Progression of valve heart disease in a cohort of patients undergoing renal replacement therapy / Progressão da doença cardíaca valvar em coorte de doentes em terapia renal substitutiva

Abstract Introduction: Cardiovascular disease is an important cause of death among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Valve calcification is a predictor of cardiovascular mortality and coronary artery disease. Objective: To assess heart valve disease frequency, associated factors, and progression in CKD patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study on 291 CKD patients at Hospital das Clínicas de Pernambuco. Inclusion criteria were age ≥ 18 with CKD and valve disease, while those on conservative management or with missing data were excluded. Clinical and laboratory variables were compared, and patients were categorized by dialysis duration (<5 years; 5-10 years; >10 years). Statistical tests, including chi-square, Fisher's exact, ANOVA, and Kruskal-Wallis, were employed as needed. Simple and multivariate binary regression models were used to analyze valve disease associations with dialysis duration. Significance was defined as p < 0.05. Results: Mitral valve disease was present in 82.5% (240) of patients, followed by aortic valve disease (65.6%; 86). Over time, 106 (36.4%) patients developed valve disease. No significant association was found between aortic, pulmonary, mitral, or tricuspid valve disease and dialysis duration. Secondary hyperparathyroidism was the sole statistically significant factor for mitral valve disease in the regression model (OR 2.59 [95% CI: 1.09-6.18]; p = 0.031). Conclusion: CKD patients on renal replacement therapy exhibit a high frequency of valve disease, particularly mitral and aortic valve disease. However, no link was established between dialysis duration and valve disease occurrence or progression.

Resumo Introdução: Doenças cardiovasculares são uma causa significativa de morte em pacientes com Doença Renal Crônica (DRC). A calcificação valvar é preditor de mortalidade cardiovascular e doença arterial coronariana. Objetivo: Avaliar a frequência, fatores associados e progressão de valvopatias em pacientes com DRC. Métodos: Coorte retrospectiva com 291 pacientes ambulatoriais no Hospital das Clínicas de Pernambuco. Inclusão: ≥18 anos com DRC e valvopatia; exclusão: tratamento conservador ou dados incompletos. Variáveis clínicas e laboratoriais foram comparadas e categorizadas por tempo de terapia dialítica (TTD): <5 anos, 5-10 anos, >10 anos. Foram aplicados os testes Qui-quadrado, exato de Fisher, ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis. Associação entre valvopatia e TTD foi avaliada por regressão binária. Significância foi definida como p < 0,05. Resultados: A valvopatia mitral foi encontrada em 82,5% (240) dos casos, seguida da aórtica (65,6%; 86). Houve progressão da doença valvar em 106 (36,4%) pacientes. Não houve associação entre valvopatias aórtica, pulmonar, mitral ou tricúspide e TTD. Hiperparatireoidismo secundário foi a única variável explicativa significativa na regressão para valvopatia mitral (OR 2,59 [IC95%: 1,09-6,18]; p = 0,031). Conclusão: Encontramos alta frequência de valvopatias, especialmente mitral e aórtica, aem pacientes com DRC. Não houve associação entre TTD e valvopatia.

Endocarditis Infecciosa: una mirada desde la semiología, a propósito de un caso / Infectious Endocarditis: a View from Semiology, case report

Infective endocarditis (IE) is an infection of the inner lining of the heart, especially the heart valves, and carries high morbidity and mortality. It can manifest itself acutely or subacutely, the latter being more insidious. Diagnosis is challenging, especially in early stages, requiring high clinical suspicion using modified Duke criteria. Treatment involves antimicrobials and in certain cases cardiac surgery is essential. The clinical case presents a patient with a history of aortic valve replacement, who develops acute symptoms. Although the diagnosis of endocarditis is achieved, a por physical examination delays starting optimal treatment. Early diagnosis is crucial to avoid adverse outcomes. Post-hospital discharge follow-up is essential to identify possible long-term complications.

La endocarditis infecciosa es una infección del revestimiento interno del corazón, especialmente de las válvulas cardíacas, con alta morbimortalidad. Se manifiesta como aguda o subaguda, siendo esta última más insidiosa. El diagnóstico es desafiante, especialmente en etapas tempranas, requiriendo sospecha clínica en pacientes con fiebre, factores de riesgo cardiacos o no cardiacos y el uso de los criterios de Duke- International Society of Cardiovascular Infectious Diseases. El tratamiento implica antimicrobianos y en ciertos casos es imprescindible la cirugía cardiaca. Se presenta un caso clínico de un paciente con antecedentes de reemplazo valvular aórtico, que desarrolla síntomas agudos. Aunque se logra el diagnóstico de endocarditis, un examen físico poco exhaustivo causa retraso en el inicio del tratamiento óptimo. Un diagnóstico temprano es crucial para evitar resultados adversos. Es esencial la vigilancia estrecha post alta hospitalaria debido a complicaciones a largo plazo.

Adherence to Life's Essential 8 is associated with delayed biological aging: a population-based cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to explore the potential of adhering to the American Heart Association's updated Life's Essential 8 (LE8) scores in delaying biological aging amid growing concerns about aging populations and related diseases. METHODS: A total of 18 261 adults (≥ 20 years old) were examined using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data from 2005-2010 and 2015-2018. The LE8 includes 8 components, covering health behaviors and factors. Acceleration of biological aging was defined as an excess of biological/phenotypic age over chronological age, assessed by using clinical biomarkers. The association between LE8 score and biological aging was explored through regression analyses. RESULTS: Each 10-point increase in LE8 scores was associated with a 1.19-year decrease in biological age and a 1.63-year decrease in phenotypic age. Individuals with high cardiovascular health (CVH) had a 90% reduction in their risk of accelerated aging based on biological age and an 81% reduction based on phenotypic age compared with individuals with low CVH. Bootstrap-based model estimates and weighted quantile sum regression suggested that health factors, particularly blood glucose, had strong impact on delaying aging. The association between smoking and biological aging seemed to differ depending on the definition of aging used. Among all subgroups, LE8 consistently correlated negatively with biological aging, despite observed interactions. Three sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of our conclusions. CONCLUSIONS: A higher CVH is associated with a lower risk of biological aging. Maintaining elevated LE8 levels across demographics, regardless of cardiovascular history, is recommended to delay aging and promote healthy aging, with significant implications for primary health care.

Factores de riesgo cardiovascular en pacientes geriátricos atendidos en el centro de salud INNFA / Cardiovascular risk factors in geriatric patients attended at the INNFA health center / Factores de risco cardiovascular em doentes geriátricos atendidos no centro de saúde do INNFA

Los llamados factores de riesgo cardiovascular conductuales, como la dieta inadecuada, sedentarismo, el consumo excesivo de alcohol y el tabaquismo, aumentan la probabilidad de ataque cardíaco y accidente cerebrovascular, incluso cuando coexisten en personas sin padecimientos previos. Objetivo fue identificar los factores de riesgo cardiovascular en pacientes geriátricos del Centro de salud INNFA, en Macas, Ecuador. Metodología: Investigación con enfoque cuantitativo, diseño no experimental, alcance descriptivo, de corte transversal, empleó una muestra de 40 pacientes geriátricos atendidos en el Centro de Salud referido, la técnica para la recolección de datos fue la encuesta y el instrumento un cuestionario de riesgos cardiovasculares. La muestra de estudio se caracterizó por el predominio del sexo femenino y edades entre 60 y 69 años en los pacientes, condiciones socio-económicas que pueden incrementar el riesgo cardiovascular como como nivel educativo básico y la remuneración menor a un salario básico unificado. Conclusión: La mayoría de los pacientes presentaban dos o más factores de riesgo y entre estos predominaron la hipertensión arterial, hipercolesterolemia, sobrepeso, consumo excesivo de bebidas alcohólicas y la diabetes mellitus.

The so-called behavioral cardiovascular risk factors, such as inadequate diet, sedentary lifestyle, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking, increase the probability of heart attack and stroke, even when they coexist in persons with no previous conditions. The objective was to identify cardiovascular risk factors in geriatric patients at the INNFA health center in Macas, Ecuador. Methodology: Research with a quantitative approach, non-experimental design, descriptive scope, cross-sectional, used a sample of 40 geriatric patients attended at the referred health center, the technique for data collection was the survey and the instrument was a cardiovascular risk questionnaire. The study sample was characterized by the predominance of female sex and age between 60 and 69 years in patients, socio-economic conditions that may increase cardiovascular risk such as basic education level and remuneration lower than a unified basic salary. Conclusion: Most of the patients had two or more risk factors and among these, arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, overweight, excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages and diabetes mellitus predominated.

Os chamados factores de risco cardiovascular comportamentais, como a alimentação inadequada, o sedentarismo, o consumo excessivo de álcool e o tabagismo, aumentam a probabilidade de enfarte do miocárdio e de acidente vascular cerebral, mesmo quando coexistem em pessoas sem patologias prévias. O objetivo foi identificar os factores de risco cardiovascular em pacientes geriátricos do centro de saúde INNFA em Macas, Equador. Metodologia: Investigação com abordagem quantitativa, desenho não experimental, âmbito descritivo, transversal, com uma amostra de 40 pacientes geriátricos atendidos no referido centro de saúde, a técnica de recolha de dados foi um inquérito e o instrumento foi um questionário de risco cardiovascular. A amostra do estudo caracterizou-se pelo predomínio do sexo feminino e idade entre 60 e 69 anos, condições socioeconómicas que podem aumentar o risco cardiovascular como o nível de escolaridade básico e remuneração inferior a um salário base unificado. Conclusão: A maioria dos pacientes apresentava dois ou mais fatores de risco e, dentre estes, predominaram a hipertensão arterial, a hipercolesterolemia, o excesso de peso, o consumo excessivo de bebidas alcoólicas e o diabetes mellitus.

Os Biomarcadores podem ser Utilizados para Prever Recorrência de Arritmia após a Ablação de Fibrilação Atrial Guiada pelo Ablation-Index? / Can Pre-Ablation Biomarkers Be Used to Predict Arrhythmia Recurrence after Ablation Index-Guided Atrial Fibrillation Ablation?

Resumo Fundamento: O software ablation index (AI) permitiu melhorar os resultados da ablação de fibrilação atrial (FA), mas as taxas de recorrência permanecem significativas. Biomarcadores séricos específicos têm sido associados a essa recorrência. Objetivos: Avaliar se certos biomarcadores podem ser utilizados (individualmente ou combinados) para predizer a recorrência de FA pós ablação guiada pelo AI. Métodos: Estudo multicêntrico, observacional, prospectivo de pacientes consecutivos, encaminhados para ablação de FA de janeiro de 2018 a março de 2021. Hemoglobina, peptídeo natriurético cerebral (BNP), proteína C reativa, troponina I ultrassensível, clearance de creatinina, Hormônio Tireoestimulante (TSH), e Tiroxina livre (T4) foram avaliados quanto à capacidade de prever a recorrência de arritmias durante o acompanhamento. Valores de p <0,05 foram aceitos como estatisticamente significativos. Resultados: Um total de 593 pacientes foram incluídos - 412 com FA paroxística e 181 com FA persistente. Durante o seguimento médio de 24±6 meses, 76,4% não apresentaram recidiva após ablação. Individualmente, os biomarcadores demonstraram um valor preditivo baixo ou nulo para recorrência. No entanto, TSH >1,8 μUI/mL [HR=1,82 (IC95%, 1,89-2,80), p=0,006] foi um preditor independente de recorrência. Avaliando-se a combinação de TSH, FT4 e BNP, a adição de cada valor "anormal" foi associada a uma menor sobrevida livre de recorrência (87,1% se nenhum vs. 83,5% se um vs. 75,1% se dois vs. 43,3% se três biomarcadores, p<0,001). Doentes com três biomarcadores "anormais" apresentaram três vezes maior probabilidade de recorrência de FA, comparativamente aos que não apresentaram nenhum biomarcador "anormal" (HR=2,88 [IC95%, 1,39-5,17], p=0,003). Conclusões: Quando combinados, valores anormais de TSH, FT4 e BNP podem ser uma ferramenta útil para prever a recorrência de FA pós ablação guiada pelo AI.

Abstract Background: Ablation Index (AI) software has allowed better atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation results, but recurrence rates remain significant. Specific serum biomarkers have been associated with this recurrence. Objectives: To evaluate whether certain biomarkers could be used (either individually or combined) to predict arrhythmia recurrence after AI-guided AF ablation. Methods: Prospective multicenter observational study of consecutive patients referred for AF ablation from January 2018 to March 2021. Hemoglobin, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), C-reactive protein, high sensitivity cardiac troponin I, creatinine clearance, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) were assessed for their ability to predict arrhythmia recurrence during follow-up. Statistical significance was accepted for p values of<0.05. Results: A total of 593 patients were included - 412 patients with paroxysmal AF and 181 with persistent AF. After a mean follow-up of 24±6 months, overall single-procedure freedom from atrial arrhythmia was 76.4%. Individually, all biomarkers had no or only modest predictive power for recurrence. However, a TSH value >1.8 μUI/mL (HR=1.82 [95% CI, 1.89-2.80], p=0.006) was an independent predictor of arrhythmia recurrence. When assessing TSH, FT4 and BNP values in combination, each additional "abnormal" biomarker value was associated with a lower freedom from arrhythmia recurrence (87.1 % for no biomarker vs. 83.5% for one vs. 75.1% for two vs. 43.3% for three biomarkers, p<0.001). Patients with three "abnormal" biomarkers had a threefold higher risk of AF recurrence compared with no "abnormal" biomarker (HR=2.88 [95% CI, 1.39-5.17], p=0.003). Conclusions: When used in combination, abnormal TSH, FT4 and BNP values can be a useful tool for predicting arrhythmia recurrence after AI-guided AF ablation.

Análisis de la la muerte súbita cardíaca por prolapso de la válvula mitral en una autopsia de una mujer sin antecedente de cardiopatía. Reporte de caso / Analysis of sudden cardiac death due to mitral valve prolapse in an autopsy of a woman with no history of heart disease. Case report

Resumen En Costa Rica, el Reglamento de la Autopsia Hospitalaria y Médico Legal establece que la autopsia médico legal es obligatoria para toda muerte súbita. La patología cardíaca es responsable aproximadamente del 80 % de las muertes súbitas que requieren una autopsia forense; el prolapso de la válvula mitral (degeneración mixomatosa de la válvula mitral) es una de las formas más comunes de valvulopatía cardíaca, es relativamente común (2%-3% de la población general), y a menudo se considera benigno, la tasa anual de muerte cardíaca súbita (MSC) en individuos con MVP (0,2%-0,4% /año) es aproximadamente el doble que el observado en la población general (0,1%-0,2% año).

Abstract In Costa Rica, the Hospital and Legal Autopsy Regulations establish that a legal medical autopsy is mandatory for all sudden deaths. Cardiac pathology is responsible for approximately 80% of sudden deaths requiring a forensic autopsy; Mitral valve prolapse (myxomatous mitral valve degeneration) is one of the most common forms of heart valve disease, is relatively common (2%-3% of the general population), and is often considered benign, the annual rate of Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in individuals with MVP (0.2%-0.4%/year) is approximately twice that observed in the general population (0.1%-0.2%/year).

Impact of initiation of SGLT2 inhibitor treatment on the development of arrhythmias in patients with implantable cardiac devices.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Sodium-glucose cotransporter type 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have been associated with improved prognosis in patients with heart failure, but their impact on atrial arrhythmic (AA) and ventricular arrhythmic (VA) events is not fully understood. METHODS: This multicenter retrospective study included patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators who initiated treatment with SGLT2i. AA and VA events were compared in 2 time periods for each patient: 1 year before and 1 year after starting SGLT2i. RESULTS: The study included 195 patients (66.8 [61.3-73.1] years, 18.5% women). In the post-SGLT2i period, there was a reduction in the percentage of patients with any VA (pre: 52.3% vs post: 30.3%; P<.001) and clinically relevant VA (excluding nonsustained ventricular tachycardia) (pre: 21.5% vs post: 8.7%; P<.001). There was also a decrease in the number of episodes per patient/y of nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (pre: 2 (1-5) vs post: 1 (0-2); P<.001) and sustained ventricular tachycardia (pre: 1 (1-3) vs post: 0 (0-2); P=0.046). However, no differences were observed in the prevalence of AA (24.7% vs 18.8%; P=.117) or the burden of atrial fibrillation (pre: 0% (0-0.1) vs post: 0% (0-0); P=.097). CONCLUSIONS: Initiation of SGLT2i treatment was associated with a decrease in the percentage of patients with relevant VA but this effect was not observed for AA.

El verdadero origen histórico del trauma cardíaco penetrante / The true historical origin of penetrating cardiac trauma

Introducción. Los traumatismos cardíacos son lesiones graves y con elevado índice de letalidad, aspecto que influye en el interés mostrado por los lectores cada vez que aparecen reportados en publicaciones científicas. En ocasiones existe cierto grado de incongruencia a la hora de establecer el origen histórico de sucesos o eventos ocurridos y relacionados con la historia de la medicina. En el caso del trauma cardíaco penetrante han sido descritos diversos orígenes en algunos de los artículos científicos publicados, lo cual puede generar un grado de duda en los lectores. Métodos. Se realizó una revisión de la literatura, médica y no médica, para buscar información que ayudara a esclarecer el verdadero origen histórico de esta entidad. Resultados. El trauma cardíaco penetrante fue descrito por primera vez en la obra griega titulada La Ilíada, escrita por Homero en el siglo VIII A.C., y no en El papiro quirúrgico de Edwin Smith, como varios autores mencionan. Conclusiones. De todos los eventos de trauma cardíaco penetrante descritos, el más irrefutable es el narrado en el canto XIII, donde se cuenta la muerte de Alcátoo, producto de una herida cardíaca ocasionada por una lanza arrojada por Idomeneo durante una batalla

Introduction. Cardiac traumatic injuries are serious injuries with a high lethality rate, an aspect that influences the interest shown by readers each time they appear reported in scientific publications. Sometimes there is a certain degree of inconsistency when it comes to establishing the historical origin of occurrences or events related to the history of medicine. In the case of penetrating cardiac trauma, different origins have been described in some of the published scientific articles, which may generate a degree of doubt in the readers. Methods. A review of the medical and non-medical literature was carried out to seek information that would help to clarify the true historical origin of this entity. Results. Penetrating cardiac trauma was first described in a Greek work entitled The Iliad, written by Homer in the 8th century B.C., and not in The Surgical Papyrus of Edwin Smith as several authors mention. Conclusions. Of all the events of penetrating cardiac trauma described, the most irrefutable is the one narrated in canto XIII, where it recounts the death of Alcathous product of a cardiac wound caused by a spear thrown by Idomeneo during a battle.

Lesión cardíaca por arma blanca inadvertida durante la evaluación inicial en el servicio de emergencia / Missed cardiac stab injury during initial evaluation in the Emergency Department

Introducción. La incidencia reportada de traumatismo cardíaco es baja y su grado de resolución es variable, dependiendo de la causa, el mecanismo de la lesión, el lugar donde ocurra y las características del sistema sanitario. Su incidencia ha aumentado recientemente debido al incremento de los accidentes de tránsito y la violencia, predominando los traumatismos penetrantes asociados a heridas por armas cortopunzantes y de fuego. Los traumatismos cardíacos se acompañan de un alto grado de letalidad. Caso clínico. Mujer de 35 años que consultó a emergencia por trauma torácico penetrante ocasionado por arma blanca y fue intervenida de urgencia por derrame pleural izquierdo, sin mejoría hemodinámica. Fue reevaluada detectándose derrame pericárdico con taponamiento cardíaco, ocasionado por lesión cardíaca. Fue tratada quirúrgicamente con resultados satisfactorios. Resultados. Las manifestaciones clínicas en los traumatismos penetrantes generalmente son graves y fatales, pero en algunos casos puede no comprometer tanto la hemodinamia del paciente. Para consolidar el diagnóstico clínico pueden realizarse variados estudios, siendo la ecografía FAST extendida uno de los más recomendados por su elevada sensibilidad y especificidad. Dependiendo del adelanto tecnológico del centro hospitalario y la estabilidad hemodinámica del paciente, el tratamiento quirúrgico es el más indicado. Conclusión. El conocimiento del trauma cardíaco penetrante resulta de gran importancia, no solo para el médico del servicio de emergencia sino también para el médico general. Un diagnóstico rápido y acertado, unido a un manejo adecuado, pueden ser decisivos para salvar la vida del paciente.

Introduction. The reported incidence of cardiac trauma is low and its degree of resolution is variable depending on the cause, the mechanism of injury, the place where it occurs and the characteristics of the health care system. Their incidence has currently increased due to the increase in traffic accidents and violence, with a predominance of penetrating trauma associated with stab wounds and firearms. Cardiac trauma is accompanied by a high degree of lethality. Clinical case. A 35-year-old female patient, evaluated in the emergency room for penetrating thoracic trauma caused by stab wound. She underwent emergency intervention due to left pleural effusion, but without hemodynamic improvement. She was reevaluated and pericardial effusion with cardiac tamponade caused by cardiac injury was detected. She was treated surgically with satisfactory results. Results.The clinical manifestations generally described in penetrating cardiac trauma are severe and fatal, but in some cases and due to the characteristics of the injury caused, the patient's hemodynamics may not be so compromised. To consolidate the clinical diagnosis, several complementary studies can be performed, with FAST ultrasound being one of the most recommended due to its high sensitivity and specificity. Surgical treatment is still the most indicated, depending on the technological progress of the hospital and the hemodynamic stability of the patient. Conclusions.Knowledge of penetrating cardiac trauma is of great importance, not only for the emergency department physician but also for the general practitioner. A quick and accurate diagnosis, together with adequate management can be decisive in saving the patient's life.

Resultados Perinatais e Seguimento em Longo Prazo de Tumores Cardíacos Fetais: Estudo de Coorte Histórica de 30 Anos / Perinatal Results and Long-Term Follow-Up of Fetal Cardiac Tumors: A 30-Year Historical Cohort Study

Resumo Fundamento: Seguimento de coorte retrospectiva de 30 anos que se aproxima da história natural dos tumores cardíacos diagnosticados no feto uma vez que nenhum caso foi submetido à interrupção da gestação. Objetivo: Avaliar a morbidade e mortalidade perinatal e em longo prazo em fetos com diagnóstico de tumor cardíaco. Como objetivo secundário avaliar os fatores que influenciaram os resultados perinatais e pós-natais. Método: Estudo de coorte retrospectiva envolvendo 74 gestantes com diagnóstico ecocardiográfico fetal de tumor cardíaco acompanhadas em dois serviços de referência no período de maio de 1991 a novembro de 2021. Foi realizada análise descritiva dos dados por meio de frequências absolutas (n) e relativas (%), mediana e intervalos interquartis. Para avaliar a associação entre as características ecocardiográficas e as manifestações clínicas com os resultados perinatais e pós-natais, foi aplicado o teste exato de Fisher. O cálculo da sobrevida global foi realizado pelo método de Kaplan-Meier e a comparação de curvas pelo teste de log-rank. O tempo de seguimento, calculado em meses, foi definido a partir da data de alta do hospital à data do status atual (vivo/censura ou óbito). O nível de significância considerado foi de 5% (p<0,05). Resultados: o rabdomioma é o tipo mais frequente (85%) de tumor cardíaco; apresenta alta morbidade (79,3%) e mortalidade geral de 17,4%; a presença de hidropisia fetal preditiva de óbito. Conclusão: A presença de hidropisia fetal teve impacto na mortalidade, sendo fator importante para aconselhamento e estabelecimento de prognóstico. A maioria dos óbitos ocorrem antes da alta hospitalar.

Abstract Background: This was a 30-year retrospective cohort study that approximates closely to the natural history of cardiac tumors diagnosed in the fetus, since there was no case of pregnancy interruption Objective: To assess morbidity and mortality in the perinatal period and at long term in fetuses diagnosed with cardiac tumor. Our secondary objective was to assess the evaluating factors of perinatal and postnatal results. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study with 74 pregnant women with an echocardiographic diagnosis of fetal cardiac tumor at two referral centers between May 1991 and November 2021. A descriptive analysis was performed, and data were expressed as absolute (n) and relative (%) frequencies, median and interquartile range. Fisher's exact test was used to evaluate the association of echocardiographic characteristics and clinical manifestations with perinatal and postnatal results. Global survival was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and the curves were compared by the log-rank test. The time of follow-up, calculated in months, corresponded to the time elapsed from hospital discharge to current status (survived/ censoring or death). The level of significance was set at 5% (p<0.05). Results: Rhabdomyoma is the most common type of cardiac tumor (85%), with a high morbidity (79.3%) and overall mortality of 17.4%. The presence of fetal hydrops was a predictor of death. Conclusion: The presence of fetal hydrops had an impact on mortality, and hence is an important factor in counselling and determining the prognosis. Most deaths occurred before hospital discharge.

Fibroelastoma, uma Doença Incidentaloma? - Imagem de Casos de Fibroelastomas como Achados Incidentais em Quatro Pacientes, Quatro Valvas Diferentes / Fibroelastoma, an Incidentaloma Disease? - Image Cases of Fibroelastomas as Incidental Findings in Four Patients, Four Different Valves

Resumo Os fibroelastomas são o segundo tumor cardíaco benigno mais comum. São estruturas pequenas, avasculares, com uma dimensão média de 9mm, podendo atingir até 70mm, habitualmente aderentes à superfície das válvulas cardíacas (válvulas aórtica e mitral são as mais comumente afetadas, seguidas das válvulas tricúspide e pulmonar). A etiologia não é clara, sendo a hipótese de formação de microtrombos nas margens de coaptação das válvulas a mais aceite. Na ecocardiografia apresentam aspeto pediculado, móvel, com superfície filamentosa, tipicamente com uma aparência pontilhada nas margens e ecolucente. Do ponto de vista clínico, podem estar associados a fenómenos embólicos, no entanto, na maioria dos casos o diagnóstico é incidental. Apresentamos de seguida quatro casos de diagnóstico incidental de fibroelastomas nas quatro válvulas cardíacas, diagnosticados por ecocardiograma transtorácico (ETT) (Vídeo 1; Figura 1). Vídeo 1 Da esquerda para a direita, de cima para baixo: fibroelastomas no folheto anterior da válvula tricúspide, folheto anterior da válvula mitral, cúspide esquerda da válvula pulmonar e cúspide esquerda da válvula aórtica, cada um correspondendo a um doente diferente. Em: http://abccardiol.org/supplementary-material/2024/12102/2023-0222_IM_video01.mp4 Figura 1 Da esquerda para a direita, de cima para baixo: fibroelastomas no folheto anterior da válvula tricúspide, folheto anterior da válvula mitral, cúspide esquerda da válvula pulmonar e cúspide esquerda da válvula aórtica, cada um correspondendo a um doente diferente.

Abstract Fibroelastomas are the second most common benign cardiac tumor1. They are small avascular structures with a mean size of 9mm, ranging up to 70mm, usually attached to the heart valves' surface (aortic and mitral are the most affected, followed by tricuspid and pulmonary valves). Their etiology is unclear, but the hypothesis of coalescence of microthrombus at the coaptation margins of valves is the most widely accepted theory. On echocardiography, they are pedicled, mobile, with a filamentous surface, and usually have a speckled appearance with echolucencies and a stippled pattern near the edges. Clinically, they may be associated with embolic phenomena; however, in most cases, the diagnosis is incidental. We present a series of four clinical cases with an incidental diagnosis of fibroelastomas across the four cardiac valves as assessed by transthoracic echocardiography (Video 1; Figure 1). Video 1 From left to right and top to bottom: fibroelastomas of the anterior leaflet of the tricuspid valve, anterior leaflet of the mitral valve, left cusp of the pulmonary valve and left cuspid of the aortic valve, each corresponding to a different patient. Link: http://abccardiol.org/supplementary-material/2024/12102/2023-0222_IM_video01.mp4 Figure 1 From left to right and top to bottom: fibroelastomas of the anterior leaflet of the tricuspid valve, anterior leaflet of the mitral valve, left cusp of the pulmonary valve and left cuspid of the aortic valve, each corresponding to a different patient.

Associação entre insuficiência cardíaca e consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados em idosos: um estudo transversal / Association between heart failure and consumption of ultra-processed foods in older adults: a cross-sectional study

Resumo Objetivo Estimar a prevalência de insuficiência cardíaca (IC) e explorar sua possível associação com o consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados (AUP) em idosos. Método Este estudo transversal utilizou prontuários médicos de 1.322 idosos (55% mulheres; idade média de 70,4 anos) tratados na atenção primária à saúde no estado de Roraima, Brasil. Um cardiologista diagnosticou a IC com base em testes diagnósticos como ecocardiografia, avaliação clínica e análise do histórico médico. Nutricionistas avaliaram o consumo de AUP utilizando um formulário nacional comumente utilizado nas unidades de saúde primária brasileiras. Resultados Os achados revelaram que 15,4% dos idosos tinham IC. Observaram-se associações significativas entre grupos de AUP e IC, com a probabilidade de IC variando de OR=1,97 (IC 95% =1,36-2,84) para o consumo de hambúrgueres e/ou salsichas a OR=2,59 (IC 95% =1,73-3,74) para o consumo de biscoitos, doces e guloseimas. Conclusão O consumo de AUP foi associado a uma alta prevalência de IC nessa amostra de idosos brasileiros. Formuladores de políticas e profissionais de saúde diretamente envolvidos com essa população devem colaborar em ações direcionadas e orientações para reduzir o consumo de AUP e aumentar a ingestão de alimentos não processados.

Abstract Objective To estimate the prevalence of heart failure (HF) and explore its potential association with the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) in older adults. Method This cross-sectional study utilized medical records of 1,322 older adults (55% women; mean age of 70.4 years) treated in primary health care facilities in the state of Roraima, Brazil. A cardiologist diagnosed HF based on diagnostic tests such as echocardiography, clinical evaluation, and analysis of medical history. Nutritionists assessed UPF consumption using a nationally standardized form commonly employed in Brazilian primary health care units. Results The findings revealed that 15.4% of older adults had HF. Significant associations were observed between UPF groups and HF, with the probability of HF ranging from OR=1.97 (95% CI=1.36-2.84) for the consumption of hamburgers and/or sausages to OR=2.59 (95% CI=1.73-3.74) for the consumption of filled biscuits, sweets, and treats. Conclusion The consumption of UPF was associated with a high prevalence of HF in this sample of Brazilian older adults. Policymakers and healthcare professionals directly involved with this population should collaborate on targeted interventions and guidelines to reduce UPF consumption and increase the intake of unprocessed foods.

Validación de propuesta de escala predictiva de complicaciones cardiacas en el infarto agudo de miocardio

Introducción: La escala de riesgo diseñada para estimar la probabilidad de complicaciones cardiacas con enfoque clínico y ecocardiográfico, debe ser validada antes de su implementación en la práctica clínica. Objetivo: Validar una escala predictiva de complicaciones cardiacas en infarto agudo de miocardio con enfoque clínico-ecocardiográfico. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio analítico, observacional de casos y controles, de 1303 pacientes ingresados en el Centro de Cardiología y Cirugía Cardiovascular, de Santiago de Cuba, en el período 2019-2021, para lo cual fueron seleccionadas dos muestras: una de construcción del modelo (n = 800), y otra de validación de la escala, de enero a junio de 2022 (n = 198). Se determinaron los posibles predictores a través del análisis univariado y el cálculo de Odds ratio, con un nivel de significación de p ≤ 0,05. Asimismo, se elaboró un modelo de regresión logística binaria multivariada y se obtuvo la escala de riesgo, que fue validada por diferentes métodos. Resultados: La escala se obtuvo con 10 predictores y 2 estratos de riesgo. Esta alcanzó buena discriminación (80 %) y buen nivel de ajuste y validez de constructo (p = 0,70). Igualmente, aseguró una predicción correcta de más del 50 % de las complicaciones cardiacas, valores de sensibilidad y especificidad aceptables (92,03 % y 91,63 %, respectivamente), así como validez de contenido, validez interna y confiabilidad adecuadas. Conclusiones: La escala de riesgo para estratificar el riesgo de complicaciones cardiacas incluye predictores de gravedad de la enfermedad isquémica coronaria, con buenos parámetros de validación para ser usada en la toma de decisiones para prevenir.

Introduction: The risk scale designed to estimate the probability of cardiac complications with a clinical and echocardiographic approach must be validated before its implementation in clinical practice. Objective: To validate a predictive scale of cardiac complications in acute myocardial infarction with a clinical-echocardiographic approach. Materials and methods: An analytical, observational, case-control study was carried out on 1,303 patients admitted to the Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery center of Santiago de Cuba in the period 2019-2021, for which two samples were selected: one for model construction (n=800) and one for scale validation (n=198), from January to June 2022. Possible predictors were determined through univariate analysis and calculation of the odds ratio, with a significance level of p≤0.05; likewise, a multivariate binary logistic regression model was developed and the risk scale was obtained, which was validated by different methods. Results: The scale was obtained with 10 predictors and 2 risk strata. It achieved good discrimination (80%), and a good level of fit and construct validity (p=0.70). Likewise, it ensured a correct prediction of more than 50% of cardiac complications, acceptable sensitivity and specificity values (92.03% and 91.63%, respectively), as well as adequate content validity, internal validity and reliability. Conclusions: The risk scale to stratify the risk of cardiac complications includes predictors of severity of coronary ischemic disease, with good validation parameters to be used in decision-making to prevent.

Incidental diagnosis of cardiac fibroma in an infant with acute viral bronchiolitis / Diagnóstico incidental de fibroma cardíaco em um lactente com bronquiolite viral aguda

ABSTRACT Objective: Pediatric cardiac tumors are rare and, among them, 90% are benign. Cardiac fibroma is the second most frequent tumor, after rhabdomyoma. The objective of this study is to report a case of cardiac fibroma diagnosed incidentally in a patient admitted with acute viral bronchiolitis. Case description: A 5-month-old male infant was admitted to the pediatric emergency department with acute viral bronchiolitis requiring hospitalization. He presented a detectable respiratory syncytial virus in oropharyngeal swab, blood test with lymphocytosis and a chest radiography revealed cardiomegaly. Further cardiologic testing was performed detecting elevation of cardiac biomarkers, an electrocardiogram with alteration of left ventricular repolarization and echocardiogram with a heterogeneous mass in the left ventricular, with areas of calcification. A chest angiotomography suggested rhabdomyosarcoma or cardiac fibroma and a magnetic resonance showed a mass, with characteristics suggesting fibroma. The final diagnosis was made after two cardiac catheterizations for biopsy of the lesion, confirming cardiac fibroma by anatomopathological examination. Because the patient had moderate to severe systolic dysfunction, he was submitted to heart transplant. Comments: One third of cardiac fibromas are asymptomatic, generally diagnosed late through tests ordered for other reasons. The gold-standard test for definitive diagnosis is biopsy. Cardiac fibroma usually does not present spontaneous regression and, in most cases, partial or total surgical resection is necessary. When tumors are unresectable, heart transplantation should be indicated. It is essential to have detailed characterization of the cardiac mass to establish the most appropriate therapeutic approach for each patient.

RESUMO Objetivo: Tumores cardíacos pediátricos são raros e, entre eles, 90% são benignos. O fibroma cardíaco é o segundo mais frequente, após o rabdomioma. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar um caso de fibroma cardíaco, cujo diagnóstico foi incidental em um paciente internado por bronquiolite viral aguda. Descrição do caso: Lactente do sexo masculino com cinco meses foi atendido em um pronto atendimento pediátrico com quadro de bronquiolite viral aguda, necessitando de hospitalização. Em exames complementares, apresentou vírus sincicial respiratório detectável, hemograma com linfocitose, além de radiografia de tórax com cardiomegalia. Em investigação cardiológica, as enzimas cardíacas encontravam-se elevadas, o eletrocardiograma apresentava alteração de repolarização de parede lateral de ventrículo esquerdo e o ecocardiograma demonstrou massa heterogênea em ventrículo esquerdo, com áreas de calcificação. A angiotomografia de tórax sugeriu rabdomiossarcoma ou fibroma cardíaco e a ressonância magnética demonstrou massa cuja localização e características sugeriram fibroma. O diagnóstico foi conclusivo após dois cateterismos para biópsia da lesão, confirmando fibroma cardíaco pelo anatomopatológico. Em razão da disfunção sistólica moderada a grave, o paciente foi submetido a transplante cardíaco. Comentários: Um terço dos fibromas cardíacos é assintomático, geralmente diagnosticado tardiamente por meio de exames solicitados por outro motivo. O padrão-ouro para o diagnóstico definitivo é a biópsia. O fibroma cardíaco não costuma apresentar regressão espontânea, sendo submetido, na maioria dos casos, a ressecção cirúrgica parcial ou total. Nos tumores irressecáveis, o transplante cardíaco deve ser indicado. A caracterização detalhada da massa cardíaca é fundamental para traçar a conduta terapêutica mais adequada para cada paciente.