Long-COVID Syndrome and the Cardiovascular System: A Review of Neurocardiologic Effects on Multiple Systems
AbstractPurpose of ReviewLong-COVID syndrome is a multi-organ disorder that persists beyond 12 weeks post-acute SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19). Here, we provide a definition for this syndrome and discuss neuro-cardiology involvement due to the effects of (1) angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors (the entry points for the virus), (2) inflammation, and (3) oxidative stress (the resultant effects of the virus).Recent FindingsThese effects may produce a spectrum of cardio-neuro effects (e.g., myocardial injury, primary arrhythmia, and cardiac symptoms due to autonomic dysfunction) which may affect all systems of the bod...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - September 30, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Review of Prosthetic Paravalvular Leaks: Diagnosis and Management
This article summarizes the pathophysiology, clinical characteristics, and treatment modalities surroundings prosthetic paravalvular leak. (Source: Current Cardiology Reports)
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - September 24, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation
AbstractPurpose of ReviewAtrial fibrillation is associated with a significant increase in stroke and systemic embolism. This review explores the areas of stroke prevention.Recent FindingsIn the last decade, NOAC has overtaken warfarin as the anticoagulant of choice for stroke prevention in AF. For patients unable to take anticoagulation, LAA closure has proven to be a valid option. The use of digital devices has led to widespread consumer-directed AF screening. It remains to be determined if all device detect AF pose the same amount of risk as recent studies have shown that short and infrequent episodes of AF may not benef...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - September 22, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Cardio-oncology: Implications for Clinical Practice for Women
AbstractPurpose of ReviewClinical cardio-oncology considerations specific to women span across many areas and are particularly relevant for management of patients with sex-specific cancers, such as breast cancer.Recent FindingsMajor improvement in breast cancer survivorship over the last decade and the recognition of CV disease as the second leading cause of death among survivors point to the relevance of long-term cardiovascular (CV) safety. This review summarizes the CV effects associated with multimodality breast cancer treatments and contemporary approach to CV risk stratification, prevention, early detection, monitori...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - September 16, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Acute Coronary Syndromes Among Patients with Prior Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
AbstractPurpose of ReviewAcute coronary syndromes (ACS) often occur in individuals with prior coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). Our goal was to describe the prevalence, clinical characteristics, prognosis, and treatment strategies in this group of patients.Recent FindingsStudies demonstrate that both acute and long-term major adverse cardiovascular outcomes are increased in patients with ACS and prior CABG compared to those without CABG. Much of this risk is attributed to the greater comorbid conditions present in patients with prior CABG. Data regarding optimal management of ACS in patients with prior CABG are ...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - September 12, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
PCSK9 Inhibitor Wars: How Does Inclisiran Fit in with Current Monoclonal Antibody Inhibitor Therapy? Considerations for Patient Selection
AbstractPurpose of ReviewTreatment of dyslipidemia represents one of the most crucial strategies to reduce risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular (CV) disease (ASCVD). In this review, we critically summarize our knowledge on emerging cholesterol-lowering therapy, targeting PCSK9, paying particular attention on treatment allocation of two drug groups, currently available for clinical use, namely, anti-PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and inclisiran, a first-in-class small interfering RNA against PCSK9.Recent FindingsAlthough both drug classes show a pronounced, but fairly similar reduction in LDL-cholesterol, their long-t...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - September 10, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
The Clinical Importance of Differentiating Monogenic Familial Hypercholesterolemia from Polygenic Hypercholesterolemia
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe current review discusses the importance and significance of differentiating monogenic familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) from polygenic hypercholesterolemia for clinical purpose.Recent FindingsConsistent scientific evidence have demonstrated that, compared to polygenic hypercholesterolemia, monogenic FH patients are at significantly higher risk for premature coronary heart disease (CHD). This is despite both disease entities having a comparable low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) level. Monogenic FH also has poorer therapeutic response compared to its polygenic counterpart. However, ther...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - September 9, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Genotype –phenotype Correlates in Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathies
AbstractPurpose of the ReviewThe definition of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) has expanded beyond desmosomal arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) to include other genetic cardiomyopathies with a significant arrhythmia burden. Emerging data on genotype –phenotype correlations has led recent consensus guidelines to urge genetic testing as a critical component of not only diagnosis but also management of ACM.Recent FindingsPlakophilin-2 (PKP2) ARVC/ACM is most likely to meet ARVC Task Force Criteria with right sided involvement and ventricular arrhythmias, while desmoplakin (DSP) ACM may have a normal...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - September 8, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Autonomic Testing Optimizes Therapy for Heart Failure and Related Cardiovascular Disorders
AbstractPurpose of ReviewCardiovascular autonomic control is an intricately balanced dynamic process. Autonomic dysfunction, regardless of origin, promotes and sustains the disease processes, including in patients with heart failure (HF). Autonomic control is mediated through the two autonomic branches: parasympathetic and sympathetic (P&S). HF is arguably the disease that stands to most benefit from P&S manipulation to reduce mortality risk. This review article briefly summarizes some of the more common types of autonomic dysfunction (AD) that are found in heart failure, suggests a mechanism by which AD may contri...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - September 5, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Beyond Sarcomeric Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: How to Diagnose and Manage Phenocopies
We describe the most common phenocopies of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, their pathogenesis, and clinical presentation highlighting similarities and differences. We also suggest a step-by-step diagnostic work-up that can guide in differential diagnosis and management.Recent FindingsIn the last years, a wider application of genetic testing and the advances in cardiac imaging have significantly changed the diagnostic approach to HCM phenocopies. Different prognosis and management, with an increasing availability of disease-specific therapies, make differential diagnosis mandatory.SummaryThe HCM phenotype can be the cardiac ma...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - September 2, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Artificial Intelligence Applied to Cardiomyopathies: Is It Time for Clinical Application?
AbstractPurpose of ReviewArtificial intelligence (AI) techniques have the potential to remarkably change the practice of cardiology in order to improve and optimize outcomes in heart failure and specifically cardiomyopathies, offering us novel tools to interpret data and make clinical decisions. The aim of this review is to describe the contemporary state of AI and digital health applied to cardiomyopathies as well as to define a potential pivotal role of its application by physicians in clinical practice.Recent FindingsMany studies have been undertaken in recent years on cardiomyopathy screening especially using AI-enhanc...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - September 1, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Three-Dimensional Echocardiography for Tricuspid Valve Assessment
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review article provides an overview of the various roles of 3-dimensional (3D) echocardiography in the evaluation of the tricuspid valve (TV) with specific focus on tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and its treatment.Recent FindingsThe prognostic implications of TR and the advent of new transcatheter therapies have underscored the need of accurate assessment of the TV.Summary3D echocardiography is key to assess the anatomy and function of TV and has provided new insights that have led to new classifications of the type of TR. Furthermore, 3D echocardiography is superior to 2-dimensional echocardiog...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - September 1, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Echocardiographic Differentiation of Pericardial Constriction and Left Ventricular Restriction
AbstractPurpose of ReviewOverlapping hemodynamics in constrictive pericarditis (CP) and restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) often pose difficulties in establishing accurate diagnosis. Echocardiography is the first-line imaging modality used for this purpose, but no single echocardiographic parameter is sufficiently robust for distinguishing between the two conditions. The newer developments may improve the diagnostic accuracy of echocardiography in this setting.Recent FindingsRecent studies have validated multiparametric algorithms, based on conventional echocardiographic parameters, which enable high sensitivity and specific...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - August 30, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
The Role of Stress Echocardiography in Valvular Heart Disease
We describe the current methodology and the evidence supporting these applications.Recent FindingsThe comprehensive stress echo assessment includes valve function (gradients and regurgitation), left ventricular global systolic and diastolic function, left atrial volume, pulmonary congestion, pulmonary arterial pressure, and right ventricular function, integrated with blood pressure response with cuff sphygmomanometer, chronotropic reserve with heart rate, and symptoms.SummaryRecent guidelines recommend the evaluation of asymptomatic severe or symptomatic non-severe mitral regurgitation or stenosis with exercise stress and ...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - August 30, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Pericardiectomy and Pericardial Window for the Treatment of Pericardial Disease in the Contemporary Era
AbstractPurpose of ReviewTo summarize the contemporary practice of pericardiectomy and pericardial window. We discuss the indications, preoperative planning, procedural aspects, postprocedural management, and outcomes of each procedure.Recent FindingsSurgical approaches for the treatment of pericardial disease have been around even before the emergence of cardiopulmonary bypass. Since the forthcoming of cardiopulmonary bypass, there have been significant changes in the epidemiology and diagnostic approach of pericardial diseases as well as advancements in the surgical techniques and perioperative management used in the car...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - August 27, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
