Experience with the Kosmos ultrasonographic tool in the approach and treatment of ambulatory patients of a heart failure clinic: a single-center cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: In Mexico, the epidemiology of heart failure is still not well understood. However, it is known that the primary cause of hospital admissions in patients with heart failure is pulmonary and systemic congestion. OBJECTIVE: To estimate congestion status and assess cardiac function using portable ultrasound in patients with heart failure. METHOD: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted. Patients who attended the Heart Failure Clinic at the Ignacio Chávez National Cardiology Institute in Mexico City between May and August 2022 were selected. They underwent ultrasonographic evaluation using a portable device to assess pulmonary and systemic congestion, as well as cardiac function and structure. RESULTS: One-hundred patients diagnosed with heart failure were prospectively included during the study period; 76% were male, with an average age of 59 years (range: 50-68 years). The recorded LVEF median was 34% (IQR: 27-43.5%). When evaluating pulmonary congestion, 78% of the patients showed a pattern A and 22% a pattern B. Following the VExUS protocol, 92% of the patients were at grade 0, 2% at grade 1, and 6% at grade 2. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the portable ultrasound facilitated the quantitative characterization of the echocardiographic features of the studied population. This device could provide better clinical characterization which, in turn, might allow for optimized drug prescription for heart failure and dose adjustments of diuretics based on echocardiographic congestion findings.

ANTECEDENTES: En México aún es muy poco conocida la epidemiología de la insuficiencia cardiaca, sin embargo se sabe que la principal causa de ingresos hospitalarios en los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca es la congestión pulmonar y sistémica. OBJETIVO: Estimar el estado de congestión y evaluar la función cardiaca mediante el ultrasonido portátil en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca tratados en un centro de tercer nivel en México. MÉTODO: Se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional transversal. Se seleccionaron pacientes que acudieron a la Clínica de Insuficiencia Cardiaca del Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez en la Ciudad de México entre mayo y agosto de 2022. Se les sometió a una evaluación ultrasonográfica mediante un dispositivo portátil para valorar la congestión pulmonar y sistémica, así como la función y estructura cardiaca. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron de forma prospectiva 100 pacientes diagnosticados con insuficiencia cardiaca en el periodo de estudio. El 76% fueron hombres, con una edad mediana de 59 años (RIQ: 50-68 años). La mediana del FEVI registrada fue del 34% (RIQ: 27.0-43.5%). Al evaluar la congestión pulmonar, el 78% de los pacientes presentaron un patrón A y el 22% un patrón B. Siguiendo el protocolo VExUS, el 92% de los pacientes mostraron un grado 0, el 2% un grado 1 y el 6% un grado 2. CONCLUSIONES: El uso del ultrasonido portátil facilitó la caracterización cuantitativa de las características ecocardiográficas de la población estudiada. Este dispositivo podría ofrecer una mejor caracterización clínica que, a su vez, permita una optimización en la prescripción de medicamentos para la insuficiencia cardiaca y el ajuste de dosis de diuréticos según los hallazgos ecocardiográficos de congestión.

Experiencia con la herramienta ultrasonográfica Kosmos en el abordaje y tratamiento de pacientes de la consulta externa de insuficiencia cardiaca: un estudio transversal unicéntrico / Experience with the Kosmos ultrasonographic tool in the approach and treatment of ambulatory patients of a heart failure clinic: a single-center cross-sectional study

Resumen Antecedentes: En México aún es muy poco conocida la epidemiología de la insuficiencia cardiaca, sin embargo se sabe que la principal causa de ingresos hospitalarios en los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca es la congestión pulmonar y sistémica. Objetivo: Estimar el estado de congestión y evaluar la función cardiaca mediante el ultrasonido portátil en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca tratados en un centro de tercer nivel en México. Método: Se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional transversal. Se seleccionaron pacientes que acudieron a la Clínica de Insuficiencia Cardiaca del Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez en la Ciudad de México entre mayo y agosto de 2022. Se les sometió a una evaluación ultrasonográfica mediante un dispositivo portátil para valorar la congestión pulmonar y sistémica, así como la función y estructura cardiaca. Resultados: Se incluyeron de forma prospectiva 100 pacientes diagnosticados con insuficiencia cardiaca en el periodo de estudio. El 76% fueron hombres, con una edad mediana de 59 años (RIQ: 50-68 años). La mediana del FEVI registrada fue del 34% (RIQ: 27.0-43.5%). Al evaluar la congestión pulmonar, el 78% de los pacientes presentaron un patrón A y el 22% un patrón B. Siguiendo el protocolo VExUS, el 92% de los pacientes mostraron un grado 0, el 2% un grado 1 y el 6% un grado 2. Conclusiones: El uso del ultrasonido portátil facilitó la caracterización cuantitativa de las características ecocardiográficas de la población estudiada. Este dispositivo podría ofrecer una mejor caracterización clínica que, a su vez, permita una optimización en la prescripción de medicamentos para la insuficiencia cardiaca y el ajuste de dosis de diuréticos según los hallazgos ecocardiográficos de congestión.

Abstract Background: In Mexico, the epidemiology of heart failure is still not well understood. However, it is known that the primary cause of hospital admissions in patients with heart failure is pulmonary and systemic congestion. Objective: To estimate congestion status and assess cardiac function using portable ultrasound in patients with heart failure. Method: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted. Patients who attended the Heart Failure Clinic at the Ignacio Chávez National Cardiology Institute in Mexico City between May and August 2022 were selected. They underwent ultrasonographic evaluation using a portable device to assess pulmonary and systemic congestion, as well as cardiac function and structure. Results: One-hundred patients diagnosed with heart failure were prospectively included during the study period; 76% were male, with an average age of 59 years (range: 50-68 years). The recorded LVEF median was 34% (IQR: 27-43.5%). When evaluating pulmonary congestion, 78% of the patients showed a pattern A and 22% a pattern B. Following the VExUS protocol, 92% of the patients were at grade 0, 2% at grade 1, and 6% at grade 2. Conclusions: The use of the portable ultrasound facilitated the quantitative characterization of the echocardiographic features of the studied population. This device could provide better clinical characterization which, in turn, might allow for optimized drug prescription for heart failure and dose adjustments of diuretics based on echocardiographic congestion findings.

Strain do Átrio Esquerdo pela Técnica de Speckle-Tracking: Contribuição para a Avaliação da Função Diastólica em Pacientes Pediátricos com Doença Renal Crônica / Speckle-Tracking: Incremental Role in Diastolic Assessment of Pediatric Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

Resumo Fundamento: As complicações cardiovasculares são a principal causa de morte em pacientes pediátricos com doença renal crônica (DRC). A avaliação ecocardiográfica da função diastólica na DRC tem se limitado à avaliação espectral por Doppler espectral e por Doppler tecidual, técnicas sabidamente menos confiáveis na pediatria. O strain do átrio esquerdo (AE) pela técnica do speckle tracking bidimensional (2DST) foi recentemente confirmada como uma medida robusta da função diastólica. Objetivos: Investigar o papel do strain do AE na avaliação da função diastólica de crianças em diferentes estágios da DRC. Métodos: De fevereiro de 2019 a julho de 2022, 55 pacientes com DRC sem sintomas cardiovasculares e 55 controles foram avaliados por ecocardiografia convencional e por ecocardiografia com 2DST. O nível de significância adotado foi de 5% (p < 0,05). Resultados: Pacientes e controles tinham idade similares [9,78 (0,89 - 17,54) vs. 10,72 (1,03 -18,44) anos; p = 0,41] e sexo (36M:19F vs. 34M:21F; p = 0,84) similares. Havia 25 pacientes não dialíticos e 30 pacientes dialíticos. A fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo foi ≥ 55% em todos. Em comparação aos controles, os pacientes com DRC apresentaram strain de reservatório mais baixo (48,22±10,62% vs. 58,52±10,70%) e índice de rigidez do AE mais alto [0,14 (0,08-0,48)%-1 vs. 0,11 (0,06-0,23) %-1]; p<0,0001. A hipertrofia ventricular esquerda associou-se com um strain de reservatório mais baixo (42,05±8,74% vs. 52,99±9,52%), e valores mais altos de índice de rigidez [0,23 (0,11 - 0,48)%-1 vs. 0,13 (0,08-0,23) %-1 e de índice de enchimento do AE (2,39±0,63 cm/s x %-1 vs. 1,74±0,47 cm/s x %-1; p<0,0001). Hipertensão não controlada associou-se com strain de reservatório do AE mais baixo (41,9±10,6% vs. 50,6±9,7; p=0,005). Conclusão: O strain do AE mostrou-se uma ferramenta útil na avaliação de pacientes pediátricos com DRC e associado com fatores de risco cardiovasculares conhecidos.

Abstract Background: Cardiovascular complications are the leading cause of mortality in pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Echocardiographic assessment of diastolic function in CKD has been limited to spectral and tissue Doppler imaging, known to be less reliable techniques in pediatrics. Two-dimensional Speckle tracking echocardiography (2DST) derived left atrial (LA) strain has recently been confirmed as a robust measure of diastolic function. Objectives: To investigate LA strain role in diastolic assessment of children at different stages of CKD. Methods: From February 2019 to July 2022, 55 CKD patients without cardiovascular symptoms and 55 controls were evaluated by standard and 2DST echocardiograms. The level of significance was set at 5% (p<0.05). Results: Patients and controls had similar age [9.78 (0.89 - 17.54) vs. 10.72 (1.03 -18,44) years; p = 0.41] and gender (36M:19F vs. 34M:21F; p=0.84). There were 25 non-dialysis patients and 30 dialysis patients. Left ventricular ejection fraction was ≥ 55% in all of them. Comparing CKD and controls, LA reservoir strain was lower (48.22±10.62% vs. 58.52±10.70%) and LA stiffness index was higher [0.14 (0.08-0.48)%-1 vs. 0.11 (0.06-0.23) %-1]; p<0.0001. LV hypertrophy was associated with lower LA reservoir strain (42.05±8.74% vs. 52.99±9.52%), higher LA stiffness [0.23(0.11 - 0.48)%-1 vs. 0.13 (0.08-0.23) %-1 and filling indexes (2.39±0.63 cm/s x %-1 vs. 1.74±0.47 cm/s x %-1; p<0.0001. Uncontrolled hypertension was associated with lower LA reservoir strain (41.9±10.6% vs. 50.6±9.7; p=0.005). Conclusions: LA strain proved to be a feasible tool in the assessment of pediatric CKD patients and was associated with known cardiovascular risk factors.

Impacto de la miectomía septal ampliada sobre los cambios ecocardiográficos en la miocardiopatía hipertrófica obstructiva / Impact of Extended Septal Miectomy on Echocardiographic Changes in Hypertophic Obstructivec Cardiomyopathy

RESUMEN Introducción: La miectomía septal ampliada (MSA) ha demostrado ser una estrategia útil para mejorar los síntomas de los pacientes con miocardiopatía hipertrófica obstructiva (MCHO). Objetivos: El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar el impacto de la MSA en parámetros estructurales y funcionales ecocardiográficos a corto y mediano plazo, en pacientes con MCH y obstrucción dinámica del tracto de salida del ventrículo izquierdo (VI). Material y métodos: Se analizaron los ecocardiogramas en los períodos preoperatorio, postoperatorio inmediato (1 mes post cirugía) y posoperatorio alejado (2 a 3 años) de pacientes sometidos a MSA. Resultados: Se intervinieron 94 pacientes con una edad media de 57,6 ± 13,8 años. Se observó una reducción significativa del máximo espesor septal en el postoperatorio inmediato, que se mantuvo en el posoperatorio alejado, y en el tamaño auricular izquierdo en el postoperatorio inmediato que se profundizó en el alejado (p < 0,001). El gradiente intraventricular en reposo pasó de 49,2 mmHg basal a 6,4 mmHg (p < 0,001) y de allí a 4,6 mmHg (p=0,224) en los períodos inmediato y alejado, y con la maniobra de Valsalva de 93,9 mmHg a 8,7 mmHg (p < 0,001) y de allí a 7,2 mmHg (p=0,226) respectivamente. La función diastólica fue valorada como grado II en el 58,5 % de los pacientes en el preoperatorio, 51,7 % en el postoperatorio inmediato y 29 % en el postoperatorio alejado. En la misma línea se evidenció un cambio en la relación E/e´ y la presión sistólica pulmonar, grado de insuficiencia mitral y dimensiones de la aurícula izquierda. Conclusión: En esta cohorte de pacientes con MCHO, la realización de una MSA se asoció a una mejoría significativa de la función diastólica del VI, reducción de las presiones de llenado y pulmonares y grado de insuficiencia mitral, y remodelado reverso de la aurícula izquierda. Es posible que esta combinación de efectos explique los beneficios clínicos de la intervención.

ABSTRACT Background: Extended septal myectomy (ESM) has proven to be a useful strategy to improve symptoms in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of ESM on short and mid-term structural and functional echocardiographic parameters in patients with HCM and left ventricular (LV) outflow tract dynamic obstruction. Methods: Preoperative, immediate postoperative (1 month after surgery) and late postoperative (2 to 3 years) echocardiograms of patients undergoing ESM were analyzed. Results: A total of 94 patients with mean age of 57.6 ± 13.8 years underwent surgery. A significant reduction was observed in maximum septal thickness in the immediate postoperative period, which was sustained in the late postoperative period, and in atrial size in the immediate postoperative period, which deepened in the late postoperative period (p < 0.001). Intraventricular gradient at rest dropped from 49.2 to 6.4 mmHg (p < 0.001) and then to 4.6 mmHg (p=0.224) in the immediate and late periods and with Valsalva maneuver from 93.9 to 8.7 mmHg (p < 0.001), and then to 7.2 mmHg (p=0.226), respectively. Preoperative diastolic function was assessed as grade II in 58.5% of patients, decreasing to 51.7% in the immediate postoperative period and to 29% in the late postoperative period. In agreement with these results, a change was evidenced in the E/e´ ratio and pulmonary artery systolic pressure, degree of mitral regurgitation and left atrial dimensions. Conclusion: In this cohort of patients with HOCM, ESM was associated with a significant improvement in LV diastolic function, reduction in filling and pulmonary pressures and degree of mitral regurgitation, and left atrial reverse remodeling. It is possible that this combination of effects explains the clinical benefits of the intervention.

Endocarditis Infecciosa Mural Apical del Ventrículo Izquierdo: Presentación de caso clínico y revisión bibliográfica / Infectious Apical Mural Endocarditis of the Left Ventricle: Clinical case presentation and bibliographic review

RESUMEN La endocarditis mural es una forma infrecuente de infección intracardiaca que afecta al endocardio no valvular que pue- de presentarse con complicaciones similares a la endocarditis infecciosa valvular. Se recomienda la ecocardiografía para confirmar el diagnóstico cuando exista un alto índice de sospecha. Con respecto al tratamiento, existe evidencia limitada acerca de las estrategias terapéuticas en la endocarditis mural, sin embargo en la mayoría de casos reportados se recomienda iniciar antibioticoterapia dirigida asociado a una intervención quirúrgica precoz. A continuación, se presenta un caso clínico de un paciente masculino de 74 años con fenómenos embólicos sistémicos, en quien se documenta por ecocardiograma transesofágico una endocarditis mural en ápex del ventrículo izquierdo asociado a una bacteriemia por Staphylococcus aureus. Este caso pone de manifiesto la importancia de una valoración ecocardiográfica detallada de las válvulas y cámaras cardíacas ante la sospecha de una endocarditis infecciosa.

ABSTRACT Mural endocarditis is an uncommon form of intracardiac infection affecting the non valvular endocardium that can present with complications similar to valvular infective endocarditis. Echocardiography is recommended to confirm the diagnosis when there is a high index of suspicion. Regarding treatment, there is limited evidence about therapeutic strategies in mural endocarditis, however in most reported cases it is recommended to initiate targeted antibiotic therapy associated with early surgical intervention. The following is a clinical case of a 74-year-old male patient with systemic embolic phenomena, in whom a transesophageal echocardiogram documented mural endocarditis in the apex of the left ventricle associated with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. This case highlights the importance of a detailed echocardiographic assessment of the cardiac valves and chambers when infective endocarditis is suspected.

Intracardiac echocardiography-guided left atrial appendage occlusion: The path to independence.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) has been the standard method for guiding left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) procedures. Recently, intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) has emerged as an alternative to TEE due to several advantages, particularly the avoidance of general anesthesia. This analysis aims to assess the safety, feasibility and efficacy of ICE-guided LAAO procedures. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of ICE-guided LAAO procedures, including a comparison of embolic and bleeding events with the predicted standard scores and a comparison with TEE-guided procedures. RESULTS: A total of 88 patients underwent echocardiography-guided percutaneous LAAO (43 patients with TEE and 45 with ICE), mean age 74.9 years, 68.2% male. In the ICE-guided population, the technical success rate was 93% and the major complication rate was 8.8%. During follow-up, yearly stroke and major bleeding rates were 1.4% and 8.4%, respectively, compared to the 4.0% and 8.7% predicted by the CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores. In the TEE versus ICE analysis (similar baseline characteristics), no statistically significant differences were seen regarding technical success (95.3% vs. 93.3%), procedure-related complications (14.0% vs. 8.9%), device thrombus (2.3% vs. 0%), residual minor peridevice leaks (14.0% vs. 24.4%), one-year all-cause mortality (9.3% vs. 4.4%), stroke (9.3% vs. 2.2%) or major bleeding events (9.3% vs. 11.1%). CONCLUSION: ICE-guided LAAO was a safe and effective therapeutic strategy in a high embolic and bleeding risk population, compared to the event rates predicted by the CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores. The ICE-guided procedure compared well to TEE-guided procedures regarding procedure feasibility, safety, and efficacy.

Evolución de la lesión orgánica mediada por hipertensión en pacientes con hipertensión arterial resistente tras añadir espironolactona / Hypertensive mediated organ damage evolution in resistant hypertension patients after adding spironolactone

Introducción: La hipertensión arterial resistente (HTAR) supone un importante impacto a nivel multiorgánico e incrementa la morbimortalidad. Este trabajo evalúa la evolución de la lesión orgánica mediada por hipertensión en pacientes con HTAR tras añadir espironolactona. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de 58 pacientes con HTAR a quienes se añadió espironolactona (12,5-25mg/día). Se obtuvieron parámetros de presión arterial clínica y MAPA-24h, cociente albúmina/creatinina y datos ecocardiográficos previos a iniciar espironolactona y tras 12 meses de tratamiento. Resultados: El 36,2% de los pacientes eran mujeres y la edad media de 67,3±10,1 años. Se objetivó un descenso en albuminuria (mediana [RIC25-75]) de 27,0 (7,5-255,4) a 11,3 (3,1-37,8) mg/g (p = 0,009), siendo más marcado en pacientes con albuminuria grado A2 y A3: de 371,2 (139,5-797,4) a 68,4 (26,5-186,5) mg/g, p =0,02.. A nivel ecocardiográfico se evidenció: pared posterior: −1,0±0,4mm (p<0,001), tabique interventricular: −0,6±0,5mm (p=0,01), índice de masa del ventrículo izquierdo (VI): −14,7±10,2g/m2 (p=0,006), índice de remodelado del VI: −0,04±0,036 (p=0,03), sin cambios estadísticamente significativos en fracción de eyección VI, diámetro diastólico VI, diámetro sistólico VI, diámetro de aurícula izquierda, relación entre onda de llenado ventricular temprano y contracción auricular ni en índice de presión llenado VI. La presión arterial clínica sistólica/diastólica presentó un descenso de −12,5±4,9/−4,9±3,0mmHg, p<0,001. En los MAPA-24h se observó un descenso significativo de presión arterial sistólica y diastólica en los períodos diurno y nocturno, y un cambio favorable en el patrón circadiano en el 38,1% de los pacientes, p<0,001. Conclusiones: Añadir espironolactona en HTAR contribuye a la reducción de la lesión orgánica mediada por hipertensión a nivel de albuminuria y de parámetros ecocardiográficos de cardiopatía hipertensiva. (AU)

Introduction: Resistant hypertension (RH) represents an important multi-organic impact and increases the morbi-mortality. We aimed to evaluate the evolution of hypertensive mediated organ damage in patients with RH after adding spironolactone. Material and methods: Retrospective study of 58 patients with RH who started spironolactone (12.5–25mg daily). Office blood pressure, 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (24h-ABPM), urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio and echocardiographic parameters were analyzed prior to initiation of spironolactone and after 12 months of treatment. Results: Thirty-six percent of patients were women and mean age was 67.3±10.1 years. We observed a decrease in urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (median [RIQ25–75]) of 27.0 (7.5-255.4) to 11.3 (3.1–37.8) mg/g, P = .009. This was more relevant in patients with albuminuria grade A2 and A3: 371.2 (139.5–797.4) to 68.4 (26.5–186.5) mg/g, P = .02. The echocardiographic changes were: posterior wall thickness: −1.0±0.4mm (P<.001), interventricular septal thickness: −0.6±0.5mm (P=.01), left ventricular (LV) mass index: −14.7±10.2g/m2 (P=.006), LV remodeling index: −0.04±0.036 (P=.03), without statistically significant changes in LV ejection fraction, LV end-diastolic diameter, LV end-systolic diameter, left atrial diameter, relationship between early ventricular filling wave and atrial contraction and LV filling pressure index. Systolic/diastolic office blood pressure decreased −12.5±4.9/−4.9±3.0mmHg, P<.001. In 24h-ABPM, systolic and diastolic BP had a significant decrease in diurnal and nocturnal periods and 38.1% of patients presented a favorable change in the circadian pattern, P<.001. Conclusions: Adding spironolactone to patients with RH contributes to improve hypertensive mediated organ damage by reducing albuminuria levels and echocardiographic parameters of hypertensive heart disease. (AU)

Three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiographic evaluation of aortic plaque after cerebrovascular event.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is crucial in order to assess aortic anatomy after stroke. Although routinely used to assess cardiovascular anatomy and function, three-dimensional echocardiography (3D TEE) is less used for aortic evaluation. We thus sought to assess prospectively whether additional information on aortic plaque morphology could be obtained with 3D TEE after an ischemic stroke. METHODS: Patients within one week of a stroke (confirmed by brain computed tomography/magnetic resonance) underwent TEE and 3D findings were compared with two-dimensional (2D) (aorta plaque number, dimensions, area and the presence of debris and ulcerations). Patients were followed for two years for death or a new stroke. RESULTS: We assessed 78 patients, 43 (55%) male, aged 62±14 years old, 92% in sinus rhythm. Aortic atheroma was found mainly in the descending aorta (50%); plaque thickness was similar for 2D TEE (0.29±0.03 cm) and 3D TEE (0.29±0.04 cm), whereas plaque area was slightly increased for 3D measurements (0.24±0.02 cm2 versus 0.37±0.03 cm2 respectively, p<0.05), with a strong correlation found both for aortic plaque thickness (r=0.91) and area (r=0.80) measurements. While aortic debris were equally seen with both techniques, 3D TEE defines the presence of ulcerations (six ulcerations unseen with 2D TEE better, p=0.03). There were 11 events (six deaths and five new strokes) during follow-up, unrelated to plaque characteristics. CONCLUSION: To evaluate aortic plaque morphology, 3D TEE is superior to 2D TEE due to improved detection of ulcerated aortic plaque; this might provide additional information in patients after ischemic stroke.

Hypertensive mediated organ damage evolution in resistant hypertension patients after adding spironolactone.

INTRODUCTION: Resistant hypertension (RH) represents an important multi-organic impact and increases the morbi-mortality. We aimed to evaluate the evolution of hypertensive mediated organ damage in patients with RH after adding spironolactone. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of 58 patients with RH who started spironolactone (12.5-25mg daily). Office blood pressure, 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (24h-ABPM), urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio and echocardiographic parameters were analyzed prior to initiation of spironolactone and after 12 months of treatment. RESULTS: Thirty-six percent of patients were women and mean age was 67.3±10.1 years. We observed a decrease in urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (median [RIQ25-75]) of 27.0 (7.5-255.4) to 11.3 (3.1-37.8)mg/g, p=0.009. This was more relevant in patients with albuminuria grade A2 and A3: 371.2 (139.5-797.4) to 68.4 (26.5-186.5)mg/g, p=0.02. The echocardiographic changes were: posterior wall thickness: -1.0±0.4mm (p<0.001), interventricular septal thickness: -0.6±0.5mm (p=0.01), left ventricular (LV) mass index: -14.7±10.2g/m2 (p=0.006), LV remodeling index: -0.04±0.036 (p=0.03), without statistically significant changes in LV ejection fraction, LV end-diastolic diameter, LV end-systolic diameter, left atrial diameter, relationship between early ventricular filling wave and atrial contraction and LV filling pressure index. Systolic/diastolic office blood pressure decreased -12.5±4.9/-4.9±3.0mmHg, p<0.001. In 24h-ABPM, systolic and diastolic BP had a significant decrease in diurnal and nocturnal periods and 38.1% of patients presented a favorable change in the circadian pattern, p<0.001. CONCLUSIONS: Adding spironolactone to patients with RH contributes to improve hypertensive mediated organ damage by reducing albuminuria levels and echocardiographic parameters of hypertensive heart disease.

Endocarditis Infecciosa a hemocultivos y ecocardiograma negativos: ¿Con qué otra herramienta contamos? A propósito de un caso

La endocarditis infecciosa (EI) es una enfermedad frecuente, con elevada morbi-mortalidad, cuyo diagnóstico continúa siendo un desafío en la actualidad. El abordaje de la misma debe de ser realizado por un equipo multidisciplinario. La semiología, herramienta fundamental en la medicina clínica, juega un rol preponderante, nos permite mantener una alta sospecha diagnóstica a pesar de contar con estudios paraclínicos negativos. En estas situaciones han ganado importancia las nuevas técnicas de imagen como el PET-TC. Se presenta el caso de una mujer con cardiopatía predisponente en el que se llega al diagnóstico por PET-TC.

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a frequent disease, with high morbidity and mortality, whose diagnosis continues to be a challenge nowadays. The approach must be carried out by a multidisciplinary team. Semiology, a fundamental tool in clinical medicine, plays a preponderant role, allowing us to maintain a high diagnostic suspicion despite having negative paraclinical studies. In these situations, new imaging techniques such as PET-CT have gained importance. We present the case of a woman with predisposing heart disease in whom the diagnosis was made by PET-CT.

A endocardite infecciosa (EI) é uma doença frequente, com alta morbimortalidade, cujo diagnóstico continua sendo um desafio na atualidade. Sua abordagem deve ser realizada por uma equipe multidisciplinar. A semiologia, ferramenta fundamental na clínica médica, desempenha um papel preponderante, permitindo-nos manter uma elevada suspeição diagnóstica apesar dos estudos paraclínicos negativos. Nestas situações, novas técnicas de imagem como o PET-CT têm ganhado importância. Apresentamos o caso de uma mulher com cardiopatia predisponente cujo diagnóstico foi feito pelo PET-CT.

Insuficiencia cardíaca de novo: Un reto diagnóstico / Di novo heart failure: A diagnostic challenge

Introducción: El término insuficiencia cardíaca de novo hace referencia a pacientes sin diagnóstico previo de dicha enfermedad. La revisión de este tema deviene de un problema real, pues muchos pacientes acuden a la atención secundaria sin diagnóstico previo de insuficiencia cardíaca y además en estadios avanzados. Objetivo: Describir los elementos claves para el diagnóstico precoz de insuficiencia Cardíacas. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo una búsqueda bibliográfica en las siguientes bases de datos: Pubmed, SciELO, ESBCO, Cochrane y BVS, así como en diferentes webs médicas durante tres meses entre febrero de 2021 al 31 de mayo de 2021. Conclusiones: El diagnóstico precoz de insuficiencia cardíaca permitió disminuir el número de pacientes que llegan a la Atención Secundaria sin diagnóstico previo. Existen clasificaciones que identifican estadios tempranos de la enfermedad y la de la ACC/AHA es relevante para lograr este objetivo. En atención primaria esto es un reto si no se emplean pruebas diagnósticas como el ecocardiograma. Es importante la determinación de las concentraciones circulantes del péptido natriurético tipo B (BNP) y del fragmento N-terminal de su protohormona (N-terminal BNP). Este biomarcador debería estar accesible en las consultas ambulatorias para pacientes que presentan sospecha clínica de insuficiencia cardíaca «de novo»(AU)

Introduction: The term di novo heart failure refers to patients without a previous diagnosis of this disease. The review of this issue comes from a real problem, since a group of patients attend secondary care without a previous diagnosis of heart failure and also have in advanced stages. Objective: The objective is to provide a clue that facilitates the early diagnosis of heart failure. Methods: A bibliographic search was carried out in the following databases: Pubmed, SciELO, ESBCO, Cochrane and BVS, as well as in different medical websites for three months (February 1, 2021 to May 31, 2021). Conclusions: The early diagnosis of heart failure will allow us to reduce the number of patients who arrive at Secondary Care without a previous diagnosis. There are classifications that identify early stages of the disease, being in our opinion the ACC / AHA classification the one that should carry the most weight. In primary care this can be a challenge if diagnostic tests such as echocardiography are not used. Dosification of serum levels of type B natriuretic peptide (BNP) and the N-terminal fragment of its protohormone (N-terminal BNP) is very useful. This biomarker should be accessible in outpatient clinics for patients with clinical suspicion of di novo heart failure(AU)

Desempeño del método de suma de discos comparado con el método bidimensional en la estimación cuantitativa del derrame pericárdico / Performance of the method of disks compared to the bidimensional method in the quantitative estimation of pericardial effusion

Resumen Introducción: La ecocardiografía bidimensional es la técnica más efectiva para el diagnóstico del derrame pericárdico, gracias a sus altas sensibilidad y especificidad. Objetivo: Analizar la superioridad del método de suma de discos comparado con el método bidimensional en la estimación del derrame pericárdico por medio de ecocardiografía, tomando como referencia el volumen de líquido pericárdico extraído por pericardiocentesis o cirugía abierta. Método: Estudio retrospectivo de seguimiento de una cohorte basado en registros médicos y archivos de ecocardiografía. Se empleó un diseño pareado en el que cada imagen fue leída por el método bidimensional y por el método de suma de discos. Se incluyeron derrames pericárdicos graves, definidos clínicamente o por parámetros ecocardiográficos, que requirieran drenaje. El desempeño de los métodos de estimación bidimensional y de suma de discos, tomando como referencia la extracción por intervención, se cuantificó mediante áreas bajo la curva operador-receptor (auROC). Resultados: Se analizaron 40 registros, tomando como referencia el volumen obtenido por extracción; con un auROC de 0.81 (intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%]: 0.73-0.89), el desempeño diagnóstico del método de suma de discos fue significativamente mayor (p = 0.0335) que el del método bidimensional (auROC: 0.73; IC95%: 0.63-0.83). La estimación realizada por el método de suma de discos subestimó en promedio 51.3 ml (IC95%: −156.2-53.5). Conclusiones: En pacientes con derrame pericárdico e indicación de drenaje o taponamiento cardíaco, el método de suma de discos es superior en comparación con el método bidimensional en el estudio ecocardiográfico para la estimación cuantitativa del derrame pericárdico, ya que discrimina mejor respecto al método bidimensional.

Abstract Introduction: Two-dimensional echocardiography is the most effective technique for diagnosing pericardial effusion due to its high sensitivity and specificity. Objective: The superiority of the method of disks was compared with the bidimensional method in the estimation of pericardial effusion by echocardiography, taking as reference the volume of pericardial fluid removed by pericardiocentesis or open surgery. Method: Retrospective follow-up study of a cohort, based on medical records and echocardiography files. A paired design was used, each image was read by the bidimensional method and by the method of disks. Severe pericardial effusions defined clinically or by echocardiographic parameters, that required drainage were included. The performance of the bidimensional and disks estimation methods, taking the volume removed as a reference, was quantified using areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (auROC). Results: 40 records were analyzed, taking as a reference the volume obtained by extraction, with an auROC of 0.81 (95% CI: 0.73-0.89) the diagnostic performance of the disks method was significantly higher (p = 0.0335) than the bidimensional method (auROC 0.73, 95% CI: 0.63-0.83). The estimate made by the disks method underestimated an average of 51.3 ml (95% CI: -156.2-53.5). Conclusions: In patients with pericardial effusion with indication of cardiac drainage or tamponade, the disks method is superior in comparison with the bidimensional method in the echocardiographic study of the quantitative estimation of pericardial effusion, discriminating better than the bidimensional method.

Echocardiographic findings in patients under mechanical ventilation with COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome / Hallazgos ecocardiográficos en pacientes bajo ventilación mecánica con síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda por COVID-19

Abstract Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) produces a significant burden to severely ill patients affected by acute respiratory failure. The aim of this study was to describe echocardiographic findings in a series of mechanically ventilated patients with moderate and severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to COVID-19. This was a single center, descriptive and cros s-sectional study of prospectively collected data. Patients had severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and moderate or severe ARDS. Initial echocardiogram was performed within 7 days of intensive care unit admission and every 15 days until mechanical ventilation ended, 28 days or death. Time spent by the physician for each study was measured. Multiple echographic measurements were acquired; 33 patients were analyzed. Total number of echocardiograms performed was 76. The median imaging time required to complete a standard study was 13 [10-15] minutes. Chronic structural abnormalities were present in 16 patients (48%), being LV hypertrophy the main finding in 11 patients (33%). The most frequent acute or dynamic finding was RV enlargement (43%) when considering all echocardiograms performed from admission to day 28 of follow-up. Other findings were: pulmonary hypertension (15%), new or dynamic left ventricle (LV) regional wall motion abnormalities (15%), new or dynamic LV global contractility deterioration (6%) and hypercontractility (12%).

Resumen La enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) produce una carga significativa para los pacientes gravemente enfermos afectados por insuficiencia respiratoria aguda. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir los hallazgos ecocardiográficos en una serie de pacientes ventilados mecánicamente con síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda (SDRA) moderado y grave debido a COVID-19. Se trata de un estudio unicéntrico, descriptivo y de corte transversal de datos recopilados en forma prospectiva. Los pacientes tenían una infección por el coronavirus SARS-Cov-2 y SDRA moderado o grave. El ecocardiogra ma inicial se realizó dentro de los 7 días del ingreso en la unidad de cuidados intensivos y luego cada 15 días hasta finalizar la ventilación mecánica, 28 días o fallecimiento. Se midió el tiempo empleado por el operador en cada estudio. Se adquirieron múltiples medidas ecográficas. Se analizaron 33 pacientes. El número total de ecocardiogramas realizados fue de 76. El tiempo necesario (mediana [RIQ]) para la obtención de las imágenes de un estudio estándar fue de 13 [10-15] minutos. Las anomalías estructurales crónicas estuvieron presentes en 16 pacientes (48%), siendo la hipertrofia ventricular izquierda la principal (11 pacientes, 33%). El hallazgo agudo o dinámico más frecuente fue el agrandamiento del ventrículo derecho (VD) (43%) al considerar todos los ecocardiogramas realizados desde el ingreso hasta el día 28 de seguimiento. Otros hallazgos fueron: hipertensión pulmonar (15%), anomalías del movimiento de la pared regional del VI nuevas o dinámicas (15%), deterioro de la contractilidad global del ventrículo izquierdo, nuevo o dinámico (6%), e hipercontractilidad (12%).

Regurgitação tricúspide funcional em pacientes com cardiopatia reumática: fatores asociados, impacto prognóstico e preditores de progressão / Clinical outcomes and progression rate of tricuspid regurgitation in patients with rheumatic mitral valve disease

Introdução: A cardiopatia reumática crônica (CRC) continua sendo um grande problema de saúde pública, particularmente em países de baixa e média renda, onde é responsável por mais milhões de mortes prematuras anualmente. Embora a valva mitral seja predominantemente afetada, substancial número de pacientes apresentam regurgitação tricúspide (RT) secundária à doença valvar mitral, que pode evoluir com insuficiência cardíaca direita e morte. A RT funcional é consequente à hipertensão pulmonar em pacientes com CRC, mas as implicações clínicas da RT no contexto da CRC não estão bem estabelecidas. Este estudo prospectivo foi desenhado para identificar os determinantes da RT funcional grave, o impacto da RT nos desfechos clínicos e os preditores de progressão da RT em uma grande população de pacientes com CRC. Métodos: Pacientes com CRC encaminhados para tratamento de doença valvar entre 2011 e 2021 foram incluídos. Ecocardiograma completo, com avaliação detalhada da valva tricúspide e das câmaras cardíacas direitas foi realizado à inclusão no estudo. Os pacientes com acometimento reumático da valva tricúspide foram excluídos. À entrada no estudo, RT funcional foi classificada de acordo com as diretrizes, como ausente, leve, moderada e grave. Progressão da RT foi definida como piora do grau da RT na avaliação inicial em relação ao último ecocardiograma de acompanhamento, ou RT grave inicial que necessitou de cirurgia para reparo valvar ou morreu. Os desfechos clínicos foram definidos como o composto de morte cardíaca ou necessidade de troca valvar mitral (TVM). O risco de progressão da RT foi estimado considerando riscos competitivos. Resultados: Um total de 645 pacientes foram incluídos, com idade de 47 ± 12 anos, 85% do sexo feminino. A RT funcional estava ausente em 3,4%, leve em 83,7%, moderada em 8,5% e grave em 4,3%. Na população incluída, a dupla lesão valvar mitral foi o padrão mais comum de envolvimento valvar, sendo a estenose mitral a lesão predominante associada à regurgitação mitral leve. À entrada no estudo, a fibrilação atrial (FA) foi diagnosticada em 205 pacientes (32%). As características clínicas e ecocardiográficas associadas à RT significativa foram idade, área do átrio direito (AD), pressão sistólica da artéria pulmonar (PSAP) e presença de disfunção do ventrículo direito (VD), com estatística C do modelo de 0,888 (95% CI 0,844-0,932). O grau de RT funcional comparado com RT ausente ou leve foi associado a eventos adversos com risco de 1,93 (IC 95% 1,16-3,2) para RT moderada e 2,30 (IC 95% 1,28-4,13) para RT grave, independentemente da idade, classe funcional NYHA, fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo, complacência atrioventricular (Cn) e realização da valvoplastia mitral no início do estudo. Sobrevida livre de eventos diminuiu com o aumento da gravidade da RT funcional, com taxa de sobrevida em 3 anos de seguimento de 91%, 72% e 62 % em pacientes com RT leve, moderada e grave, respectivamente. Durante o seguimento médio de 4,1 anos (mediana de 3,4 anos; intervalo interquartílico de 1,0 a 6,6 anos), a progressão da RT ocorreu em 83 pacientes (13%) com taxa de incidência de progressão de 3,7 eventos (IC 95% 2,9-4,5) por 100 pacientes-ano. Os preditores de progressão RT foram idade (HR 1,06, IC 95% 1,04-1,08, P <0,001), área AD (HR 1,05, 95 % CI 1,02-1,08, P <0,001), presença de disfunção do VD (HR 2,36, IC 95% 1,40-4,01, P = 0,001) e classe funcional III/IV da NYHA (HR 2,48, IC 95% 1,50 -4,08, P<0,001), após ajuste por FA, valvoplastia mitral percutânea e PSAP. Conclusão: Nos pacientes com CRC, RT funcional foi frequente e associada à idade, pressão da artéria pulmonar, área do AD e disfunção do VD. A RT funcional foi preditor de desfechos adversos, independentemente de disfunção do VD e PSAP. A RT pode progredir ao longo do tempo, principalmente relacionada ao remodelamento das câmaras cardíacas direitas. A avaliação do grau da RT funcional é essencial em pacientes com CRC para estratificação de risco e decisões quanto à intervenção na valva tricúspide.

Background: Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) remains a major health problem, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where it accounts for over a million premature deaths annually. Although the mitral valve is affected predominantly, a substantial proportion of patients manifest significant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) secondary to mitral valve disease, which lead to right-sided heart failure and ultimately death. Functional TR is mostly consequent to pulmonary hypertension in patients with RHD. However, there are limited data regarding the clinical implications of TR in the setting of RHD. This prospective study was designed to identify the determinants of significant functional TR, the impact of TR on clinical outcomes and the predictors of TR progression in a large population of RHD patients. Methods: Patients with RHD who were referred for management of heart valve disease between 2011 and 2021 were enrolled. A comprehensive echocardiogram was performed, with careful tricuspid valve examination and special attention to optimize the right heart acquisitions. Patients with rheumatic involvement of tricuspid valve were excluded. At baseline, functional TR was graded according to guidelines, as absent, mild, moderate, and severe. TR progression was defined either as worsening of TR degree from baseline to the last follow-up echocardiogram or severe TR at baseline that required surgery or cardiac death. Clinical outcomes were defined as the composite of cardiac death or the need for surgical mitral valve replacement (MVR). Risk of TR progression was estimated accounting for competing risks. Results: A total of 645 were enrolled, mean age of 47 ± 12 years, 85% female. Functional TR was absent in 3.4%, mild in 83.7%, moderate in 8.5% and severe in 4.3%. In the overall population, mixed mitral valve disease was the most common pattern of valve involvement with mitral stenosis as a predominant lesion associated with mild mitral regurgitation. At enrollment, atrial fibrillation was diagnosed in 205 patients (32%). Clinical and echocardiographic features associated with more severe TR were age, right atrial (RA) area, and systolic pulmonary artery pressure (SPAP), and the presence of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction, with C statistic of the model of 0.888 (95% CI 0.844-0.932). Functional TR degree compared with no or mild TR was associated with adverse outcome (hazard ratio [HR] 1.91 (95% CI 1.15-3.2) for moderate TR, and 2.30 (95% CI 1.28-4.13) for severe TR, independently of age, NYHA functional class, left ventricular ejection fraction, net atrioventricular compliance (Cn) and mitral valvuloplasty. Event-free survival rates decreased with increasing severity of functional TR, with survival rate at 3-years follow-up of 91%, 72% and 62% in patients with no or mild, moderate and severe TR, respectively. During mean follow-up of 4.1 years (median 3.4, IQR 1.0 to 6.6 years), TR progression occurred in 83 patients (13%) with an overall incidence of progression rate of 3.7 events (95% CI 2.9-4.5) per 100 patient-years. Predictors of TR progression were age (HR 1.06, 95% CI 1.04-1.08, P<0.001), RA area (HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02-1.08, P<0.001), the presence of RV dysfunction (HR 2.36, 95% CI 1.40-4.01, P=0.001), and NYHA functional class III/IV (HR 2.48, 95% CI 1.50-4.08, P<0.001), after adjusted by AF, mitral valvuloplasty, and SPAP. Conclusions: In patients with RHD, functional TR was frequent and associated with age, pulmonary artery pressure, RA dimension, and RV dysfunction. Functional TR was predictor of adverse outcomes, independently of RV dysfunction and SPAP. TR may progress over time, mainly related to right-sided remodeling. Assessing of functional TR grade is essential in RHD patient for risk stratification and decisions regarding tricuspid valve intervention.

Utilidad de la tomografía computarizada multicorte para la estimación de la composición del derrame pericárdico / Usefulness of computed tomography densities to estimate the composition of pericardial effusion

Resumen El derrame pericárdico (DP) es una entidad frecuente en la práctica diaria, que puede ocurrir por un amplio rango de patologías. Los métodos por imágenes constituyen una herramienta diagnóstica clave en la evaluación del pericardio. El ecocardiograma transtorácico (ETT) se considera de primera línea por su costo-efectividad. La tomografía computarizada multicorte (TCMC), por su parte, representa un valioso complemento ante limitaciones del ETT y en la evaluación de urgencia del paciente con sospecha de DP. El objetivo del trabajo es mostrar la utilidad y rol de la TCMC, mediante la medición de densidades, para estimar la etiología del DP, ilustrado con casos de nuestra institución.

Abstract Pericardial effusion (PE) is a common entity in daily practice, which can occur due to a wide range of conditions. Imaging methods are a key diagnostic tool in the evaluation of the pericardium. Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) is the first line imaging method because of its cost-effectiveness. Multi-slice Computed Tomography (MSCT), on the other hand, represents a valuable complement to the limitations of TTE and in emergency evaluation of the patient with suspected PE. The objective of this review is to show the usefulness and role of the MSCT —through the measurement of densities— to estimate the etiology of PE, illustrated with cases of our Institution.

Strain longitudinal global como preditor de cardiotoxicidade induzida por quimioterapia / Global longitudinal strain as predictor of chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity

Fundamento: A cardiotoxicidade induzida por quimioterapia (CiC) é uma complicação importante entre os pacientes que recebem antraciclinas. Biomarcadores e parâmetros de imagem têm sido estudados por sua capacidade de identificar pacientes com risco de desenvolver essa complicação. O strain longitudinal global do ventrículo esquerdo (SLG-VE) tem sido descrito como um parâmetro sensível para detectar disfunção sistólica, mesmo na presença de fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE) preservada. Objetivo: avaliar o papel do SLG-VE como preditor de CiC. Métodos: O presente estudo consiste em uma análise post-hoc do estudo CECCY (Carvedilol for Prevention of ChemotherapyRelated Cardiotoxicity [Carvedilol para Prevenção da Cardiotoxicidade Relacionada à Quimioterapia]), que avaliou a prevenção primária de cardiotoxicidade com carvedilol durante quimioterapia com doxorrubicina em uma população com câncer de mama. Definiu-se cardiotoxicidade como uma redução >10% na FEVE. O SLG-VE foi obtido antes da quimioterapia em pacientes sem doença cardiovascular prévia ou anormalidades no ecocardiograma. Resultados: Trinta e um pacientes submetidos a estudo ecocardiográfico completo incluindo avaliação de SLG-VE antes da quimioterapia foram incluídos nesta análise. Um SLG-VE absoluto <16,9% antes da quimioterapia mostrou 100% de sensibilidade e 73% de especificidade para predizer cardiotoxicidade (AUC=0,85; IC 95% 0,680­0,959, p<0,001). Nesta população, os valores de FEVE antes da quimioterapia não foram preditores de CiC (IC 95% 0,478 a -0,842, p=0,17). A associação de baixos níveis séricos de SLG-VE (<17%) e BNP (>17 pg/mL) dois meses após a quimioterapia aumentou a precisão para detectar CiC de início precoce (100% de sensibilidade, 88% de especificidade, AUC=0,94; IC 95% 0,7810,995, p<0,0001). Conclusões: Nossos dados sugerem que o SLG-VE é um possível preditor de cardiotoxicidade induzida por quimioterapia. São necessários estudos maiores para confirmar a relevância clínica desse parâmetro ecocardiográfico nesse cenário clínico. (AU)

Background: Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity (ChC) is an important complication among patients receiving anthracyclines. Biomarkers and imaging parameters have been studied for their ability to identify patients at risk of developing ChC. Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV-GLS) is a sensitive parameter for detecting systolic dysfunction despite the presence of preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Objective: To evaluate the role of the LV-GLS as a predictor of ChC. Methods: This was a post-hoc analysis of the Carvedilol for Prevention of Chemotherapy-Related Cardiotoxicity trial, which evaluated the primary prevention of cardiotoxicity with carvedilol during doxorubicin chemotherapy in a population of patients with breast cancer. Cardiotoxicity was defined as a reduction ≥10% in LVEF. LV-GLS was determined before chemotherapy in patients with no prior cardiovascular disease or echocardiogram abnormalities. Results: Thirty-one patients for whom a complete echocardiography study including measurement of LV-GLS was performed before chemotherapy were included in this analysis. An absolute LV-GLS<16.9% before chemotherapy showed 100% sensitivity and 73% specificity for predicting cardiotoxicity (area under the curve [AUC], 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.680­0.959; p<0.001). In this population, LVEF values before chemotherapy did not predict ChC (95% CI, 0.478 to -0.842; p=0.17). The association of low LV-GLS (<17%) and brain-type natriuretic peptide serum levels (>17 pg/mL) at 2 months after chemotherapy increased the accuracy for detecting early-onset ChC (100% sensitivity, 88% specificity; AUC, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.781­0.995; p<0.0001). Conclusions: Our data suggest that LV-GLS is a potential predictor of ChC. Larger studies are needed to confirm its clinical relevance in this clinical setting. (AU)

Asymptomatic giant pericardial cyst.

BACKGROUND: Pericardial cysts are uncommon masses and are the third most common cystic mass of the mediastinum. The majority are asymptomatic, however, they can be associated with serious complications such as cardiac tamponade, bronchial obstruction, or even sudden death. CASE REPORT: An asymptomatic female patient, who was referred due to a chest radiograph showing cardiomegaly. The transthoracic echocardiogram showed an image consistent with a pericardial cyst, the diagnosis was confirmed with a magnetic resonance imaging. CONCLUSIONS: Pericardial cysts may appear as an incidental finding in the chest radiograph, either computed tomography scan or magnetic resonance imaging are useful to confirm the diagnosis.

ANTECEDENTES: Los quistes pericárdicos son masas poco comunes; ocupan el tercer lugar entre las masas mediastinales quísticas. La mayoría son asintomáticos, pero se pueden asociar a complicaciones serias como tamponade cardiaco, obstrucción bronquial e incluso muerte súbita. CASO CLÍNICO: Mujer asintomática con cardiomegalia en la tele de tórax a quien se diagnostica de forma incidental, mediante ecocardiograma, un quiste pericárdico gigante, que se corroboró por resonancia magnética. CONCLUSIONES: Los quistes pericárdicos pueden ser hallazgos incidentales en la radiografía de tórax. Tanto la tomografía computarizada como la resonancia magnética son estudios útiles para confirmar el diagnóstico.

Segurança do Agente de Contraste SF6 (SonoVueⓇ) no Ecocardiograma sob Estresse Farmacológico / Safety of SF6(SonoVue®) Contrast Agent on Pharmacological Stress Echocardiogram

Resumo Fundamento Em 2007, a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determinou revisões sobre segurança dos agentes de contraste ecocardiográfico (ACE) disponíveis no mercado após relatos de mortes. Ao longo desses anos, diversos estudos comprovaram a segurança dos ACE, porém com poucos estudos relacionados ao SonoVue®. Objetivos Avaliar a segurança do SonoVue® durante o ecocardiograma sob estresse farmacológico (EEF) por meio da análise da incidência de reações alérgicas e da comparação entre os grupos quanto ao surgimento de arritmia, efeitos colaterais menores e eventos adversos. Métodos Estudo observacional, prospectivo, no qual 2.346 pacientes foram submetidos ao EEF e divididos em dois grupos: grupo 1 com ACE (n=1.099) e grupo 2 sem ACE (n=1.247). Os pacientes foram avaliados durante o EEF - 24 horas e 30 dias. Foi definido p significativo quando <0,05. Resultados O grupo 1 apresentou efeitos colaterais mais leves, como cefaleia (5/0,5% vs. 19/1,5%, p=0,012) e hipertensão reativa (3/0,3% vs . 19/1,5%, p=0,002), menos arritmias como extrassístoles ventriculares (180/16,4% vs . 247/19,8%, p=0,032) e taquicardia paroxística supraventricular (2/0,2% vs . 15/1,2%, p=0,003), assim como nenhum evento adverso como infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM) e óbito. No grupo 2, um paciente apresentou IAM <24h (1/01%) e dois óbitos <30 dias (2/0,1%). Urticária relacionada ao SonoVue® foi observada em 3 (0,3%) pacientes sem reação anafilática. Conclusão SonoVue® demonstrou segurança durante o EEF, não sendo observados morte, IAM ou reação anafilática. Observou-se menor incidência de efeitos colaterais mais leves e arritmias no grupo que utilizou o ACE, assim como baixa incidência de reações alérgicas leves.

Abstract Background In 2007, the United States Food and Drug Administration mandated safety reviews of commercially available echocardiographic contrast agents (ECA), following reports of death. During the past years, different studies have proven the safety of ECA, but there have been few studies on SonoVue®. Objectives To evaluate the safety of SonoVue® during pharmacological stress echocardiography (PSE), by analyzing the incidence of allergic reactions and comparing groups regarding the appearance of arrhythmia, minor side effects and adverse events. Methods In this observational, prospective study, 2346 patients underwent PSE, and they were divided into the following 2 groups: group 1 with ECA (n = 1099) and group 2 without ECA (n = 1247). Patients were evaluated during PSE, at 24 hours, and at 30 days. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. Results Group 1 had fewer minor side effects, such as headache (5/0.5% versus 19/1.5%, p = 0.012) and less reactive hypertension (3/0.3% versus 19/1.5%, p = 0.002); fewer arrhythmias, such as ventricular extrasystoles (180/16.4% versus 247/19.8%, p = 0.032) and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (2/0.2% versus 15/1.2%, p = 0.003); and no adverse events, such as acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or death. In group 2, 1 patient had AMI in < 24 hours (1/01%), and there were 2 deaths in < 30 days (2/0.1%). SonoVue®-related urticaria was seen in 3 (0.3%) patients, without anaphylactic reaction. Conclusion SonoVue® demonstrated safety during PSE. No cases of death, AMI, or anaphylactic reaction were observed. There was a lower incidence of minor side effects and arrhythmias in the group that received ECA, as well as a low incidence of mild allergic reactions.