Normal Angiograms Research Articles

How to predict myocardial injury in patients with large ischaemic burden identified during stress echocardiography?

Abstract Background/Introduction Stress echocardiography (SE) is well established diagnostic tool in coronary artery disease (CAD) with broadly agreed consensus for the indications and protocols. There is, however, no clear non-invasive SE parameter in identifying high risk features in patients with large burden of inducible regional wall motion abnormalities (RWMA) that would require prompt treatment or urgent admission. Purpose To identify high risk features during SE associated with myocardial injury following a positive SE with large amount of RWMA. Methods All consecutive patients referred for SE from June 2019 to November 2022 to diagnose coronary artery disease were assessed for inducible RWMAs using a hybrid protocol (low dose Dobutamine and exercise on supine bike with 3 min increments of workload of 25W). Those with ≥4/17 segments of inducible RWMAs underwent measurement of Troponin level 1 hour after the test termination. Somatometric characteristics, risks factors, symptoms, haemodynamic pre- and during SE and results of subsequent coronary angiography were recorded. Results 631 patients were referred for assessment of CAD. 87 patients had ≥4/17 inducible RWMAs out of 152 patients with positive SE. 61/87 who had Troponin measurements were included in the analysis. Mean age was 65 ± 13 yo, 61% were male. There was high prevalence of known CAD (77%) and cardiovascular risks factors as hypertension (59%) and hyperlipidaemia (61%). The median exercise time was 9 minutes, 46% developed chest pain (CP), 49% - ECG changes, 39% - left ventricular (LV) dilatation and 74% - reduction in LVEF. Troponin was positive in 25/61 patients. Invasive coronary angiography confirmed clinical CAD in 51/61 patients. 5 patients had either normal angiogram or non-obstructive CAD, 5 patients were awaiting diagnostic test. The severity of CAD appears to be associated with magnitude of Troponin release (1 vessel disease - 16.5 ng/L, 2 vessels disease - 39.9 ng/L, 3 vessels disease – 58.2 ng/L). All patients (6/61) with higher troponin values (>90ng/L) had multivessel disease involving the left anterior descending (LAD) artery. Interestingly, 2/5 patients without CAD had elevated Troponin suggesting possible ongoing myopathic process. The only non-invasive SE parameters that were significantly related to troponin increase were recovery time (P=0.001) and exercise time (P<0.05) whereas symptoms, BP response and LVEF reduction showed a trend which did not achieve significance. Conclusions In patient with positive SE with large burden of inducible RWMAs prolonged recovery time and low threshold for ischaemia appear to be the most reliable characteristic to identify patients with potential myocardial injury and should be used as a triaging tool for admission or early invasive assessment.

Cardiac Syndrome X - A mystery to worry about.

Madam, Cardiac syndrome X, by definition means original pain without any evidence of significant CVD visualized on angiogram. Normal angiogram makes it difficult for medical practitioners to detect this syndrome. About 10-20% of persons who undergo coronarography suffers from cardiac syndrome X [1]. It has the highest prevalence in postmenopausal women [2]. Most common indication is symptoms of myocardial infarction in patients [3]. Recent study by Magdalena Piegza et al shows the cardiac syndrome patients suffer from anxiety disorders, depressive symptoms and sleep disturbances [4]. This syndrome brings a great concern to Pakistan as already we have a high rate of anxiety disorders, heart problems and higher ratio of deaths due to CVD. A study conducted on 423 persons in tertiary care hospital in Karachi showed the mean anxiety value to be 28.3% [5]. A complete diagnosis of the syndrome requires proper checkup and follow up, but inadequate procedural managements culminating due to lack of interest and awareness raise a high risk of cardiac syndrome X in Pakistan. A thorough online literary search on the PubMed did not find a single article about this issue pointing to the lack of interest and awareness among the medical practitioners of Pakistan. It has to be made sure by creating awareness driven by seminars and workshops to apprise doctors about this syndrome. A study by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation found that 38% of deaths in Pakistan are due to ischemic heart diseases [6]. This increases the chances of cardiac syndrome X among the local population. Due diligence in medical care and follow up must be applied to patients reaching out with past history of anxietic disorders and ischemic heart problems. Common public awareness is also important and doctors should emphasize on ensuring proper lifestyle including diet, exercise, smoking cessation and weight reduction.

Anatomical investigation of the morphometry of the cerebral arteries using digital subtraction angiography in the Thai population.

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the dimensions of cerebral arteries in the Thai population using digital subtraction angiography (DSA), with a focus on the anterior cerebral artery (ACA), middle cerebral artery (MCA), and posterior cerebral artery (PCA). The research aimed to explore anatomical variations in diameters and lengths of these arteries across different sexes and age groups, which are crucial for cerebrovascular interventions. This retrospective study measured the diameters and lengths of the ACA, MCA, and PCA in 177 Thai patients with an average age of 47.6 years (range: 11-82 years) with normal cerebral angiograms. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) was used for the measurements. The study found significant sex-based differences in the mean diameters of the left ACA (males: 2.12 ± 0.28mm, females: 1.92 ± 0.20mm; p < 0.01), right MCA (males: 2.50 ± 0.25mm, females: 2.31 ± 0.17mm; p < 0.01), and left MCA (males: 2.44 ± 0.19mm, females: 2.30 ± 0.17mm; p < 0.01) with males exhibiting larger diameters. The right ACA length was significantly longer in males (15.46 ± 1.74mm) compared to females (13.98 ± 1.92mm; p < 0.01). While no significant age-related differences were observed in diameters, a significant increase in length with age was noted for the left ACA in the ≥ 60 years group (13.61 ± 1.64mm) compared to the < 60 years group (12.63 ± 1.36mm; p < 0.01). Among others, significant correlations were found between the diameters of the left ACA and right MCA (r = 0.699; p < 0.01), and a strong correlation between left ACA length and left PCA diameter (r = 0.975; p < 0.01). The findings provide invaluable data for tailoring neurosurgical approaches and designing angiographic equipment for the Thai population, emphasizing the importance of considering anatomical variations in clinical practice. These results highlight the necessity for personalized medical care based on anatomical differences to improve cerebrovascular intervention outcomes.

Artificial Intelligence for Identification of Images with Active Bleeding in Mesenteric and Celiac Arteries Angiography

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of an artificial intelligence (AI) model designed to identify active bleeding in digital subtraction angiography images for upper gastrointestinal bleeding.MethodsAngiographic images were retrospectively collected from mesenteric and celiac artery embolization procedures performed between 2018 and 2022. This dataset included images showing both active bleeding and non-bleeding phases from the same patients. The images were labeled as normal versus images that contain active bleeding. A convolutional neural network was trained and validated to automatically classify the images. Algorithm performance was tested in terms of area under the curve, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, F1 score, positive and negative predictive value.ResultsThe dataset included 587 pre-labeled images from 142 patients. Of these, 302 were labeled as normal angiogram and 285 as containing active bleeding. The model’s performance on the validation cohort was area under the curve 85.0 ± 10.9% (standard deviation) and average classification accuracy 77.43 ± 4.9%. For Youden’s index cutoff, sensitivity and specificity were 85.4 ± 9.4% and 81.2 ± 8.6%, respectively.ConclusionIn this study, we explored the application of AI in mesenteric and celiac artery angiography for detecting active bleeding. The results of this study show the potential of an AI-based algorithm to accurately classify images with active bleeding. Further studies using a larger dataset are needed to improve accuracy and allow segmentation of the bleeding.Graphical abstract

Factors influencing the indication of coronary angiography in patients presenting with chest pain unspecified: an analysis of two decades (1994-2014).

Guidelines for cardiac catheterization in patients with non-specific chest pain (NSCP) provide significant room for provider discretion, which has resulted in variability in the utilization of invasive coronary angiograms (CAs) and a high rate of normal angiograms. The overutilization of CAs in patients with NSCP and discharged without a diagnosis of coronary artery disease is an important issue in medical care quality. As a result, we sought to identify patient demographic, socioeconomic, and geographic factors that influenced the performance of a CA in patients with NSCP who were discharged without a diagnosis of coronary artery disease. We intended to establish reference data points for gauging the success of new initiatives for the evaluation of this patient population. In this 20-year retrospective cohort study (1994-2014), we examined 107 796 patients with NSCP from the Myocardial Infarction Data Acquisition System, a large statewide validated database that contains discharge data for all patients with cardiovascular disease admitted to every non-federal hospital in NJ. Patients were partitioned into two groups: those offered a CA (CA group; n = 12 541) and those that were not (No-CA group; n = 95 255). Geographic, demographic, and socioeconomic variables were compared between the two groups using multivariable logistic regression, which determined the predictive value of each categorical variable on the odds of receiving a CA. Whites were more likely than Blacks and other racial counterparts (19.7% vs. 5.6% and 16.5%, respectively; P < .001) to receive a CA. Geographically, patients who received a CA were more likely admitted to a large hospital compared to small- or medium-sized ones (12.5% vs. 8.9% and 9.7%, respectively; P < .05), a primary teaching institution rather than a teaching affiliate or community center (16.1 % vs. 14.3% and 9.1%, respectively; P < .001), and at a non-rural facility compared to a rural one (12.1% vs. 6.5%; P < .001). Lastly from a socioeconomic standpoint, patients with commercial insurance more often received a CA compared to those having Medicare or Medicaid/self-pay (13.7% vs. 9.5% and 6.0%, respectively; P < .001). The utilization of CA in patients with NSCP discharged without a diagnosis of coronary artery disease in NJ during the study period may be explained by differences in geographic, demographic, and socioeconomic factors. Patients with NSCP should be well scrutinized for CA eligibility, and reliable strategies are needed to reduce discretionary medical decisions and improve quality of care.

Association of Waist and Hip Ratio with the Angiographicc Severity of Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Non ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Background: Coronary artery disease and obesity cardiomyopathy, and cardiac autonomic neuropathy are the most prevalent types of cardiac involvement in the comorbid. Obesity has a two- to fourfold greater risk of developing coronary artery disease. Stroke and other cerebrovascular occurrences fare poorly for those with obesity and diabetes. Hospital, autopsy, epidemiological, longitudinal research, and other studies have all demonstrated the increasing prevalence of cardiomyopathy in diabetes and obese individuals Objective: the objective of the study is to association of waist and hip ratio with the angiographic severity of coronary artery disease in patients with non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction Study Design: Cross sectional observational study Study Setting: This study was conducted in the department of Interventional Cardiology, National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), Karachi from Ist August 2022 to 31st January 2023. Methodology: Total 120 subjects were enrolled in the study and divided in to two groups. Group I consisted of 60 patients with normal WHR, and group II consisted of 60 patients with elevated WHR. The history and anthropometric measurements were noted using a pre-designed structured form, including demographic data and a profile of potential risk factors. Three universal criteria for diagnosing myocardial infarction were used to confirm the presence of non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction. Each participant's signed permission was obtained before any data was collected. The patient's waist and hip circumferences were measured the day before the CAG. At least two cardiologists engaged per patient's therapy or the clinical context while evaluating the angiogram results. Visual estimation (in at least two orthogonal views) was used to estimate the vessel and Gensini scores to determine the degree of coronary artery disease on angiograms. The statistical analysis was done by using SPSS version 20. Results: Patients in Group II had a considerably higher mean body mass index and anthropometric status than those in Group I. The average WHR of the participants in the study is listed in order of increasing vascular involvement. For those with normal angiogram results, the average WHR was 0.98. There was a statistically significant difference (p&lt;0.01) in the mean WHRs of those with single-vessel disease and the value of mean is gradually increased in scoring 1, 2 and 3. The WHR positively correlated with the severity of CAD as measured by vessel score (r=0.45). In addition, a positive connection (r=0.63) between WHR and CAD severity, as measured by the Gensini score. Multivariate logistic regression analysis of odds ratio (OR) for subject characteristics likely to cause coronary artery disease severity. Practical implication: In addition, there is only one local study, which provides scant information, and worldwide data is scant and conflicting about the relationship of the ratio of waist to hip with severe coronary artery disease (CAD). The incidence of obesity and coronary artery disease in Pakistan is much higher than in Western countries; thus, this study will offer more information regarding the relationship based on local data. Conclusion: The current study found that in individuals with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, increasing WHR was substantially correlated with the angiographic severity of coronary artery disease Keyword: WHR, BMI, Waist circumference, Cardiovascular disease

Prevalence of Polymorphisms of Genes Responsible for Coagulation System and Folate Metabolism and Their Predictive Value for Thrombosis Development in MINOCA Patients: Immediate and Long-Term Prognoses

(1) Background. One of the causes of myocardial infarction (MI) with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) is thrombus formation in situ followed by lysis, resulting in a morphologically normal angiogram but with an underlying prothrombotic state that is potentially predisposed to recurrence. Recent studies have shown that a subset of MINOCA patients may have thrombophilic conditions at screening. Objective: To compare the prothrombotic trend in MINOCA patients with that of subjects with MI and obstructive coronary arteries (MIOCA) by testing for known congenital thrombophilias and markers of coagulation activation. (2) Materials and methods. Screening included congenital thrombophilias (factor V Leiden; assessment of protein C, protein S, and antithrombin III) and eight genes. Of these, four genes represented the folate pathway enzymes: MTHFR 677 C&gt;T (rs1801133), MTHFR 1298 A&gt;C (rs1801131), MTR 2756 A&gt;G (rs1805087), and MTRR 66 A&gt;G (rs1801394). The other four genes represented the blood coagulation system: F13 (163 G&gt;T) rs5985, F1 (−455 G&gt;A) rs1800790, GP IIb–IIIa (1565 T&gt;C) rs5918, and PAI-I (−675 5G&gt;4G) rs1799889. Additionally, we examined the levels of homocysteine and lipoprotein (LP) (a). (3) Results. Our study included 269 patients: 114 MINOCA patients and 155 MIOCA patients with lesions of one coronary artery. The frequencies of polymorphisms in the genes of the blood coagulation system and the folate pathway did not differ between the groups. The following genes were associated with in-hospital mortality in the MINOCA group: MTHFR 1298 A&gt;C rs1801131 (OR 8.5; 95% CI 1.67–43.1) and F1 (−455 G&gt;A) rs1800790 (OR 5.8; 95% CI 1.1–27.8). In the MIOCA group, the following genes were associated with in-hospital mortality: MTHFR 1298 A&gt;C rs1801131 (OR 9.1; 95% CI 2.8–28.9), F1 (−455 G&gt;A) rs1800790 (OR 11.4; 95% CI 3.6–35.9), GP IIb–IIIa (1565 T&gt;C) rs5918 (OR 10.5; 95% CI 3.5–30.8), and PAI-I (−675 5G&gt;4G) rs1799889 (OR 12.9; 95% CI 4.2–39.7). We evaluated long-term outcomes (case fatality rate, recurrent MI, and stroke) over a period of 12 months in both groups. The variables associated with these outcomes were laboratory parameters, such as protein C deficiency, hyperhomocysteinemia, and a content of LP (a) &gt; 30 mg/dL. However, we did not reveal the prognostic value of polymorphisms of the studied genes representing the blood coagulation system and the folate pathway. (4) Conclusion. We established no statistically significant differences between the MINOCA and MIOCA groups in the prevalence of congenital thrombophilias and the prevalence of folate pathway enzyme genes and blood coagulation system genes. The MTHFR 1298 A&gt;C (rs1801131) and F1 (−455 G&gt;A) rs1800790 genes were associated with in-hospital mortality in both groups. More significant prognostic factors in both groups during the one-year period were protein C deficiency, hyperhomocysteinemia, and LP (a) &gt; 30 mg/dL.

Epigenetic aging in patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease: results of the LipidCardio study

IntroductionPeople age biologically at different rates. Epigenetic clock-derived DNA methylation age acceleration (DNAmAA) is among the most promising markers proposed to assess the interindividual differences in biological age. Further research is needed to evaluate the characteristics of the different epigenetic clock biomarkers available with respect to the health domains they reflect best.MethodsIn this study, we have analyzed 779 participants of the LipidCardio study (mean chronological age 69.9 ± 11.0 years, 30.6% women) who underwent diagnostic angiography at the Charité University Hospital in Berlin, Germany. DNA methylation age (DNAm age) was measured by methylation-sensitive single nucleotide primer extension (MS-SNuPE) and calculated with the 7-CpG clock. We compared the biological age as assessed as DNAmAA of participants with an angiographically confirmed coronary artery disease (CAD, n = 554) with participants with lumen reduction of 50% or less (n = 90) and patients with a normal angiogram (n = 135).ResultsParticipants with a confirmed CAD had on average a 2.5-year higher DNAmAA than patients with a normal angiogram. This association did not persist after adjustment for sex in a logistic regression analysis. High-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, lipoprotein (a), estimated glomerular filtration rate, physical activity, BMI, alcohol consumption, and smoking were not associated with DNAmAA.ConclusionThe association between higher DNAmAA and angiographically confirmed CAD seems to be mainly driven by sex.

Predictors of angiographically normal coronary arteries

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction Coronary angiography (CAG) has been recommended for patients with well-established risk factors. However, striking rates of coronary angiograms were turning out to be normal and very little is known regarding the predictors of having normal coronary arteries. OBJECTIVES The primary objective of this study is to determine the predictors that increase the likelihood of having normal coronary arteries as seen in CAG. Methods This study analyzed 279 patients who underwent CAG from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2019. The primary end point was to determine clinical and diagnostic predictors of having angiographically normal coronary arteries. Results In total, 46.9% of patients had a normal coronary angiogram. Multiple logistic regression showed that females are more likely to have normal coronary arteries (aOR- 4.6, 95% CI 2.25 – 9.53) as well as higher HDL-C (aOR- 1.027 95% CI 1.00-1.05). On the other hand, older age (aOR 0.936 95% CI 0.91-0.96) and diabetes mellitus (aOR- 0.946 95% CI 0.92-0.97) are less likely to have a normal angiogram. Overall, patients who had abnormal coronary angiograms were found to be older (63.47 years old versus 56.27 years old, p &amp;lt; 0.001), had greater proportions of males (71% vs 52%), with diabetes (39% vs 24%), a positive smoking history (41% vs 27%), higher Framingham score (29.7 [range 1.4–30] vs 15.9 [range 2.3–30], P &amp;lt;.001), higher WBC (8.1 vs 7.4, P = .018) and higher baseline creatinine (1.07 vs 0.95 mg/dl, P = .001) but noted to have lower HDL-C (40.1 vs 44.07 mg/dl, P = .003). Conclusion The female gender is highly predictive of having a normal angiogram while diabetes mellitus and older age are less likely to have a normal angiogram. A higher HDL-C is also associated with increased odds of a normal coronary angiogram.

Echocardiographic assessment of epicardial adipose tissue: A marker of coronary artery disease

Recent studies have shown that epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) can be used as a cardiovascular risk evaluation tool. Coronary artery disease (CAD) assessment still to be a challenge with non-invasive explorations. Thus, we searched for a correlation between EAT and coronary artery disease. This is a prospective descriptive study that included 100 consecutive patients admitted to the cardiology department of the hospital of the internal security forces of Marsa and having consulted between November 2020 and April 2021 for symptoms that required coronary angiography. The mean age was 58 ± 12 years, with a masculine predominance (sex ratio = 6.14). Dyslipidemia and hypertension were the most common cardiovascular risk factors (86% and 57%, respectively). The median Gensini score was 8.5 [1–37] while the mean values of mean end-diastolic EAT (MEDE) and mean end-systolic EAT (MESE) were 3.3 ± 8 mm and 5.1 ± 1.3 mm, respectively. Thirty patients had a normal angiogram (Gensini score = 0, 30%), 29 patients had mild CAD (Gensini score = 1–19, 29%), and 41 patients had obstructive/severe CAD (Gensini score > 19, 41%). In univariate analysis, MEDE and MESE were significatively different between the tertiles of Gensini score (combined P < 0.001 for both). In bivariate analysis, there was a positive and moderate to strong significant correlation between EAT and Gensini score (MEDE: P < 0.001; r = 0.590, MESE: P < 0.001; r = 0.557). The analysis of receiver operating characteristic curve showed that a MEDE > 3.4 (sensibility = 80%, specificity = 72%) and a MESE > 5 (sensibility = 78%, specificity = 73%) can predict high Gensini score (OR = 11; 95% CI: 4.23–29; P < 0.001 and OR = 8; 95% CI: 3.21–20.4; P < 0.001, respectively). Echocardiographic measurement of the EAT is a useful non-invasive tool that can be used to predict obstructive CAD.

Smartphone-enabled retinal arteriovenous imaging and correlation with coronary SYNTAX score

ObjectiveTo assess the feasibility of measurement of retinal arteriovenous (AV) ratio using a smartphone, we performed a comparative evaluation with fundus camera imaging and coronary SYNTAX score. MethodSuccessive coronary artery disease (CAD) patients who underwent coronary angiography were recruited for smartphone retinal imaging. Following pupillary dilatation, fundus camera images and smartphone photography were performed. Video images were captured with a smartphone, edited and analysed. Retinal artery and vein size at 0.5 and 1 disc diameter (DD) were measured using DICOM software by two independent observers. Another observer calculated SYNTAX score. ResultsAnalysable smartphone images were available in 91 (89.2%) of 102 patients. Tobacco use was found in 26%, hypertension in 54%, diabetes in 55%, and high LDL cholesterol in 50%. Median and 25–75 interquartile range (IQR) AV ratio at 0.5 and 1.0 DD, respectively, with smartphone were 0.48 (0.45–0.52) and 0.47 (0.45–0.52) and fundus camera were 0.48 (0.44–0.53) and 0.48 (0.45–0.53) (Spearman's correlation 0.80 and 0.79, p < 0.001). Coronary single vessel disease was in 21%, double vessel in 16%, triple vessel in 55%, normal angiogram in 8%, and median SYNTAX score was 18.0 (8.0–25.0). There was an inverse correlation of SYNTAX score with smartphone-derived AV ratio at 0.5 and 1.0 DD (rho −0.27,p = 0.007 and −0.26,p = 0.009) as well as with fundus camera (rho −0.37 and −0.38, p < 0.001). Trend-analysis showed an inverse association of smartphone AV ratio with increasing CAD (ptrend <0.001). ConclusionsSmartphone-based retinal AV imaging is feasible and comparable to fundus-camera imaging. There is a significant inverse correlation with coronary angiographic severity.

Updates on Pharmacologic Management of Microvascular Angina.

Microvascular angina (MVA), historically called cardiac syndrome X, refers to angina with nonobstructive coronary artery disease. This female-predominant cardiovascular disorder adds considerable health-related costs due to repeated diagnostic angiography and frequent hospital admissions. Despite the high prevalence of this diagnosis in patients undergoing coronary angiography, it is still a therapeutic challenge for cardiologists. Unlike obstructive coronary artery disease, with multiple evidence-based therapies and management guidelines, little is known regarding the management of MVA. During the last decade, many therapeutic interventions have been suggested for the treatment of MVA. However, there is a lack of summarization tab and update of current knowledge about pharmacologic management of MVA, mostly due to unclear pathophysiology. In this article, we have reviewed the underlying mechanisms of MVA and the outcomes of various medications in patients with this disease. Contrary to vasospastic angina in which normal angiogram is observed as well, nitrates are not effective in the treatment of MVA. Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers have the strongest evidence of improving the symptoms. Moreover, the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers, statins, estrogen, and novel antianginal drugs has had promising outcomes. Investigations are still ongoing for vitamin D, omega-3, incretins, and n-acetyl cysteine, which have resulted in beneficial initial outcomes. We believe that the employment of the available results and results of the future large-scale trials into cardiac care guidelines would help reduce the global cost of cardiac care tremendously.

Primary Central Nervous System Angiitis Mimicking a Space-Occupying Lesion

Abstract Background and Purpose Intracranial space-occupying lesions are a sine qua non for neoplastic lesions; however, occasionally non-neoplastic lesions mimic neoplastic lesions, leading to diagnostic dilemmas. We report our experience with three patients who presented with a progressive hemispheric syndrome and the diagnostic considerations involved in the cases. Materials and Methods In this retrospective study, we included three patients with primary angiitis of central nervous system (PACNS) who underwent craniotomy and biopsy, suspecting it to be mass lesions. Demographic features, clinical features, radiological features, histopathology, treatment, and clinical outcomes were studied. Results Majority were males. The male:female ratio was 2:1. Lobar involvement was common. MR brain with contrast showed features of high-grade glioma. Despite hemispheric involvement, there was no mass effect. Perilesional edema was seen in all cases. All underwent craniotomy and biopsy; histopathology was consistent with PACNS. All patients were treated with corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide. Rituximab was used in addition to cyclophosphamide in one patient. At 2 years follow-up, two patients were in disease remission and one patient died due to disease progression. Conclusion PACNS has a protean clinical manifestation. A high index of suspicion is required in cases with atypical clinical presentations, radiological features, and normal angiograms. Early histological diagnosis and aggressive immunotherapy with high-dose corticosteroids combined with intravenous cyclophosphamide yields favorable outcomes.

The Average Diameter of Coronary Artery in the Healthy Adult Population of Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aim: To determine the average diameters of the coronary arteries in the healthy adult population of Pakistan Study design: A cross-sectional study Place and duration: This study was conducted at Civil Hospital, BMCH Quetta Pakistan from March 2020 to March 2021. Methodology: A total of 120 participants were included in the study. All the patients included in the study were advised coronary angiography, nonetheless, their angiograms were normal. According to the inclusion criteria, the patients included in the study could be of any gender, above the age of 18 years, and have normal angiograms. The segments of the artery were divided as per the 29-segment model. The segments selected for the study were studied by the method of quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) method. Results: A total of 120 participants were considered in the study. The mean age of the included participants was 54.35±12.39 years. The mean of the Body Surface Area (BSA) was 1.78±0.163. The mean of the Body Mass Index (BMI) was 27.96±3.1 kg/m2. Proximal Left Circumflex (PLCx) and proximal left anterior descending (PLAD) were larger in diameter and the left main stem diameter was smaller. The Mid right coronary (MRCA) was greater in diameter, whereas the diameters of the proximal right coronary (PRCA), left main, distal left circumflex (DLCx), mid (MLAD), and distal (DLAD) were smaller. The MLAD, PLAD, PLCx, and DLAD had larger diameters and MRCA as well as the left main stem had smaller diameters. Conclusion: The diameters of the segments of the left stem of the coronary artery were smaller in the present study. Standardized data is needed for an accurate comparison. Keywords: Pakistanis, Comparison, Coronary Artery, Diameter

Assessment of left ventricular contractile reserve during hyperventilation and exercise in patients with ANOCA

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction. Mechanism of ischemia in patients with angina and no obstructive coronary artery disease (ANOCA), is often unrecognized since invasive tests are seldom done and proper noninvasive test is not established yet. The aim of our study was to assess changes in ventricular function during hyperventilation test (HYP) designed to provoke vasoconstriction, immediately followed by supine bicycle exercise to increase ischemic stimuli in patients with ANOCA (HYP + EXE). Methods. : In a prospective study, we enrolled 29 ANOCA patients (age 59.6 ±11 years, 27 females) with previously normal angiograms. All patients underwent SE testing with hyperventilation (HYP, respiratory rate of 30 per min for 5"), immediately followed by supine bicycle exercise (HYP + EXE). Ventricular function was assessed based on left ventricular contractile reserve (LVCR), calculated by ratio of the ventricular force at the peak of the each stress level and rest. Force was assessed as the quotient between systolic arterial pressure and end-systolic volume determined by two-dimensional echocardiography. Values range from normal (&amp;gt; 2.0) to mild (1.5–2.0), moderate (1.01–1.49), and severe (≤1.0) dysfunction. For LVCR HYP values are shifted towards lower values (abnormal &amp;lt; 1.1). Results. Chest pain or dyspnea were present in 4/29 pts during HYP, and in 7/29 patients during HYP + EXE (13.8% vs 24.1 %, p = 0.001). Three patients showed wall motion abnormalities with hyperventilation and additional two patients with HYP + EXE. LVCR HYP response was normal in 19/29 (65.5%) pts and abnormal in 10/29 (34.5%) pts. LVCR HYP + EXE response was normal in 9/29 (31%) pts, 4/29 (13.8%) pts had mild, 11/29 (37.9%) pts had moderate and 5/29 (17.3%) pts had severe dysfunction. Conclusion. In patients with ANOCA subtle changes in LV function occurred with HYP and EXE stress more often than wall motion abnormality. Measurement of contractile reserve might be a useful tool in assessment of ischemia and ventricular dysfunction in patients with ANOCA. Abstract Figure 1. Abstract Figure 2.

Abstract WMP31: Thrombotic Microangiopathy -? A Missed Diagnosis Of Cryptogenic Stroke

Background: Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by small-vessel platelet microthrombi. The estimated incidence of clopidrogel-associated TMA is 1 per 1600 to 5000. The principal treatment is to withdraw clopidrogel. However, the diagnosis of clopidrogel induced TMA may be challenging because of the subtle presentation and co-morbidities confounding the diagnosis of TMA. Case: A 57 y.o. female presented with h/o hypertension, dyslipidemia with suspected cryptogenic strokes since 2018 (left thalamic stroke in 6/2020, left parietal stroke in 4/2020, chronic infarcts in frontal lobes from MRI brain on 9/17/2020 with normal CT angiogram of neck and brain and echocardiography ). She was on clopidrogel since April 2020. Patient was admitted on 6/14/2020 with racing thoughts for four weeks. The psychiatrist confirmed delirium. The EEG showed no focal lesion. Hematological workup revealed thrombocytopenia, elevated LDH and red cell fragments. The ADAMTS13 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase, with a thrombospondin type 1 motif, member 13) level was &lt;3%. Thrombotic microangiopathy was diagnosed. Steroids and plasma exchange were initiated and clopidrogel discontinued. Patient was discharged on prednisone. However, ADAMTS13 on 7/17/2020 was still &lt;3%. As initial ANA and anti-ds-DNA were reported positive, patient was started on rituximab 375mg/m 2 weekly infusions with which ADAMTS13 increased to 75%. The repeat ANA and anti-ds-DNA were negative. When patient was reviewed on 5/20/2021 she was off steroids and independant of her ADLs. Discussion: Thrombotic microangiopathy is a medical emergency, with a mortality of 90% if untreated. Treatment with plasma exchange and corticosteroids significantly reduces the mortality to ∼10% to 15%. Early diagnosis of TMA is prudent, as recovery from TMA may appear to be complete, but patients may have persistent cognitive abnormalities if the diagnosis is not made early.

Noninvasive functional testing in ANOCA: hyperventilation-exercise study for spasm (SESPASM)

Abstract Introduction In patients with angina and no obstructive coronary artery disease (ANOCA), different mechanisms of ischaemia, epicardial spasm, microvascular spasm, and impaired microvascular dilatation frequently coexist. The aim was to assess CFVR changes during coronary vasoconstrictor and vasodilator stimuli in patients with ANOCA. Methods In a prospective single center study, we enrolled 29 ANOCA patients (age 59.6±11 years, 27 females) with previously normal angiograms. All underwent SE testing with hyperventilation (HYP, respiratory rate of 30 per min for 5') followed by supine bicycle exercise (HYP+EXE); and adenosine CFV evaluation (ADO 140 mcg/kg in 1 min) on the other day. Coronary flow velocity (CFV) was assessed in distal LAD by Transthoracic Doppler echocardiography. The ratio of peak/rest changes of CFV during HYP in LAD was taken as an index of vasoconstriction, and CFV reserve was evaluated after EXE. An abnormal response to HYP was a CFV ratio &amp;lt;1.0 (vasoconstrictor response). An abnormal response to ADO was a CFV reserve &amp;lt;2.0 (blunted vasodilatory response). CFVR at peak HYP+ EXE was an indicator of endothelial dependent vasodilatation. Results The double product increased during HYP, in comparison to rest (13213 vs 10517, p&amp;lt;0.01), and further increased with EXE (23387 vs HYP, p&amp;lt;0.001). Chest pain or dyspnea were present in 4/29 pts during HYP, and in 7/29 patients during HYP+EXE (13.8% vs 24.1%, p=0.001). ST segment depression (≥1mm) was present in 7/29 patients during HYP, and 14/29 during HYP+EXE (24.13% vs 48.3%, p&amp;lt;0.01). Five patients (17%) showed regional wall motion abnormalities with HYP+EXE. CFVR response was abnormal in 19/29 (65%) patients during HYP+EXE, and abnormal for vasoconstriction during HYP in 13 (44%). Vasodilation during ADO was preserved in all patients.There was significant difference between CFVR response during HYP+EXE and ADO (1.9±0.35 vs 2.47±0.42 respectively, p&amp;lt;0.01), and between CFVR HYP and ADO (1.28±0.29 vs 2.47±0.42, p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusion In patients with ANOCA, HYP+EXE is a more powerful ischemic stress than HYP alone. In over one-half of patients HYP+EXE unmasks abnormalities in CFVR response and/or regional wall motion, likely unmasking the underlying endothelium dependent microcirculatory dysfunction with enhanced vasoconstriction in 44% of the patients and mixed vasoconstriction and reduced relaxation in 65%. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): University Clinical Centre of Serbia, Faculty of Medicine

Type X dual left anterior descending (LAD) artery masquerading as type 1 LAD \u2014 a case report

BackgroundDual left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery is a rare congenital anomaly. To date, eleven variants of dual LAD have been described with three published reports of type X dual LAD. Here, we describe a new variant of type X dual LAD with a short LAD artery masquerading as type 1 LAD.Case presentationA 42-year hypertensive female presented with recent onset angina with a treadmill test positive for inducible ischemia. Coronary angiography showed a normal right coronary artery (RCA). The left main coronary artery (LMCA) originated from the left sinus of Valsalva (SOV), giving rise to a LAD and the left circumflex artery (LCX). Appearing a normal angiogram with type 1 LAD based on its length, the presence of a large bare area in LAD territory (especially at the apex) and lack of septal branches prompted a search for an additional vessel. Right SOV injection showed a vessel originating separately from RCA, which was confirmed to be a long LAD on selective injection, with a pre-pulmonic course and giving rise to septal branches exclusively before wrapping around the apex. Computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) confirmed the pre-pulmonic course of long LAD, defined its entry to the distal interventricular septum to the right of short LAD, and ruled out other coronary artery anomalies. In the absence of a stenotic lesion in the epicardial coronaries, angina in our case was presumed to be due to microvascular dysfunction. She was discharged on beta-blocker therapy for co-existing hypertension and is asymptomatic on follow-up at one year.ConclusionsA short LAD artery of type X Dual LAD could be potentially misdiagnosed as type 1 LAD based on its length. However, an active search for a long LAD could properly diagnose the case as a variant of type X dual LAD, which has important clinical implications. Its awareness is critical for cardiologists and cardiac surgeons to correctly interpret the coronary angiogram and plan proper management.

Editors' Note: Teaching NeuroImages: Pseudopathologic Brain Parenchymal Enhancement due to Vascular Compression in Parotid Tumor

In “Teaching NeuroImages: Pseudopathologic Brain Parenchymal Enhancement due to Vascular Compression in Parotid Tumor,” Teixeira et al. present a CT angiogram (CTA) obtained through right antecubital vein injection that shows intracranial vascular reflux in the cortical veins and pseudopathologic enhancement of the right brain parenchyma in a patient with a right-sided parotid gland tumor who had transient left hemiparesis but had a normal digital subtraction angiogram (DSA) and a normal repeat CTA obtained through left-sided vein injection. The authors initially described the enhancement as being in the distribution of the right middle cerebral artery territory, but they subsequently agreed with Chen et al. that the involvement of the occipital lobe suggests the enhancement pattern is more consistent with the drainage territory of the right superficial cerebral veins. Chen et al. note the mechanism for this finding is unclear and question (1) whether the DSA showed any anomalies in the venous sinuses; and (2) whether the pseudopathologic enhancement could have been related to the fact that the initial injection was performed through a right-sided vein, suggesting there could be severe stenosis of the right brachiocephalic vein. On further review, Teixeira et al. reported the DSA showed a hypoplastic right anterior cerebral artery, occlusion of the right internal jugular vein, and critical stenosis of the right vertebral artery origin. They suspect the patient's symptoms were the result of compression of the right internal carotid artery by the tumor in the setting of right vertebral artery stenosis, which led directly to either compensatory vasodilation or precipitated blood-brain barrier disruption. Although there was also occlusion of the right internal jugular vein, the patent right external jugular vein may have led to rapid spread of contrast into the right hemisphere and retrograde flow into the dilated capillary bed. They postulated that the CTA obtained through left-sided injection was normal because either the patent left internal jugular vein reduced the contrast velocity or vascular autoregulation was reestablished. In “Teaching NeuroImages: Pseudopathologic Brain Parenchymal Enhancement due to Vascular Compression in Parotid Tumor,” Teixeira et al. present a CT angiogram (CTA) obtained through right antecubital vein injection that shows intracranial vascular reflux in the cortical veins and pseudopathologic enhancement of the right brain parenchyma in a patient with a right-sided parotid gland tumor who had transient left hemiparesis but had a normal digital subtraction angiogram (DSA) and a normal repeat CTA obtained through left-sided vein injection. The authors initially described the enhancement as being in the distribution of the right middle cerebral artery territory, but they subsequently agreed with Chen et al. that the involvement of the occipital lobe suggests the enhancement pattern is more consistent with the drainage territory of the right superficial cerebral veins. Chen et al. note the mechanism for this finding is unclear and question (1) whether the DSA showed any anomalies in the venous sinuses; and (2) whether the pseudopathologic enhancement could have been related to the fact that the initial injection was performed through a right-sided vein, suggesting there could be severe stenosis of the right brachiocephalic vein. On further review, Teixeira et al. reported the DSA showed a hypoplastic right anterior cerebral artery, occlusion of the right internal jugular vein, and critical stenosis of the right vertebral artery origin. They suspect the patient's symptoms were the result of compression of the right internal carotid artery by the tumor in the setting of right vertebral artery stenosis, which led directly to either compensatory vasodilation or precipitated blood-brain barrier disruption. Although there was also occlusion of the right internal jugular vein, the patent right external jugular vein may have led to rapid spread of contrast into the right hemisphere and retrograde flow into the dilated capillary bed. They postulated that the CTA obtained through left-sided injection was normal because either the patent left internal jugular vein reduced the contrast velocity or vascular autoregulation was reestablished.

Recurrent Marijuana Induced Myocarditis: A Case Report

Thirty-Three states in the US have passed laws to legalize marijuana usage, increasing its prevalence by 50% within the last year. Though society generally regards cannabis as safe, the exponential increase in users can evince dangerous side effects in patients presenting to physicians, such as the case presented below. A 37-year-old female presented to the ED with chest pain and an initial troponin of 24 that peaked at 29. The coronary arteries were found to be angiographically normal. She was discharged without any definitive diagnosis. Now 38, she again presented with complaints of crushing, substernal chest pain radiating down her left arm, unrelieved by nitro. Since the onset of pain, she progressively developed shortness of breath, nausea, diaphoresis, and anxiety, stating that she felt like she “was going to die.” Her presentation and impending sense of doom were ominous harbingers for a myocardial infarction; concerns that were validated with an initial troponin of 11.4. EKG showed normal sinus rhythm with nonspecific ST changes. CT Angiogram showed no evidence of pulmonary thrombo-embolism or dissection. Significant CAD leading to this extent of troponin elevation was not suspected as the patient had a normal angiogram a year prior. Stress-Induced Cardiomyopathy was unlikely based on the unremarkable echocardiogram findings. Coronary-Thrombus was considered, however, the hypercoagulable workup was negative along with lack of coronary thrombus on prior angiogram. Under these circumstances, the only explanation for the extent of troponin elevation was myocarditis. Viral infections are the most common cause of myocarditis, however the patient denied any associated symptoms. After ruling out viral etiologies, we subsequently evaluated and eliminated rheumatological disorders and medication-induced myocarditis. The patient’s history revealed that she led a healthy lifestyle, but had struggled with chronic back pain, which led to her cannabis use. By the time of her admission, she smoked up to 1.5 grams of cannabis a day, and stated that chest pain began immediately following smoking cannabis. Her previous episodes also correlated with her cannabis usage. Given the strong correlation of the patient’s symptoms with cannabis use, we theorized her cardiac stress was resultant from it, and recommended that she discontinue its use. To date there have been four reported cases of cannabis-induced myocarditis, making this a fifth case. Of note, the contaminants of marijuana may be variable and include substances like aluminum from soil or pesticides in grass that could traverse the marijuana plant. Inhaling such components has been correlated with an upregulation of cannabinoid receptors in platelets, vascular smooth muscle, and endothelium. CB1R activation has been observed to induce oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis of the cardiomyocyte. With increased cannabis use, it is imperative that we document adverse events to definitively connect its use to cardiac damage.