Prevalence Of Coronary Atherosclerosis Research Articles

Coronary Atherosclerosis Across the Glycemic Spectrum Among Asymptomatic Adults: The Miami Heart Study at Baptist Health South Florida.

The contemporary burden and characteristics of coronary atherosclerosis, assessed using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), is unknown among asymptomatic adults with diabetes and prediabetes in the United States. The pooled cohort equations and coronary artery calcium (CAC) score stratify atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk, but their association with CCTA findings across glycemic categories is not well established. Asymptomatic adults without atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease enrolled in the Miami Heart Study were included. Participants underwent CAC and CCTA testing and were classified into glycemic categories. Prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis (any plaque, noncalcified plaque, plaque with ≥1 high-risk feature, maximal stenosis ≥50%) assessed by CCTA was described across glycemic categories and further stratified by pooled cohort equations-estimated atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk and CAC score. Adjusted logistic regression was used to evaluate the associations between glycemic categories and coronary outcomes. Among 2352 participants (49.5% women), the prevalence of euglycemia, prediabetes, and diabetes was 63%, 30%, and 7%, respectively. Coronary plaque was more commonly present across worsening glycemic categories (euglycemia, 43%; prediabetes, 58%; diabetes, 69%), and similar pattern was observed for other coronary outcomes. In adjusted analyses, compared with euglycemia, prediabetes and diabetes were each associated with higher odds of any coronary plaque (OR, 1.30 [95% CI, 1.05-1.60] and 1.75 [1.17-2.61], respectively), noncalcified plaque (OR, 1.47 [1.19-1.81] and 1.99 [1.38-2.87], respectively), and plaque with ≥1 high-risk feature (OR, 1.65 [1.14-2.39] and 2.53 [1.48-4.33], respectively). Diabetes was associated with stenosis ≥50% (OR, 3.01 [1.79-5.08]; reference=euglycemia). Among participants with diabetes and estimated atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk <5%, 46% had coronary plaque and 10% had stenosis ≥50%. Among participants with diabetes and CAC=0, 30% had coronary plaque and 3% had stenosis ≥50%. Among asymptomatic adults, worse glycemic status is associated with higher prevalence and extent of coronary atherosclerosis, high-risk plaque, and stenosis. In diabetes, CAC was more closely associated with CCTA findings and informative in a larger population than the pooled cohort equations.

Association Between History of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes and Coronary Artery Disease Assessed by Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography

Adverse pregnancy outcomes are recognized risk enhancers for cardiovascular disease, but the prevalence of subclinical coronary atherosclerosis after these conditions is unknown. To assess associations between history of adverse pregnancy outcomes and coronary artery disease assessed by coronary computed tomography angiography screening. Cross-sectional study of a population-based cohort of women in Sweden (n = 10 528) with 1 or more deliveries in 1973 or later, ascertained via the Swedish National Medical Birth Register, who subsequently participated in the Swedish Cardiopulmonary Bioimage Study at age 50 to 65 (median, 57.3) years in 2013-2018. Delivery data were prospectively collected. Adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, preterm delivery, small-for-gestational-age infant, and gestational diabetes. The reference category included women with no history of these exposures. Coronary computed tomography angiography indexes, including any coronary atherosclerosis, significant stenosis, noncalcified plaque, segment involvement score of 4 or greater, and coronary artery calcium score greater than 100. A median 29.6 (IQR, 25.0-34.9) years after first registered delivery, 18.9% of women had a history of adverse pregnancy outcomes, with specific pregnancy histories ranging from 1.4% (gestational diabetes) to 9.5% (preterm delivery). The prevalence of any coronary atherosclerosis in women with a history of any adverse pregnancy outcome was 32.1% (95% CI, 30.0%-34.2%), which was significantly higher (prevalence difference, 3.8% [95% CI, 1.6%-6.1%]; prevalence ratio, 1.14 [95% CI, 1.06-1.22]) compared with reference women. History of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia were both significantly associated with higher and similar prevalence of all outcome indexes. For preeclampsia, the highest prevalence difference was observed for any coronary atherosclerosis (prevalence difference, 8.0% [95% CI, 3.7%-12.3%]; prevalence ratio, 1.28 [95% CI, 1.14-1.45]), and the highest prevalence ratio was observed for significant stenosis (prevalence difference, 3.1% [95% CI, 1.1%-5.1%]; prevalence ratio, 2.46 [95% CI, 1.65-3.67]). In adjusted models, odds ratios for preeclampsia ranged from 1.31 (95% CI, 1.07-1.61) for any coronary atherosclerosis to 2.21 (95% CI, 1.42-3.44) for significant stenosis. Similar associations were observed for history of preeclampsia or gestational hypertension among women with low predicted cardiovascular risk. Among Swedish women undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography screening, there was a statistically significant association between history of adverse pregnancy outcomes and image-identified coronary artery disease, including among women estimated to be at low cardiovascular disease risk. Further research is needed to understand the clinical importance of these associations.

Progress in the Study of Coronary Atherosclerosis and Prevention of Acute Myocardial Infarction

Cardiovascular disease stands as the leading cause of global mortality, with coronary atherosclerosis emerging as the prevailing pathological alteration within this condition. This lesion is distinguished by a notable escalation in oxidative stress. The prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis has exhibited a steady rise over time, leading to a consequential escalation in fatalities resulting from acute myocardial infarction caused by this condition. This alarming trend poses a significant threat to the well-being of our population. To address the imperative issue of preventing acute myocardial infarction caused by coronary atherosclerosis, this study offers a novel theoretical framework elucidating the pathogenesis and progression of acute myocardial infarction. By presenting and consolidating the findings of our research, this project aims to contribute to the prevention of acute myocardial infarction in recent years. The prevention of atherosclerotic plaque formation, narrowing of blood vessel lumen, obstruction, and myocardial ischemic infarction resulting from heightened oxidative stress in the human body, diminished vitamin C levels, impaired collagen formation, and unregulated cardiac wall repair system necessitates the reduction of oxidative intake, elimination of oxidative accumulation within the body, or augmentation of antioxidant intake. Furthermore, a substantial body of epidemiological evidence indicates that aberrant lipid metabolism serves as the primary predisposing factor for acute myocardial infarction. Additionally, both intermittent fasting and fat reduction therapy have demonstrated efficacy in preventing acute myocardial infarction. Moreover, it is worth noting that reducing non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (nHDL-C) is considered a secondary objective of fat reduction therapy. Moreover, magnesium is a significant dietary component that is frequently disregarded, yet numerous scientific investigations have substantiated the inverse relationship between the presence of magnesium ions in potable water and the prevalence of mortality due to coronary heart disease. However, iron, as an additional constituent, significantly contributes to the susceptibility of individuals to coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction.

The prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease ready for antireflux surgery.

Coronary atherosclerosis (CAS) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) share common risk factors. The existing CAS may not only increase the possibility of GERD to be refractory GERD (RGERD), but also increase the risk of antireflux surgery for these patients. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of CAS and its potential risk factors in patients with RGERD ready for antireflux surgery. The retrospective analysis was performed in the digestive disease center of Suining Central Hospital, a teritary hospital in Sichuan, China. Records of patients with RGERD admitted to the hospital for antireflux surgery between July 2018, and June 2021 were included. The included patients were divided into the RGERD group and RGERD-CAS group based on the coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) results, which were defined as no CAS and CAS (<50% mild stenosis or ≥50% significant stenosis). In total, 448 patients with RGERD qualified for the study. The prevalence of CAS in these patients was 45.1%. Specifically, 246 patients (54.9%) were in the RGERD group, and 202 patients (45.1%) were in the RGERD-CAS group. Among these 202 patients with CAS, 120 patients (59.4%) had mild CAS (<50% stenosis), 82 patients (40.6%) had significant CAS (≥50% stenosis). Five independent risk factors, including male sex, high blood pressure (HBP), diabetes mellitus (DM), Barrett's esophagus (BE) and family history of coronary artery disease were identified for the occurrence of CAS in patients with RGERD ready for antireflux surgery after adjusting for other factors. CAS is prevalent in patients with RGERD ready for antireflux surgery. Routing CTTA was suggested to exclude potential coronary artery disease in RGERD patients ready for antireflux surgery with independent risk factors.

Association between high sensitivity C-reactive protein and coronary atherosclerosis in a general middle-aged population

Abstract Background Despite abundant knowledge about the relationship between inflammation and coronary artery disease (CAD), it is still unknown whether high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is associated with coronary atherosclerosis in the general population. Objectives The project aimed to study the association between systemic inflammation, measured as hsCRP, and coronary artery atherosclerosis in a large population based cohort. Methods 30,154 randomly selected men and women aged between 50 and 64 years were included in the SCAPIS (Swedish Cardiopulmonary Bioimage Study). After excluding those not undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), those with proximal segments not technically assessable and those with missing values of hsCRP, 25,408 individuals were analysed. Coronary artery atherosclerosis was defined as presence of plaque of any degree (1–49% or ≥50% diameter stenosis) or segments not assessable due to calcification in any of the 18 coronary segments. Analysis of severe atherosclerosis included participants with ≥50% diameter stenosis in any of the left main coronary artery (LMCA), the proximal left anterior descending artery (LAD) or three vessel disease including ≥50% diameter stenosis in any of the segments in each of the LAD, right coronary artery (RCA) and circumflex artery (CX). Participants with hsCRP above the lowest detection limit (≥0.7mg/L) were divided into tertiles and compared with hsCRP&amp;lt;0.7 mg/L as a reference. Results The highest tertile of measurable hsCRP (≥2.3 mg/L) was associated with coronary atherosclerosis in a multivariate analysis adjusted for classical cardiovascular risk factors (Table 1). HsCRP was also related to atherosclerosis with significant coronary artery diameter stenosis ≥50%, ≥4 segments involved, severe atherosclerosis and atherosclerosis with noncalcified plaques. Also, moderately elevated hsCRP (1.2–2.2 mg/L) was significant associated with noncalcified plaques. In a stratified analysis, coronary atherosclerosis was associated with the two highest tertiles of hsCRP (≥1.2 mg/L) in women, but not in men. Conclusion Elevated hsCRP was associated with the prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis in a population based cohort of middle-aged men and women. The relationships were more pronounced for atherosclerosis with noncalcified plaques and in women compared to men. This suggests that more attention should be given to hsCRP in risk assessment in middle-aged individuals without known disease, especially in women. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): The Swedish Heart Lung FoundationKnut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation

Gender differences in blood parameters (ALT, AST) in people with cardiovascular diseases and their relationship to the level of total mercury in the hair

Abstract. Large industrial enterprises are located on the territory of the city of Cherepovets, which are potential sources of mercury entering the environment. The study involved residents of the Vologda Oblast without cardiovascular diseases (men n=82; women n=266) and with cardiovascular diseases (men n=192; women n=309). The average mercury content in the hair of the study participants was 0.572 0.686 mg/kg. In healthy men and men with cardiovascular diseases, the indicators of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase are statistically significantly (on average 1.2-1.5 times) higher than in women. A significant correlation was established between the concentration of ALT, AST from the amount of mercury in the hair of the study participants: in men ALT - RS=0.168, p 0.008 and AST- RS=0.183, p 0.004, respectively; in women ALT: RS=0.121, p 0.007, AST is not statistically significant RS=0.035 p 0.442. The increase in mercury affects the human body with cardiovascular diseases, increasing the enzymatic activity of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase. The causes of gender differences in CVD are: different reproductive function; different prevalence of autonomous regulation of vascular functions and stress; different features of the development and prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis.

Increased prevalence of premature coronary atherosclerosis after preeclampsia

Abstract Background Women with preeclampsia have increased risk of manifest coronary artery disease later in life. However, it remains unknown if and when premature coronary atherosclerotic stages can be identified. This knowledge could enable early intervention in women considered at high risk for future manifest coronary artery disease. Purpose Using cardiac computed tomography, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of premature coronary atherosclerosis in women with previous preeclampsia in comparison with women from the general population. Methods Women, aged 40–55 years, with previous preeclampsia were recruited in the CPH-PRECIOUS study and compared 1:1 with age- and parity-matched women from the CGPS. Both groups underwent a cardiac computed tomography, including a contrast-enhanced coronary computed tomography angiography and a non-contrast coronary artery calcium scoring, as well as an overall assessment of cardiovascular risk factors imbedded in an extensive questionnaire. Cardiac computed tomography examinations were analysed blindly. The main outcome of the study was the prevalence of any coronary atherosclerosis defined as any plaque at coronary computed tomography angiography or a calcium score &amp;gt;0 in case of a non-diagnostic coronary computed tomography angiography. Results A total of 1,424 women were included (715 women with previous preeclampsia and 709 controls from the general population). Women with previous preeclampsia were more likely to have cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, dyslipidaemia, diabetes mellitus). The prevalence of any coronary atherosclerosis was significantly higher in the preeclampsia group (27.4% vs. 20.0%) (P=0.001). A calcium score &amp;gt;0 was also more prevalent in the preeclampsia group (16.6% vs. 11.8%) (P=0.009). Preeclampsia remained an independent risk factor for the presence of any coronary atherosclerosis after adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors (age, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, diabetes, smoking, body mass index, parity) (OR=1.37, 95% CI (1.05–1.79), P=0.021). Conclusion Women with previous preeclampsia are more likely show premature signs of coronary atherosclerosis compared with an age- and parity matched control group from the general population. Preeclampsia is an independent risk factor for premature coronary atherosclerosis. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): The Danish Heart FoundationSkibsreder Per Henriksen, R og Hustrus FondKong Christian den Tiendes FondBrødrene Hartmanns FondHans og Nora Buchards FondArvid Nilssons FondAnita og Tage Therkelsens FondLægefondenAase og Ejnar Danielsens FondHjertecentrets Forskningsudvalg (Rigshospitalet)Direktør Kurt Bønnelycke og Hustru Fru Grethe Bønnelyckes FondLægeforeningens ForskningsfondTorben &amp; Alice Frimodt FondHenry og Astrid Møllers Fond

Gender bias in ACS management

Abstract Background Cardiovascular disease is implicated in approximately 1 in every 3 deaths occurring in both women and men worldwide. Numerically, it is responsible for more female than male deaths each year, due largely to longer life expectancy amongst women. Consequently, guidelines from the major international bodies recommend against the use of sex as a discriminating factor in the evaluation of chest pain. Still there remains a public perception of excess cardiovascular risk in men, contributing to a delay in the seeking of medical attention by women with symptoms of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). We hypothesise the attendant concern that unconscious gender bias amongst clinicians influences the management of patients presenting with ACS from triage to invasive assessment and treatment. Aim To examine the relationship between patient gender and clinical management of ACS. Methods We conducted a retrospective cross sectional study of all patients in whom ACS was suspected during a year long period using the laboratory database of a tertiary cardiac referral centre in Ireland. In all patients for whom high sensitivity cardiac troponin T assay was ordered during the full calendar year 2019, age, sex and troponin level were recorded. We determined the likelihood of invasive angiography for male versus female patients after adjustment for age and troponin result. Results A total of 30,560 requests for high sensitivity cardiac troponin T (troponin) were made to the laboratory in the year ending December 2019. Excluding 464 for technical and sampling issues, 30,096 assays were included in the analysis. 43.84% (N=13,194) of samples were female and 56.16% (N=16,902) male. These samples were collected from 10,807 patients (5,294 female and 5,513 male). Median age was 58 for females and 57 for males. The upper limit of normal in our institution for serum troponin is &amp;lt;14ng/L and there is no adjustment for sex. 22.01% (N=1,165) of females and 33.39% (N=1,841) of males had at least one troponin level reported above the normal range. Of female patients with at least one troponin above the normal limit, 10.21% (N=119) underwent invasive coronary angiography compared to 18.52% (N=341) of males. Of females in whom all troponin results were normal, 5.84% (N=241) proceeded to invasive angiography versus 9.18% (N=337) of males. Conclusion Notwithstanding the limitations of lack of adjustment for risk profile, the results of this analysis demonstrate a higher rate of invasive angiography in males compared with females independently of troponin level. This is in keeping with previous research suggesting a gender gap in the approach of clinicians to ACS, and suggests an unconscious sex-based discrimination when making decisions around diagnosis and treatment. Education regarding the prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis, and interventions to alter the attitudes of clinicians, are some of the interventions suggested to close this gap. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Autopsy-Determined Atherosclerosis in Elite US Military Special Operations Forces.

Autopsy studies of trauma fatalities have provided evidence for the pervasiveness of atherosclerosis in young and middle-aged adults. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of atherosclerosis in elite US military forces. We conducted a retrospective study of all US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) fatalities from 2001 to 2020 who died from battle injuries. Autopsies were evaluated from Afghanistan- and Iraq-centric combat operations for evidence of coronary and/or aortic atherosclerosis and categorized as minimal (fatty streaking only), moderate (10-49% narrowing of ≥1 vessel), and severe (≥50% narrowing of ≥1 vessel). Prevalence of atherosclerosis was determined for the total population and by subgroup characteristics of age, sex, race/ethnicity, combat operation, service command, occupation, rank, cause of death, manner of death, and body mass index (BMI). From the total of 388 USSOCOM battle injury fatalities, 356 were included in the analysis. The mean age was 31 years (range, 19-57 years), and 98.6% were male. The overall prevalence of coronary and/or aortic atherosclerosis was 17.4%. The prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis alone was 13.8%. Coronary atherosclerosis was categorized as minimal in 1.1%, moderate in 7.6%, and severe in 5.1%. Of those with atherosclerosis, 24.2% were <30 years old, 88.7% were from enlisted ranks, and 95.2% had combatant occupations. When BMI could be calculated, 73.5% of fatalities with atherosclerosis had a BMI =25. Autopsy-determined atherosclerosis is prevalent in elite US military Special Operations Forces despite young age and positive lifestyle benefits of service in an elite military unit.

Extend of coronary lesion, in-hospital complications in patients with STEMI, treated with PCI and high levels of CD14++CD16+ monocytes subpopulation

Abstract Aims Acute myocardial infarction with the ST elevation (STEMI) is accompanied by the development of an inflammatory reaction, in particular, activation of monocytes. To date, the relationship between the levels and dynamics of monocyte populations in patients with STEMI and the prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis on the one hand (and with the clinical course of the disease, on the other hand) is not well understood. Methods and results The 50 STEMI patients (pts) were studied prospectively. All the pts underwent the PCI (alone, or followed by angioplasty/stenting) and have the monocytes (Mc) population analysis data obtained at 1st and 7th–10th days. According to the angiography data, pts were divided into three groups: “single-vessel lesion” (group 1, n=13), “two-vessel lesion” (group 2, n=14) and “three-vessel lesion” (group 3, n=23). There was an in-hospital increase in CD14++CD16-, CD14++CD16+ and CD14+CD16++ populations of Mc in 3rd group (+5%, +43% and +44%, respectively, p&amp;lt;0.05 for all), whereas in subgroups 1 and 2 there was an increase in CD14+CD16++ population (+70% in group 1, p&amp;lt;0.05 and +90% in group 2, p&amp;lt;0.001), without significant dynamics of CD14++CD16− and CD14++CD16+ populations. In addition, there was an increase in the CD14+CD16++ population only in pts with 1–3 coronary lesions (+72%, p&amp;lt;0.001 versus −12% of decrease in pts with more than 3 lesions, p&amp;gt;0.1). The number of CD14++CD16+ Mc on day 1 of STEMI correlated positively with levels of C-reactive protein (C-RP, r=0.34, p&amp;lt;0.05), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR, r=0.39, p&amp;lt;0.01), and with left ventricle (LV) end-systolic volume (r=0.33, p&amp;lt;0.05) and negatively – with LV ejection fraction (r=−0.22, p&amp;lt;0.1), while there were only slight correlations of CD14++CD16- Mc levels with left ventricle (LV) end-systolic volume (r=0.28, p&amp;lt;0.05) and with LV ejection fraction (r=−0.23, p&amp;lt;0.1). According to the hospital follow-up, the 1st day count of CD14++CD16+ Mc was higher in patients with in-hospital complications (mean 42.9±6.9x106/L vs 26.6±5.3x106/L in uncomplicated cases, p&amp;lt;0.05), and was correlated with number of in-hospital complications per patient (r=0.25, p=0.05). Conclusion Higher baseline number of CD14++CD16+ Mc correlates with other “pro-inflammatory” indices (C-RP, ESR) and indicates the worse baseline cardio-hemodynamic and unfavorable course of in-hospital period in pts with STEMI, treated with PCI. Incremental in-hospital dynamic of all Mc populations was observed in multi-vessel lesion cases. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

The effect of omega-3 fatty acids on coronary atherosclerosis quantified by coronary computed tomography angiography

Data on the effects omega-3 fatty acids on coronary artery disease (CAD) are contradictory. While a recent metanalysis could not show improved cardiovascular outcomes, anti-atherogenic mechanisms are well known. Aim was to assess the influence of Omega-3 polyunsaturated long-chain fatty acids (PUFA) supplementation on coronary atherosclerosis quantified by coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA). 106 patients (59.4y±10.7; 50% females) with low-to-intermediate risk referred to CTA were included. 53 patients under omega 3-PUFA (docosahexaenoic acid, DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA) supplementation were retrospectively matched with 53 controls (CR) for age, gender and coronary risk profile (smoking, arterial hypertension, family history, dyslipidemia, c-LDL, Cholesterol, TG, diabetes) (1:1, propensity score) and lifestyle habits (exercise, alcohol consumption and nutrition). CTA analysis included 1) stenosis severity score >70%severe, 50-70% moderate, 25-50%mild, <25% minimal), 2) total plaque burden (segment involvement score (SIS) and mixed non-calcified plaque burden (G-score) and 3) high-risk-plaque features (Napkin-Ring-Sign, low attenuation plaque (LAP), spotty calcification<3mm, RI>1.1). CT-Density (Hounsfield Units, HU) of plaque was quantified by CTA. Prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis (any plaque: 83% vs. 90.6%, p=0.252), >50% stenosis and stenosis severity score (p=0.134) were not different between groups. Total and non-calcified plaque burden scores were lower in the omega-3 group (2.7 vs. 3.5, p=0.08 and 4.5 vs. 7.4, p=0.027 for SIS and G-score, resp.). Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) was similar (84.7 vs. 87.1AU). High-risk-plaque prevalence was lower in the Omega-3 group (3.8% vs. 32%, p<0.001); the number of high-risk-plaques (p<0.001) and Napkin-Ring-Sign prevalence was lower (3.8% vs. 20.9%) (p<0.001), resp. CT-density (HU) of plaque was higher in the Omega-3 group (131.6±2 vs. 62.1±27, p=0.02) indicating more fibrous-dense plaque component rather than lipid-rich atheroma. Mean duration of Omega-3 intake was 38.6±52months (range, 2-240). Omega-3-PUFA supplementation is associated with less coronary atherosclerotic "high-risk" plaque (lipid-rich) and lower total non-calcified plaque burden independent on cardiovascular risk factors. Our study supports direct anti-atherogenic effects of Omega-3-PUFA.

Prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis and reclassification of cardiovascular risk in Spanish population by coronary computed tomography angiography: EVA study.

A more complete assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD) can be performed by coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). The aim was to assess the prevalence, distribution and characteristics of coronary artery disease (CAD) and the reclassification of cardiovascular risk by CCTA in an asymptomatic Spanish population. We included, in a cross-sectional study, 501 random subjects from asymptomatic population, aged 35 and 75. Risk factors, target organ damage and cardiovascular risk were assessed. CCTA was offered to measure the coronary artery calcium score(CACS), segment involvement score(SIS) and segment stenosis score(SSS). The offer was accepted by 220 subjects (44%), with a mean age of 58±14years, 56% of them male. The mean CACS was 119.6±381.7 (median (IQR) (0 (0-61.55))), with higher scores in males (191.9±493.1) than females (26.1±73.3; P<.01). CCTA revealed coronary atherosclerosis in 89 cases, 40% (CI95%:34%-46%) in global, 51% in male and 25% in female, of which 13 had obstructive lesions (5.9%). Mean SIS was 1.5±2.5 and SSS 1.2±3.1. When the CACS was included in the CAD risk scale, there was a reclassification of 24%, and when using the SIS percentile, it was 38%, with a 9% increase in risk in both cases. The prevalence of CAD in asymptomatic Spanish population was 40%, with greater proportion among males. The incorporation of CACS and SIS in the assessment of cardiovascular risk allows reclassifying subjects who are at low or moderate risk and thus identify those with high cardiovascular risk and also the other way.

P771 3D versus 2D transesophageal echocardiography in the detection of thoracic aorta atherosclerosis stage and prediction of coronary atherosclerosis

Abstract Background 2D transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) was approved as a suitable method for the assessment of thoracic aorta (TA) atherosclerosis. Purpose A comparison between 2D and 3D multiplane TEE for qualitative and quantitative assessment of aortic atheromas and for coronary atherosclerosis prediction. Methods 180 consecutive CAD patients (104 men, 76 women, mean age 62 ± 7 years) were examined. 2D and 3D TEE was performed using Philips IE33 xMatrix system and a X7-2t multiplane probe. 2D study of TA was performed using Live xPlane mode. 3D study of TA was performed using Live 3D and Full Volume modes. Qualitative and quantitative assessment of every atheroma was performed using 2D and 3D modes. The degree of severity and distribution of the TA atheromatosis was evaluated according to the classification of ASE and EACVI (2015): grade 0 – intimal-medial thickness ≤1 mm, 1 – intimal thickness ≤2 mm, 2 – focal or diffuse intimal thickening of 2-3 mm (small atheromas), 3 – atheromas &amp;gt;3–5 mm (no mobile/ulcerated components), 4 - atheromas &amp;gt; 5 mm (no mobile/ulcerated components), 5 - grade 2, 3, or 4 atheromas plus mobile or ulcerated components. After TEE all patients underwent digital coronary angiography and SYNTAX Score was calculated. Findings were presented as M ± SD or n (%). Results 620 atheromas were analysed: 109 in the ascending part, 8 in the arch and 503 in the descending part. On average 3,43 ± 2,15 atheromas per patient were revealed. Atheromas height in 3D was significantly higher (p &amp;lt; 0,001), than in 2D, being 0,38 ± 0,09 mm and 0,26 ± 0,07 mm, respectively. Atheromas height increase in 3D was 0,12 ± 0,06 mm. In 3D 88% of atheromas have shown irregular contours while in 2D only 35% of atheromas had rough countors. The mobile component in 6 out of 9 atheromas was revealed only in 3D. In 2D 1-5 stages of TA atheromatosis were revealed in 22 (12%), 103 (57%), 43 (24%), 7 (4%) and 4 (2%) cases, respectively. In 3D 1-5 stages of TA atheromatosis were revealed in 16 (9%), 25 (14%), 90 (50%), 38 (21%) and 10 (5%) cases, respectively. With 3D TEE 72% of patients were found to have higher gradation of TA atheromatosis stage. The direct Spearman’s correlation between a stage of TA atheromatosis and SYNTAX Score which has been established for 2D r = 0,32 p &amp;lt; 0,001 and 3D r = 0,30, p &amp;lt; 0,01, respectively. Conclusions A comparison between 2D and 3D TEE has shown, that 3D is more precise method of qualitative and quantitative assessment of aortic atheromas and diagnosis of TA atheromatosis stage. 3D ultrasound stage of TA atheromatosis is a surrogate marker of severity and prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis.

Possibilities and limitations of three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in the diagnosis of thoracic aorta atherosclerosis

To compare the possibilities and limitations of the two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) multiplane transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for the diagnosis of the thoracic aorta (TA) atherosclerosis stage, qualitative and quantitative assessment of aortic atheromas and coronary atherosclerosis prediction.Materials and methods. 2D and 3D multiplane TEE of the TA was performed in 180 consecutive CAD patients (104 men, 76 women, mean age 62,4±7,5 years) using Philips IE33 xMatrix system and a X7-2t multiplane probe. Ascending aorta, accessible parts of the arch and descending TA were visualized in 2D mode with standard protocol using Live xPlane mode. 3D study of TA was performed using Live 3D and Full Volume modes. 2D and 3D studies were recorded as video clips series on a system hard drive with subsequent off line processing on a QLab 10.8 (Philips) workstation. Qualitative and quantitative assessment of every atheroma was performed using 2D and 3D modes. The degree of severity and distribution of the TA atheromatosis was evaluated according to the classification of ASE and EACVI (2015): grade 0 - intimal-medial thickness ≤1 mm, 1 - intimal thickness ≤2 mm, 2 - focal or diffuse intimal thickening of 2-3 mm (small atheromas), 3 - atheromas &gt;3-5 mm (no mobile/ulcerated components), 4 - atheromas &gt; 5 mm (no mobile/ulcerated components), 5 - grade 2, 3, or 4 atheromas plus mobile or ulcerated components. After TEE all patients underwent digital coronary angiography. SYNTAX Score was calculated in 122 (67,7%) patients with no coronary stents and bypass grafts.Results. 620 atheromas were analysed: 109 (17,6%) in the ascending part, 8 (1,3%) in the arch and 503 (81,1%) in the descending part. On average 3,4±2,1 atheromas per patient were revealed. Atheromas height in 3D was significantly higher (p&lt;0,001), than in 2D, being 0,38±0,09 cm and 0,26±0,07 cm, respectively. Averaged atheromas height increase in 3D was 0,12±0,06 cm. In 3D 87,7% of atheromas have shown irregular contours while in 2D only 35,4% of atheromas had rough countors. The mobile component in 6 (66,6%) out of 9 atheromas was revealed only in 3D. In 2D 1-5 stages of TA atheromatosis were revealed in 22 (12,2%), 103 (57,2%), 43 (23,9%), 7 (3,9%) and 4 (2,2%) cases, respectively. In 3D 1-5 stages of TA atheromatosis were revealed in 16 (8,9%), 25 (13,9%), 90 (50%), 38 (21,1%) and 10 (5,5%) cases, respectively. With 3D TEE 130 (72,2%) patients were found to have higher gradation of TA atheromatosis stage. TA atheromatosis was not detected in 1 (0,6%) patient. The direct Spearman's correlation between a stage of TA atheromatosis and SYNTAX Score which has been established for 2D rs =0,32 p&lt;0,001 and 3D rs =0,30, p&lt;0,01, respectively.Conclusion. A comparison between 2D and 3D TEE has shown, that 3D is more precise method of qualitative and quantitative assessment of aortic atheromas and diagnosis of TA atheromatosis stage which allows, ultimately, to change the stage of TA atheromatosis towards a higher gradation. 3D ultrasound stage of TA atheromatosis is a surrogate marker of the severity and prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis.

Coronary plaque characteristics and epicardial fat tissue in long term survivors of type 1 diabetes identified by coronary computed tomography angiography

ObjectivesThe aim was to assess coronary atherosclerosis, plaque morphology and associations to cardiovascular risk factors and epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) in patients with long duration of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).Materials and methodsEighty-eight patients with ≥ 45 year T1DM duration and 60 controls underwent coronary CT angiography (CCTA) for evaluation of coronary artery plaque volume (total, calcified or mixed/soft), coronary artery calcification score (CAC) and EAT.ResultsPlaques were detected in 75 (85%) T1DM patients and 28 (47%) controls, p < 0.01. Median (interquartile range) plaque volume (mm3) in T1DM vs. controls was: 21.0 (1.0–66.0) vs. 0.2 (0.0–7.1), p < 0.01 for calcified, 0.0 (0.0–8.7) vs. 0.0 (0.0–0.0), p < 0.01 for soft/mixed and 29.5 (3.9–95.8) vs. 0.4 (0.0–7.4), p < 0.01 for total plaque volume. Median CAC was 128 (13–671) vs. 1 (0.0–39.0), p < 0.01 in T1DM vs. controls. Median EAT volume did not differ between the groups; 52.3 (36.1–65.5) cm3 vs. 55 (38.3–79.6), p = 0.20. No association between CAC or plaque volumes and EAT were observed. Low time-weighted LDL-cholesterol and HbA1c for 30 years were associated with having plaque volume < 25th percentile, OR (95% CI) 0.18 (0.05–0.70), p = 0.01 and 0.45 (0.20–1.00), p < 0.05, respectively. Time-weighted LDL-c was linearly associated with CAC (beta 0.82 (95% CI 0.03–1.62), p = 0.04) and total plaque volume (beta 0.77 (95% CI 0.19–1.36), p = 0.01).ConclusionLong-term survivors of T1DM have a higher prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis compared to controls. Low LDL-cholesterol and HbA1c over time have a protective effect on coronary atherosclerosis. EAT volume was not associated with coronary atherosclerosis in T1DM patients.

Prevalence of Coronary Artery Disease in Young Sudden Death Cases and Correlation with Post-Mortem Computed Tomography Calcium Score

Introduction: Data on prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD) in young sudden death autopsy cases in Malaysia are still scarce. Calcium scoring (CS) on Computed Tomography (CT) was suggested to be predictive for CAD; however the reports have been conflicting. Objectives: to investigate (i) the prevalence of young CAD in sudden death cases in a Malaysian population; (ii) the association between CT CS and CAD in such cases and correlation with age. Methods: Sudden death cases received at the National Institute of Forensic Medicine, Kuala Lumpur between September 2012 and December 2013 were recruited. The cases were divided into young [≤40] and old [&gt;40 years old] age groups. Presence of CAD was recorded during autopsy. Results: A total of 155 cases was included; 64.5% of the subjects were below 40 years old. CAD was the cause of death of 34 [21.9%] cases; of these, young individuals comprise 47.1% of cases [n=16; 10.3% of total cases, 16% of young sudden death cases]. Both young and old subjects with CAD had lower CS compared to those without CAD [p&lt;0.000; p=0.003 respectively]. Multivariable regression analysis showed CS to be significantly correlated with CAD in both young and old subjects. In contrast, other factors such as gender, ethnicity, body-mass index and waist-hip ratio did not show any correlation with CAD in both groups. Conclusion: The prevalence of CAD in young sudden death cases is

Sudden Cardiac and Noncardiac Death in Sports: Epidemiology, Causes, Pathogenesis, and Prevention.

Although few doubts remain that physical exercise should be widely promoted for maintenance of health and fitness, the risk of adverse events such as sudden death (especially due to cardiac causes, i.e., sudden cardiac death [SCD]) during exercise remains tangible. The overall risk of sudden death in athletes is relatively low (i.e., usually comprised between 0.1 and 38/100,000 person-years), and globally comparable to that of the general population. However, up to 20% of all sudden death cases are still recorded while exercising. The most frequent underlying disorders encountered in SCD are hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and coronary artery disease (CAD), representing three quarters of all conditions. The risk related to CAD increases with aging (>35 years old), while that attributable to cardiomyopathies or fatal arrhythmias is especially frequent among young people (<35 years old). Taken together, these findings would lead to the conclusion that physical exercise may be seen as an acute trigger of myocardial ischemia or arrhythmias in some predisposed individuals. Nonetheless, the prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis seems to be higher in athletes than in sedentary subjects with comparable risk profile. On the contrary, coronary plaques in physically active subjects appear more stable, thereby attenuating the risk of rupture and subsequent myocardial ischemia. These findings, along with evidence of a considerable increase of peak coronary blood flow during exercise, make it very likely that an imbalance between oxygen demand and supply may be the most frequent cause of myocardial ischemia in athletes suffering SCD and/or cardiac arrest. Therefore, all subjects who wish to practice moderate- to high-intensity exercise are recommended to undergo preparticipation screening and annual follow-up.

Evidence of extensive atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction in the ApoE−/−:Ins2+/Akita mouse fed a western diet

Background and aimsDiabetic patients with no history of cardiac infarction have a prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis and a risk of heart attack equivalent to euglycemic patients who have coronary atherosclerosis and have suffered a prior myocardial infarction. Although several murine models of diabetes have been established, none of these show indications of cardiac events. In an attempt to establish a diabetic mouse model with coronary atherosclerosis and myocardial injury, we have fed hyperglycemic ApoE−/−:Ins2+/Akita mice a western diet to enhance the dyslipidemic phenotype. MethodsFive-week-old ApoE−/−:Ins2+/Akita mice and ApoE−/− controls were fed a diet, 0.15% cholesterol and 21% anhydrous milk lipids, until 25 weeks of age. Changes in lifespan, clinical and metabolic parameters were evaluated as well as atherosclerosis and heart injury. ResultsIn comparison to male ApoE−/−, male ApoE−/−:Ins2+/Akita mice presented with chronic hyperglycemia (30.8 ± 1.2 mM vs. 9.3 ± 0.5 mM) accompanied by extremely high levels of total plasma cholesterol (49.3 ± 6.3 mM vs. 30.1 ± 1.5 mM) and triglycerides (11.6 ± 1.7 mM vs. 2.36 ± 0.18 mM). These mice have atherosclerosis at multiple vascular sites, including aortic sinus, ascending and descending aorta, brachiocephalic artery and coronary arteries. In addition, myocardial infarcts and a significant reduction of the lifespan (close to 20% of survival vs. other groups) were observed. Distinctively, both strains of female mice presented a parallel increase in plasma lipids, atherosclerosis, and no effects on mortality. ConclusionsWe have established a diabetic mouse model, the western-diet-fed male ApoE−/−:Ins2+/Akita mouse, with profound cardiovascular disease involving extensive atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease and myocardial infarct resulting in shortened lifespan.

GW28-e0345 Influence of cardiovascular risk factors on the prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with angiographically normal coronary arteries

GW28-e0345 Influence of cardiovascular risk factors on the prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with angiographically normal coronary arteries

Influence of Cardiovascular Risk Factors on the Prevalence of Coronary Atherosclerosis in Patients with Angiographically Normal Coronary Arteries

Cardiovascular (CV) disease is predominately influenced by CV risk factors and coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) is capable of detecting early-stage coronary artery disease. We sought to determine the influence of CV risk factors on the prevalence of nonobstructive atherosclerosis in patients with normal-appearing coronary arteries in invasive coronary angiography (ICA). In this retrospective analysis, we included 60 consecutive symptomatic patients, having undergone ICA and coronary CTA. Coronary dual source CTA was performed using electrocardiogram-triggered retrospective gated image acquisition at 40%-70% of RR interval (tube voltage 100-120 kV, tube current time product 320-440 mAs, 60 mL contrast, and flow rate 6 mL/s). Out of 60 patients (32 men, mean age 61 ± 11 years) with a normal coronary artery appearance in ICA, 45 (75%) patients showed atherosclerotic plaque in CTA. Plaque was present in 14 of 60 (23%) left main, 41 of 60 (68%) left anterior descending, 21 of 60 (35%) circumflex coronary arteries, and 24 of 60 (40%) right coronary arteries. More than 15% of all coronary artery segments showed detectable plaques. Interobserver agreement ranged from good to very good on a per-patient, per-vessel, and per-segment level. Patients with presence of plaque were significantly older (P = 0.005) and showed higher incidence of arterial hypertension (P = 0.019) as compared to individuals without coronary plaque in dual source computed tomography. The prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis by CTA is substantial in symptomatic patients with normal invasive coronary angiogram. Hypertension and older age significantly influence the prevalence of atherosclerotic plaque and highlight the importance of risk-modifying therapy.