Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Insulin Resistance, and Cardiovascular Disease
AbstractPurpose of ReviewPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. It has been associated with metabolic, reproductive, and psychiatric disorders. Despite its association with insulin resistance (IR) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, the association between PCOS and CVD outcomes has been conflicting. This review reports the updated evidence between PCOS, insulin resistance, and CVD events.Recent FindingsIR is highly prevalent occurring in 50 to 95% of general and obese PCOS women. The etiology of PCOS involves IR and hyperandrogenism, which lead to CVD ris...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - April 3, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Polypill Strategy in Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe polypill strategy, originally developed to improve medication adherence, has demonstrated efficacy in improving baseline systolic blood pressures and cholesterol levels in multiple clinical trials. However, the long-term clinical impact of improved major cardiovascular events (MACE) outcomes by the polypill remains uncertain.Recent FindingsRecent trials with long-term follow-up, which included minority groups and people with low socioeconomic status, have shown non-inferiority with no difference in adverse effects rates for the secondary prevention of MACE.SummaryAlthough the polypill strategy ...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - April 1, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Worth Their Weight? An Update on New and Emerging Pharmacologic Agents for Obesity and Their Potential Role for Persons with Cardiac Conditions
AbstractPurpose of ReviewObesity is associated with cardiovascular (CV) conditions, including but not limited to atherosclerotic disease, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. Despite this, the impact of intentional weight loss on CV outcomes for persons with obesity and established CV conditions remains poorly studied. New and emerging pharmacologic therapies for weight loss primarily targeting the incretin/nutrient sensing axes induce substantial and sustained weight loss. The glucagon-like-peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) liraglutide and semaglutide have US FDA approval for the treatment of obesity, and the appl...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 29, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Understanding the Genetic and Non-genetic Interconnections in the Aetiology of Isolated Congenital Heart Disease: An Updated Review: Part 1
AbstractPurpose of ReviewCongenital heart disease (CHD) is the most frequently occurring birth defect. Majority of the earlier reviews focussed on the association of genetic factors with CHD. A few epidemiological studies provide convincing evidence for environmental factors in the causation of CHD. Although the multifactorial theory of gene-environment interaction is the prevailing explanation, explicit understanding of the biological mechanism(s) involved, remains obscure. Nonetheless, integration of all the information into one platform would enable us to better understand the collective risk implicated in CHD developme...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 28, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Echocardiography in the Recognition and Management of Mechanical Complications of Acute Myocardial Infarction
AbstractPurpose of ReviewAlthough rare, the development of mechanical complications following an acute myocardial infarction is associated with a high morbidity and mortality. Here, we review the clinical features, diagnostic strategy, and treatment options for each of the mechanical complications, with a focus on the role of echocardiography.Recent FindingsThe growth of percutaneous structural interventions worldwide has given rise to new non-surgical options for management of mechanical complications. As such, select patients may benefit from a novel use of these established treatment methods.SummaryA thorough understand...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 25, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Planting the Seed for Blood Pressure Control: The Role of Plant-Based Nutrition in the Management of Hypertension
AbstractPurpose of ReviewHypertension results in significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare expenditures. Fortunately, it is largely preventable and treatable by implementing dietary interventions, though these remain underutilized. Here, we aim to explore the role of healthy dietary patterns in hypertension management and describe approaches for busy clinicians to address nutrition effectively and efficiently with patients.Recent FindingsDASH, Mediterranean, vegetarian, and vegan diets that include minimally processed, plant-based foods as core elements have consistently shown positive effects on hypertension. Recom...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 25, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Assessing Regurgitation Severity, Adverse Remodeling, and Fibrosis with CMR in Aortic Regurgitation
AbstractPurpose of ReviewCardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is emerging as a valuable imaging modality for the assessment of aortic regurgitation (AR). In this review, we discuss the assessment of AR severity, left ventricular (LV) remodeling, and tissue characterization by CMR while highlighting the latest studies and addressing future research needs.Recent FindingsRecent studies have further established CMR-based thresholds of AR severity and LV remodeling that are associated with adverse clinical outcomes, and lower than current guideline criteria. In addition, tissue profiling with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and e...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 22, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
What Do We Know So Far About Ventricular Arrhythmias and Sudden Cardiac Death Prediction in the Mitral Valve Prolapse Population? Could Biomarkers Help Us Predict Their Occurrence?
AbstractPurpose of the ReviewTo summarize currently available data on the topic of mitral valve prolapse (MVP) and its correlation to the occurrence of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. To assess the prognostic value of several diagnostic methods such as transthoracic echocardiography, transesophageal echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance, cardiac computed tomography, electrocardiography, and electrophysiology concerning arrhythmic episodes. To explore intra and extracellular biochemistry of the cardiovascular system and its biomarkers as diagnostic tools to predict rhythm disturbances in the MVP population.Recent...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 20, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Pacing and Defibrillation Consideration in the Era of Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Replacement
AbstractPurpose of ReviewTricuspid regurgitation is a commonly encountered valvular pathology in patients with trans-tricuspid pacing or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator leads. Transcatheter tricuspid valve interventions are increasingly performed in patients at high surgical risk. Implantation of these valves can lead to the “jailing” of a trans-tricuspid lead. This practice carries both short- and long-term risks of lead failure and subsequent infection without the ability to perform traditional transvenous lead extraction. Herein, this manuscript reviews available therapeutic options for lead management in pat...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 16, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Systematic Review of Literature Citing the ISCHEMIA Trial
AbstractPurpose of ReviewOptimal therapy for patients with chronic coronary artery disease (CCD) has long been a topic under investigation and a subject of debate. Seeking to clarify appropriate management, the International Study of Comparative Health Effectiveness with Medical and Invasive Approaches (ISCHEMIA) trial compared medical management versus coronary angiography for patients with stable ischemic heart disease. Its reception in the medical community has been met with both acclaim and criticism. In light of such disparate views of this trial, a systematic review of the literature citing the ISCHEMIA trial was per...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 16, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Atrial Fibrillation Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction: Prevalence, Impact, and Management Considerations
AbstractPurpose of ReviewAtrial fibrillation (AF) and myocardial infarction (MI) often coexist, and this overlapping nature leads to heightened morbidity and increases the need for comprehensive risk management strategies. The precise trajectory and implications of atrial fibrillation complicating myocardial infarction remain subjects of debate, with divergent reports presenting varying accounts. This review seeks to provide an in-depth exploration of the existing literature to cover the predictors, implication, and available management of new onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) complicating acute myocardial infarction (AMI)....
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 14, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Cerebral Embolic Protection Devices for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Review of the Literature and Future Perspectives
AbstractPurpose of ReviewTranscatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has been a revolutionary therapy in the treatment of aortic valve stenosis. The risk of stroke associated with TAVR has decreased significantly since its introduction; however, it remains a devastating complication when it does occur.Recent FindingsMany of the strokes associated with TAVR occur peri-procedurally and are thought to be due to embolic debris entering the cerebrovascular circulation. A number of different cerebral embolic protection devices (CEPD) have been developed and are in various stages of testing and use.SummaryThe results from clini...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 12, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Acute Coronary Syndrome in Women: An Update
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe goal of this manuscript is to provide a concise summary of recent developments in the approach to and treatment of women with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).Recent FindingsThis review covers terminology updates relating to ACS and myocardial injury and infarction. Updates on disparities in recognition, treatments, and outcomes of women with ACS due to atherosclerotic coronary artery disease are covered. Other causes of ACS, including spontaneous coronary artery dissection and myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary artery disease are discussed, given the increased frequency in women ...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 11, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Diagnosis and Management of Congenital Coronary Artery Fistulas in Adults
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review describes the presentation, diagnosis, and management of congenital coronary artery fistulas (CAFs) in adults.Recent FindingsCAFs are classified as coronary-cameral or coronary arteriovenous fistulas. Fistulous connections at the distal coronary bed are more likely to be aneurysmal with higher risk of thrombosis and myocardial infarction (MI). Medium-to-large or symptomatic CAFs can manifest as ischemia, heart failure, and arrhythmias. CAF closure is recommended when there are attributable symptoms or evidence of adverse coronary remodeling. Closure is usually achievable using transcath...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 11, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Cardiorespiratory and Muscular Fitness in Children and Adolescents with Obesity
AbstractPurpose of ReviewExamine the current state of literature related to the impact of obesity in children and adolescents on health-related physical fitness and the resultant cardiometabolic disease risk.Recent FindingsCardiorespiratory fitness of children and adolescents has declined over the past few decades which corresponds with an increase in obesity rates. Children with obesity are more likely to have low cardiorespiratory fitness which is associated with higher cardiometabolic disease risk and poorer mental health. The impact of obesity on muscular fitness in children and adolescents is more difficult to ascerta...
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - March 9, 2024 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
