Plaque Location Research Articles

What Is Hidden Behind The Gender Differences Of Carotid Atherosclerosis?

This review article reveals possible causes that may underlie gender differences of carotid atherosclerosis: vascular anatomy, localization and morphology of atherosclerotic plaques, different effects and prevalence of known risk factors between genders (arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, depression / stress). A separate place in the review is given to markers of inflammation and the protective effect of female sex hormones.

The characteristics of intracranial plaques of unilateral, anterior circulation embolic stroke of undetermined source: An analysis of different subtypes based on high-resolution imaging.

The aim was to investigate the characteristics of non-stenotic intracranial plaque (NSIP) in embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) subtypes by high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging. Consecutive patients with ESUS who were mandatory for high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging were retrospectively enrolled. Based on the location and arterial supply of the infarct, the ESUS were categorized into three types: cortical ESUS, subcortical ESUS and mixed ESUS. The NSIP parameters including plaque location, morphology (plaque distribution, remodeling index and plaque burden) and composition (thick fibrous cap, discontinuity of plaque surface, intraplaque hemorrhage and complicated plaque) were evaluated amongst the subtypes. Of 243 patients, there were 87 (35.8%) cortical ESUS, 127 (52.3%) subcortical ESUS and 29 (11.9%) mixed ESUS. Significant differences were found in plaque location (p < 0.001), plaque quadrant (p < 0.001), remodeling index (p < 0.001), plaque burden (p < 0.001), discontinuity of plaque surface (p < 0.001), intraplaque hemorrhage (p=0.001) and complicated plaque (p < 0.001) of ipsilateral NISP amongst the different ESUS subtypes, except for fibrous cap (p=0.135). However, no differences were found amongst contralateral NISP. In addition, the clinical characteristics of the differences between ESUS subtypes were striking, including age (p=0.004), initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (p < 0.001), coronary artery disease (p=0.039), serum urea (p=0.011) and creatinine (p=0.002). This is the first report of significantly heterogeneous characteristics of ipsilateral NSIP and clinical findings amongst ESUS subtypes, which may suggest their different underlying mechanisms.

Investigating the effects of external pressure on coronary arteries with plaques and its role in coronary artery disease

The risk of an acute coronary event stems from the amount and type of plaque present, as well as the fluid and structural dynamics in the coronary artery. If the plaque’s structural stress exceeds the mechanical strength, the fibrous cap may rupture and lead to thrombosis. The patient is then likely to face a sudden myocardial infarction. An association between Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) and Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) has been long recognised. For the first time, we are reporting a correlation between applied external pressure, such as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), coughing, sneezing, blowing one’s nose, etc., and diseased coronary artery plaque via 3 D coronary artery models and two-way Fluid-Solid Interaction (FSI) models. Shear and von Mises stresses inside arteries and plaques have been shown to play a major role in plaque development, progression of disease, and the likelihood of plaque rupture. Our results show a drastic change in maximum shear (300%) and von Mises stresses (500%) with increasing external pressure. This change may indicate an onset of imminent plaque rupture. Furthermore, FSI modelling indicates a strong correlation between plaque thickness, location, and external pressure. With further clinical and simulation studies, this information could be helpful in understanding potential limit pressure in the CPR process for patients with CHD.

HR-MRI findings of intracranial artery stenosis and distribution of atherosclerotic plaques caused by different etiologies.

To investigate the etiology of intracranial artery stenosis and the distribution characteristics of intracranial artery atherosclerotic stenosis using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR-MRI). A total of 262 patients with intracranial artery stenosis that underwent HR-MRI from November 2019 to December 2020 were retrospectively enrolled. The etiology of intracranial anterior and posterior circulation artery stenosis was analyzed, and the relationship between the location of plaques and the distribution characteristics of plaques and the occurrence of ischemic stroke was summarized. A total of 276 plaques were identified with HR-MRI. There were 101 cases (36.59%) in the middle cerebral artery (MCA), 14 cases (5.07%) in the posterior cerebral artery (PCA), 90 cases (32.62%) in vertebral artery (VA), and 71 cases (25.72%) in the basilar artery (BA). The infarct rate of ventral and superior wall MCA plaques was higher than that of dorsal and inferior wall (63.33% vs 31.25% P = 0.021) (100.00% vs 50% P = 0.022). MCA with plaques throughout the course had the greatest degree of stenosis (P < 0.001). Sphenoid segment (M1) of MCA was most susceptible (85 cases, 84.16%), MCA plaques were most common in the proximal M1 segment (35 cases, 34.65%), and most BA plaques were found in the distal segment (28 cases, 39.44%). PCA plaques were most frequently involved in traffic anterior segment (P1) (7 cases, 50.00%). HR-MRI could provide accurate imaging reference for clinical evaluation of intracranial arterial stenosis and formulation of treatment plans. The intracranial arterial plates mostly appeared in the middle cerebral artery and vertebral artery. Middle cerebral arteries with atherosclerotic plaques are more likely to narrow.

Role of diffusion-weighted imaging in carotid plaque vulnerability assessment

BackgroundMR plaque imaging is a valuable tool in characterizing carotid atherosclerotic plaque and identifying high-risk features. There are limited data on the role of the widely available single-shot diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in plaque characterization along with histological correlation. This study aimed to correlate the plaque characteristics identified by MR imaging in vivo at the level of maximum stenosis with histological plaque characteristics in the postoperative specimen.MethodsPatients who underwent carotid endarterectomy in a tertiary care center during one and half years were prospectively recruited for non-contrast MR carotid plaque imaging (including single-shot EPI-DWI sequence) in a 3 Tesla MRI using a dedicated carotid coil. An experienced radiologist correlated DWI sequence findings with histopathology of postsurgical sections to confirm the high-risk features.ResultsTwenty-three patients (mean age 66.1 years ± SD 6.25) were evaluated, of which 65% were males and 96% were symptomatic. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in location of plaques could differentiate histopathological unstable from stable plaques (0.83 × 10–3 mm2/s vs 1.7 × 10–3 mm2/s; p 0.001), with a sensitivity and specificity of 75% and 79%, respectively, at an ADC cutoff of 1.24 × 10–3 mm2/s. Plaques with and without lipid-rich necrotic core (0.86 × 10–3 mm2/s vs 1.44 × 10–3 mm2/s; p = 0.042) as well as intraplaque hemorrhage could be differentiated (0.751 × 10–3 mm2/s vs 1.352 × 10–3 mm2/s; p 0.037) using the apparent diffusion coefficients.ConclusionThe widely available single-shot EPI-DWI in assessing plaque characteristics in carotid stenosis is promising and correlated with histopathological features. Diffusion-weighted imaging will be a helpful adjunct in patients when contrast administration is intolerable.

PD23-08 POSTOPERATIVE PROGRESS OF MODIFIED GRID INCISION AND SEALING WITH COLLAGEN FLEECE FOR TREATMENT OF PEYRONIE’S DISEASE; CLINICAL AND ULTRASONOGRAPHY OUTCOME

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 May 2022PD23-08 POSTOPERATIVE PROGRESS OF MODIFIED GRID INCISION AND SEALING WITH COLLAGEN FLEECE FOR TREATMENT OF PEYRONIE’S DISEASE; CLINICAL AND ULTRASONOGRAPHY OUTCOME Sun Tae Ahn, Sun Bum Cho, Hyun Soo Lee, Da Eun Han, Jong Wook Kim, and Mi Mi Oh Sun Tae AhnSun Tae Ahn More articles by this author , Sun Bum ChoSun Bum Cho More articles by this author , Hyun Soo LeeHyun Soo Lee More articles by this author , Da Eun HanDa Eun Han More articles by this author , Jong Wook KimJong Wook Kim More articles by this author , and Mi Mi OhMi Mi Oh More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000002565.08AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Recently, there have been reports on partial plaque excision and grafting with collagen fleece technique regarding long term efficacy. However, there is still concern regarding complete regeneration of tunical defect from collagen fleece in terms of regenerative medicine. Previously, we introduced a less invasive modified technique by multiple grid incisions of Peyronie’s plaque to minimize weakness of regenerated tunica from the collagen fleece graft. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of our modified technique through a prospective follow-up study including ultrasonography. METHODS: From Aug 2018, 31 patients with stable Peyronie’s disease were included. Surgical technique was composed 3 major steps; 1) dissection of the neurovascular bundle or urethra according to the location of plaque, 2) multiple deep grid plaque incisions for complete correction of curvature and deformity and 3) sealing with collagen fleece without suturing. Prospectively, we assessed the stretched penile length, totally straightness, penile sono, erectile function preoperatively and 6, 12, 24, 36 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Mean patient age was 58.5 years (range: 46–75). The mean curvature was 45.95 (15-90) degrees, 8 with hinge and 7with hourglass deformity. Inflatable penile prosthesis(IPP) was inserted in 4 patients and postoperative 30 months in a patient for poor erectile function. Mean follow-up was 15 months (6-36). Daily massage softened the hard thickening of penis gradually from 3 months until 2 year. On follow-up sonography, subcutaneous thickening gradually decreased to near normal at 1 year and the breakage of tunica by grid incision reunited at postoperative 10-12 months (Figure 1.). All patients achieved totally straightness. Minor skin problem was occurred in 3 patients of IPP. Subcutaneous bulging hematoma was occurred in 2 patients but subsided within 3 months. In postoperative erectile function of 27 patients without IPP, spontaneous hard erection was recovered in 10 and the rest are satisfied with PED5 inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS: Our prospective progress reports with technical modification of various plaque incisions shows that one can achieve a sufficient surgical effect without making defect of tunica albuginea. Source of Funding: none © 2022 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 207Issue Supplement 5May 2022Page: e412 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2022 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Sun Tae Ahn More articles by this author Sun Bum Cho More articles by this author Hyun Soo Lee More articles by this author Da Eun Han More articles by this author Jong Wook Kim More articles by this author Mi Mi Oh More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF DownloadLoading ...

Postoperative progress of modified grid incision and sealing with collagen fleece for treatment of Peyronie's disease

ABSTRACT Introduction Recently, there have been reports on partial plaque excision and grafting with collagen fleece technique regarding long term efficacy. However, there is still concern regarding complete regeneration of tunical defect from collagen fleece graft in terms of regenerative medicine. Previously, we introduced a less invasive modified technique by multiple grid incisions of Peyronie's plaque to minimize weakness of regenerated tunica from the collagen fleece graft and consequent veno-occlusive erectile dysfunction. Objective To assess the efficacy of Modified Grid Incision of plaque and sealing with Collagen Fleece through post-operative progress of 31 patients with prospective follow-up study. Methods From Aug 2018, 31 patients with stable Peyronie's disease (PD) were included. Surgical technique was composed 3 major steps; 1) dissection of the neurovascular bundle or urethra according to the location of plaque, 2) multiple deep grid plaque incisions for complete correction of curvature and deformity and 3) sealing with collagen fleece (TachoSil®) without suturing. Prospectively, we assessed the stretched penile length (SPL), totally straightness, penile sono, erectile function preoperatively and 6, 12, 24, 36 months postoperatively. This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Korea University Hospital. Results Mean patient age was 58.5 years (range: 46–75). The mean curvature was 45.95 (15-90) degrees, 8 with hinge and 7with hourglass deformity. Inflatable penile prosthesis(IPP) was inserted in 4 patients and postoperative 30 months in a patient for poor erectile function. Mean follow-up was 15 months (6-36). Daily massage softened the hard thickening of penis gradually from 3 months until 2 year. On follow-up sonography, subcutaneous thickening gradually decreased to near normal at 1 year and the breakage of tunica by grid incision reunited at postoperative 10-12 months. All patients achieved totally straightness. All patients gained preoperative length after 1.6 year. 96% of patients satisfied in GAQ at 1 year. Minor skin problem was occurred in three patients of IPP. Subcutaneous bulging hematoma was occurred in 2 patients but subsided within 3 months. In postoperative erectile function of 27 patients without IPP, spontaneous hard erection was recovered in 10 and the rest are satisfied with PED5 inhibitors. Conclusions Our prospective progress reports with technical modification of various plaque incisions shows that one can achieve a sufficient surgical effect without making defect of tunica albuginea. Precise understanding of the postoperative progressions are necessary for physician's confidence and encouraging the patients for successful clinical outcomes. Disclosure Work supported by industry: no.

Coronary Artery Disease Features and Epicardial Adipose on CT are Predictive Factors for Cardiovascular Events in Type 2 Diabetic Patients at High/Very High Cardiovascular Risk: A Pilot Retrospective Study

Aim: The study aimed to estimate the association between characterizations on coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and cardiovascular events in type 2 diabetic patients at high/very high cardiovascular risk without known coronary artery disease (CAD), to investigate the incremental value of CCTA in these individuals. Methods: 82 type 2 diabetes patients without known CAD were enrolled according to the 2019 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines of high/ very high cardiovascular risk. The coronary artery calcium score, plaque location and extent and composition, stenosis severity, and epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) volume were evaluated. The cardiovascular events included cardiac death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization, non-fatal stroke, hospitalization for unstable angina, and hospitalization for congestive heart failure during a mean follow-up period of 4.7±1.5 years. Univariate analysis and multivariate regression were used to obtain independent risk factors for CVEVs in these patients. The increased discriminative value after the addition of CAD features and EATS volume to the established clinical risk factors were estimated using the area under a receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results: CVEVs occurred in 26.8% of the patients. Independent predictors of CVEVs included hypertension (odds ratio (OR) 3.844, P=0.020), diabetes duration (OR 1.129, P=0.049), creatinine (OR 1.072, P=0.022), ABOS (OR 1.729, P=0.031), SSS (OR 1.213, P=0.021), and EAT volume (OR 1.025, P=0.012) The combination of ABOS, SSS and clinical risk factors improved the identify of CVEVs, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.955 (95% confidence interval 0.885 to 0.989; P=0.004) for the prediction of the endpoints. Conclusion: The extent and severity of overall coronary atheroma burden and EAT volume based on CCTA are associated with long-term CVEVs for type 2 diabetic patients at high/very high cardiovascular risk. CCTA has incremental value in evaluating the heterogeneity of such subclinical patients and beneficial forewarning for these individuals with CVEVs.

Atheromatosis of the brain-supplying arteries: Circle of Willis, basilar, vertebral and their branches

PurposeAtherosclerotic plaques in the brain-supplying arteries are slowly-developing alterations of vascular structures that can lead to neurological impairment due to stenosis and insufficient oxygenation of eloquent brain areas. The aim of this study is to provide detailed demographic information related to the incidence of atherosclerotic plaques in the cerebral arteries. Material and methodsForty-eight circles of Willis (21 men, 21 women, mean age: 70.26, six samples unknown) were macroscopically analyzed for length, diameter, and presence of atherosclerotic plaques. Statistical analysis was used to identify potential differences in the locations and frequencies of atherosclerotic plaques in relation to age and sex. ResultsThe study sample revealed 261 atherosclerotic plaques. The key findings were significant correlations between plaque development and age and between plaque location and age; however, there was no significant sex difference. ConclusionThe upper and lower branches of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) were novel locations predisposing to plaque development. A cut-off value at 60 years revealed a significant difference in plaque development and distribution. There were no significant sex differences in the occurrence of atherosclerotic plaques.

Label-free Raman and fluorescence imaging of amyloid plaques in human Alzheimer’s disease brain tissue reveal carotenoid accumulations

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease, characterized by the presence of extracellular deposits (plaques) of amyloid-beta peptide and intracellular aggregates of phosphorylated tau. In general, these hallmarks are studied by techniques requiring chemical pre-treatment and indirect labeling. Imaging techniques that require no labeling and could be performed on tissue in its native form could contribute to a better understanding of the disease. In this article a combination of label-free and non-invasive techniques is presented to study the biomolecular composition of AD human brain tissue. We build on previous research that already revealed the autofluorescence property of plaque, and the presence of carotenoids in cored plaques. Here, we present further results on cored plaques: showing blue and green autofluorescence emission coming from the same plaque location. Raman microscopy was used to confirm the presence of carotenoids in the plaque areas, with clear peaks around 1150 and 1514 cm−1. Carotenoid reference spectra were recorded in hexane solution, but also adsorbed on aggregated Aβ42 peptides; the latter agreed better with the Raman spectra observed in plaques. From the six single carotenoids measured, lycopene matched closest with the peak positions observed in the cored plaques. Lastly, stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy measurements were performed, targeting the shift of the beta-sheet Amide I peak observed in plaques. Employing SRS in the C–H stretch region we also looked for the presence of a lipid halo around plaque, as reported in the literature for transgenic AD mice, but such a halo was not observed in these human AD brain samples.

Postoperative Progress of Modified Grid Incision and Sealing with Collagen Fleece for Treatment of Peyronie's Disease

ABSTRACT Introduction Recently, there have been reports on partial plaque excision and grafting with collagen fleece technique regarding long term efficacy. However, there is still concern regarding complete regeneration of tunical defect from collagen fleece graft in terms of regenerative medicine. Previously, we introduced a less invasive modified technique by multiple grid incisions of Peyronie's plaque to minimize weakness of regenerated tunica from the collagen fleece graft and consequent veno-occlusive erectile dysfunction. Objective To assess the efficacy of Modified Grid Incision of plaque and sealing with Collagen Fleece through post-operative progress of 31 patients with prospective follow-up study. Methods From Aug 2018, 31 patients with stable Peyronie's disease (PD) were included. Surgical technique was composed 3 major steps; 1) dissection of the neurovascular bundle or urethra according to the location of plaque, 2) multiple deep grid plaque incisions for complete correction of curvature and deformity and 3) sealing with collagen fleece (TachoSil®) without suturing. Prospectively, we assessed the stretched penile length (SPL), totally straightness, penile sono, erectile function preoperatively and 6, 12, 24, 36 months postoperatively. This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Korea University Hospital. Results Mean patient age was 58.5 years (range: 46–75). The mean curvature was 45.95 (15-90) degrees, 8 with hinge and 7with hourglass deformity. Inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) was inserted in 4 patients and postoperative 30 months in a patient for poor erectile function. Mean follow-up was 15 months (6-36). Daily massage softened the hard thickening of penis gradually from 3 months until 2 year. On follow-up sonography, subcutaneous thickening gradually decreased to near normal at 1 year and the breakage of tunica by grid incision reunited at postoperative 10-12 months. All patients achieved totally straightness. All patients gained preoperative length after 1.6 year. 96% of patients satisfied in GAQ at 1 year. Minor skin problem was occurred in three patients of IPP. Subcutaneous bulging hematoma was occurred in 2 patients but subsided within 3 months. In postoperative erectile function of 27 patients without IPP, spontaneous hard erection was recovered in 10 and the rest are satisfied with PED5 inhibitors. Conclusions Our prospective progress reports with technical modification of various plaque incisions shows that one can achieve a sufficient surgical effect without making defect of tunica albuginea. Precise understanding of the postoperative progressions are necessary for physician's confidence and encouraging the patients for successful clinical outcomes. Disclosure No

Relationships between Indicators of Lower Extremity Artery Disease and miRNA Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells.

Lower extremity artery disease (LEAD) is an underdiagnosed and globally underestimated vascular disease caused by the progressive and chronic formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries of the lower limbs. Much evidence indicates that the abnormal course of pathophysiological processes underlying LEAD development is associated with altered miRNA modulatory function. In the presented study, relationships between miRNA expression and clinical indicators of this disease (ABI, claudication distance, length of arterial occlusion, Rutherford category, and plaque localization) were identified. MiRNA expression profiles were obtained using next-generation sequencing in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of 40 LEAD patients. Correlation analysis performed using the Spearman rank correlation test revealed miRNAs related to ABI, claudication distance, and length of arterial occlusion. In the DESeq2 analysis, five miRNAs were found to be dysregulated in patients with Rutherford category 3 compared to patients with Rutherford category 2. No miRNAs were found to be differentially expressed between patients with different plaque localizations. Functional analysis performed using the miRNet 2.0 website tool determined associations of selected miRNAs with processes underlying vascular pathology, such as vascular smooth muscle cell differentiation, endothelial cell apoptosis, response to hypoxia, inflammation, lipid metabolism, and circadian rhythm. The most enriched functional terms for genes targeted by associated miRNAs were linked to regulation of the cell cycle, regulation of the transcription process, and nuclear cellular compartment. In conclusion, dysregulations of miRNA expression in PBMCs of patients with LEAD are indicative of the disease and could potentially be used in the prediction of LEAD progression.

A Predictive Model for the Risk of Posterior Circulation Stroke in Patients with Intracranial Atherosclerosis Based on High Resolution MRI.

Intracranial vertebrobasilar atherosclerosis is the main cause of posterior circulation ischemic stroke. We aimed to construct a predictive model for the risk of posterior circulation ischemic stroke in patients with posterior circulation atherosclerosis based on high-resolution MRI (HR-MRI). A total of 208 consecutive patients with posterior circulation atherosclerosis confirmed by HR-MRI, from January 2020 to July 2021, were retrospectively assessed. They were assigned to the posterior circulation stroke (49 patients) and non-posterior circulation stroke group (159 patients) based on clinical presentation and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). Demographic data, risk factors of atherosclerosis, laboratory findings, and imaging characteristics were extracted from electronic health records. Plaque features were investigated by HR-MRI. Fifty-three clinical or imaging features were used to derive the model. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to construct the prediction model. The nomogram was evaluated for calibration, differentiation, and clinical usefulness. Plaque enhancement, plaque irregular surface morphology, artery location of plaque, and dorsal quadrant of plaque location were significant predictors for posterior circulation stroke in patients with intracranial atherosclerosis. Subsequently, these variables were selected to establish a nomogram. The model showed good distinction (C-index 0.830, 95% CI 0.766-0.895). The calibration curve also showed excellent consistency between the prediction of the nomogram and the observed curve. Decision curve analysis further demonstrated that the nomogram conferred significantly high clinical net benefit. The nomogram calculated from plaque characteristics in HR-MRI may accurately predict the posterior circulation stroke occurrence and be of great help for stratification of stroke decision making.

Assessing the characteristics and diagnostic value of plaques for patients with acute stroke using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging.

A comprehensive understanding of atherosclerotic plaques aids physicians in evaluation and treatment of stroke. This study set out to evaluate the characteristics and diagnostic value of atherosclerotic plaques in patients with acute stroke and stenotic middle cerebral artery (MCA) using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging. Sixty-five consecutive patients with transient ischemic attack or recent ischemic stroke were prospectively recruited. All enrolled patients underwent routine magnetic resonance scans and cross-sectional scans of the stenotic MCA vascular wall. Differences in vascular wall parameters and location, the enhancement degree, and remodelling patterns of plaques in the stenotic MCA were compared between symptomatic (n=30) and asymptomatic (n=35) groups of patients. The statistically significant indicators were then subjected to logistic regression analysis to identify which factors could better predict acute stroke. Compared with the asymptomatic group, the symptomatic group had a smaller lumen area (LA) (P=0.027), larger plaque area (P<0.001), larger remodelling index (P<0.001), more superior/posterior plaques (P=0.001), more obviously enhanced plaques (P<0.001), and a greater number of PR patterns (P<0.001) in the stenotic MCA. Logistic regression analysis showed that the plaque area, remodelling patterns, LA in the stenotic MCA, enhancement degree, and plaque location were predictors of acute stroke. The combination of the plaque area and LA in the stenotic MCA, and the plaque enhancement degree had optimal predictive value (area under the curve =0.927). A larger plaque area and smaller LA in the stenotic MCA, and obvious plaque enhancement might indicate that a patient is prone to acute stroke.

Abstract WMP108: Prevalence Of High-Risk Aortic Arch Atherosclerosis Features Among Patients With Embolic Stroke Of Undetermined Source

Introduction: Embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) comprises a heterogenous group. There is a need to further identify etiologies within this group to guide management strategies. We examined the prevalence of aortic arch atherosclerosis (AAA) in ESUS patients on CT angiography (CTA) to characterize high-risk plaque features. Methods: All patients from two prospective multicenter studies (INTERRSeCT and PRove-IT) were included if the CTA adequately imaged the proximal aortic arch and the etiology was recorded. Three independent readers analyzed the following AAA plaque features on CTA at the time of acute ischemic stroke: 1) thickness in mm (radial measurement at thickest point); 2) morphology (Figure a-c): none, smooth, ulcerated, or protruding; 3) location within the aortic arch (proximal, transverse, or distal); and 4) calcification (Figure a, d-f): none, single small, multiple small, single large, or diffuse extensive. Reader disagreement was resolved by consensus. Results: We included 1063 patients, of which 293 (27.6%) had ESUS (mean age 67.5 years; 46.4% men). The mean AAA thickness was significantly larger in ESUS versus non-ESUS patients (3.8 vs 3.0 mm, p&lt;0.0001). The ESUS group had a significantly higher proportion of ulcerated or protruding plaques (17.4% vs 10.3%; risk ratio 1.7, CI 95 1.2-2.4, p=0.002). The location of AAA in the ESUS group was the ascending aorta in 37.9%, transverse arch in 42.3%, and descending aorta in 84.6%. Although AAA was mostly located in the distal aortic arch, ulcerated or protruding plaques were least common in the distal arch (p=0.002). There was no difference between ESUS and non-ESUS patients in plaque location (p=0.23) or calcification grade (p=0.092). Conclusions: ESUS patients had thicker AAA plaques and a higher prevalence of ulcerated or protruding plaques located more proximally within the aortic arch. High-risk plaque features could be a potential cause of acute ischemic stroke in the ESUS population.

Sociodemographic and Illness-Related Indicators to Predict the Status of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) Five Years after Disease Onset.

Background: Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) is an autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Currently, no factors have been identified to predict the long-term course of NMOSD. To counter this, we analyzed data of 58 individuals with NMOSD at disease onset and about five years later. Methods: Medical records of 58 individuals with NMOSD (mean age: 31.13 years at disease onset; 86.2% female) were retrospectively analyzed. At baseline, a thorough medical and disease-related examination was performed; the same examination was repeated about five years later at follow-up, including treatment-related information. Mean outcome measure was the difference in EDSS (Expanded Disease Severity Scale) scores between baseline and follow-up. Results: Mean disease duration was 4.67 years. Based on the differences of the EDSS scores between baseline and follow-up, participants were categorized as improving (n = 39; 67.2%), unchanged (n = 13; 22.4%) and deteriorating (n = 6; 10.3%). Deteriorating was related to a higher progression index, and a higher number of attacks, while the annualized relapse rate reflecting the number of attacks per time lapse did not differ between the three groups. Improving was related to a higher intake of rituximab, and to a higher rate of seropositive cases. Unchanged was related to a lower rate of seropositive cases. Factors such as age, gender, somatic and psychiatric comorbidities, symptoms at disease onset, relapse rates, number and location of cervical plaques, or brain plaques and thoracolumbar plaques at baseline did not differ between those improving, deteriorating or remaining unchanged. Conclusions: Among a smaller sample of individuals with NMOSD followed-up about five years later, individuals deteriorating over time reported a higher progression index, while the annualized relapse rate was unrelated to the progress of disease. Overall, it appears that the course of NMOSD over a time lapse of about five years after disease onset is highly individualized. Accordingly, treatment regimen demands a highly individually tailored approach.

Association of Plaque Location and Vessel Geometry Determined by Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography With Future Acute Coronary Syndrome–Causing Culprit Lesions

Distinct plaque locations and vessel geometric features predispose to altered coronary flow hemodynamics. The association between these lesion-level characteristics assessed by coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) and risk of future acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is unknown. To examine whether CCTA-derived adverse geometric characteristics (AGCs) of coronary lesions describing location and vessel geometry add to plaque morphology and burden for identifying culprit lesion precursors associated with future ACS. This substudy of ICONIC (Incident Coronary Syndromes Identified by Computed Tomography), a multicenter nested case-control cohort study, included patients with ACS and a culprit lesion precursor identified on baseline CCTA (n = 116) and propensity score-matched non-ACS controls (n = 116). Data were collected from July 20, 2012, to April 30, 2017, and analyzed from October 1, 2020, to October 31, 2021. Coronary lesions were evaluated for the following 3 AGCs: (1) distance from the coronary ostium to lesion; (2) location at vessel bifurcations; and (3) vessel tortuosity, defined as the presence of 1 bend of greater than 90° or 3 curves of 45° to 90° using a 3-point angle within the lesion. Association between lesion-level AGCs and risk of future ACS-causing culprit lesions. Of 548 lesions, 116 culprit lesion precursors were identified in 116 patients (80 [69.0%] men; mean [SD], age 62.7 [11.5] years). Compared with nonculprit lesions, culprit lesion precursors had a shorter distance from the ostium (median, 35.1 [IQR, 23.6-48.4] mm vs 44.5 [IQR, 28.2-70.8] mm), more frequently localized to bifurcations (85 [73.3%] vs 168 [38.9%]), and had more tortuous vessel segments (5 [4.3%] vs 6 [1.4%]; all P < .05). In multivariable Cox regression analysis, an increasing number of AGCs was associated with a greater risk of future culprit lesions (hazard ratio [HR] for 1 AGC, 2.90 [95% CI, 1.38-6.08]; P = .005; HR for ≥2 AGCs, 6.84 [95% CI, 3.33-14.04]; P < .001). Adverse geometric characteristics provided incremental discriminatory value for culprit lesion precursors when added to a model containing stenosis severity, adverse morphological plaque characteristics, and quantitative plaque characteristics (area under the curve, 0.766 [95% CI, 0.718-0.814] vs 0.733 [95% CI, 0.685-0.782]). In per-patient comparison, patients with ACS had a higher frequency of lesions with adverse plaque characteristics, AGCs, or both compared with control patients (≥2 adverse plaque characteristics, 70 [60.3%] vs 50 [43.1%]; ≥2 AGCs, 92 [79.3%] vs 60 [51.7%]; ≥2 of both, 37 [31.9%] vs 20 [17.2%]; all P < .05). These findings support the concept that CCTA-derived AGCs capturing lesion location and vessel geometry are associated with risk of future ACS-causing culprit lesions. Adverse geometric characteristics may provide additive prognostic information beyond plaque assessment in CCTA.

Preventing Heart Disease via Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring to Make a Definitive Diagnosis of Atherosclerosis

Purpose: Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in the Western world. The purpose of this manuscript is to compare the benefits and deficiencies of coronary artery calcium scanning versus computer generated risk equations in identifying atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. These two approaches provide significantly different cardiovascular risk assessments and often lead to therapeutic differences in recommendations from the physician to the patient. Methods: Pertinent medical literature is reviewed concerning both risk assessment approaches (i.e., coronary artery scanning and computer generated risk equations). The strengths and weaknesses of both approaches are discussed, and recommendations are provided based upon available data. Results: Cardiovascular risk equations are simple and readily obtained at no charge by physicians. However, their drawbacks are several, including non-applicability to specific populations, disagreements among different cardiovascular society risk equations, wide ranges of risk outputs (e.g., intermediate 10-year risk is between 5% and 20%), inability to definitively identify coronary artery plaques, and lack of definitive anatomical coronary disease. Alternatively, coronary artery calcium scanning costs approximately $100/scan (if not covered by insurance), requires time and effort by the patient, and exposes the patient to a minimal amount of radiation. However, coronary calcium scanning identifies specific atherosclerotic coronary disease and provides additional information about the anatomical location (i.e., coronary artery) of the atherosclerotic plaque. Conclusion: Based on the published literature, coronary artery calcium scanning is the preferred approach for identifying atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Although there are minor drawbacks, overall it provides superior clinical information compared with computer generated risk equations.

Microsurgery versus embolization: different risk factors for short- and longterm outcomes of patients with ruptured aneurysms.

To evaluate the risk factors for poor outcomes after surgical and endovascular treatment of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). Patients with ≥ 18-years of age and aSAH were included, while patients who died within 12 h of admission or lost follow-up were excluded. All participants underwent standardized clinical and radiological assessment on admission and were reassessed at discharge and at 6-months follow-up using the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS). Death at discharge was associated with female gender, anterior communication artery (ACoA) aneurysm location and presence of atherosclerotic plaque in the surgical group, and with age in the endovascular group. Both groups had clinical condition on follow-up associated with mFisher score on admission and hypertension. GOS on follow-up was also associated with presence of atherosclerotic plaque and multiple aneurysms in surgical group, and with age in endovascular group. Subjects treated surgically are prone to unfavorable outcomes if atherosclerotic plaques and multiple aneurysms are present. In patients with endovascular treatment, age was the main predictor of clinical outcome.

Chlamydia pneumoniae is Prevalent in Symptomatic Coronary Atherosclerotic Plaque Samples Obtained From Directional Coronary Atherectomy, but its Quantity is Not Associated With Plaque Instability: An Immunohistochemical and Molecular Study.

Aim:To clarify whether there is any association between the extent of Chlamydia pneumoniae (C. pneumoniae) infection and plaque instability or post–directional coronary atherectomy (DCA) restenosis, we determined the frequency of C. pneumoniae infection and its localization in symptomatic coronary atherosclerotic plaques using specimens obtained from DCA.Methods and results:Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) revealed the existence of C. pneumoniae in all 50 specimens of coronary atherosclerotic plaques obtained by DCA. C. pneumoniae–positive cell ratio determined with IHC or copy numbers of C. pneumoniae DNA detected by RT-PCR did not differ significantly between patients with stable angina pectoris and those with acute coronary syndrome (IHC: 16.4 ± 7.6% vs 18.0 ± 7.1%, P = .42; RT-PCR: no. of cases with high copy numbers 12/25 vs 10/25, P = .78), or between patients with subsequent post-DCA restenosis and those without (IHC: 17.1 ± 8.0% vs 18.0 ± 7.4%, P = .74; RT-PCR: 5/12 vs 10/21, P = 1.00).Conclusions:C. pneumoniae was highly prevalent in coronary atherosclerotic plaques of patients who underwent DCA. However, the extent of C. pneumoniae infection in coronary atherosclerotic plaques was not associated with plaque instability or post-DCA restenosis.