer paradigm has changed. These new treatment possibilities have led to an improvement in the life expectancy of patients with cancer. However, these new oncological treatments are often linked to adverse renal events that require a specifical nephrological evaluation at the onconephrology units. These renal adverse events may increase the morbidity and mortality of cancer patients. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the changes in renal involvement of patients with solid organ malignancy who underwent kidney biopsy after the onset of new oncological therapies. Method A retrospective observational study was performed analyzing kidney biopsies conducted in a 9.2-year period. This study included patients with history of solid organ malignancy before and one year after kidney biopsy. All the results are represented as mean ± standard deviation for variables with a normal distribution, or in percentage (%). Normality was assessed by the Shapiro-Wilk test. Group comparisons were conducted using Student´s t test for normally distributed quantitative variables and chi-square for qualitative variables. The statistical software utilized was SPSS version 27. Results Six patients who underwent a kidney biopsy before 2019 (Group A) were compared to 22 patients who underwent a kidney biopsy in 2019 and after (Group B). In Group A, the mean age was 68.5 ± 7.1 years old, while in Group B, it was 70.7 ± 7.1. In Group A, there was a predominance of females (66.7%), whereas in Group B, there was a higher proportion of males (81.8%). In Group A, higher intake of statins and acetylsalicylic acid were observed compared to Group B (83.3% vs. 31.8%, p = 0.024; 33.3% vs. 4.5%, p = 0.043). At the time of kidney biopsy, concerning the history of solid organ malignancy, 66.7% patients in Group A were disease-free, while in Group B they were predominantly stable (50%) (p < 0.001). In Group A, all nephropathies were caused by factors unrelated to oncological disease, while in Group B 63.6% nephropathies were secondary to oncospecific treatment (p = 0.003). In Group A, longer time from oncological diagnosis to death was observed compared to Group B (3033 ± 1889.09 days vs. 692 ± 719.47 days, p = 0.012). Regarding renal function at the time of kidney biopsy, we observed predominantly normal or stable renal function in Group A (66.7%), while Group B showed a higher frequency of renal dysfunction (77.3%) (p = 0.041); resulting in creatinine levels of 1.82 ± 0.68 mg/dl in Group A and 3.95 ± 2.48 mg/dl in Group B (p = 0.049). Finally, kidney biopsies in Group A showed acute tubular necrosis and acute or chronic tubulointerstitial nephritis in 16.7%, while in Group B these diagnoses were found in 81.8% of kidney biopsies (p = 0.002). Conclusion After the onset of new oncospecific therapies, the paradigm of kidney disease in cancer patients in terms of diagnosis and treatment has changed. Kidney biopsy may be a useful diagnostic and prognostic tool. But also, a specialized onconephrologist may have a key role to discern the different etiologies of kidney damage and provide the best management to these patients. This new trend may lead to a growth and an empowerment of onconephrology subspecialty.

The effect of acetylsalicylic acid intake on fetal adaptation in placental dysfunction

Placental dysfunction (PD) is one of the actual topics of research in the modern scientific world. Fetal growth retardation (FGR) is the leading clinical manifestation of chronic PD. Assessment of fetal growth is one of the key tasks in prenatal care. FGR is associated with an increased risk of perinatal morbidity and mortality, with long-term adverse outcomes for the child.Prenatal diagnosis of FGR is an important task for stillbirth prevention, up to 30% of cases of which are associated with this pathology or with a small-for-gestational-age fetus at the end of the III trimester.The objective: to study the influence of acetylsalicylic acid on the development of compensatory abilities of the fetus by PD.Materials and methods. 118 pregnancies with FGR and/or PD were analyzed. The women were divided into two groups: I group (67 persons) – patients with FGR and/or PD who used acetylsalicylic acid during pregnancy; II group (51 women) – pregnant women with FGR and/or PD who did not use acetylsalicylic acid during pregnancy. In all cases, the method of delivery was cesarean section due to fetal distress.Fetal distress was diagnosed using ultrasound examinations based on the following criteria: abnormal blood flow according to Doppler data (Volusun S10 ultrasound device), fetal biophysical profile indicators (Volusun S10 ultrasound device, Sonicaid Team fetal monitor) and cardiotocographic assessment of short-term variability (STV) fetal heart rate; STV > 4.5 according to the Sonicaid Team fetal monitor. Exclusion criteria: multiple pregnancy, antenatally confirmed fetal malformations.Results. The use of acetylsalicylic acid through placental regulation allows to achieve a longer gestation period before the development of fetal distress. The average gestational age before the appearance of this pathology in 50.75% of patients of the I group (34 persons) was larger – 33–36 weeks. On the other hand, 54.9% of women (28 individuals) in the II group had fetal distress earlier – at 28–32 weeks of gestation (p<0.05).Pathological blood flow in the umbilical artery or fetal biophysical profile <4 points was determined in 83.6% of cases in the I group (56 pregnant women) and in 23.5% in the II group (12 women). In women who used acetylsalicylic acid (I group) acute fetal distress diagnosed by STV was detected in 11 (16.4%) cases. In women who did not use acetylsalicylic acid (II group), distress manifested itself sharply – due to acidosis – in 39 (76.5%) cases (p<0.05).Conclusions. 1. In women who did not use acetylsalicylic acid, fetal distress manifested itself sharply – due to acidosis (STV<4.5 was recorded in 39 (76.5%) patients of the II group, while in women who used acetylsalicylic acid – in 11 pregnant women of the I group (16.4%; p<0.05). 2. Prophylactic use of acetylsalicylic acid allows to slow down the growth of placental dysfunction, which lets to the development of compensatory mechanisms and adaptation. 3. By use of acetylsalicylic acid the gestational period delivery closer to full term pregnancy. In women who used acetylsalicylic acid, most cases of fetal distress occurred at 33–36 weeks – 50.75%, while in the group that did not use acetylsalicylic acid most cases of fetal distress occurred at 28–32 weeks – in 54.9% (p<0.05).

Acute compartment syndrome of the thigh after total knee arthroplasty: a case report

IntroductionAcute compartment syndrome of the thigh after total knee arthroplasty is a rarely described complication. After the assessment of the diagnosis, immediate surgical intervention is necessary to prevent further tissue damage. Since only a few cases have been described and because of the high complication rate, early detection is essential for ensuring patient outcomes.Case presentationAfter total knee arthroplasty in a high-volume university hospital, a 57-year-old Caucasian female patient experienced strong, disproportional pain in the ventromedial thigh of the affected leg, which did not respond to an adequate adjustment in pain medication. Imaging revealed a distinct swelling of the vastus intermedius muscle. This resulted in acute compartment syndrome of the thigh, which was immediately surgically treated. Apart from receiving surgery distal from the affected compartment and continuous intake of acetylsalicylic acid, the patient had no risk factors for developing compartment syndrome. The patient’s recovery was uneventful, with timely wound closure and discharge to outpatient care without significant functional limitations.ConclusionAcute compartment syndrome of the thigh represents a rare, but severe complication that can occur after orthopedic surgery. In our case, no triggering factors for the development of acute compartment syndrome, such as the use of a tourniquet, were detected. Even in unusual locations, compartment syndrome should be considered as a differential diagnosis. With sufficient evidence, immediate fasciotomy should be indicated.

Effects of Combinations of Dietary Vitamin C and Acetylsalicylic Acid on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits and, Serum and Immune Response Parameters in Broilers.

This study aimed to investigate the combined effects of ascorbic acid (VC) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) on broiler health and performance. A total of 200 Ross 308 male broilers were divided into five groups, each receiving different dietary combinations of ASA and VC (ASA: 50 or 100 mg/kg; VC: 200 or 400 mg/kg). The 42-day trial assessed parameters such as feed intake, average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), carcass characteristics, serum parameters, immune response and cecal microbial flora. The results indicate significant treatment effects on feed intake and growth performance, with a higher feed intake of ADG and FCR in treatment groups (p < 0.05). Serum lipid parameters were unaffected, but creatine kinase increased with ASA and VC intake (p < 0.05). Changes in sheep red blood cell titers and influenza antibodies were noted (p < 0.05). The combination of ASA and VC positively influenced carcass traits, reducing abdominal fat and altering the ratio of immune response organs to body weight (p < 0.05). Additionally, the cecal E. coli count decreased with treatment (p < 0.05). This study underscores the intricate interactions between ASA and VC supplementation, growth performance and carcass composition and immune response in broilers. Further research is warranted to explore dosage nuances and variations under specific stress conditions.

Feasibility and comparability of different platelet function tests in acute stroke with or without prior antiplatelet therapy.

The clinical course of ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes can be influenced by the coagulation status of individual patients. The prior use of antiplatelet therapy (APT) such as acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) or P2Y12-antagonists has been inconsistently described as possibly increasing the risk of hemorrhagic transformation or expansion. Since clinical studies describing prior use of antiplatelet medication are overwhelmingly lacking specific functional tests, we aimed to implement testing in routine stroke care. We used fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) with antibodies against CD61 for thrombocyte identification and CD62p or platelet activation complex-1 (PAC-1) to determine platelet activation. Aggregometry and automated platelet functioning analyzer (PFA-200) were employed to test thrombocyte reactivity. FACS and aggregometry samples were stimulated in vitro with arachidonic acid (AA) and adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to measure increase in CD62p-/PAC-1-expression or aggregation, respectively. Between February and July 2023, 20 blood samples (n = 11 ischemic strokes; n = 7 hemorrhagic strokes; n = 2 controls) were acquired and analyzed within 24 h of symptom onset. N = 11 patients had taken ASA, n = 8 patients no APT and n = 1 ASA+clopidogrel. ASA intake compared to no APT was associated with lower CD62p expression after stimulation with AA on FACS analysis (median 15.8% [interquartile range {IQR} 12.6-37.2%] vs. 40.1% [IQR 20.3-56.3%]; p = 0.020), lower platelet aggregation (9.0% [IQR 7.0-12.0%] vs. 88.5% [IQR 11.8-92.0%]; p = 0.015) and longer time to plug formation with PFA-200 (248.0 s [IQR 157.0-297] vs. 121.5 s [IQR 99.8-174.3]; p = 0.027). Significant correlations were noted between AA-induced CD62p expression and aggregometry analysis (n = 18; ρ = 0.714; p < 0.001) as well as a negative correlation between CD62p increase and PFA clot formation time (n = 18; ρ = -0.613; p = 0.007). Sensitivity for ASA intake was highest for PFA (81.8% for values ≥155.5 s). The combination of ASA + clopidogrel also affected ADP-induced CD62p and PAC-1 expression. In the clinical setting it is feasible to use differentiated platelet analytics to determine alterations caused by antiplatelet therapy. Among the tests under investigation, PFA-200 showed the highest sensitivity for the intake of ASA in stroke patients. FACS analysis on the other hand might be able to provide a more nuanced approach to altered platelet reactivity.

Aspirin use and bleeding events during thrombocytopenia after autologous stem-cell transplantation for multiple myeloma.

In patients with cardiovascular (CV) comorbidities that necessitate antiplatelet therapy (APT), its optimal management during chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia remains elusive, as the risk of bleeding has to be balanced against the risk of CV events. The purpose of this study was to assess the risk for bleeding with APT during thrombocytopenia in patients with multiple myeloma undergoing high-dose chemotherapy and subsequent autologous stem-cell transplantation (ASCT) with and without acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) as comedication. We assessed patients who underwent ASCT at the Heidelberg University Hospital between 2011 and 2020 for bleeding events, management strategies for ASA intake during thrombocytopenia, transfusion requirements, and the occurrence of CV events. There were 57/1,113 patients who continued ASA until at least 1 day after ASCT; thus, a continuous platelet inhibition during thrombocytopenia was assumed. Most of the patients (41/57) continued ASA until they had a platelet count of 20-50/nl. This range reflects the kinetics of thrombocytopenia and nondaily measurements of platelets during ASCT. A tendency toward a higher risk for bleeding events in the ASA group was demonstrated (1.9% (control group) vs. 5.3% (ASA), p = 0.082). The risk factors for bleeding in multivariate analysis were the duration of thrombocytopenia < 50/nl, a history of gastrointestinal bleeding, and diarrhea. The factors predicting the duration of thrombocytopenia were age >60 years, a hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation comorbidity index ≥3, and an impaired bone marrow reserve at admission. CV events occurred in three patients; none of them took ASA or had an indication for APT. The intake of ASA until thrombocytopenia with a platelet count of 20-50/nl appears safe, although an elevated risk cannot be excluded. If ASA is indicated for the secondary prevention of CV events, the evaluation of risk factors for bleeding and a prolonged time of thrombocytopenia before conditioning is crucial to adapt the strategy for ASA intake during thrombocytopenia.

Risk of adverse vascular events after carotid endarterectomy: a ten-year follow-up

Significant atherosclerotic stenosis of the carotid arteries can provoke ischemic stroke and is one of the factors considered when assessing eligibility for carotid endarterectomy (CEE). Objective. To identify risk factors for the development of adverse vascular events (AVE) after undergoing CEA in the medium-term (5 and 7 years) and long-term (10 years) follow-up. Design and methods. In total, 257 patients underwent reconstructive surgery on the carotid arteries in the period from 2007 to 2010, and at 1–1,5-year follow-up after the operation, we assessed the regularity of taking prescribed medications, vital activity according to the Barthel index, FIM scale, scales of anxiety, depression and mental status assessment (MMSE); and lipid profile. Long-term endpoints (death or acute cerebrovascular accident) were registered for 5-10 years after surgery. During follow-up, 129 patients dropped out at different stages of the study, 47 died during the study period (30 died from cardiovascular disease), 37 had a stroke. Cox’s proportional hazards model was used as a tool for survival analysis. Results. Older age (over 60 years) at the time of surgery increases the risk of death and the onset of AVE in the period up to 5, 7 and 10 years after surgery by 1,106 (1,245) times, 1,137 (1,247) and 1,182 (1,182) times, respectively; smoking increases the risk of death within 5, 7 and 10 years by 2,963, 2,419 and 2,44 times; the presence of diagnosed depression in accordance with the HADS scale (part II) increases the risk of death after CEE in the period up to 5 years by 1,176 times. An increase in the atherogenicity coefficient by each unit relative to the average value (3,0) leads to an increase in the risk of death or the onset of AVE in the period of 5 years after the operation by 1,915 (2,159) times, in the period of 7 years — by 1,966 (2,183), and in 10 years — by 1,991 (2,264) times. Each additional point of the Barthel index relative to the mean value (95 points) reduced the risk of death or the onset of AVE in a 5-year period by 7 (9,5) % compared to the baseline, in 7 and 10-year periods by 4,5 (9) and 10 (10,5) %, respectively. A decrease in adherence to drug therapy increases the risk of death in the period up to 7 years — by 1,406 times, in 10 years — by 1,426 times. The lack of regular intake of acetylsalicylic acid increases the risk of AVE in the 5-year period after the operation by 3,278 times, in 7 years — by 2,892 times, in 10 years — by 2,837 times; each additional point of the MMSE scale from the mean value (28 points) reduces the risk of death in the period up to 10 years after CEE compared with the baseline risk by 1,51 times, the female gender increases the risk of AVE in the period up to 5, 7 and 10 years by 4,762, 3,952 and 3,484 times, respectively. Conclusions. Risk factors for the development of AVE after long-term follow-up after CEE have been identified, which can be used for the personalized preventive measures.

Intake of Acetylsalicylic Acid and High Age Are Risk Factors for Iron Deficiency Anemia in Patients with Large Diaphragmatic Hernias

Introduction: In 15% of patients with iron deficiency anemia, large diaphragmatic hernias are found as the cause of chronic iron loss. Conversely, iron deficiency anemia is present in 10–40% of diaphragmatic hernia patients. However, it is unclear why some patients with large diaphragmatic hernias develop anemia and others do not. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 116 patients with diaphragmatic hernias larger than 5 cm for the presence of anemia and the effect of surgery on this anemia, dividing these patients into 4 groups (group A: 21 patients with anemia/surgery, group B: 27 patients without anemia but with surgery, group C: 34 patients with anemia but without surgery, and group D: 34 patients without anemia/surgery). Results: Women significantly predominated in the patient population (76%). Patients with iron deficiency anemia tended to be significantly older than patients without iron deficiency anemia (74.7 ± 12.2 vs. 69.6 ± 14.8 years, p = 0.08). The proportion of patients taking ASA was significantly higher in the anemia collective (41.8% vs. 9.8%, p < 0.001). Regression analysis further confirmed that higher age and ASA intake correlated significantly with lower hemoglobin in anemic patients. Performing hernia repair significantly decreased anemia rates and PPI use in the anemia patients, while both remained almost the same in the non-operated anemia patients. Conclusion: ASA use and advanced age are risk factors for the presence of iron deficiency anemia in patients with large diaphragmatic hernias. Surgical hernia repair is suitable to reduce anemia.

Predictors of late complications in pregnant women with arterial hypertension

Arterial hypertension occurs in 829% of pregnant women and is a common form of endothelial dysfunction during gestation. In recent decades, the prevalence of arterial hypertension has increased several times largely due to the increasing maternal age of primiparous women and the increased incidence of obesity, diabetes mellitus, and carbohydrate metabolism disorders.&#x0D; The aim of this study was to formulate the management tactics for pregnant patients with high blood pressure, based on the current understanding of the causes and mechanisms of the disease and the ability to influence the molecular links of pathogenesis, and to identify possible markers for predicting the progression of endothelial dysfunction in pregnant women with arterial hypertension. This review, based on the literature, raises the problem of modern diagnosis of arterial hypertension in pregnancy. We discuss the consequences of late initiation of the therapy and evaluate possible complications.&#x0D; The severity of arterial hypertension is assessed differently in pregnant and non-pregnant women, according to current clinical guidelines. Thus, chronic arterial hypertension in pregnant women corresponds to grade II arterial hypertension in non-pregnant women, according to the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology classification. Both untimely diagnosis and delayed or inadequate treatment result in adverse obstetric outcomes. Recent studies indicate the ability of earlier antihypertensive therapy (already at stage I according to the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology classification) to reduce maternal and fetal adverse effects and prolong pregnancy. The CHAP 2022 study showed that using a blood pressure treatment threshold of 140/90 mmHg for pregnant women with chronic arterial hypertension provides better outcomes compared to treatment at higher numbers. Despite early initiation of therapy, some patients with elevated blood pressure subsequently develop thrombotic and gestational complications associated with endothelial dysfunction. There is an obvious need to introduce early preclinical diagnostic methods that would narrow the risk group and prevent late complications. The authors consensus on personalization of acetylsalicylic acid intake has emerged. The review analyzes the potential mechanisms of aspirin resistance, as well as the influence of genetic (the PTGS1, PTGS2, ITGB3, ITGA2, GP6, GP1BA, P2RY1, P2RY12 genes, other genes, and associated microRNA) and biochemical markers (11-dehydrotromboxane B2), which presumably may have prognostic value and applicability in clinical practice.&#x0D; Our current understanding of the problem of diagnosis and early treatment of arterial hypertension in pregnancy can reduce the number of complications. The problem of predicting the development of endothelial dysfunction remains unresolved to the end. Active implementation of the studied markers into practice requires a further more detailed study of this area and the optimization of research design.

Профилактика преэклампсии ацетилсалициловой кислотой: краткий курс истории применения и современные подходы к профилактике

By preeclampsia (PE) we mean hypertension, which first occurred after 20 weeks pregnant in combination with proteinuria or other signs of target organ damage. PE is accompanied by high maternal and perinatal mortality, and these indicators are the higher the earlier the disease onset is. Despite the presence of seemingly effective methods for the PE prevention, this pathology incidence has practically not changed in recent decades. This may be due to the fact that the PE pathogenesis is complex and has not been fully studied. We are still continuing to look for new prognostic markers that would allow us to select high-risk patients. In the high-risk group, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) intake reduces the PE incidence, but the overall picture does not change significantly. Besides, ASA long-term use may increase the risks of some pregnancy complications. Differential treatment tactics for prevention in different risk groups is likely to be effective. The article summarizes the confirmed data on ASA used for the PE prevention and its complications, as well as promising areas for further research. KEYWORDS: preeclampsia, acetylsalicylic acid, pregnancy-associated plasma protein A, PAPP-A, placental growth factor, PlGF, placental abruption, first trimester screening, calcium. FOR CITATION: Osipov R.S., Dzhokhadze L.S., Kuznetsov P.A., Shamugiya V.V. Prevention of preeclampsia with acetylsalicylic acid: a brief history of use and modern prevention methods. Russian Journal of Woman and Child Health. 2023;6(4):368–373 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2618-8430-2023-6-4-7.

Evaluation Of Platelet Aggregation Activity Depending on The Duration of Antiplatelet Administration in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease

To study the aggregation activity of platelets in patients with ischemic heart disease depending on the long-term intake of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). Material and methods. The study included: 116 patients with coronary artery disease with stable angina pectoris, taking a standard dose of aspirin 75 mg/day. during various terms. Patients with SSN were divided into 4 groups according to the duration of taking ASA. Platelet aggregation was measured using a laser platelet aggregation analyzer Alat-2 Biol, with computer processing according to the AGGR program. Adenosine diphosphate (ADP) in concentrations of 0.1, 1.0, 5.0 mmol/l was used as an inductor. The results of the study of patients taking ASA for more than 5 years showed that spontaneous aggregation and ADP-induced platelet aggregation were higher than in patients taking the drug for less than 5 years. Statistically significant differences were observed when compared with a group of patients taking ASA for less than a year (spontaneous aggregation of 1.7±0.09 (p&lt;0.05), 0.1 μm ADP-induced aggregation of 6.58±0.86 (p&lt;0.05), 1.0 μm ADP-induced aggregation of 16.51±1.63 (p&lt;0.01), 5.0 μm ADP-induced aggregation 58.44±3.72 (p&lt;0.01). Conclusion. Thus, the results showed that with an increase in the duration of aspirin intake, there was a change in both spontaneous and ADP-induced platelet aggregation with a statistically significant increase.

The pattern of epistaxis recurrence in patients taking prophylactic acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) from a 10 year cohort

ObjectivesEpistaxis is the most common otolaryngological emergency and one-third of epistaxis patients regularly take low-dose acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for the prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The shift in contemporary guidelines identifies little benefit of ASA intake in patients who have not previously had an infarction. Existing evidence confirms ASA intake as a factor for severe epistaxis, while the evidence concerning its impact on recurrence is ambiguous. There are no available studies which justify the administration of these drugs nor are there any studies correlating the effects of these drugs to the SCORE2 CVD risk stratifying scale.Study designA retrospective analysis of all admitted epistaxis patients in a tertiary academic hospital for the 10 year period 2011 to 2021.MethodsPatient data were analysed using the hospital information software. A recurrence was defined as an epistaxis episode requiring hospital readmittance for at least one night. Patients taking anticoagulants were excluded (N = 421).Results444 patients were included: 246 were taking ASA and 198 were not (NoASA). ASA patients had more frequent recurrence in general (p = 0.03), more recurrences per patient (p = 0.002), and more changes in bleeding localisation (p = 0.04). Recurrence in the ASA group was associated with lower haemoglobin values (HR 0.62, p < 0.0001), while surgery (HR 6.83, p < 0.0001) was associated with recurrence in the NoASA group. ASA patients had a statistically significant (r 0.33, p = 0.032) correlation between the total number of epistaxis recurrences and SCORE2. The indication for drug intake was highly questionable in as much as 40% of ASA patients. Follow-up time was 5.27 years.ConclusionsEpistaxis patients taking prophylactic ASA are significantly more burdened by recurrence, because they have more frequent recurrences, a greater number of recurrences per patient, and more changes in bleeding localisations when compared to control patients. The drug indication is questionable in up to 40% of ASA patients, exposing them unnecessarily to recurrence.Level of evidence4.

Personalized allocation of acetylsalicylic acid therapy for secondary prevention of coronary artery disease.

BackgroundA single-daily dose of 75 mg of acetylsalicylic acid inhibits 100% of thromboxane-B2 synthesis within 30–60 min. Thromboxane-B2 synthesis then recovers slowly as new platelets are released from the bone marrow. Normally, only 10% of the platelets are replaced daily by new platelets entering circulation. Hence, 24 h after a dose of acetylsalicylic acid, thromboxane-B2 synthesis is still suppressed by more than 90%. Hence, there is an adequate anti-platelet effect even after 24 h of acetylsalicylic acid intake. However, some patients treated with once-daily acetylsalicylic acid may have an incomplete 24-h suppression of thromboxane-B2 synthesis due to increased platelet turnover. The response could be improved in such patients by twice-daily acetylsalicylic acid administration. This study aimed to identify such a group of patients who would benefit from a twice-daily dose of acetylsalicylic acid.Materials and methodsSerum thromboxane-B2 levels were measured in 79 patients with coronary artery disease receiving 75 mg of acetylsalicylic acid for secondary prophylaxis. Serum levels of thromboxane-B2 were measured after 4 and 24 h of acetylsalicylic acid intake. Patients were then classified into three groups: steady suppression group (serum thromboxane B2 is adequately suppressed at 4 and 24 h), i.e., adequate response to acetylsalicylic acid; fast recovery group (more than 10% rise in serum thromboxane-B2 levels at 24-h when compared to at 4-h) and non-responders (serum thromboxane-B2 levels of >3,100 pg/ml after 4 h of acetylsalicylic acid intake). Patients in the fast recovery group were given twice-daily acetylsalicylic acid and thromboxane-B2 levels were re-measured.ResultsA total of 20 patients (24.3%) had steady suppression of thromboxane-B2 and 11 patients (13.9%) belonged to the fast recovery group, i.e., thromboxane-B2 levels were adequately suppressed at 4 h but had recovered by more than 10% at 24 h; which was adequately suppressed by twice-daily acetylsalicylic acid (p 0.004). A total of 48 patients (60.8%) were non-responders.ConclusionTwice-daily acetylsalicylic acid may be beneficial if serum thromboxane-B2 levels at 4 h are <3,100 and >3,100 pg/ml at 24 h. If thromboxane-B2 levels at 4 and 24 h is <3100 pg/ml but if there is a >10% rise in serum thromboxane B2 at 24 h as compared to that at 4 h, then twice-daily acetylsalicylic acid should be considered. However, if thromboxane-B2 at 4 and 24 h is >3,100 pg/ml consider switching over to a P2Y12 inhibitor.

Low-Dose Acetylsalicylic Acid Treatment in Non-Skull-Base Meningiomas: Impact on Tumor Proliferation and Seizure Burden.

Simple SummaryMIB-1 index is an established immunohistochemical marker reflecting the proliferative potential in meningiomas. Cyclooxygenase-2 has been demonstrated to be positively correlated with MIB-1 index in meningiomas. In a recent investigation, we revealed that cranial non-skull-base meningiomas have increased proliferative potential and increased inflammatory burden compared to other anatomical locations of meningiomas. The role of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) regarding proliferative activity and location-specific symptoms in non-skull-base meningiomas is unclear so far. In the present investigation, we therefore analyzed the impact of low-dose (100 mg) acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) treatment on the MIB-1 index and baseline symptomatic epilepsy. We identified that elderly female non-skull-base meningioma patients with ASA intake had significantly lower MIB-1 indices. Furthermore, ASA intake significantly reduced the preoperative seizure burden in non-skull-base meningioma. We believe that further research on NSAID treatment in non-skull-base meningiomas is necessary to enhance a tailored treatment scheduling.MIB-1 index is an important predictor of meningioma progression and was found to be correlated with COX-2 expression. However, the impact of low-dose acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) on MIB-1 index and clinical symptoms is unclear. Between 2009 and 2022, 710 patients with clinical data, tumor-imaging data, inflammatory laboratory (plasma fibrinogen, serum C-reactive protein) data, and neuropathological reports underwent surgery for primary cranial WHO grade 1 and 2 meningioma. ASA intake was found to be significantly associated with a low MIB-1 labeling index in female patients ≥ 60 years. Multivariable analysis demonstrated that female patients ≥ 60 years with a non-skull-base meningioma taking ASA had a significantly lower MIB-1 index (OR: 2.6, 95%: 1.0–6.6, p = 0.04). Furthermore, the intake of ASA was independently associated with a reduced burden of symptomatic epilepsy at presentation in non-skull-base meningiomas in both genders (OR: 3.8, 95%CI: 1.3–10.6, p = 0.03). ASA intake might have an anti-proliferative effect in the subgroup of elderly female patients with non-skull-base meningiomas. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory therapy seems to reduce the burden of symptomatic epilepsy in non-skull-base meningiomas. Further research is needed to investigate the role of anti-inflammatory therapy in non-skull-base meningiomas.

First CARMAT implantation in Italy: A Nurse's Experience

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Main funding source(s): Anyone Introduction CARMAT is a new fully implantable device that simulates heart function. CARMAT has three characteristics that allow a physiological simulation that is at the top of biomedical engineering: it is blood-compatible for the use of bovine pericardium; it is pulsatile because it has hydraulic pumps that mimic systole and diastole; it is capable of self-regulating with the physiological needs of the patient. CARMAT has four biological valves that allow the intake of acetylsalicylic acid avoiding the use of warfarin and continuous blood draw. CARMAT also has two hybrid membranes with an internal part formed by bovine pericardium and an external polyurethane membrane; CARMAT has self-regulation sensors that adapt the system to the patient's efforts. The operation is relatively simple because the rollers placed inside move the silicondressingstely and so it pushes the walls creating systole and diastole not synchronously as it normally happens but asynchronously, one ventricle at a time. Objectives Evaluation of the patient's hemodynamics, monitoring of vital parameters, dressings of the drive-line and psychological state. Materials and methods Training in the field by the manufacturer due to the absence of material in literature. Outcome and Discussion Since it was the first CARMAT implantation in Italy , we tried to combine experience with the clinical practice of other artificial hearts. The patient was weaned from anesthesia early and extubated; the patient did not show neurological damage. Psychologically, the artificial heart was accepted without any problems by the patient, the drive line had no infections and the patient was discharged quickly. Conclusions The Carmat system appears to be the one that best simulates the physiology of the heart because it involves fewer complications than other artificial hearts. This device is used as a brige to transplant, but research and continuous studies tend to transform it as a therapy to end for patients who leave the transplant list and therefore the possibility of having a heart transplant.

Current approaches to the selection of acetylsalicylic acid dosage forms in cardiology

The article is devoted to modern approaches to the selection of optimal dosage forms of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), which ensure high bioavailability of ASA drugs. The relevance of improving the tactics of ASA use for both primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases is discussed. Changes in the role of ASA in the prevention of cardiovascular disease complications are discussed, including as part of combined antithrombotic therapy, including ASA and either P2Y12 inhibitor or low-dose rivaroxaban. Evidence is presented that has led to doubts about the sufficient bioavailability of the enteric form of ASA, as well as the predictability of the response to therapy. A separate part of the article is devoted to the safety of different forms of ASA, in particular - the effect on the mucosa of the small intestine. The results of clinical studies evaluating the effect of ASA intake in enteric-soluble and buffered forms on the small intestinal mucosa and the risk of bleeding are presented. In addition, the problem of decreased effectiveness of ASA intake in overweight or obese individuals is considered. The article provides information on ongoing randomized trials to assess the effectiveness of increasing the frequency of ASA intake, as well as the effectiveness of chronopharmacological approaches to optimize the use of ASA. The analysis performed leads it to conclude that the buffer form can now be considered the preferred acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) dosage form, which, on the one hand, exerts a less pronounced effect on the gastric and small intestinal mucosa, and on the other hand, ensures high bioavailability, as well as minimal variability of treatment response.

EGb 761® Does Not Affect Blood Coagulation and Bleeding Time in Patients with Probable Alzheimer's Dementia-Secondary Analysis of a Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial.

Following reports of bleeding upon Ginkgo intake, we assessed whether Ginkgo extract EGb 761® affects coagulation or platelet function or increases the risk of bleeding. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, international normalized ratio and bleeding time were measured in patients with Alzheimer’s dementia at baseline, weeks 6 and 26. A total of 513 patients were randomized to 120 mg (n = 169) or 240 mg EGb 761® (n = 170) or placebo (n = 174). No relevant changes were found for coagulation parameters and bleeding time. Numbers of bleeding-related adverse events were similar in all groups. Concomitant intake of acetylsalicylic acid was documented for 68 patients in the placebo group and 105 in the EGb 761® groups. Within these groups, the means at baseline and week 26 differed by less than 1 unit for prothrombin time and bleeding time and less than 0.1 unit for international normalized ratio. Data on warfarin treatment in nine patients each taking placebo or EGb 761® did not indicate enhancement of warfarin effects by EGb 761®. No evidence was found that EGb 761® affects hemostasis or increases the bleeding risk. No pharmacodynamic interactions with warfarin or acetylsalicylic acid were found.

Does admission acetylsalicylic acid uptake in hospitalized COVID-19 patients have a protective role? Data from the Spanish SEMI-COVID-19 Registry.

Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) is widely used in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disorders. Our objective is to evaluate its possible protective role, not only in mortality but also in other aspects such as inflammation, symptomatic thrombosis, and intensive care unit (ICU) admission in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. We realized an observational retrospective cohort study of 20,641 patients with COVID-19 pneumonia collected and followed-up from Mar 1st, 2020 to May 1st, 2021, from the nationwide Spanish SEMI-COVID-19 Registry. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to determine whether treatment with ASA affected outcomes in COVID-19 patients. On hospital admission, 3291 (15.9%) patients were receiving ASA. After PSM, 3291 patients exposed to ASA and 2885 not-exposed patients were analyzed. In-hospital mortality was higher in the ASA group (30.4 vs. 16.9%, p < 0.001) in the global sample. After PSM, no differences were found between groups (30.4 vs. 30.3%, p = 0.938). There were no differences in inflammation, symptomatic thrombosis, or ICU admission. In conclusion, ASA intake is not associated with in-hospital mortality or any other health outcome evaluated after applying PSM analysis in a real-world large sample of hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

Management of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps in Samter triad by low-dose ASA desensitization or dupilumab.

Samter triad is a chronic condition where patients suffer from intolerance to aspirin, recurring nasal polyposis and bronchial asthma. Causative treatment is often hard. Potential approaches are the daily intake of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), shunting arachidonic acid into the lipoxygenase pathway, and a subsequent habituation to this constant inflammatory stimulus. Alternatively, the paramount interleukins 4 and 13 may be antagonized by the monoclonal antibody dupilumab. Hence, we evaluated the daily intake of 100 mg ASA and systemic dupilumab (300 mg s.c. every 2 weeks) therapy in refractory patients for its efficacy and compliance.We conducted a retrospective chart review for the efficacy and compliance of both continuous ASA desensitization and systemic dupilumab therapy for refractory patients.Thirty-one patients were included in this retrospective chart review, mean follow-up was 20.4 ± 15.7 months. All patients underwent ASA desensitization. Twenty-one patients had eventually discontinued therapy after 5.8 ± 4.5 months; 11 for its side effects, 12 for its inefficacy. Twenty patients developed sinunasal complaints soon thereafter. Ten patients were still undergoing desensitization (mean duration 15.3 ± 15.7 months). These patients had a higher prevalence of concomitant anti-asthmatic medication. Seventeen refractory patients underwent systemic dupilumab therapy. After 6.4 ± 2.7 months of treatment, sinunasal outcome test (68.1 ± 13.9 vs 20.1 ± 13.9) and visual analogue scales of overall complaints (8.7 ± 0.9 vs 2.2 ± 1.5) as well as endoscopic findings and olfactory function (brief smell identification test; 3.5 ± 2.6 vs 8.6 ± 2.4) all improved significantly.A considerable number of patients with Samter triad discontinued ASA desensitization, equally for ineffectiveness or side effects. If desensitization is to be effective, special care needs to be taken in respect to concomitant anti-asthmatic medication. Dupilumab is highly effective and safe in treating refractory patients.

Pre-admission acetylsalicylic acid therapy and impact on in-hospital outcome in COVID-19 patients: The ASA-CARE study

BackgroundPatients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) exhibit high thrombotic risk. The evidence on a potential independent prognostic role of antiplatelet treatment in those patients is limited. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prognostic impact of pre-admission low-dose acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) in a wide series of hospitalized patients with COVID-19. MethodsThis cohort study included 984 COVID-19 patients stratified according to ASA intake before hospitalization: ASA+ (n = 253) and ASA− (n = 731). Patients were included in ASA+ group if they received it daily in the 7 days before admission. 213 (83%) were on ASA 100 mg daily. Primary endpoint was a composite of in-hospital death and/or need for respiratory support upgrade, secondary endpoints were in-hospital death and need for respiratory support upgrade. ResultsMean age was 72 [62; 81] with 69% of male patients. ASA+ patients were significantly older, with higher prevalence of comorbidities. No significant differences regarding the degree of respiratory dysfunction were observed. At 30-day Kaplan-Meier analysis, ASA+ patients had higher survival free from the primary endpoint and need for respiratory support upgrade, conversely in-hospital death did not significantly differ between groups. At multivariate analysis ASA intake was independently associated with a lower probability of reaching primary endpoint (HR 0.697, 95% C.I. 0.525–0.924; p = 0.012). ConclusionsIn COVID-19 patients undergoing hospitalization, pre-admission treatment with ASA is associated with better in-hospital outcome, mainly driven by less respiratory support upgrade.