Myocardial perfusion scintigraphy during chest pain: An atypical presentation of takotsubo cardiomyopathy?

Although Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) knowledge is increasing, the exact pathophysiology remains unclear. TCM represents 1%-2% of all troponin positive acute coronary syndromes, affects predominantly postmenopausal women, and is commonly preceded by exposure to severe physical or emotional stress. Transient wall motion abnormalities mimicking ST-elevation myocardial infarction is expected as well as increase of troponin levels and echocardiography alterations. This case report is about a patient that as far as we know is the first case that shows the use of myocardial perfusion imaging in the acute phase of TCM. In general, the TCM Mayo Clinic diagnostic criteria have been very helpful in the clinical setting. In this specific case, however, the presence of reduced myocardial perfusion in the acute phase combined with increased troponin levels seemed to be in contradiction with the exclusion of obstructive coronary artery disease.

Effect of Nebivolol on MIBG Parameters and Exercise in Heart Failure with Normal Ejection Fraction / Efeito do Nebivolol sobre Parâmetros do MIBG e Exercício na Insuficiência Cardíaca com Fração de Ejeção Normal

Abstract Background: More than 50% of the patients with heart failure have normal ejection fraction (HFNEF). Iodine-123 metaiodobenzylguanidine (123I-MIBG) scintigraphy and cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) are prognostic markers in HFNEF. Nebivolol is a beta-blocker with vasodilating properties. Objectives: To evaluate the impact of nebivolol therapy on CPET and123I-MIBG scintigraphic parameters in patients with HFNEF. Methods: Twenty-five patients underwent 123I-MIBG scintigraphy to determine the washout rate and early and late heart-to-mediastinum ratios. During the CPET, we analyzed the systolic blood pressure (SBP) response, heart rate (HR) during effort and recovery (HRR), and oxygen uptake (VO2). After the initial evaluation, we divided our cohort into control and intervention groups. We then started nebivolol and repeated the tests after 3 months. Results: After treatment, the intervention group showed improvement in rest SBP (149 mmHg [143.5-171 mmHg] versus 135 mmHg [125-151 mmHg, p = 0.016]), rest HR (78 bpm [65.5-84 bpm] versus 64.5 bpm [57.5-75.5 bpm, p = 0.028]), peak SBP (235 mmHg [216.5-249 mmHg] versus 198 mmHg [191-220.5 mmHg], p = 0.001), peak HR (124.5 bpm [115-142 bpm] versus 115 bpm [103.7-124 bpm], p= 0.043), HRR on the 1st minute (6.5 bpm [4.75-12.75 bpm] versus 14.5 bpm [6.7-22 bpm], p = 0.025) and HRR on the 2nd minute (15.5 bpm [13-21.75 bpm] versus 23.5 bpm [16-31.7 bpm], p = 0.005), but no change in peak VO2 and 123I-MIBG scintigraphic parameters. Conclusion: Despite a better control in SBP, HR during rest and exercise, and improvement in HRR, nebivolol failed to show a positive effect on peak VO2 and 123I-MIBG scintigraphic parameters. The lack of effect on adrenergic activity may be the cause of the lack of effect on functional capacity.

Resumo Fundamento: Mais de 50% dos pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca têm fração de ejeção preservada (ICFEN). A cintilografia marcada com iodo 123 com metaiodobenzilguanidina (123I-MIBG) e o teste cardiopulmonar do exercício (TCPE) são marcadores de prognóstico da ICFEN. O nebivolol é um betabloqueador com propriedade vasodilatadora. Objetivos: Avaliar o impacto da terapia com nebivolol sobre as variáveis da cintilografia com 123I-MIBG e do TCPE em pacientes com ICFEN. Métodos: Vinte e cinco pacientes realizaram cintilografia com 123I-MIBG para avaliar a taxa de washout e a relação coração/mediastino precoce e tardia. Durante o TCPE, foi analisado o comportamento da pressão arterial sistólica (PAS), frequência cardíaca (FC) durante o esforço e a recuperação (FCR) e o consumo de oxigênio (VO2). Após avaliação inicial, separamos nossa amostra em grupos controle versus intervenção, iniciamos o nebivolol e repetimos os exames após 3 meses. Resultados: Após o tratamento, o grupo intervenção apresentou melhora na PAS (149 mmHg [143,5-171 mmHg] versus 135 mmHg [125-151 mmHg, p = 0,016]), FC em repouso (78 bpm [65,5-84 bpm] versus 64,5 bpm [57,5-75,5 bpm, p = 0,028]), PAS no pico do esforço (235 mmHg [216,5-249 mmHg] versus 198 mmHg [191-220,5 mmHg], p = 0,001), FC no pico do esforço (124,5 bpm [115-142 bpm] versus 115 bpm [103,7-124 bpm], p = 0,043) e FCR no 1º minuto (6,5 bpm [4,75-12,75 bpm] versus 14,5 bpm [6,7-22 bpm], p = 0,025) e no 2º minuto (15,5 bpm [13-21,75 bpm] versus 23,5 bpm [16-31,7 bpm], p = 0,005), porém não apresentou mudança no VO2 de pico e nos parâmetros da cintilografia com 123I-MIBG. Conclusão: Apesar de um melhor controle da PAS e na FC em repouso e durante o esforço e uma melhora na FCR, o nebivolol não ocasionou efeito positivo sobre o VO2 de pico e nos parâmetros da cintilografia com 123I-MIBG. A ausência de efeito sobre a atividade adrenérgica pode ser a causa da falta de efeito sobre a capacidade funcional.

Effect of Nebivolol on MIBG Parameters and Exercise in Heart Failure with Normal Ejection Fraction.

BACKGROUND: More than 50% of the patients with heart failure have normal ejection fraction (HFNEF). Iodine-123 metaiodobenzylguanidine (123I-MIBG) scintigraphy and cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) are prognostic markers in HFNEF. Nebivolol is a beta-blocker with vasodilating properties. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the impact of nebivolol therapy on CPET and123I-MIBG scintigraphic parameters in patients with HFNEF. METHODS: Twenty-five patients underwent 123I-MIBG scintigraphy to determine the washout rate and early and late heart-to-mediastinum ratios. During the CPET, we analyzed the systolic blood pressure (SBP) response, heart rate (HR) during effort and recovery (HRR), and oxygen uptake (VO2). After the initial evaluation, we divided our cohort into control and intervention groups. We then started nebivolol and repeated the tests after 3 months. RESULTS: After treatment, the intervention group showed improvement in rest SBP (149 mmHg [143.5-171 mmHg] versus 135 mmHg [125-151 mmHg, p = 0.016]), rest HR (78 bpm [65.5-84 bpm] versus 64.5 bpm [57.5-75.5 bpm, p = 0.028]), peak SBP (235 mmHg [216.5-249 mmHg] versus 198 mmHg [191-220.5 mmHg], p = 0.001), peak HR (124.5 bpm [115-142 bpm] versus 115 bpm [103.7-124 bpm], p= 0.043), HRR on the 1st minute (6.5 bpm [4.75-12.75 bpm] versus 14.5 bpm [6.7-22 bpm], p = 0.025) and HRR on the 2nd minute (15.5 bpm [13-21.75 bpm] versus 23.5 bpm [16-31.7 bpm], p = 0.005), but no change in peak VO2 and 123I-MIBG scintigraphic parameters. CONCLUSION: Despite a better control in SBP, HR during rest and exercise, and improvement in HRR, nebivolol failed to show a positive effect on peak VO2 and 123I-MIBG scintigraphic parameters. The lack of effect on adrenergic activity may be the cause of the lack of effect on functional capacity.

Utilidade do Imageamento Multimodal na Detecção de Infarto do Miocárdio em Paciente com Insuficiência Renal Avançada: Relato de Caso / Usefulness of Multimodality Imaging for Detection of Myocardial Infarction in Patients with Advanced Kidney Failure: Case Report

A terceira definição universal de Infarto agudo do miocárdio(IAM) baseia-se na elevação das troponinas em associaçãoa sintomas isquêmicos, alterações eletrocardiográficas eachados de exames de imagem.1 Em pacientes com dortorácica, o diagnóstico do IAM é realizado por meio dadosagem dos marcadores séricos de necrose miocárdica,em especial as troponinas, mediante as alterações doeletrocardiograma (ECG) de doze derivações ou pelaidentificação de alterações da dinâmica contrátil do ventrículoesquerdo ao ecocardiograma transtorácico.1Em algumas situações o diagnóstico pode ser dificultadopor fatores confundidores, como: (a) na presença de alteraçõesprévias no ECG basal, principalmente o bloqueio de ramoesquerdo (BRE); (b) elevações dos marcadores de necrosemiocárdica (MNM) decorrentes de situações que não o IAMe; (c) alterações antigas da contratilidade detectadas peloecocardiograma transtorácico.2...

BNP was Associated with Ischemic Myocardial Scintigraphy and Death in Patients at Chest Pain Unit / Associação de BNP com Isquemia na Cintilografia Miocárdica e Morte em Pacientes da Unidade de Dor Torácica

Background: Recent studies have suggested that B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) is an important predictor of ischemia and death in patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome. Increased levels of BNP are seen after episodes of myocardial ischemia and may be related to future adverse events. Objectives: To determine the prognostic value of BNP for major cardiac events and to evaluate its association with ischemic myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (MPS). Methods: This study included retrospectively 125 patients admitted to the chest pain unit between 2002 and 2006, who had their BNP levels measured on admission and underwent CPM for risk stratification. BNP values were compared with the results of the MPS. The chi-square test was used for qualitative variables and the Student t test, for quantitative variables. Survival curves were adjusted using the Kaplan-Meier method and analyzed by using Cox regression. The significance level was 5%. Results: The mean age was 63.9 ± 13.8 years, and the male sex represented 51.2% of the sample. Ischemia was found in 44% of the MPS. The mean BNP level was higher in patients with ischemia compared to patients with non-ischemic MPS (188.3 ± 208.7 versus 131.8 ± 88.6; p = 0.003). A BNP level greater than 80 pg/mL was the strongest predictor of ischemia on MPS (sensitivity = 60%, specificity = 70%, accuracy = 66%, PPV = 61%, NPV = 70%), and could predict medium-term mortality (RR = 7.29, 95% CI: 0.90-58.6; p = 0.045) independently of the presence of ischemia. Conclusions: BNP levels are associated with ischemic MPS findings and adverse prognosis in patients presenting with acute chest pain to the emergency room, thus, providing important prognostic information for an unfavorable clinical outcome. .

Fundamentos: Recentes estudos sugeriram que o peptídeo natriurético do tipo B (BNP) seja um importante fator preditivo de isquemia e morte em pacientes com suspeita de síndrome coronariana aguda. Níveis elevados de BNP são observados após episódios de isquemia miocárdica e podem estar relacionados a futuros eventos adversos. Objetivos: Determinar o valor prognóstico do BNP para eventos cardíacos maiores e avaliar sua associação com cintilografia de perfusão miocárdica (CPM) isquêmica. Métodos: Este estudo incluiu retrospectivamente 125 pacientes admitidos na unidade de dor torácica entre 2002 e 2006, quando seus níveis de BNP foram medidos, tendo sido submetidos a CPM para estratificação de risco. Os níveis de BNP foram comparados com os resultados da CPM. O teste do qui-quadrado foi usado para avaliar as variáveis qualitativas e o teste t de Student, para as quantitativas. Curvas de sobrevida foram ajustadas usando-se o método de Kaplan-Meier e analisadas com regressão de Cox. Adotou-se o nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: A idade média foi de 63,9 ± 13,8 anos, e o sexo masculino correspondeu a 51,2% da amostra. Isquemia foi identificada em 44% das CPM. O BNP médio foi maior em pacientes com isquemia do que naqueles sem isquemia na CPM (188,3 ± 208,7 versus 131,8 ± 88,6; p = 0,003). Um nível de BNP acima de 80 pg/ml mostrou-se o mais forte fator preditivo de isquemia na CPM (sensibilidade = 60%, especificidade = 70%, acurácia = 66%, VPP = 61%, VPN = 70%), tendo sido capaz de predizer morte em médio prazo (RR = 7,29, IC 95%: 0,90-58,6; p = 0,045) independentemente da presença de isquemia. Conclusões: Os níveis de BNP estão associados com achados isquêmicos na CPM e prognóstico adverso em pacientes que se apresentam no setor de emergência queixando-se de dor torácica aguda, fornecendo, portanto, importante informação prognóstica para um desfecho clínico desfavorável. .

BNP was associated with ischemic myocardial scintigraphy and death in patients at chest pain unit.

BACKGROUND: Recent studies have suggested that B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) is an important predictor of ischemia and death in patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome. Increased levels of BNP are seen after episodes of myocardial ischemia and may be related to future adverse events. OBJECTIVES: To determine the prognostic value of BNP for major cardiac events and to evaluate its association with ischemic myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (MPS). METHODS: This study included retrospectively 125 patients admitted to the chest pain unit between 2002 and 2006, who had their BNP levels measured on admission and underwent CPM for risk stratification. BNP values were compared with the results of the MPS. The chi-square test was used for qualitative variables and the Student t test, for quantitative variables. Survival curves were adjusted using the Kaplan-Meier method and analyzed by using Cox regression. The significance level was 5%. RESULTS: The mean age was 63.9 ± 13.8 years, and the male sex represented 51.2% of the sample. Ischemia was found in 44% of the MPS. The mean BNP level was higher in patients with ischemia compared to patients with non-ischemic MPS (188.3 ± 208.7 versus 131.8 ± 88.6; p = 0.003). A BNP level greater than 80 pg/mL was the strongest predictor of ischemia on MPS (sensitivity = 60%, specificity = 70%, accuracy = 66%, PPV = 61%, NPV = 70%), and could predict medium-term mortality (RR = 7.29, 95% CI: 0.90-58.6; p = 0.045) independently of the presence of ischemia. CONCLUSIONS: BNP levels are associated with ischemic MPS findings and adverse prognosis in patients presenting with acute chest pain to the emergency room, thus, providing important prognostic information for an unfavorable clinical outcome.

Cintilografia de perfusão miocárdica de estresse-isolado: por que, como e em quem ? / Myocardial perfusion imaging: why, how and who?

Nos vários estágios de desenvolvimento de uma técnica torna-se necessário reavaliar o que fazer e como fazer para que esta agregue mais informações clínicas e seja mais eficaz na prática diária. Na cintilografia de perfusão miocárdica novos protocolos têm surgido para otimizar o tempo de exame, reduzir a exposição do paciente à radiação e o custo geral, porém garantindo a mesma acurácia dos protocolos já estabelecidos. O protocolo “estresse-isolado” tem mostrado relevância, sobretudo para os pacientes da Unidade de Emergência, estratificados em risco baixo e intermediário para doença arterial coronariana, os quais necessitam de um diagnóstico rápido, preciso e seguro.

At various stages during the development of a technique, it is necessary to reassess what to do and how this can provide more clinical information, thus becoming more effective in daily practice. In myocardial perfusion imaging, new protocols have appeared, with trimmer test times, less patient exposure to radiation and lower overall costs, while ensuring the same accuracy as established protocols. The stress-only protocol has shown particular relevance for Emergency Room patients rated as low and medium risk for coronary artery disease, requiring fast, safe and accurate diagnoses.

Applicability of the Appropriate use Criteria for Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy / Aplicabilidade dos Critérios de Adequação em Cintilografia Miocárdica

Background: Appropriateness Criteria for nuclear imaging exams were created by American College of Cardiology (ACC) e American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC) to allow the rational use of tests. Little is known whether these criteria have been followed in clinical practice. Objective: To evaluate whether the medical applications of myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (MPS) in a private nuclear medicine service of a tertiary cardiology hospital were suitable to the criteria of indications proposed by the American medical societies in 2005 and 2009 and compare the level of indication of both. Methods: We included records of 383 patients that underwent MPS, November 2008 up to February 2009. Demographic characteristics, patient's origin, coronary risk factors, time of medical graduation and appropriateness criteria of medical applications were studied. The criteria were evaluated by two independent physicians and, in doubtful cases, defined by a medical expert in MPS. Results: Mean age was 65 ± 12 years. Of the 367 records reviewed, 236 (64.3%) studies were performed in men and 75 (20.4%) were internee. To ACC 2005, 255 (69.5%) were considered appropriate indication and 13 (3.5%) inappropriate. With ACC 2009, 249 (67.8%) were considered appropriate indications and 13 (5.2%) inappropriate. Conclusions: We observed a high rate of adequacy of medical indications for MPS. Compared to the 2005 version, 2009 did not change the results. .

Fundamento: Os critérios de adequação para os exames de imagem nuclear foram criados pelo American College of Cardiology (ACC) e pela American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC) com o objetivo de permitir o uso racional dos exames. Pouco se sabe se esses critérios têm sido seguidos nas indicações da prática clínica. Objetivo: Avaliar se os pedidos médicos de cintilografia de perfusão miocárdica (CPM), em serviço privado de medicina nuclear de um hospital cardiológico terciário, adequavam-se aos critérios de indicações propostos pelas sociedades médicas americanas em 2005 e 2009 e comparar o grau de indicação entre ambos. Métodos: Foram incluídos 383 prontuários de pacientes submetidos à CPM de novembro de 2008 a fevereiro de 2009. As características demográficas, a origem do paciente, os fatores de risco coronariano, o tempo de formatura do médico e os critérios de adequação dos pedidos foram considerados. Os critérios foram avaliados por dois médicos independentes e, nos casos duvidosos, definidos por um especialista em CPM. Resultados: A média de idade foi de 65 ± 12 anos. Dos 367 prontuários analisados, 236 (64,3%) exames foram realizados em homens e 75 (20,4%) foram em pacientes internados. Aplicando-se os critérios do ACC de 2005, 255 (69,5%) das indicações foram consideradas adequadas e 13 (3,5%) inadequadas. Aplicando-se os critérios do ACC de 2009, 249 (67,8%) das indicações foram consideradas adequadas e 13 (5,2%) inadequadas. Conclusões: Foi observada uma elevada taxa de adequação das indicações médicas de CPM. Comparada com a edição de 2005, a versão de 2009 não alterou a taxa de exames adequados ou inadequados. .

Applicability of the Appropriate use Criteria for Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy.

Background: Appropriateness Criteria for nuclear imaging exams were created by American College of Cardiology (ACC) e American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC) to allow the rational use of tests. Little is known whether these criteria have been followed in clinical practice. Objective: To evaluate whether the medical applications of myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (MPS) in a private nuclear medicine service of a tertiary cardiology hospital were suitable to the criteria of indications proposed by the American medical societies in 2005 and 2009 and compare the level of indication of both. Methods: We included records of 383 patients that underwent MPS, November 2008 up to February 2009. Demographic characteristics, patient's origin, coronary risk factors, time of medical graduation and appropriateness criteria of medical applications were studied. The criteria were evaluated by two independent physicians and, in doubtful cases, defined by a medical expert in MPS. Results: Mean age was 65 ± 12 years. Of the 367 records reviewed, 236 (64.3%) studies were performed in men and 75 (20.4%) were internee. To ACC 2005, 255 (69.5%) were considered appropriate indication and 13 (3.5%) inappropriate. With ACC 2009, 249 (67.8%) were considered appropriate indications and 13 (5.2%) inappropriate. Conclusions: We observed a high rate of adequacy of medical indications for MPS. Compared to the 2005 version, 2009 did not change the results.

Isquemia miocárdica extensa em mulher jovem com lúpus eritematoso sistêmico / Extensive myocardial ischemia among young woman with systemic lupus erythematosus

Paciente do sexo feminino, 24 anos, diagnosticada há seis anos com lúpus eritematoso sistêmico, apresentou dispneia aos médios esforços após quadro depré-eclampsia e edema agudo de pulmão. Foi realizada ecocardiografia que revelou trombo intracavitário no VEe discinesia, necessitando de internação para anticoagulação. A cintilografia tomográfica de perfusão miocárdica com 99mTc-sestamibi revelou defeitos de perfusão miocárdica compatíveis com área de isquemia estimada em 12 %. Discutem-se neste relato os aspectos clínicos das complicações cardiovasculares do lúpus eritematoso sistêmico.

Female patient, 24 years old, diagnosed six years ago with systemic lupus erythematosus, presented dyspnea on moderate exertion after preeclampsia and acute lung edema. Echocardiography disclosed an intracavitary thrombus in the LV with dyskinesia,requiring hospitalization for anticoagulation. Myocardial perfusion SPECT showed 99Tcm-sestamibi myocardial perfusion defects compatible with an area of ischemia estimated at 12%. This report discusses clinical aspects of cardiovascular complications resulting from systemic lúpus erythematous.

Interleucina 1β correlaciona-se com MIBG e parâmetros do exercício, na insuficiência cardíaca? / Do interleukin-1β levels correlate with MIBG and exercise parameters in heart failure?

FUNDAMENTO: Na insuficiência cardíaca, níveis de interleucina 1β (IL 1β) se associam a prognóstico. A atividade adrenérgica cardíaca avaliada através da cintilografia com metiodobenzilguanidina (I123 MIBG) e parâmetros do exercício são importantes preditores de prognóstico. A relação entre essas variáveis não está bem definida. OBJETIVO: Avaliar associação entre níveis de IL 1β com parâmetros do exercício e do I123 MIBG. MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional transversal, com avaliação de 25 pacientes consecutivos com insuficiência cardíaca e fração de ejeção menor que 45%, através de: dosagem de IL 1β; parâmetros do I123 MIBG [relação coração/mediastino precoce e tardia, taxa de washout (WO)]; e teste ergométrico em esteira pelo protocolo de Rampa. RESULTADOS: Separados em dois grupos pelos níveis de IL 1β (normal vs. elevado), o grupo com níveis aumentados apresentava menor reserva de duplo produto (RDP), menor capacidade funcional (CF) e recuperação mais lenta da frequência cardíaca no 1º (RFC 1º) e 2º minuto (RFC 2º), e maior WO. Na análise univariada, todas as variáveis se correlacionaram com a IL 1β; RDP: r = 0,203, p = 0,024; CF: r = 0,181, p = 0,034; RFC 1º: r = 0,182, p = 0,034; RFC 2º: r = 0,204, p = 0,023; WO: r = 0,263, p = 0,009. Na multivariada, apenas a WO permaneceu com correlação significativa (r2 = 0,263, p = 0,009). CONCLUSÃO: A hipertonia adrenérgica foi o principal determinante dos níveis de IL 1β, demonstrando que a atividade simpática excessiva influencia a atividade inflamatória sistêmica. As variáveis do teste ergométrico não foram capazes de identificar pacientes com níveis elevados de IL 1β.

BACKGROUND: Interleukin 1β (IL 1β) levels are associated with prognosis in heart failure. The cardiac adrenergic activity as assessed by metaiodobenzylguanidine (I123 MIBG) scintigraphy along with exercise parameters are important predictors of prognosis. The relationship between these variables is not fully established. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association of IL 1β levels with exercise and I123 MIBG parameters. METHODS: Cross-sectional observational study evaluating 25 consecutive patients with heart failure and ejection fraction lower than 45% by means of: determination of IL 1β levels; I123 MIBG parameters [early and late heart/mediastinum ratio, washout rate (WO)]; and treadmill exercise test using the ramp protocol. RESULTS: The patients were divided into two groups according to their IL 1β levels (normal vs. increased). The group with increased levels showed lower double-product reserve (DPR); lower functional capacity (FC); slower heart rate recovery at the first (HRR 1º) and second minute (HRR 2º); and higher WO. In the univariate analysis, all variables correlated with IL 1β; DPR: r = 0.203, p = 0.024; FC: r = 0.181, p = 0.034; HRR 1º: r = 0.182, p = 0.034; HRR 2º: r = 0.204, p = 0.023; WO: r = 0.263, p = 0.009. In the multivariate analysis, only WO maintained a significant correlation (r² = 0.263, p = 0.009). CONCLUSION: Adrenergic overactivity was the main determinant of IL 1β levels, thus demonstrating that an excessive sympathetic activity influences the systemic inflammatory response. Exercise test variables were not able to identify patients with high IL 1β levels.

Correlation between myocardial scintigraphy and CT angiography in the evaluation of coronary disease.

BACKGROUND: Coronary multidetector CT angiography (CTA) has shown good accuracy for detection of coronary stenosis. Although this is a promising technique for the evaluation of CAD, its correlation with the functional expression of the disease is not yet well established. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether the presence of CAD and the degree of coronary stenosis assessed by CT angiography are associated with changes in the Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy (MPS). METHODS: This is a retrospective observational study, which included 99 consecutive patients with known or suspected CAD. MPS and CTA were conducted. We compared the presence of perfusion defects by MPS with the presence of CAD and the degree of luminal obstruction by CTA. For statistical analysis, Student's t-test, ANOVA, and Chi-square (or Fisher's exact test for n <5) tests were used. Multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regression: the level of significance was 5%. RESULTS: Mean age was 62 ± 11.4 years, with 46 (71.7%) men. The variable analysis was performed per patient (n = 99) and per coronary irrigation territory (n = 297). Of the 67 territories that had significant CAD by CTA, 44.8% had abnormal MPS. Considering the degree of stenosis, abnormal MPS was present in 18.7% of the territories with no significant stenosis, 45.28% of the territories with moderate stenosis, and 42.8% of the territories with severe injuries. CONCLUSIONS: CTA is a good method for exclusion of CAD. However, its use to evaluate the severity of stenosis and its functional impact has not shown good correlation.

Do interleukin-1ß levels correlate with MIBG and exercise parameters in heart failure?

BACKGROUND: Interleukin 1ß (IL 1ß) levels are associated with prognosis in heart failure. The cardiac adrenergic activity as assessed by metaiodobenzylguanidine (I123 MIBG) scintigraphy along with exercise parameters are important predictors of prognosis. The relationship between these variables is not fully established. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association of IL 1ß levels with exercise and I123 MIBG parameters. METHODS: Cross-sectional observational study evaluating 25 consecutive patients with heart failure and ejection fraction lower than 45% by means of: determination of IL 1ß levels; I123 MIBG parameters [early and late heart/mediastinum ratio, washout rate (WO)]; and treadmill exercise test using the ramp protocol. RESULTS: The patients were divided into two groups according to their IL 1ß levels (normal vs. increased). The group with increased levels showed lower double-product reserve (DPR); lower functional capacity (FC); slower heart rate recovery at the first (HRR 1º) and second minute (HRR 2º); and higher WO. In the univariate analysis, all variables correlated with IL 1ß; DPR: r = 0.203, p = 0.024; FC: r = 0.181, p = 0.034; HRR 1º: r = 0.182, p = 0.034; HRR 2º: r = 0.204, p = 0.023; WO: r = 0.263, p = 0.009. In the multivariate analysis, only WO maintained a significant correlation (r² = 0.263, p = 0.009). CONCLUSION: Adrenergic overactivity was the main determinant of IL 1ß levels, thus demonstrating that an excessive sympathetic activity influences the systemic inflammatory response. Exercise test variables were not able to identify patients with high IL 1ß levels.

Relação entre cintilografia miocárdica e angiotomografia na avaliação da doença coronariana / Correlation between myocardial scintigraphy and ct angiography in the evaluation of coronary disease

FUNDAMENTO: A angiotomografia coronariana por múltiplos detectores (Angio TC) tem demonstrado boa acurácia para detecção de estenose coronariana. Embora essa técnica seja promissora para avaliação da DAC, sua correlação com a manifestação funcional da doença ainda não está bem estabelecida. OBJETIVO: Avaliar se a presença de DAC e o grau de obstrução coronariana avaliados pela Angio TC se associam com alterações no exame de Cintilografia de Perfusão Miocárdica (CPM). MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional, retrospectivo, que incluiu consecutivamente 99 pacientes com DAC conhecida ou suspeita. Realizaram-se exames de CPM e Angio TC. Comparamos a presença de defeitos de perfusão pela CPM com a presença de DAC e grau de obstrução luminal pela Angio TC. Utilizou-se para a análise estatística o teste t de Student, ANOVA, o teste qui-quadrado (ou teste de Fisher para n < 5). Foi realizada análise multivariada por regressão logística e o critério de significância foi o nível de 5%. RESULTADOS: A média de idade foi 62 ± 11,4 anos, sendo 46 (71,7%) homens. A análise das variáveis foi realizada por paciente (n = 99) e por território de irrigação coronariana (n = 297). Dos 67 territórios que apresentaram DAC significativa pela Angio TC, 44,8% apresentaram CPM alterada. Considerando-se o grau de estenose, CPM alterada esteve presente em 18,7% dos territórios com estenose não significativa, 45,28% dos territórios com estenose moderada e 42,8% dos territórios com lesões graves. CONCLUSÕES: A Angio TC é um bom método para exclusão da DAC. No entanto, sua utilização para avaliação da gravidade da estenose e sua repercussão funcional não demonstrou boa correlação.

BACKGROUND: Coronary multidetector CT angiography (CTA) has shown good accuracy for detection of coronary stenosis. Although this is a promising technique for the evaluation of CAD, its correlation with the functional expression of the disease is not yet well established. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether the presence of CAD and the degree of coronary stenosis assessed by CT angiography are associated with changes in the Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy (MPS). METHODS: This is a retrospective observational study, which included 99 consecutive patients with known or suspected CAD. MPS and CTA were conducted. We compared the presence of perfusion defects by MPS with the presence of CAD and the degree of luminal obstruction by CTA. For statistical analysis, Student's t-test, ANOVA, and Chi-square (or Fisher's exact test for n <5) tests were used. Multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regression: the level of significance was 5%. RESULTS: Mean age was 62 ± 11.4 years, with 46 (71.7%) men. The variable analysis was performed per patient (n = 99) and per coronary irrigation territory (n = 297). Of the 67 territories that had significant CAD by CTA, 44.8% had abnormal MPS. Considering the degree of stenosis, abnormal MPS was present in 18.7% of the territories with no significant stenosis, 45.28% of the territories with moderate stenosis, and 42.8% of the territories with severe injuries. CONCLUSIONS: CTA is a good method for exclusion of CAD. However, its use to evaluate the severity of stenosis and its functional impact has not shown good correlation.

Relação entre diagnóstico de enfermagem e qualidade de vida em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca / Relationship between nursing diagnosis and quality of life in patients with heart failure

Fundamentos: A insuficiência cardíaca desencadeia limitações físicas e psicológicos que alteram consideravelmente a qualidade de vida do paciente. entre os sintomas físicos, destacam-se a fadiga e s dispnéia que possuem agravamento progressivo nessa ssíndrome. Objetivo: Identificar os diagnósticos de enfermagem mais frequentes encontrados em pacientes com insuficiêcia cardíaca relacionando-os com a alteração da qualidade devida apresentada. Métodos: Foram recrutados 17 pacientes consecutivos com IC sistólica (fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE)

Background: Heart failure results in physical and psycholigical constraints that downgrade the quality of life for patients to a considerable extent. Outstanding among the physical symptoms are fatigue and dyspnea, which worsen steadily with this syndrome. Objetive: To identify the nursing diagnoses found most frequently for patients with heart failure, related to changes in the presented quality of life. Methods: Seventeen consecutive patientswith systolic HF (left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)

Ativação adrenérgica alterada se associa à recuperação anormal da Frequência Cardíaca? / Is abnormal adrenergic activation associated with abnormal Heart Rate Recovery?

FUNDAMENTO: Frequência Cardíaca de Recuperação (RFC) reflete a capacidade do sistema cardiovascular de reverter a supressão vagal ocasionada pelo exercício. A cintilografia com metaiodobenzilguanidina (I¹²³ MIBG) avalia a inervação e ativação adrenérgica cardíaca. A associação entre esses dois métodos não está bem esclarecida. OBJETIVO: Avaliar associação entre RFC e Taxa de "Washout" (WO) de I¹²³ MIBG em pacientes com Insuficiência Cardíaca (IC). MÉTODOS: Vinte e cinco pacientes com fração de ejeção < 45% realizaram teste ergométrico, sendo analisada a variação da RFC do 1º ao 8º minuto pós-esforço. Submetidos a I¹²³ MIBG foram separados em grupos pela WO: G1) < 27% e G2) > 27%. Para análise estatística, foi utilizado teste U de Mann Whitney e o coeficiente de correlação de Spearman. RESULTADOS: G2 demonstrou uma variação mais lenta da RFC: 1º minuto: G1: 21,5 (16,12 - 26,87) vs G2: 11,00 (8,5 - 13,5) bpm, p = 0,001; 2º minuto: G1: 34 (29 - 39) vs G2: 20 (14 - 26) bpm, p = 0,001; 3º minuto: G1: 46 (37,8 - 54,1) vs G2: 30 (22 - 38) bpm, p = 0,005; 5º minuto: G1: 51,5 (42 - 61) vs G2: 39 (31,5 - 46,5) bpm, p = 0,013; e no 8º minuto: G1: 54,5 (46,5 - 62,5) vs G2: 43 (34 - 52) bpm, p = 0,037. A RFC no 1º (r = -0,555; p = 0,004), e 2º minuto (r = -0,550; p = 0,004) apresentaram correlação negativa com WO. CONCLUSÃO: Pacientes com IC e WO elevado apresentaram uma RFC anormal em comparação com pacientes com WO normal. Tais achados sugerem que a ativação adrenérgica pode influenciar na RFC.

BACKGROUND: Heart Rate Recovery (HRR) reflects the capacity of the cardiovascular system to reverse the vagal withdrawal caused by exercise. Scintigraphy with metaiodobenzylguanidine (I¹23 MIBG) evaluates innervation and cardiac adrenergic activation. The association of these two methods is not well established. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between HRR and washout rate (WO) of I¹²³ MIBG in patients with heart failure (HF). METHODS: wenty-five patients with ejection fraction < 45% underwent exercise testing, and analysis of the variation of HRR from the 1st to the 8th minute after exertion. Submitted to I¹²³ MIBG, they were separated into groups by WO: G1) <27% and G2) > 27%. For the statistical analysis Mann-Whitney's U test and Spearman's correlation coefficient were used. RESULTS: G2 showed a slower variation of HRR: 1st minute: G1: 21.5 (16.12 to 26.87) vs. G2: 11.00 (8.5 to 13.5) bpm, p = 0.001; 2nd minute: G1: 34 (29-39) vs. G2: 20 (14 - 26) bpm, p = 0.001; 3rd minute: G1: 46 (37.8 - 54.1) vs. G2: 30 (22 - 38) bpm, p = 0.005; 5th minute: G1: 51.5 (42 - 61) vs. G2: 39 (31.5 to 46.5) bpm, p = 0.013, and in the 8th minute: G1: 54.5 (46.5 - 62.5) vs. G2: 43 (34 - 52) bpm, p = 0.037. HRR in the 1st (r = -0.555, p = 0.004), and in the 2nd minute (r = -0.550, p = 0.004) were negatively correlated with WO. CONCLUSION: Patients with high HF and WO showed an abnormal HRR compared with patients with normal WO. These findings suggest that adrenergic activation may influence the HRR.

Is abnormal adrenergic activation associated with abnormal Heart Rate Recovery?

BACKGROUND: Heart Rate Recovery (HRR) reflects the capacity of the cardiovascular system to reverse the vagal withdrawal caused by exercise. Scintigraphy with metaiodobenzylguanidine (I(123) MIBG) evaluates innervation and cardiac adrenergic activation. The association of these two methods is not well established. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between HRR and washout rate (WO) of I(123) MIBG in patients with heart failure (HF). METHODS: Twenty-five patients with ejection fraction < 45% underwent exercise testing, and analysis of the variation of HRR from the 1st to the 8th minute after exertion. Submitted to I(123) MIBG, they were separated into groups by WO: G1) <27% and G2) ≥ 27%. For the statistical analysis Mann-Whitney's U test and Spearman's correlation coefficient were used. RESULTS: G2 showed a slower variation of HRR: 1st minute: G1: 21.5 (16.12 to 26.87) vs. G2: 11.00 (8.5 to 13.5) bpm, p = 0.001; 2nd minute: G1: 34 (29-39) vs. G2: 20 (14 - 26) bpm, p = 0.001; 3rd minute: G1: 46 (37.8 - 54.1) vs. G2: 30 (22 - 38) bpm, p = 0.005; 5th minute: G1: 51.5 (42 - 61) vs. G2: 39 (31.5 to 46.5) bpm, p = 0.013, and in the 8th minute: G1: 54.5 (46.5 - 62.5) vs. G2: 43 (34 - 52) bpm, p = 0.037. HRR in the 1st (r = -0.555, p = 0.004), and in the 2nd minute (r = -0.550, p = 0.004) were negatively correlated with WO. CONCLUSION: Patients with high HF and WO showed an abnormal HRR compared with patients with normal WO. These findings suggest that adrenergic activation may influence the HRR.