Left Ventricular Systolic Function Research Articles

CSWT improves ventricular function by promoting angiogenesis through Rho/ROCK/ERK1/2 signal pathway in infarcted myocardium in rats

Abstract Objective This study aimed to investigate the effects of extracorporeal cardiac shock wave therapy (CSWT) on myocardial ischemia and cardiac function in rats with myocardial infarction, and to explore its impact on the expression of myocardial vascular endothelial growth factor and the extent of myocardial fibrosis, thereby elucidating the mechanism of angiogenesis. Methods A rat model of myocardial infarction was induced by ligating the left anterior descending branch of the coronary artery, confirmed by echocardiography. Animals were randomly assigned to five groups: sham operation group, myocardial infarction group, myocardial infarction + CSWT group, myocardial infarction + Y-27632 group, and myocardial infarction + CSWT + Y-27632 group. Cardiac function was evaluated by echocardiography on the 16th and 72nd day post-surgery. Myocardial morphology was assessed by HE staining, and the extent of myocardial fibrosis was determined by Masson's trichrome staining. Immunohistochemical staining for factor VIII was conducted to observe angiogenesis in each infarcted area. Western blotting was employed to detect the protein expression of extracellular regulated kinase (ERK1/2) and pro-angiogenic cytokines in the infarct border zone. Results CSWT treatment significantly reduced myocardial fibrosis and improved cardiac function compared to the myocardial infarction group. Additionally, CSWT upregulated ERK expression and angiogenesis-related factors, promoting angiogenesis. The beneficial effects of CSWT were abolished by inhibiting the Rho/ROCK/ERK1/2 pathway. Furthermore, the area of myocardial fibrosis was significantly reduced in the MI+Y-27632 group compared to the myocardial infarction group (p < 0.01), and left ventricular systolic function index was significantly higher in the myocardial infarction group. Conclusions CSWT may promote angiogenesis post-myocardial infarction by activating the Rho/ROCK/ERK1/2 pathway. Additionally, Y-27632 may improve cardiac function in rats with myocardial infarction, potentially through mitigating myocardial fibrosis.echo images of ratsprotein expression by WB

Serial changes in left and right ventricular global longitudinal strain in symptomatic obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy treated with mavacamten: insights from VALOR-HCM trial

Abstract Background In severely symptomatic patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the VALOR-HCM phase 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial demonstrated that mavacamten, reduces the need for septal reduction therapy with sustained improvement in left ventricular outflow tract gradients and symptoms. As a cardiac myosin inhibitor, mavacamten’s mechanism of action reduces myocardial hypercontractility. Global longitudinal strain (GLS), a measure of regional myocardial function, is a more sensitive marker of systolic function and can complement left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Objective We sought to assess serial changes in LV and right ventricular (RV)-GLS in patients enrolled in the VALOR-HCM study. Methods VALOR-HCM included 112 symptomatic obstructive HCM patients (mean 60 years, 51% male, LVEF 68%). Patients assigned to mavacamten at baseline continued the drug for 56 weeks (n=56) and those assigned to placebo crossed over to mavacamten (n=52) from week 16-56 (40-week exposure). LV and RV-GLS assessment was performed according to the current American and European guideline recommendations using a vendor-neutral post processing software. Non-foreshortened apical (4, 3 and 2-chamber) views were used to obtain peak value of LV-GLS. For RV-GLS, RV focused 4-chamber view was used to calculate RV 4-chamber and free wall strain. A more negative strain value is favorable. Results Serial changes in LVEF, average LV-GLS, and RV-GLS (4-chamber and free wall) from baseline to week 56 are shown in the Figure. Despite preserved LVEF at baseline, average baseline LV-GLS was abnormal. There were significant and continued improvements in LV-GLS in the total group from baseline to week 56. 12 patients had transient reduction in LVEF (<50%) requiring temporary drug interruption (permanent discontinuation in 3). The LV-GLS in this subgroup was worse at baseline compared to the total study population, with no significant worsening from baseline through week 56. In the overall population, excluding these 12 patients, LV-GLS demonstrated an improvement sustained through week 56. Both free wall and 4-chamber RV-GLS were abnormal at baseline and remained unchanged from baseline to week 56. Conclusions In the VALOR-HCM trial, despite hypercontractile LVEF at baseline, average baseline LV-GLS was worse than normal reference values. Treatment with mavacamten resulted in an improvement in LV-GLS from baseline through Week 56 (with no significant worsening of LV-GLS in the subgroup who experienced any reduction in LVEF <50%), suggesting a favorable long-term impact on regional LV systolic function due to the reduction of cardiac hypercontractility. Additionally, there was no significant detrimental impact on RV systolic function on serial GLS assessment.Serial changes in LV and RV GLS in VALOR

SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin prevents anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity in a large-animal model

Abstract Background While the development of cancer therapies has significantly improved the survival of cancer patients, more than 35% of cancer survivors treated with anthracyclines will develop cardiotoxicity. There is currently a lack of preventative therapies against anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity (AIC). AIC is characterised by a disruption in myocardial metabolism. Sodium-glucose co-transporter (SLGT2) inhibitors represent a potential therapy as they have been shown to modulate myocardial substrate utilisation in other heart-failure contexts. Purpose We developed a highly translational large-animal model to test the ability of SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin to prevent AIC at different doses. Methods Female Large-White pigs were randomised (2:1:1) to no treatment (AIC-control group) or empagliflozin at a daily oral dose of 10 mg or 20 mg, beginning at the start of the doxorubicin regimen and continuing to 21 weeks. All pigs received 6 doses of doxorubicin intravenous infusion (25 mg/m2/every 3 weeks) with 2 additional off-dose visits. Pigs were assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and MR spectroscopy (MRS) at baseline and every 3 weeks for 21 weeks. At the end of 21-week follow-up, the LV was collected and processed for analysis by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and mitochondrial respirometry. Results The primary outcome, final LVEF, was significantly higher in pigs receiving 20 mg empagliflozin than in the AIC-control group (57.5% (IQR=55.5, 60.3) vs 47.0% (40.8, 47.8); p=0.027). Final LVEF in pigs receiving 10 mg empagliflozin was 51% (46.5, 55.5) (p=0.020 vs 20 mg empagliflozin). The 20 mg empagliflozin dose prevented the doxorubicin-induced change in cardiac metabolic substrate utilisation and was associated with preservation of myocardial energetics (ATP/PCr ratio on MRS). TEM revealed disrupted mitochondrial structure and cristae density in AIC-control pigs, while mitochondria respirometry detected deteriorated respiratory function. Both mitochondrial structure and function were preserved in empagliflozin-treated pigs, with the 20 mg dose having the strongest cardioprotective effect. Conclusion The results from our translational large-animal model provide strong evidence that SGLT2 inhibition with empagliflozin prevents AIC by preserving LV systolic function and energetics as well as mitochondrial structural integrity and function. Our results establish the basis for clinical trial testing SGLT2i therapy in patients at high risk of AIC.

Characteristics associated with prevalent atrial fibrillation and risk profile for future atrial fibrillation among those in sinus rhythm in an elderly population in the ELSA Brasil Study

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an arrhythmia that can lead to limiting symptoms and increases the risk of stroke and heart failure (HF). Purpose To evaluate the association of clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic parameters with prevalent AF or flutter (AFF), and the risk profile for future AFF according to Charge-AF and EHR scores in an elderly population. Methods The ELSA-Brasil is a prospective cohort study designed to investigate cardiovascular disease and diabetes in 15,105 men and women, civil servants from universities or research institutions in six cities of Brazil. We included all participants in ELSA-Brasil aged 60 and over whose diagnosis of AFF could be assessed and had echocardiography performed at the study's baseline. From the initial sample with participants ≥ 60 years (n = 3,263), 400 participants were excluded due to missing data about AFF, and 775 who did not have echocardiographic studies. Results There were 88 (4.2%) participants with AFF at baseline among the 2,088 (65 ± 4.1 years; 53% women) included in this analysis. Those with AFF were older (66.8 ± 4.4 vs 65 ± 4.0 y-o) and had a higher prevalence of HF (16% vs 3.1%), previous myocardial infarction (14.8% vs 3.8%), left bundle branch block (LBBB: 4.6% vs 0,9%), prolonged QT interval (7.9% vs 2.0%), supraventricular extrasystoles (4.6% vs 1.2%), and sinus bradycardia (11.3% vs 2.9%). AFF individuals also presented larger left atrial volume index - LA (33.3 mL/m2 versus 27 mL/m2), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (4,63 ± 0,6 cm versus 4,47 ± 0,4 cm) and lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF: 63.6 ± 9.1% vs 67.4 ± 6.4%) that non-AFF (all p-values <0.05). In multivariable analysis, prevalent HF, LBBB, larger LA, and lower LVEF were independently associated with the presence of AFF. Among those in sinus rhythm at study baseline, both risk models showed that most individuals in our sample were at low risk. In the Charge-AF, 63% of individuals were identified as presenting low risk (<2.5%), and 12% of the sample was categorized as high risk, with a risk of five-year AFF greater than 5%. Similarly, in the EHR, 67% of participants were classified as low risk, and 13% were considered high risk. Conclusion We found that AFF was present in 4.2% of the subset of older participants in a cohort composed of free-living individuals in Brazil. The presence of AFF was associated with HF history, altered cardiac electrical activity, LA dilation, and worse LV systolic function. Among those with sinus rhythm, 12-13% were considered at high risk of developing AFF (> 5% in five years) based on two clinical scores. Clinical surveillance and monitoring of electrocardiography and echocardiography parameters may help the early identification of risk factors for AFF.

Post-Exercise Syncope in a Previously Healthy 67-Year-Old Man: The Bezold–Jarisch Reflex and the Role of Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction

A 67-year-old man started treatment due to frequent asymptomatic premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) accidentally being registered during a preventive examination by a specialist, because of which he was referred to cardiologist. During the initial 24-hour (h) ECG monitoring, 4.5% PVCs and one episode of asymptomatic non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) with three PVCs in row, at a frequency of 150 beats per minute (bpm), were detected. After the introduction of beta blockers into therapy, a lower number of PVCs, without NSVT, were recorded in the control 24 h Holter ECG, while transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) showed normal left ventricular (LV) systolic function without cardiomyopathy. So, an exercise test was indicated, and it was interrupted in the third minute at 120 beats per minute (bpm) due to fatigue and pain in the hips, without malignant arrhythmias, angina or dyspneic complaints. During the rest period, a significant inferolateral depression of the ST junction was observed, which recovered in the ninth minute. Immediately after the ECG monitoring stopped, the patient lost consciousness; his pulse was not palpable, but breathing was audible, so cardiac massage was started. After he had regained consciousness, the ECG showed alternating sinus and junctional rhythm with the lowest frequency of 33 bpm, which was accompanied by marked hypotension (80/50 mmHg). The patient was immediately hospitalized; coronary angiography and repeated TTE were completely normal, while continuous ECG monitoring did not confirm malignant rhythm disorders or asystole. It was concluded that it was vasovagal syncope (VVS), most likely caused by the Bezold–Jarisch reflex (BJR).

Predictive value of apical rocking and septal flash for subclinical left ventricular systolic dysfunction in complete left bundle branch block patients with normal left ventricular ejection fraction

BackgroundThis study aimed to evaluate the effects of apical rocking(ApRock) and septal flash(SF) on left ventricular function in complete left bundle branch block(CLBBB) patients with normal left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF), with the goal of improving risk stratification and clinical decision-making for these patients. MethodsSeventy-five CLBBB patients with normal LVEF, and 30 age- and sex-matched controls were enrolled in the study. Three independent physicians visually assessed the presence of ApRock and SF and left ventricular global longitudinal strain(LVGLS) and the standard deviation of time-to-peak strain in 18 segments(Ts-SD) were evaluated using two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography. ResultsCLBBB patients with normal LVEF had significantly decreased LV function and synchrony as evidenced by LVGLS and Ts-SD, and CLBBB patients with either ApRock or SF had lower LVGLS than those without ApRock or SF. LVGLS were further decreased and Ts-SD was further increased in CLBBB patients with both ApRock and SF (P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that both ApRock (OR, 4.13; P = 0.04) and SF (OR, 4.12; P = 0.03) were independently associated with LVGLS>-20 %. Combination of ApRock and SF showed the highest area under the curve for identifying LVGLS>-20 %. Furthermore, combination of ApRock and SF improved reclassification compared to ApRock alone. ConclusionCLBBB patients with normal LVEF showed impaired left ventricular systolic function. The presence of both ApRock and SF was a stronger indicator of subclinical left ventricular impairment compared to either one alone, suggesting that increased attention should be paid to CLBBB patients with normal LVEF, particularly those with both ApRock and SF.

Long-term outcomes after percutaneous withdrawal of HeartWare left ventricular assist device (HVAD) support: A 10-year update

Ten years have passed since we reported percutaneous decommissioning of an implantable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) using two Amplatzer vascular plugs in a 17 year-old male who was bridged to recovery after 22 months of LVAD support. Whilst his left ventricular (LV) dimensions never completely normalised and there has been persistent mild impairment of LV systolic function, the patient remains free of heart failure symptoms and his natriuretic peptide level has been well suppressed on guideline-directed medical therapy. He is anticoagulated with Warfarin. There have been no adverse events relating to either the decommissioned LVAD or the percutaneous driveline remnant, or anticoagulation. This case highlights the potential for long-term survival without adverse events in individuals who are left with a redundant implantable LVAD after successful percutaneous withdrawal of mechanical circulatory support.

Relation between Myocardial Blush Grade and Left Ventricular Systolic and Diastolic Function after Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Relation between Myocardial Blush Grade and Left Ventricular Systolic and Diastolic Function after Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Incidence of Myocarditis among Patients Recovered from COVID-19 Identified using Cardiac Magnetic Resonance: A 1-year Single-centre Retrospective Study

Background: COVID-19 continues to engender significant morbidity and mortality globally and is associated with cardiac injuries, such as myocarditis. This study reports the incidence of myocarditis identified using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in patients recovered from COVID-19. Methods: This is a single-centre retrospective cohort study conducted among recovered COVID-19 patients who underwent CMR from 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2021. Results: Most patients with evidence of myocardial oedema on CMR had a mild-type infection (31 of 54 [57%]), with dyspnoea (15 [28%]) and palpitations (12 [22%]) being the most common symptoms. Twenty-nine of 54 (54%) patients had increased T2 signal indicative of myocarditis; eight (28%) of them had evidence of myocardial fibrosis on late gadolinium enhancement primarily located at the lateral walls with sub-epicardial and mid-wall involvement dispersed in the basal to apical segments. Myocardial oedema was noted in nine (31%) patients. Six (20%) of them had an impaired left ventricular ejection fraction of &lt;50% and three patients (10%) had an impaired right ventricular ejection fraction of &lt;50%. There was no significant difference in left ventricular (57% versus 61%; p=0.13) and right ventricular (57% versus 60%; p=0.51) systolic function between the two groups. Conclusion: Myocarditis after COVID-19 can be a lasting consequence, and CMR may serve as a sensitive imaging tool to investigate any suspected cardiac injury after treatment of the infection. The findings of the study may aid in determining the other possible long-term effects in patients who have recovered from COVID-19, particularly those who continue to experience symptoms.

Slow Flow And No-Reflow Phenomenon In The Intervention Of Coronary Arteries At The Viet Nam National Heart Institute - Bach Mai Hospital

Abstract Background: Slow or no-reflow can occur in both acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and chronic coronary syndrome (CCS), with an incidence rate of up to 32% in patients with ACS. No-reflow is associated with increased rates of rehospitalization, ventricular remodeling, malignant arrhythmias, and heart failure, and is an independent predictor of myocardial infarction and mortality. Although various treatments and medications, such as Adenosine, Nitroglycerin, Nicardipine, and Adrenaline, have shown effectiveness in improving flow when this phenomenon occurs, not all cases respond to these flow-improving drugs. Additionally, the use of these drugs may be unsuitable due to adverse developments that contraindicate their use Objective: A descriptive of the clinical and paraclinical characteristics and slow or no-reflow phenomenon during coronary artery interventions at the Viet Nam National Heart Institute, Bach Mai Hospital. Method: This is an observational study describing the clinical and paraclinical characteristics and management methods for slow or no-reflow in 40 patients undergoing coronary artery interventions at the Viet Nam National Heart Institute, Bach Mai Hospital. Results: Among the 40 observed patients, 80% were admitted with a diagnosis of STEMI. Males accounted for 57.5%, averaging 71.43 ± 10.97 years. All patients had mildly reduced left ventricular systolic function with an LVEF of 45.75 ± 10.43%. Slow flow primarily occurred in the culprit branch, with the LAD accounting for 50% and the right coronary artery for 32%. There were 14 anemic patients, accounting for 35%, with the lowest hemoglobin level being 80g/L. Blood potassium levels &lt;3.5 mmol/L accounted for 22.5%, with the lowest being 2.9 mmol/L. Adenosine was used to manage slow flow in 33 patients, with 32 patients (97%) showing improved flow after administration. Six patients were treated with Nitroglycerin, which improved TIMI flow in four patients. Two patients did not respond to Nitroglycerin but responded to Adenosine. Two patients with TIMI flow 0-1 did not respond to Adenosine and were subsequently treated with Adrenaline; however, TIMI flow did not improve, leading to short-term complications during hospitalization Conclusion: Slow or no-reflow is commonly observed in patients with acute coronary syndrome, predominantly in older males. These cases are often seen in patients with heart failure and mildly to moderately reduced left ventricular systolic function. The LAD is the most frequently affected coronary artery branch compared to the other two branches. Adenosine is the first-line drug and is more effective in managing slow or no-reflow.

Left bundle branch area pacing for atrioventricular block and mild to moderately reduced left ventricular systolic function.

The clinical efficacy of left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) has not been fully elucidated in patients with atrioventricular block and mild to moderately reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). This study evaluated the impact of LBBAP on patients with an LVEF of ≤50% and dependent on ventricular pacing. Thirty-seven patients with atrioventricular block underwent successful LBBAP. All patients had a reduced LVEF of 36%-50% and underwent pacemaker implantation. Ventricular pacing was performed using the LBBAP alone throughout the follow-up period. Clinical outcomes, including death from any cause, fatal ventricular arrhythmias, hospitalization for heart failure, and echocardiographic improvements after 1 year, were assessed. Thirty-three (89%) patients were free from the composite endpoint during a median follow-up of 36 months, whereas four patients experienced noncardiovascular deaths or hospitalization for heart failure. No fatal ventricular arrhythmias occurred. LVEF was improved using LBBAP from 42.6 ± 4.7% to 52.1 ± 9.1% (p < .001). LVEF normalization (>50%) was achieved in 64.5% of patients, while in 11 patients LVEF remained stable demonstrating no deterioration (from 42.5 ± 4.7% to 42.4 ± 6.3%). Nonischemic cardiomyopathy (odds ratio, 21.52; 95% confidence interval, 1.96-236.45) and Pre-existing bundle branch block (odds ratio, 11.79; 95% confidence interval, 1.11-125.75) were independent preoperative predictors of LVEF normalization using LBBAP. LBBAP significantly improved cardiac systolic dysfunction without causing fatal ventricular arrhythmias. Moreover, LBBAP may provide a promising alternative to biventricular pacing in patients with atrioventricular block and a reduced LVEF of 36%-50%.

Post myocardial infarction left ventricular intramyocardial dissecting hematoma penetrated right ventricular outflow tract: a rare complication report

BackgroundIntramyocardial dissecting hematoma (IDH) is a rare mechanical complication following myocardial infarction (MI), and only a few isolated cases have been reported to date. IDH presents with diverse clinical manifestations, often resulting in missed or misdiagnosed cases due to limited physician understanding. The diagnosis and treatment of IDH is a major challenge.Case presentationsWe report a case of acute extensive anterior MI in a 73-year-old woman, who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI); the left ventricular intramyocardial dissecting hematoma (LVIDH) penetrated the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT), resulting in thrombus formation and subsequent RVOT obstruction. Clinically insignificant IDH was detected by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) at 3 days, 43 days, and 75 days post-PCI, with characteristic changes in the left ventricular wall ultrasound images. This unusual case highlights the important role of continuous transthoracic echocardiography in identifying this rare complication of LVIDH. After a detailed discussion with the patient, the choice between conservative or surgical management of IDH depends on factors such as the size of the hematomae, left ventricular systolic function, and the patient’s clinical and haemodynamic status. In this particular case, conservative management was chosen by the patient who declined surgery but unfortunately succumbed to cardiogenic shock.ConclusionsThis case describes a rare complication of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and also focuses on the utility of TTE in the diagnosis of this rare complication. Whether LVIDH is treated conservatively or surgically requires careful evaluation to achieve the best prognosis for the patient.

Left ventricular systolic function after inhalation of beta-2 agonists in healthy athletes

Inhaled beta-2 adrenoceptor agonists (iβ2A) are routinely used as bronchodilators in the treatment of asthma. However, their cardiac effects in athletes are scarcely examined. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of iβ2A on left ventricular (LV) systolic function (SF) by echocardiography in healthy, non-asthmatic female and male endurance athletes. A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, balanced, 4-way complete block cross-over study was conducted. Twenty-four healthy athletes (12f/12m: 22.9 ± 2.7/24.4 ± 4.6 years) randomly completed 4 study arms (placebo; salbutamol; formoterol; formoterol + salbutamol). After inhalation of the study medication, the participants performed a 10-min time trial (TT) on a bicycle ergometer. After each TT an echocardiography was performed to determine LVSF. Blood samples were collected pre, post, 3 h and 24 h post TT. In females, total serum concentrations for salbutamol and formoterol were higher. LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and LV global longitudinal strain (LVendoGLS) showed a treatment effect for the whole study group (p < 0.0001) and a sex effect on LVEF (p = 0.0085). In women, there was a significant treatment effect for all medication arms (at least p ≤ 0.01) both on LVEF and LVendoGLS. In men only formoterol and formoterol + salbutamol displayed a treatment effect on LVEF (p = 0.0427, p = 0.0330; respectively), whereas on LVendoGLS only formoterol + salbutamol was significant (p = 0.0473). The iβ2A significantly influenced LVSF after an acute bout of exercise in healthy endurance athletes. These effects were even more pronounced when combining both iβ2A that supports a dose-dependent effect on cardiac function. Moreover, female athletes had higher serum concentrations of β2 agonists and stronger effects on LVSF compared to male athletes. This is mainly explained by differences in body weight and related plasma volume and may indicate a potential risk when increasing dose above the tested concentrations. Trial registration: At the European Union Drug Regulating Authorities Clinical Trials (Eudra CT) with the number 201,500,559,819 (registered prospectively on 09/12/2015) and at the German register for clinical studies (DRKS number 00010574 registered retrospectively on 16/11/2021).

Changes in echocardiographic parameters after hemodialysis session in a North African pediatric population with end-stage renal disease and without known heart disease.

Children undergoing long-term hemodialysis (HD) face a reduction in life expectancy mostly due to cardiovascular mortality. Effects of HD on cardiac function have not been fully elucidated in pediatric population. This study aimed to assess HD session impact on cardiac function in pediatric patients using conventional and strain echocardiography. We performed a prospective, comparative study of echocardiographic parameters before and after single HD session in a chronic HD pediatric population. We enrolled between the 1st and 30th September 2023, all consecutive patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) aged up to 18 years old on maintenance HD three times weekly for at least three months. All patients underwent conventional and left ventricular (LV) longitudinal strain echocardiography in a window of 30-60 minutes before and after HD. 23 patients, 14.8 ± 2.1 years old and 47.8% male, were enrolled. Reductions in body weight and blood pressure were observed after HD, whereas heart rate increased. Significant decrease in LV and left atrial diameters and volumes after HD session were observed. Mitral peak E velocity, as well as average E/e' were significantly lower after HD. Although LV ejection fraction was unchanged, global longitudinal strain for LV was significantly reduced after dialysis (-17.3 ± 3.0% vs. -14.9 ± 2.4%, p=4.10-8). Patent deterioration in LV systolic function following HD was identified by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE). STE has the potential to unmask early myocardial dysfunction even when there is no evident alteration in conventional systolic function parameters in children with ESRD.

8089 Myxedema Coma Presenting with Reversible Cardiomyopathy and Acute Renal Failure

Abstract Disclosure: A. Mubashir: None. F. Sajid: None. M. Sattar: None. Myxedema Coma is a life-threatening complication of hypothyroidism and often presents with multi-organ failure. However, reversible cardiomyopathy and acute renal failure are rare. Here, we present a case of iatrogenic hypothyroidism leading to myxedema coma with reversible organ failure. Case Presentation: A 58-year-old male with a past medical history of iatrogenic hypothyroidism after total thyroidectomy for follicular thyroid cancer, noncompliant with levothyroxine for the past three years, was brought to the hospital due to worsening mental status, low energy, and cold extremities for three days. On admission, vital signs were within normal limits. Laboratory studies revealed Random Glucose 113 (74-200 mg/dl), Na 134 (135-149 mmol/l), TSH: 217 (0.39-4.08 MCIU/ml), Free T4 &amp;lt;0.25 (0.58-1.64 ng/dl), Free T3 1.01 (2.53-3.87 pg/ml), BUN 53.3 (7-21 mg/dl), Creatinine 4.9 (0.5-1.3mg/dl). Urinalysis was positive for protein of 300 mg/dl (negative). Urine studies showed hematuria, total protein/cr 3.18 (&amp;lt;0.10), with increased total protein of 60/24 hours (0-12 mg/dl), suggesting glomerular etiology. Additionally, Bence Jones protein and monoclonal band were negative, interpreted as mild glomerular proteinuria. FeNa &amp;gt;2%, Urine sodium of &amp;gt;40 (20-40mmol/l) suggest acute tubular necrosis. EKG showed normal sinus rhythm with low voltage. To rule out diastolic dysfunction, an echocardiogram was performed, which revealed depressed systolic function with an ejection fraction of 31-35% and a large pericardial effusion with echocardiographic features of tamponade. He also had global cardiomyopathy with akinesis, especially in the inferior segments. He was treated with IV levothyroxine. Repeat imaging in one month showed an increase in ejection fraction to 55% with moderate-sized pericardial effusion and no echocardiographic features of tamponade. Global cardiomyopathy had also resolved. However, left ventricular systolic function was borderline, with delayed diastolic expansion of the right ventricle. Repeat creatinine was 2mg/dl. The patient’s condition greatly improved, and he was discharged with follow-up with endocrinology, nephrology, and cardiology. Discussion: In the available literature, diastolic dysfunction is associated with severe hypothyroidism. However, reversible global cardiomyopathy with decreased systolic function is rare. The pathogenesis of this myopathy is not well understood. Similarly, known mechanisms of renal injury in hypothyroidism include renal hypoperfusion, rhabdomyolysis, decreased kidney-to-body weight ratio, truncated tubular mass, and altered glomerular architecture. While the need to perform a renal biopsy or the use of goal-directed therapy for dilated cardiomyopathy remains questionable in such cases, reversible complications of severe hypothyroidism should be investigated in patients with suspected myxedema. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Subclinical left ventricular dysfunction and laboratory predictor of activity in children with ulcerative colitis: A single-centre study.

We aimed to detect subclinical cardiac impairment in children with ulcerative colitis (UC) and test the association between absolute monocytic count (AMC) and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) with disease activity. A group of children with UC and a comparable group as healthy controls were included. All children underwent history-taking, clinical examination and blood testing for complete blood counts with white blood cell differentials, LMR and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Disease severity was assessed using the Paediatric UC Activity Index score. We used echocardiography for tissue Doppler, M-Mode, two-dimensional and three-dimensional (3D) speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) for left ventricular function assessment. Forty children were included, 20 with UC as cases, and 20 healthy controls. Disease activity was mild in 75% cases and moderate in 25% cases. Cases had significantly higher ESR than the control group (P < 0.001). Among cases, positive correlations were observed between monocytic, and platelet counts with left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (r = 0.5, P = 0.02; r = 0.5, P = 0.03). Children with UC had significantly lower ejection fraction and impaired left ventricular systolic function compared to the control group (P < 0.001) assessed by 3D STE, yet this observation was not reached by the conventional method (P = 0.3). In children with UC, 3D STE could detect subclinical left ventricular systolic dysfunction that conventional echocardiography could not. AMC and LMR showed no significant difference between children with UC and controls.

6724 A Broken Heart Due to Excess Thyroid

Abstract Disclosure: R. Subramani: None. R. Subramani: None. V. Zeykan: None. Introduction: Tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy related to thyrotoxicosis is an uncommon yet serious complication affecting fewer than 1% of individuals with hyperthyroidism. Restoring a euthyroid state can potentially reverse the abnormal cardiac structure and function. Here we report a case of tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy secondary to thyrotoxicosis Case Summary: A 52-year-old woman with a history of hypertension presented with recent-onset exertional dyspnea, a nonproductive cough, and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. On examination, she exhibited tachycardia (heart rate: 150/min), tachypnea, hypertension, and was afebrile. Physical findings included a mildly enlarged, firm, non-tender thyroid gland bilaterally, without exophthalmos or tremors. Auscultation revealed bilateral crackles in the left lower lung fields. Laboratory analysis revealed undetectable TSH (&amp;lt;0.02 uIU/mL), elevated free T4 (5.3 ng/dL), free T3 (16.30 pg/mL), thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) at 216%, and NT proBNP at 8528 pg/mL. Neck ultrasound and CT confirmed diffuse enlargement of the thyroid gland. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) displayed severely depressed left ventricular systolic function, estimating an ejection fraction (EF) of 25-30%. Initial management involved intravenous beta-blockers for heart rate control, IV Lasix, and IV hydrocortisone. Subsequently, the patient received propylthiouracil, propranolol, and prednisone, resulting in symptomatic improvement. A follow-up TTE after 6 months revealed an improved EF of 50%. Discussion: The pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying thyrotoxic cardiomyopathy encompass several factors, including tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy, direct myopathic effects induced by the T3 hormone, and concurrent autoimmune myocarditis associated with Graves' disease. Thyroid hormone exerts a comprehensive impact on nearly all tissue and organ systems, heightening basal metabolic rate and subsequently increasing preload, myocardial contractility, and cardiac output. While thyrotoxicosis-related congestive heart failure (CHF) is relatively uncommon among patients hospitalized for acute CHF, addressing hyperthyroidism and CHF through definitive treatment yields a more favorable prognosis compared to cases of acute CHF stemming from other etiologies. The intricate interplay of these mechanisms highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach in managing thyrotoxic cardiomyopathy, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address both the underlying thyroid dysfunction and associated cardiac manifestations. Presentation: 6/3/2024

8081 Case report of sympathetic paraganglioma presenting as chronic catecholamine induced cardiomyopathy

Abstract Disclosure: Z. Tan: None. A. Taiwo: None. Background: Sympathetic paragangliomas are rare neuroendocrine tumors (&amp;lt;1/100,000) arising from extra-adrenal autonomic paraganglia, generally in the thorax, abdomen, and pelvis. They secrete catecholamines predominantly norepinephrine, which can cause a rare complication of catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy. Clinical Case: A 33-year-old male, with history of obesity and borderline hypertension not on medication, presented with dyspnea on exertion, worsening paroxysmal nocturia dyspnea of 1 month duration and sudden onset of severe right flank pain. Work up for his chronic shortness of breath revealed: Troponin negative. EKG showed sinus tachycardia. Echocardiogram revealed enlarged left ventricle, severely decreased LV systolic function of 25-30%. Given the absence of angina symptoms, negative troponin, and EKG findings, his new-onset cardiomyopathy was presumed to be non-ischemic. CT chest, abdomen and pelvis was performed for the new onset right flank pain, which revealed a 4.1 cm x 4.0 cm centrally necrotic aortocaval soft tissue mass. This raise a concern about malignancy. A CT-guided Fine-Needle Aspiration of the retroperitoneal mass suggested paraganglioma. Further investigation showed plasma normetanephrine at 5.56 nmol/L (Reference range: 0-0.89 nmol/L), 24 hour urine normetanephrine at 2411 ug/d (Reference range: 114-865 ug/d), and 24 hour urine norepinephrine at 179 ug/d (Reference range: 14-20 ug/d). Plasma metanephrines and plasma dopamine were within the normal range. A gallium DOTATE PET/CT revealed a necrotic aortocaval mass with peripheral uptake, consistent with the known paraganglioma. He was diagnosed with sympathetic paraganglioma complicated with chronic catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy and had exploratory laparotomy excision of his paraganglioma. Preoperatively, he was treated with phenoxybenzamine and carvedilol. However, his post-surgical course was complicated by acute on chronic heart failure and pneumonia, and he subsequently passed away from a pulseless electrical activity arrest. Conclusion: Although sympathetic paragangliomas rarely presents as catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy, this case emphasizes the importance of considering hormonal abnormalities in patients who present with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy without high risk factors. Reference: 1. Alessandra Giavarini, Antoine Chedid et al. Acute catecholamine cardiomyopathy in patients with phaechromocytoma or functional paraganglioma. Heart 2013; 99: 1438-1444. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Assessment of Biventricular Systolic and Diastolic Function Using Conventional and Strain Echocardiography in Children with Sickle Cell Disease Surviving 1-year After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant.

Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) is a potentially curative therapy for children with sickle cell disease (SCD). The effects of HSCT on ventricular function are not well characterized in children with SCD. Echocardiograms from children with SCD who underwent HSCT between 2007 and 2017 were retrospectively analyzed before and 1-year after HSCT. Left ventricular (LV) volumes, mass, and ejection fraction were calculated by the 5/6 area*length method. LV end-diastolic and systolic dimensions, septal, and posterior wall thickness, and fractional shortening were measured by M-mode. Mitral and tricuspid inflow Dopplers (E and A waves) as well as mitral, tricuspid, and septal tissue Dopplers (E', A') were assessed. E/A, E'/A' and E/E' ratios were calculated. Biventricular strain imaging was performed using speckle-tracking echocardiography. Peak global systolic longitudinal and circumferential LV strain, and global longitudinal right ventricular strain, as well as early and late diastolic strain rate, were measured on LV apical 4-chamber, LV short-axis mid-papillary, and RV apical views, respectively. Forty-seven children (9.7 ± 5.5years, 60% male) met inclusion criteria. Pre-HSCT, subjects had mild LV dilation with normal LV systolic function by conventional measure of ejection fraction and fractional shortening. There was a significant reduction in LV volume, mass, and ejection fraction after HSCT, but measurements remained within normal range. LV longitudinal and circumferential strain were normal pre-HSCT and showed no significant change post-HSCT. RV strain decreased after HSCT, but the absolute change was small, and mean values were normal both pre- and post-HSCT. Conventional measures of diastolic function were all normal pre-HSCT. Post-HSCT there was a reduction in select parameters, but all parameters remained within normal range. Early and late diastolic strain rate parameters showed no significant change from pre- to post-HSCT. At one-year after HSCT in children with SCD conventional measures of systolic and diastolic function are within normal limits. Except for a small decrease in RV systolic strain with values remaining within normal limits, systolic strain and diastolic strain rate values did not significantly change 1-year after HSCT.

Multicentre, randomized, double-blind, prospective study on the effects of ImmunoAdSorptiOn on cardiac function in patients with Dilated CardioMyopathy (IASO-DCM): Rationale and design.

Pilot studies indicate that immunoadsorption with subsequent IgG substitution (IA/IgG) induces beneficial effects in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and heart failure. This placebo-controlled study investigates whether IA/IgG treatment enhances left ventricular (LV) systolic function as compared to a control group receiving pseudo-treatment. This multicentre, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group trial aims to include 200 patients with heart failure due to DCM (LV ejection fraction [LVEF] <40%) on optimized guideline-directed heart failure medication. Participants are randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to IA/IgG using protein-A columns, or to pseudo-immunoadsorption followed by an intravenous infusion without IgG. Follow-up visits take place by telephone after 1 and 3 months and at the study centres after 6, 12 and 24 months. The primary efficacy endpoint is the change in LVEF from baseline to 6 months determined by contrast echocardiography, analysed at a core lab. In addition, LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes will be analysed as secondary endpoints over the entire study period to assess whether IA/IgG affects LV remodelling. As main secondary outcome, a composite of all-cause death, cardiac resuscitation, hospitalization for heart failure, and need for cardiac surgery to improve myocardial pump function will be evaluated after 24 months. In addition, exploratory outcomes as well as safety endpoints related to the treatment will be assessed throughout the whole study period. IASO-DCM is a randomized study which will provide comprehensive insights into the effects of immunoadsorption with subsequent IgG substitution in patients with DCM.