Chest Pain Research Articles

Performance of Computerised Self-Reported Medical History-Taking and HEAR Score for Safe Early Rule-Out of Cardiac Events in Acute Chest Pain Patients: The CLEOS-CPDS Prospective Cohort Study

Abstract Objective A simplified version of the History, ECG, Age, Risk factors, Troponin (HEART) score, excluding troponin, has been proposed to rule out major adverse cardiac events (MACE). Computerised history taking (CHT) provides a systematic and automated method to obtain information necessary to calculate the HEAR score. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and diagnostic accuracy of CHT in calculating the HEAR score for predicting MACE. Methods Prospective study including clinically stable adults presenting with chest pain at the emergency department of Danderyd University Hospital (Stockholm, Sweden), in 2017-2019. Participants entered their medical histories on touchscreen tablets using CHT software. HEAR and HEART scores were calculated from CHT data. 30-day MACE and ACS outcomes were retrieved, and the diagnostic accuracy was assessed. Logistic regression was used to determine the most predictive components of the HEAR score. Results Among 1,000 patients, HEART and HEAR scores could be calculated from CHT data in 648 and 666 cases, respectively, with negative predictive values (95% CI) of 0.98 (0.97–0.99) and 0.99 (0.96–1.00). Two patients with HEAR score <2 experienced a 30-day MACE. The Age (OR 2.75, 95% CI 1.62–4.66) and History (OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.52–3.71) components of the HEAR score were most predictive of MACE. ACS outcomes provided similar results. Conclusions HEAR score acquired by CHT identifies very-low risk patients with chest pain in the ED, safely ruling out ACS and MACE. This highlights the value of computerised history-taking by patients, which may reduce unnecessary tests and hospital admissions. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03439449.

Abstract 4145822: The Enigma of Chest Pain: Rare Presentation of ALCAPA Syndrome in a Young Adult

Introduction: Anomalous Left Coronary Artery Arising from the Pulmonary Artery (ALCAPA), also known as Bland-White-Garland syndrome, is a rare congenital anomaly(incidence:1 in 300,000 live births) typically presenting during infancy. Adult presentations are even rarer due to a high mortality rate of nearly 90% in the first year of life without surgical intervention. This report examines an adult patient with exercise-induced chest pain who received a delayed diagnosis of ALCAPA via multimodal imaging. Case Summary: A 21-year-old male presented to the emergency department(ED) with severe retrosternal chest pain radiating to both shoulders and arms, which began during exercise 30 minutes prior. He had a history of similar, milder episodes during exercise, previously treated as musculoskeletal pain and gastroesophageal reflux disease in the ED. His medical, social, and family histories were unremarkable. Physical examination revealed a soft, continuous murmur along the left sternal border. During this visit, An EKG done showed sinus tachycardia at 110 bpm and deep T-wave inversions in the anterolateral leads, a dynamic ST-T changes from his baseline.Serial Cardiac biomarkers and a lipid profile were within normal ranges. Initially managed for acute coronary syndrome-unstable angina with antithrombotic therapy, beta-blockers, and nitrates, he underwent urgent coronary angiography. This revealed a dilated right coronary artery (RCA) with retrograde flow to the left coronary artery (LCA) into the main pulmonary artery (PA) via collaterals, with no evidence of atherosclerosis (Figure 1).Echocardiography (Figure 2) and coronary CT angiography (Figure 3) confirmed the diagnosis of ALCAPA. The patient underwent successful surgical repair with aortic reimplantation of the LCA and was discharged in good health. Discussion: In adult ALCAPA patients, good collateral circulation may develop; however, myocardial ischemia can occur due to the "coronary steal phenomenon" and poor collateral flow regulation, leading to angina, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. ALCAPA should be considered a differential diagnosis in adults presenting with exercise intolerance, as most sudden cardiac death cases occur by the fourth decade. A high index of clinical suspicion and a multimodality imaging approach is essential for the early diagnosis of this rare coronary anomaly, underscoring the critical role of early surgical intervention in preventing catastrophic, life-threatening events.

Abstract 4134796: Safety of over 1000 consecutive, selected low risk patients with accelerated discharge from a chest pain unit with early generation cardiac troponin use, no cardiac functional or anatomic testing and no clinical risk scores

Introduction: Over 6 million patients (pts) present to US emergency departments annually with chest pain (CP), of which the majority are found to have no serious disease. Evaluation of these pts results in substantial costs for unnecessary hospitalization and extensive testing. We evaluated the utility of early discharge of selected low-risk (LR) CP pts from a chest pain unit (CPU) in which no predischarge testing or risk scores were used. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed 1,037 consecutive LR CP pts from a prospectively recorded database. LR was based on normal examination, stable hemodynamics, normal electrocardiograms (ECG), and negative cardiac troponin I, without pre-discharge functional or anatomic cardiac testing or risk scores. We assessed demographics, comorbidities, medications, and major cardiac events at 30 d and 6 mos post-discharge. Results: The study group of 1037 pts comprised 26% of the 4010 pts admitted to the CPU during the study interval from May 2005 to March 2015. Mean patient age was 55 yrs, 56% (n=575) were women, and comorbid conditions were frequent: hypertension (64.1%), dyslipidemia (46.1%), diabetes (25.7%), documented coronary artery disease (19.3%), previous revascularization (20.6%), previous myocardial infarction (10.1%). Length of stay (LOS) in the CPU to discharge was 10.4 hrs. Women received more discharge cardiac medications than men: antiplatelet agents, statins, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II blockers, calcium channel blockers, and nitrates (p=0.0002 - 0.04). Follow-up (F/U) at 30 d was 91% (n=948) complete and revealed 0.3% (n=3) cardiac deaths, 0.6% (n=6) acute coronary syndromes (ACS), and 6.2% (n= 64) receiving revascularization. F/U at 6 mos was 90% (n=936) complete and total cumulative cardiac deaths were 0.9% (n=9), 0.7% (n=7) ACS and 6.3% (n=65) revascularization. Discussion: Cardiac events at both 30 d and 6 mos were very low and did not differ in men and women (P=0.8). LOS in CPU was minimized and patient safety was maintained. These selected LR pts remained at reduced risk for cardiac events despite a high rate of comorbidities. Early discharge of selected LR CP pts based on history, examination, ECG, and biomarker evaluation was safe and effective. Conclusion: This approach in selected LR pts has the potential to reduce unnecessary diagnostic testing and CPU LOS. This strategy could lead to substantial savings in healthcare costs without compromising patient safety.

Abstract 4134712: Pheochromocytoma-Induced Cardiomyopathy Requiring Mechanical Support with Ejection Fracture Recovery Following Surgical Resection

Introduction: Pheochromocytomas are catecholamine-secreting tumors that arise from chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla. The annual incidence is approximately 0.8 per 100,000 persons, though this is an underestimate given a high percentage diagnosed at autopsy. Classically, patients present with episodic headache, sweating, and tachycardia, however, pheochromocytomas can be associated with cardiomyopathy secondary to the catecholamine excess. We present an unusual case of pheochromocytoma-induced cardiogenic shock highlighting an excellent use of mechanical circulatory support with Impella and Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) bridging to surgical intervention resulting in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) recovery. Case Description: A 49-year-old female with past medical history of asthma initially presented to an outside hospital for palpitations, chest pain, and hypertension. Transthoracic echo (TTE) showed preserved left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) while cardiac MRI showed a LVEF of 43% with dilated left ventricle and diffuse global hypokinesis consistent with a dilated cardiomyopathy. She underwent a coronary angiogram demonstrating nonobstructive CAD. She was then discharged with readmission a month later at our hospital for chest tightness, palpitations, vomiting, weakness, and dizziness. Repeat TTE showed a drop in LVEF to 10-15%. She progressed to cardiogenic shock requiring BiPAP and inotrope initiation, with progressive shock and hypotension ultimately requiring Impella 5.5 and venoartrial ECMO. Abdominal imaging was notable for 4.7 x 4.2 cm right adrenal nodule and further workup with serum and urine metanephrines confirmed pheochromocytoma. While supported, the patient underwent right adrenalectomy with subsequent wean of mechanical circulatory support and biventricular recovery on TTE. Discussion: Pheochromocytoma-induced heart failure is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication from excess catecholamine effects on the myocardium. Pheochromocytomas should be considered in the evaluation of idiopathic heart failure even in the absence of symptoms related to catecholamine excess. Early detection, pharmacological management, and surgical resection may prevent progression of myocardial remodeling. Mechanical circulatory support can be a valuable adjunct in managing refractory heart failure in these patients by providing temporary hemodynamic stabilization while awaiting definitive tumor resection.

A Prospective Observational Study on the Clinical Profile Assessment of Myocardial Infarction Patients in a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital

Background: Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) are the single largest contributor to the global burden of disease and are recognized as the leading cause of death globally. CHD has various clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic to acute conditions, namely acute coronary syndrome. Cardiovascular risk factors for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) are on the rise in people of Indian origin. Myocardial Infarction (MI) also called as heart attack, infarction means the death of an area of tissue because of interrupted blood supply. Myocardial Infarction has become a growing concern among the cardiovascular diseases, hence the study is conducted in order to assess the clinical profile of patients suffering from MI. Aim: To assess the clinical presentations, risk factors, short-term complications and management of patients with MI. Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital over six months. A total of 121 patients were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Among the 121 patients included, the predominant were males (63.63%). Most of the patients fell under the age group of 51-60 (n=46). The common presenting symptoms were chest pain (42.32%), followed by breathlessness (26.04%) and sweating (15.34%). Most patients had NSTEMI (62.80%) and STEMI (37.19%). Alcohol (23.44%) was major risk factor followed by smoking (22.48%) and diabetes (14.35%). The elevated biomarkers noted were Troponin I (42.14%), Troponin T (37.19%) and CK-MB (6.61%) respectively. The majority of infarctions occurred on inferior wall (30.57%). The most prevalent complication observed was heart failure (14.8%) followed by sinus tachycardia (6.61%), and sinus bradycardia (5.78%). The majority of patients received key medications like anti-platelet agents, statins and anti-coagulants during hospital stay. Conclusion: The risk of men developing myocardial infarction is more compared to women due to various reasons. It is more likely that the diagnosis of myocardial infarction is neglected due to certain presenting symptoms like epigastric pain, syncope, vomiting, sweating etc., hence this study was conducted with an overview of creating awareness regarding the severity of myocardial infarction along with the advantages of early diagnosis.

Abstract 4114597: Spontaneous coronary artery dissection: Case series and review of associated cardiovascular risks

Background: Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) has emerged as an important cause of ACS, myocardial infarction, and sudden death particularly among young women and individuals with few conventional atherosclerotic risk factors. We reveiwed possible risk factors that could predispose to SCAD. Methods: We reviewed 13 consecutive patients presenting with SCAD across three different institutions over a period of 5 yrs and determined risk fatcors associated with this disase entity. Results: 13 patients presented with SCAD represented % 0.5 of the total number of patients who underwent cardiac cathaterizations for chest pain requiring admissions. 11/13 (84%) were female. 5/13 (38%) were Caucasian or Hispanic, and 3/13 (23%) were African-American. Mean age age was 49.3 + years. 8/13 (61%) had associated hyperlipidemia with LDL levels > than 110 mg/dL, 9/13 (64%) had an A1c < 5.6% and only 1/13 (0.07%) had A1c of 6.4%. HTN was present in 6/13 (46%) of patients, and family history of SCD or heart disease were only seen in 2/13 (15%). None of the patients had features suggestive of associated fibromuscular dysplasia or connecive tissue disease. D-dimer was elevated in 5/13 (38%) with average value of 1578 ng/dL. Inflammatory markers were reviewed, only 3 patient has had ESR and CRP ordered, and only 1/3 had a mildly elevated CRP 3.9 mg/dL. Only 1/13 (0.07%) required intervention which was due to further drop in her ejection fraction requiring PCI, with improvement in her symptoms. All patients were treated with dual anti-platelet therapy for 1 year, 1 was discontinued due to persitent chest pain and decision was made to treat with only aspirin. Traditionally, risks for SCAD were thought to be due to non-atheresclerotic factors, however our case series shows that more then 60% of patients had elevated LDL's and 46% with hypertension, implying that traditional atheresclerotic risk factors should not be ignored and may play a crucial role. Autoimmune diseases were not found in any of our patients. Conclusion and implications: In this series patients who had SCAD had conventional risk factors of CAD including HLD and hypertension. The variability of co morbidities makes the identification of specific risk factors very difficult and none of the patients had Fibromuscular dysplasia or any signs of inflammation. Elevated D Dimer was also seen in a majority of patients, and all but one was managed medically with a favorable outcome

Abstract 4134417: Cardiotoxicity Conundrum: Distinguishing Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Myocarditis from Fluorouracil Cardiotoxicity in Concurrent Therapy

Case Description: The patient is a 37-year-old male with metastatic gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma presenting with chest pain and dyspnea two days after initiation of leucovorin, fluorouracil, oxaliplatin (FOLFOX), and nivolumab therapy. He was tachycardic and hypotensive with elevated cardiac biomarkers and globally reduced left ventricular systolic function. Suspecting immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) myocarditis versus fluorouracil (5-FU) cardiotoxicity, he was treated simultaneously for both. After starting high-dose steroids and before uridine triacetate, he had improved symptoms, cardiac function, biomarkers, and invasive hemodynamics. Though his endomyocardial biopsy did not show inflammatory cell infiltrates, his CMR demonstrated increased T1 and T2 relaxation times consistent with myocarditis. Testing revealed normal dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) activity. He completed uridine triacetate and was discharged on a steroid taper. At follow-up, he remained clinically stable, tolerating oxaliplatin and docetaxel (FLOT) initiation and nivolumab rechallenge without 5-FU. Discussion: This case is challenging as the presentation does not conclusively identify a causative agent. The patient’s symptom severity suggests ICI myocarditis, while the early onset points to 5-FU cardiotoxicity. His quick recovery of cardiac function after medication cessation suggests 5-FU-associated Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. His improvement after steroids raises concern for an adverse immunologic response as in ICI myocarditis or idiosyncratic reactions to oxaliplatin with 5-FU. This patient received ICI therapy and chemotherapy, increasing his risk for cardiac immune-related adverse events. His protracted 5-FU infusion increased his risk for 5-FU cardiotoxicity, but his normal DPD activity mitigates this risk. Although his biopsy was negative, it cannot exclude ICI myocarditis. By the IC-OS 2021 consensus, he meets the criteria for ICI myocarditis presenting 48 hours after nivolumab exposure with cardiogenic shock, elevated cardiac biomarkers, decline in cardiac function, and CMR with elevated T1 and T2 relaxation times. Yet, his biomarkers remained normal with nivolumab rechallenge, arguing against ICI myocarditis and suggesting 5-FU as the culprit. Early recognition and differentiation of the culprit in concurrent therapies impact management and future treatment options. Rechallenge carries risk and requires interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure patient safety.

Abstract 4136159: Determinants of Exercise Intolerance in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: a Systematic Review

Background: Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a syndrome of an exaggerated heart rate (HR) response with standing, disproportionately affecting young women associated with exercise intolerance due to dizziness, palpitations, and/or chest pain. Research question: How does the exaggerated increase in HR with standing translate into impaired exercise tolerance in subjects with POTS? Aims: To systematically analyze determinants of exercise intolerance in subjects with POTS. Methods: We searched the National Library of Science and identifed 11 cohorts with a diagnosis of POTS and an assessment of exercise capacity. We abstracted the information including type of exercise testing, hemodynamics and gas exchange parameters (peak oxygen consumption [VO 2 ]) with exercise, and effect of interventions (if present). Results: We identified 849 subjects with POTS, female:male ratio of 8.5:1, 25±8 years, and 365 age-and sex-matched controls. A cycle ergometer was used in 8 studies (574 subjects, 68%) and a treadmill in 3 (275 subjects, 32%). Peak VO 2 was measured in 10 studies (836 subjects, 98%), and exercise hemodynamics in 9 (593 subjects, 70%). All 11 (100%) studies described a higher HR at rest and during submaximal exercise in subjects with POTS, with a similar slope of HR/load, and shorter time to peak HR. Of the 9 studies with hemodynamics, 6 (67%) reported a reduction in stroke volume (SV) with standing and with exercise, but only 1 (11%) documented a reduction in cardiac output (CO). Two studies (22%) enrolling teenagers showed a variable increase in SV and CO in POTS. Peak VO 2 was reduced in 8 (80%) studies when compared with predicted values, but only in 4 (40%) when compared with controls matched for deconditioning. Intravenous fluid administration in two studies did not affect HR, SV, CO or peak VO 2 . Exercise training in one study (19 subjects) and propranolol 20 mg in another study (11 subjects) led to improving peak VO 2 . Conclusions: An exaggerated HR response with standing and with exercise is a hallmark of POTS, a mechanism by which subjects reach a higher HR at lower workloads. While the increase in HR is associated with a reduction in SV, CO is typically maintained and occasionally increased, therefore making it an unlikely mechanism responsible for the peculiar exertional symptoms of POTS. Strategies that result in a reduction in HR may, on the other hand, translate in improved exercise capacity in subjects with POTS.

The Chinese Herbal Medicine Li Qi Huo Xue Di Wan Ameliorates Ischemia or Hypoxia-Induced Cardiac Injury and Remodeling in the Heart Through a Mechanism Involving Reduction of Necroptosis.

Li Qi Huo Xue Di Wan (LQHXDW), a Chinese herbal medicine, is commonly used to treat symptoms such as palpitations, chest tightness, chest pain, and shortness of breath. However, its potential to reduce ischemia or hypoxia-induced cardiac injury and remodeling, along with the precise mechanisms involved, remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the effects of LQHXDW on cardiac injury and remodeling induced by ischemia or hypoxia, both invivo and invitro, and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. The mouse heart was subjected to ischemia for 14 days, showing evident myocardial injury and notable cardiac remodeling, accompanied by a reduction in cardiac function; these phenomena were reversed in the presence of LQHXDW. In the cultured cardiomyocyte exposed to hypoxia, incubation with LQHXDW increased the cell viability and reduced lactate dehydrogenase release. Mechanistically, LQHXDW exerted inhibitory effect on the phosphorylation levels of RIPK1, RIPK3, and MLKL as well as oxidative stress in the mice hearts suffered ischemia and the cultured cardiomyocytes exposed to hypoxia. Using the methods of ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight-mass spectrometry, network pharmacology, and cellular thermal shift assay, phenethyl caffeate and isoliquiritigenin were identified as the potential active compounds in LQHXDW that counteract necroptosis. Based on these observations, we conclude that LQHXDW protects the heart against ischemia or hypoxia-induced cardiac injury and remodeling through suppression of the RIPK1/RIPK3/MLKL pathway-dependent necroptosis and oxidative stress.

Abstract 4123637: Prevalence of Invasively Diagnosed Coronary Endothelial Dysfunction in Patients with Chest Pain and Normal Coronary Flow Reserve: The Systematically Missed Diagnosis on Non-invasive Testing

Background: Invasive coronary reactivity testing (CRT) is the gold standard for comprehensive assessment of coronary endothelial and microvascular dysfunction in patients with angina and non-obstructive CAD (ANOCA). Non-invasive imaging modalities (PET and CMR) have emerged as potential alternatives. However, due to the inability to systemically administer acetylcholine, patients with normal coronary flow reserve (CFR) but abnormal endothelial function on invasive Ach testing are systemically missed on non-invasive testing. We aimed to assess the prevalence of coronary endothelial dysfunction in ANOCA patients with normal CFR. Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing CRT at our institution were included. Those with normal adenosine-based CFR (>2.5), were further stratified as having normal coronary endothelial function (NEF, <20% epicardial coronary diameter constriction and >50% increase in coronary blood flow in response to ACh) vs abnormal endothelial function (AEF, >20% epicardial coronary diameter constriction and/or <50% increase in coronary blood flow in response to Ach). We then assessed the proportion of AEF patients who would have been otherwise diagnosed with normal coronary physiology based on CFR alone on non-invasive testing. Results: 37 patients underwent CRT. Mean age was 55 years ± 25, 68% were females. 25 out of 37 patients (68%) had normal CFR. Of those patients, 17 (68%) patients had AEF. Distribution of coronary epicardial vs microvascular endothelial dysfunction is represented in Fig. 1. Conclusion: 68% of ANOCA patients with normal CFR had coronary epicardial and/or microvascular endothelial dysfunction and would have otherwise been labeled as ‘normal coronary physiology’ by non-invasive microvascular function testing. Our findings re-enforce the need for comprehensive invasive CRT for accurate comprehensive diagnosis of patients with ANOCA.

Abstract 4125719: Efficacy of Prodromal Symptom Assessment in Prognostic Stratification of Acute Myocarditis

Introduction: The outcomes of acute myocarditis are heterogeneous and can lead to clinically significant consequences. However, the patient characteristics associated with adverse outcomes at presentation are not fully understood. Objection: To investigate the association between the presence or absence of prodromal symptoms and in-hospital mortality in patients admitted with acute myocarditis. Methods: We analyzed multicenter data registry (Tokyo CCU Network Database, comprising 76 institutions in the Tokyo metropolitan area). The study included 261 cases with acute myocarditis from January 2017 to December 2020, among which 260 required hospitalization from the emergency department. Patients were grouped based on the presence or absence of prodromal symptoms prior to hospitalization. Prodromal symptoms include the following: (a) chest pain; (b) dyspnea; (c) fever; (d) ful-like symptoms; and (e) others.The primary outcome was in-hospital death. Results: Among the 261 patients with acute myocarditis, 187 patients (71.6%) exhibited prodromal symptoms, and 74 patients (28.3%) did not. The primary outcome occurred in 19 patients (25.6%) without prodromal symptoms and in 20 patients (10.6%) with prodromal symptoms (hazard ratio, 2.87; 95% CI, 1.34 to 6.13; P=0.004, Figure 1A). A multivariable-adjusted Cox regression analysis confirmed that the absence of prodromal symptoms was an independent predictor of poor prognosis, even after adjusting for age, sex and the history of diabetes and hypertension. Notably, this trend was pronounced among patients with Killip classes 2-4, revealing higher in-hospital mortality rate in the patients without prodromal symptoms compared to those with prodromal symptoms (48.6% vs 11.7%; P < 0.001, Figure 1B). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that the absence of prodromal symptoms in patients with acute myocarditis is an independent predictor of poor prognosis, especially for patients presented with Killip classes 2-4.

Abstract 4120573: Abrupt cardiac rupture of the patient with ATTR amyloidosis

A Japanese male in his 80s was admitted to our emergency department with chest pain. His prior history was syncope and ventricular tachycardia. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) revealed thickening of the basal part of the antero-septal wall and thinning of the basal part of the inferior wall. Coronary angiography (CAG), cardiac MRI and blood test revealed no specific abnormalities. The day before his emergency admission, he visited the cardiology outpatient department for a periodic examination of cardiac hypertrophy. ECG, chest X-ray, and TTE were unchanged from his prior examination. However, that night, he experienced chest pain and was transferred to our hospital. On arrival, his vital signs were critical, with a blood pressure of 70/59 mmHg. ECG indicated ST elevation in antero-lateral leads. TTE detected pericardial effusion, and contrast-enhanced CT identified two focal areas of non-enhancement in the myocardium and pericardial effusion without signs of aortic dissection. CAG revealed no significant stenosis or obstructive lesion. During coronary angiography, the patient deteriorated to asystole. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and percutaneous pericardial drainage were initiated. Hemorrhagic pericardial effusion was aspirated. Immediate surgical hemostasis was undergone, revealing about 2 cm lacerations and hematoma in the anterior and inferior wall. After surgery, he complained of abdominal discomfort. Esophageal gastrointestinal endoscopy was undergone to investigate the abdominal discomfort, and he was diagnosed with early gastric cancer. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was undergone, and histopathological examination revealed adenocarcinoma and eosinophilic amorphous materials deposited in the submucosal vessels. Congo red staining of the submucosal vessels revealed orange-red areas. A technetium-99m pyrophosphatase scintigraphy showed Grade 2 uptake in the heart. Transthyretin (TTR) staining was positive in the specimen from ESD, leading to a diagnosis of TTR amyloidosis. Genetic test for TTR was negative, which led to a diagnosis of wild-type TTR amyloidosis and tafamidis was started. In cases of acute pericardial effusion and/or cardiac rupture, it is imperative to consider cardiac amyloidosis as a potential etiology, in addition to myocardial infarction and aortic dissection, especially in patients with left ventricular wall thickening, neuropathy, or abnormal ECG, also known as “red flag”.

Abstract 4138517: Role of Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography in Patients with Discordant Findings on Exercise Stress Echocardiography

Background: Exercise stress echocardiography is routinely used for risk stratification and diagnosis of myocardial ischemia in low-to-intermediate risk patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Discrepancies between exercise electrocardiography (EKG) and echocardiography (ECHO) are common in clinical practice. Prior literature suggests that patients with discordant stress test results generally have worse outcomes, though the extent of epicardial atherosclerotic disease remains unclear. Coronary computed tomographic angiography (CTA) has gained a class I recommendation for the assessment of atherosclerotic burden per ACC/AHA chest pain guidelines. Using non-invasive fractional flow reserve (CT-FFR), the functional significance of lesions can also be assessed. This study investigates the incidence and burden of CAD in patients with discordant exercise echocardiography findings. Methods: Patients aged 18 or older who had exercise echocardiography followed by CTA from January 1, 2013, to January 31, 2023, were retrospectively enrolled in this study and categorized into two discordant result groups: EKG+/ECHO- or EKG-/ECHO+. Those who failed to achieve the target heart rate or had a paced rhythm/left bundle branch block on baseline EKG were excluded. CTA findings were classified as no CAD, non-obstructive CAD (<50% stenosis), obstructive CAD (≥50% stenosis), and obstructive CAD with FFR+ (<0.75). Results: The study included 198 patients, the majority female (56.0%), with a mean age of 61 ±10 years. Among them, 159 (80.3%) were EKG+/ECHO- and 39 (19.7%) were EKG-/ECHO+ (Table 1). In the EKG+/ECHO- group, 55 (34.6%) had no CAD, 48 (30.2%) had non-obstructive CAD, and 56 (35.2%) had obstructive CAD, out of which 19 (33.9%) were FFR+. In the EKG-/ECHO+ group, 13 (33.3%) had no CAD, 17 (43.6%) had non-obstructive CAD, and 9 (23.2%) had obstructive CAD of which 3 (33.3%) was FFR+. There was no statistically significant difference in the degree of CAD between the two cohorts. Conclusions: The majority of patients with discordant results on exercise echocardiography were found to have CAD. There was no significant difference in the degree of disease between the EKG+/ECHO- or EKG-/ECHO+ groups. Overall, discordant results on exercise echocardiography should not be discounted and warrant further evaluation. CTA provides important information that can impact the diagnosis and further medical management of patients with chest pain and suspected CAD.

Long-Term outcomes after stress echocardiography in real world practice: five-year follow-up of the UK Evarest study.

Stress echocardiography is widely used to assess patients with chest pain. The clinical value of a positive or negative test result to inform on likely longer-term outcomes when applied in real world practice across a healthcare system has not been previously reported. 5503 patients recruited across 32 UK NHS hospitals between 2018 and 2022, participating in the EVAREST/BSE-NSTEP prospective cohort study, with data on medical outcomes up to 2023 available from NHS England were included in analysis. Stress echocardiography results were related to outcomes, including death, procedures, hospital admissions and relevant cardiovascular diagnoses, based on Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazard ratios. Median follow-up was 829 days (IQR 224-1434). A positive stress echocardiogram was associated with a greater risk of myocardial infarction (HR 2.71, 95% CI 1.73-4.24, P<0.001), and a composite endpoint of cardiac-related mortality and myocardial infarction (HR 2.03, 95% CI 1.41-2.93, P<0.001). Hazard ratios increased with ischaemic burden. A negative stress echocardiogram identified an event-free 'warranty period' of at least five years in patients with no prior history of coronary artery disease, and four years for those with disease. In real-world practice, the degree of myocardial ischaemia recorded by clinicians at stress echocardiography correctly categorises risk of future events over the next five years. Reporting a stress echocardiogram as negative correctly identifies patients with no greater than a background risk of cardiovascular events over a similar time period.

Abstract 4138622: Cardiac Rhabdomyosarcoma: An Updated Review of the English Literature From 1980 Through 2023

Cardiac Rhabdomyosarcoma (CR) is a rare malignant neoplasm of the heart occurring in all age groups and genders. It can arise anywhere in the heart with varied clinical presentation. Available data on CR are mainly from case reports and series that are limited by small sizes. The purpose of this study was to characterize the epidemiology, presentation, management, hospital course, and outcomes of CR published in the English literature from 1980-2023. Methods: We reviewed and included all published case reports with a diagnosis of CR in adult patients (age &gt;18 years) on PubMed and Google Scholar using the keywords “primary cardiac tumor” and “cardiac rhabdomyosarcoma”. Data was extracted onto an Excel spreadsheet for analysis and the outcomes of interest were demographics, clinical presentation, diagnostic modalities, management, complications, and outcomes. We used descriptive statistics to analyze the data. Results: Among a total of 97 patients from 19 countries included in this study, 54% were males and the median age was 49 years (range 18-80). The main symptoms were dyspnea (37.1%), palpitations (23.7%), chest pains (16.5%) and syncope (6.5%). Hypotension or heart failure and arrhythmias were present in 10.3% and 9.3%, respectively and 5.2% had pericardial effusion. In addition to those with metastatic tumors, 22.7% had chronic co-morbidities. The majority of the cases were primary tumors (85.6%), and the remainder were (14.4%). All patients had at least one imaging modality including echocardiography (89%) and CT/MRI (84%). The commonest sites of cardiac involvement were the left atrium (35%), right atrium (33%), right ventricle (20%), and left ventricle (12%). Approximately 68% involved a single cardiac site while 32% involved multiple sites. Among the patients, 96% underwent surgery while 33% and 25% had chemotherapy and 25% radiotherapy, respectively. The median length of hospital stay was 11 days (range, 2-68 days), and mortality was recorded in 79.3% (77/97) of the patients. The median survival time was reported in 42 patients, and it was 6 months (range, 0-36 months). Conclusion: Cardiac rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare and aggressive malignant neoplasm. Most cases are primary tumors with poor outcomes such as a very short median survival time and a very high mortality rate despite the combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. This calls for further research into the early diagnosis and optimal management strategies to improve outcomes.

Abstract 4138486: Unplanned Readmissions Due to Post-Acute Myocardial Infarction Complications: Insights from the Nationwide Readmission Database

Introduction: Acute myocardial infarction (MI) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite advances in treatment, readmissions within 30 days remain a significant concern, impacting both patient outcomes and healthcare costs. This study aims to analyze trends in 30-day readmission rates (30-dr) for patients discharged after an acute MI. Methods: We analyzed the 2016-2020 Nationwide Readmission Database for patients aged ≥ 18 years with initial admission of acute MI and were readmitted within 30 days. Variables were identified using ICD-10 codes. The primary outcome was trends in 30-dr; secondary outcomes included trends in complications, mortality rate, length of stay (LOS), and healthcare costs. Multivariate and descriptive bivariate analyses were conducted, with p-values &lt;0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: There was a notable decrease in the acute MI index admissions total number from 507,608 in 2016 to 471,292, p trend &lt; 0.01. The index admission mean age throughout the study years was 66.9 ± 13.5 years, with 62.7% male patient. Index admission inpatient mortality dropped reaching OR 0.92 (CI 0.88-0.96) by 2020 with a drop of 0.08 OR from 2016 with (p trend &lt; 0.01) using logistic regression. The index admission LOS remained consistent with allover average 4.64 days (p trend = 0.25). The mean healthcare costs saw a significant increase from $22,456 in 2016 to $27,249 in 2020 (p trend &lt; 0.01). The 30-dr trend decreased from 9.41% in 2016 to 7.8% in 2020 (p trend &lt; 0.01). The top five readmission reasons in order included heart failure (14.94%of total readmission), myocardial reinfarction (13.59%), sepsis (4.49%), Acute kidney injury(2.4%), and chest pain(2.1%). The risk of readmission went up 1% for each year increase of age and 12% for female gender (using OR,logistic regression), despite initial admission was more male dominant. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates a declining initial admission, its mortality rate,and 30-dr. There was readmission healthcare costs increase. We noticed four top complications-driven readmission falling under cardiovascular diseases category with the top one as heart failure and myocardial reinfarction. This study tries to highlight relevant data to target interventions to reduce readmissions and complications, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the healthcare economic burden.

Preoperative management and anticoagulant efficacy in atrial myxoma-associated acute ischemic stroke: a case report and literature review

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is a common complication of atrial myxoma (AM), and most emboli originate from a thrombus attached to the surface of the myxoma, with occasional shedding of tumor fragments leading to stroke. Clinical manifestations of AM include mitral valve obstruction, systemic embolism, and weakness. However, neurological deficits and other nonspecific manifestations may mask the presence of AM. The surgical resection is the most effective treatment for these conditions. However, the main problem is the lack of consensus regarding the prevention and treatment of stroke complicated by myxoma during the perioperative period. This study aims to improve the diagnosis and treatment of AM and the associated AIS. Here, we report the case of a 27-year-old patient with AM who presented with chest pain, palpitations, and sudden dizziness and had a stroke under anticoagulant treatment during the admission period. We also reviewed and summarized the clinical presentations and characteristics of similar previously reported cases. Our review emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate perioperative management of AM and its associated AIS.

Abstract 4137945: A Tuscany regional screening program for juvenile sudden cardiac death in high schools: the JUST project

Background: Juvenile sudden cardiac death (SCD) has high impact on the family and society of the victim. While SCD screening programmes are effective in athletes, most (70-80%) young non-athletes individuals are not routinely screened. Research question: We hypothesized that a low-cost screening program may early identify subjects at risk of juvenile SCD, even in non-athletes. Goals: To evaluate the prevalence of SCD-related abnormal findings and, ultimately, to test the effectiveness of a screening programme in high schools. Methods: Between April 2023 and June 2024, high school individuals were enrolled in a screening programme in Tuscany (Pisa, Lucca and Livorno), based on a questionnaire investigating family history of juvenile SCD or diseases predisposing to SCD and symptoms (syncope, palpitations, chest pain), and digitally recorded electrocardiograms (ECGs). In case of abnormal findings, second-line investigations locally (echocardiography, Holter ECG monitoring and/or exercise testing) or third-line investigations at Fondazione Monasterio, Pisa, Italy (cardiac MRI, genetics or electrophysiological testing) were planned. Only preliminary results of the first-line screening are hereby reported. Results: We have currently enrolled 872 individuals (age 17.1±1.8 years, 481 [55%] males, 288 [33%] smokers, 102 [11.7%] recreational drugs users, and 645 [74%] non-competitive athletes). At questionnaires, 56 individuals (6.4%) had a family history of SCD, 32 (3.7%) a first-degree relative with cardiomyopathy, and 13 (1.5%) with channelopathy. As for symptoms, 21 participants (2.4%) reported chest pain or 26 (3%) syncope during exertion, while 90 (10.3%) paroxysmal palpitations. At ECG, we found 2 cases (0.2%) with a type-2 Brugada pattern, 1 female case (0.1%) with prolonged QTc interval (QTc 480 ms), 20 cases (2.3%) with V1-V3 T wave inversion (age &gt; 16 years), 18 cases (2%) of left ventricular hypertrophy (non-athletes), and 4 cases (0.5%) with atypical ventricular ectopy. After the first-line screening, 61 (7%) and 10 (1.2%) individuals were referred to second and third-line investigations, which are currently ongoing. Conclusions: We hereby propose a screening model in high schools that includes specific health questionnaires and digitally recorded ECGs. From preliminary analyses, this approach seems sensitive enough to be tested as a model to favour the early diagnosis of diseased conditions associated with juvenile SCD in the general population.

Abstract 4119267: Diagnosing An Uncommon Presentation of Cardiac Sarcoidosis with Isolated Bi-Atrial Involvement: A Case Report

Background: Sarcoidosis, a systemic granulomatous inflammatory disorder can involve various organs, including the heart but isolated bi-atrial cardiac involvement is rare. Advanced cardiac imaging especially in atypical presentations, can aid in early diagnosis. Case: A 59 year-old man with history of biopsy-proven pulmonary sarcoidosis presented with non exertional chest pain for 2 months. EKG, cardiac enzymes, and Initial echocardiogram(TTE) was unremarkable. Stress echocardiogram ruled out myocardial ischemia. CT scan noted mediastinal lymphadenopathy consistent with known sarcidosis. In absence of other explainable etiolgies for chest pain, Cardiac MRI was done and showed preserved biventricular function, subepicardial enhancement in the basal inferior, inferolateral, and anterolateral walls. The enhancement raised suspicion for CS. However, symptoms resolved spontaneously, cardiac workup paused and he was monitored conservatively with serial Echocardiogram(TTE) until onset of dyspnea 3 years later. Repeat TTE and EKG then noted newly enlarged left atrium and atrial tachycardia. Further testing with Cardiac positron emission tomographic imaging with F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG-PET CT) showed abnormal myocardial uptake in both atrial posterior walls but no ventricular involvement, indicative of isolated bi-atrial inflammation in CS. He was treated with prednisone and methotrexate. Successful symptom and inflammation resolution on FDG-PET CT occurred in 3 months Discussion: CS is rare and seen clinically in about 5% and diagnosed postmortem in 25% of sarcoidosis cases. Symptoms vary widely, with potential for severe heart complications. Left ventricle and interventricular septum are commonly involved, but isolated bi-atrial involvement is rare. Early diagnosis aided by Cardiac MRI and FDG-PET CT is crucial. Prednisone is mainstay of treatment, often combined with methotrexate. Cases of concurrent atrial CS involvement and bi-atrial fibrosis with Left ventricular hyperenhancement are documented, but this is the first known report of isolated bi-atrial hyperenhancement on FDG-PET CT for CS. This case highlights the need for symptom correlation with clinical and imaging follow-up, especially in atypical presentations.

Abstract 4135303: Acute Pericarditis Secondary to Secukinumab Therapy

Background: Pericarditis is the most common pericardial disease worldwide and has a high recurrence rate of 15-30%. It is primarily idiopathic but can arise from infectious and non-infectious causes; drug related cases are rare. Secukinumab, a fully human anti-interleukin-17A monoclonal antibody used for treating psoriasis, has been identified through the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System as potentially inducing pericarditis, though literature is scant. We report a case of acute pericarditis related to secukinumab use. Case presentation: A 28-year-old male with history of psoriasis on secukinumab therapy presented with sharp, central chest pain, and progressive shortness of breath for 3 weeks. He was evaluated for similar chest pain 3 weeks prior; CT chest showed small pericardial effusion and he was managed with analgesics without improvement. This admission, he had tachycardia, and ECG showed sinus rhythm with diffuse ST elevation and PR depression (Figure 1A). Troponin I levels were normal and inflammatory markers were elevated. Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) revealed a large pericardial effusion without tamponade physiology (Figure 1B). CT chest confirmed large pericardial effusion, increased in size compared to CT done 3 weeks prior (Figure 2). He was diagnosed with pericarditis and started on ibuprofen and colchicine which improved his symptoms. Search for viral etiology including testing for COVID, influenza A and B, RSV, hepatitis and HIV were negative. Immunological workup for ANA and rheumatoid factor was negative. Thus, secukinumab was thought to be the likely culprit. Follow-up TTE in 3 months showed resolution of pericardial effusion. Conclusion: This case underscores the importance of considering medication-induced pericarditis in patients presenting with typical symptoms, especially when on treatment with drugs like secukinumab. Given the growing evidence from pharmacovigilance databases and the severe potential outcomes of untreated pericarditis, clinicians should maintain vigilance for such adverse effects. Further research is warranted to clarify the mechanisms by which secukinumab may contribute to pericardial inflammation in order to optimize management strategies in affected patients.