Sandra Marina Ribeiro de Miranda

O I123-MIBG cardíaco se correlaciona melhor do que a fração de ejeção com a gravidade dos sintomas na insuficiência cardíaca sistólica

Background The association of autonomic activation, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and heart failure functional class is poorly understood. Objective Our aim was to correlate symptom severity with cardiac sympathetic activity, through iodine-123-metaiodobenzylguanidine (123I-MIBG) scintigraphy and with LVEF in systolic heart failure (HF) patients without previous beta-blocker treatment. Methods Thirty-one patients with systolic HF, class I to IV of the New York Heart Association (NYHA), without previous beta-blocker treatment, were enrolled and submitted to 123I-MIBG scintigraphy and to radionuclide ventriculography for LVEF determination. The early and delayed heart/mediastinum (H/M) ratio and the washout rate (WR) were performed. Results According with symptom severity, patients were divided into group A, 13 patients in NYHA class I/II, and group B, 18 patients in NYHA class III/IV. Compared with group B patients, group A had a significantly higher LVEF (25% ± 12% in group B vs. 32% ± 7% in group A, p = 0.04). Group B early and delayed H/M ratios were lower than group A ratios (early H/M 1.49 ± 0.15 vs. 1.64 ± 0.14, p = 0.02; delayed H/M 1.39 ± 0.13 vs. 1.58 ± 0.16, p = 0.001, respectively). WR was significantly higher in group B (36% ± 17% vs. 30% ± 12%, p= 0.04). The variable that showed the best correlation with NYHA class was the delayed H/M ratio (r= -0.585; p=0.001), adjusted for age and sex. Conclusion This study showed that cardiac 123I-MIBG correlates better than ejection fraction with symptom severity in systolic heart failure patients without previous beta-blocker treatment.

Relação entre imagem adrenérgica cardíaca e teste ergométrico na insuficiência cardíaca

BACKGROUND: The exercise treadmill test can be used in ventricular dysfunction patients for functional capacity or predicting prognosis. The cardiac image with 123I MIBG shows cardiac sympathetic activation. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the relationship between exercise treadmill test variables and cardiac image changes in 123I MIBG. METHODS: 23 patients with LVEF 27%. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate (HR) and functional capacity were evaluated. It was performed Student t test or Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman coefficient and linear regression. RESULTS: SBP at exercise peak (G1: 181.00 ± 28.01; G2: 153.27 ± 27.71 mmHg, p = 0.027), SBP variation [G1: 64(47.5-80.5); G2: 36(25-47) mmHg, p = 0.015], the HR at exercise peak (G1: 136.91 ± 19.66; G2: 118.45 ± 13.98 bpm, p = 0.018) and chronotropic response (G1: 70.42 ± 17.94; G2: 49.47 ± 14.89%, p = 0.006), and functional capacity [G1: 8.37(6.47-10.27); G2: 4.42(2.46-6.38) METs, p = 0.003] were smaller in G2 group. There was negative correlation between Washout rate and SBP at exercise peak (r = -0.505, p = 0.014), variation in SBP (r = -0.493, p = 0.017) and functional capacity (r = -0.646, p = 0.001). Nevertheless, SBP at exercise peak (r = -0.422, p = 0.016) and functional capacity (r = -0.804, p = 0.004) were the only variables associated with Washout rate, after linear regression. CONCLUSION: In heart failure patients, the SBP at exercise peak and functional capacity were the variables associated with Washout rate.BACKGROUND The exercise treadmill test can be used in ventricular dysfunction patients for functional capacity or predicting prognosis. The cardiac image with 123I MIBG shows cardiac sympathetic activation. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the relationship between exercise treadmill test variables and cardiac image changes in 123I MIBG. METHODS 23 patients with LVEF ≤ 45% performed scintigraphy cardiac with 123I MIBG and divided into two groups. G1: Washout rate < 27%; G2: ≥ 27%. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate (HR) and functional capacity were evaluated. It was performed Student t test or Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman coefficient and linear regression. RESULTS SBP at exercise peak (G1: 181.00 ± 28.01; G2: 153.27 ± 27.71 mmHg, p = 0.027), SBP variation [G1: 64(47.5-80.5); G2: 36(25-47) mmHg, p = 0.015], the HR at exercise peak (G1: 136.91 ± 19.66; G2: 118.45 ± 13.98 bpm, p = 0.018) and chronotropic response (G1: 70.42 ± 17.94; G2: 49.47 ± 14.89%, p = 0.006), and functional capacity [G1: 8.37(6.47-10.27); G2: 4.42(2.46-6.38) METs, p = 0.003] were smaller in G2 group. There was negative correlation between Washout rate and SBP at exercise peak (r = -0.505, p = 0.014), variation in SBP (r = -0.493, p = 0.017) and functional capacity (r = -0.646, p = 0.001). Nevertheless, SBP at exercise peak (r = -0.422, p = 0.016) and functional capacity (r = -0.804, p = 0.004) were the only variables associated with Washout rate, after linear regression. CONCLUSION In heart failure patients, the SBP at exercise peak and functional capacity were the variables associated with Washout rate.

Relationship between Cardiac Adrenergic Image and Exercise Testing in Heart Failure

BACKGROUND: The exercise treadmill test can be used in ventricular dysfunction patients for functional capacity or predicting prognosis. The cardiac image with 123I MIBG shows cardiac sympathetic activation. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the relationship between exercise treadmill test variables and cardiac image changes in 123I MIBG. METHODS: 23 patients with LVEF 27%. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate (HR) and functional capacity were evaluated. It was performed Student t test or Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman coefficient and linear regression. RESULTS: SBP at exercise peak (G1: 181.00 ± 28.01; G2: 153.27 ± 27.71 mmHg, p = 0.027), SBP variation [G1: 64(47.5-80.5); G2: 36(25-47) mmHg, p = 0.015], the HR at exercise peak (G1: 136.91 ± 19.66; G2: 118.45 ± 13.98 bpm, p = 0.018) and chronotropic response (G1: 70.42 ± 17.94; G2: 49.47 ± 14.89%, p = 0.006), and functional capacity [G1: 8.37(6.47-10.27); G2: 4.42(2.46-6.38) METs, p = 0.003] were smaller in G2 group. There was negative correlation between Washout rate and SBP at exercise peak (r = -0.505, p = 0.014), variation in SBP (r = -0.493, p = 0.017) and functional capacity (r = -0.646, p = 0.001). Nevertheless, SBP at exercise peak (r = -0.422, p = 0.016) and functional capacity (r = -0.804, p = 0.004) were the only variables associated with Washout rate, after linear regression. CONCLUSION: In heart failure patients, the SBP at exercise peak and functional capacity were the variables associated with Washout rate.BACKGROUND The exercise treadmill test can be used in ventricular dysfunction patients for functional capacity or predicting prognosis. The cardiac image with 123I MIBG shows cardiac sympathetic activation. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the relationship between exercise treadmill test variables and cardiac image changes in 123I MIBG. METHODS 23 patients with LVEF ≤ 45% performed scintigraphy cardiac with 123I MIBG and divided into two groups. G1: Washout rate < 27%; G2: ≥ 27%. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate (HR) and functional capacity were evaluated. It was performed Student t test or Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman coefficient and linear regression. RESULTS SBP at exercise peak (G1: 181.00 ± 28.01; G2: 153.27 ± 27.71 mmHg, p = 0.027), SBP variation [G1: 64(47.5-80.5); G2: 36(25-47) mmHg, p = 0.015], the HR at exercise peak (G1: 136.91 ± 19.66; G2: 118.45 ± 13.98 bpm, p = 0.018) and chronotropic response (G1: 70.42 ± 17.94; G2: 49.47 ± 14.89%, p = 0.006), and functional capacity [G1: 8.37(6.47-10.27); G2: 4.42(2.46-6.38) METs, p = 0.003] were smaller in G2 group. There was negative correlation between Washout rate and SBP at exercise peak (r = -0.505, p = 0.014), variation in SBP (r = -0.493, p = 0.017) and functional capacity (r = -0.646, p = 0.001). Nevertheless, SBP at exercise peak (r = -0.422, p = 0.016) and functional capacity (r = -0.804, p = 0.004) were the only variables associated with Washout rate, after linear regression. CONCLUSION In heart failure patients, the SBP at exercise peak and functional capacity were the variables associated with Washout rate.

Applicability of the Appropriate use Criteria for Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy

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

Ativação adrenérgica alterada se associa à recuperação anormal da Frequência Cardíaca

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

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

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

Teste de esforco cardiopulmonar na insuficiencia cardiaca de fracao de ejecao normal

ABSTRACT Introduction: The cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) provides data that guide treatment, prognosis and decision making. However its use in heart failure with normal ejection fraction (HFnEF) is still not all clear, especially considering new variables that are emerging. Objective: To compare the behavior of key diagnostic and prognostic variables of CPX testing between two groups; patients with heart with reduced ejection fraction of (HfrEF) and those with HFnEF). Methods: 36 patients with heart failure were evaluated in Nyah functional class II-III: 20 with HFnEF and 16 patients with HFrEF at the Hospital Universitario Antonio Pedro (UFF). The patients from HFrEF group were those with EF<35%, and those from the HFnEF group follow the diagnostic criteria of the European Society of Cardiology 2007. CPX was performed on a treadmill with a ramp protocol, with gas analyzer VO2000. The Student t test, Mann-Whitney test and Fisher, generalized linear model and the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test for statistical analysis were applied. Results: The HFnEF group presented higher levels of blood pressure at rest, higher response to exertion, higher circulatory and ventilatory power, and longer recovery kinetics of oxygen uptake. There was no difference in relation to other prognostic variables of CPX in the HFrEF group. Conclusions: The blood pressure at rest and during exercise, the circulatory and ventilatory capacity and the kinetics of VO2 (T1/2), were the variables that showed the highest discriminative value between the two populations by CPX.Keywords: exercise test; heart failure; exercise.

Reverse left atrial remodeling after treatment with carvedilol in patients with HFREF

Background: Half of the patients with reduced ejection fraction have diastolic dysfunction associated and the data related to the impact of carvedilol therapy in these patients are still conflicting. Objective: To evaluate the behavior of echocardiographic, scintigraphic and left atrial volume (LAV) indexes before and after three months of therapy with carvedilol in patients with HFREF, New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class (FC) II and III. Methods: Nineteen patients with HF, CF II and III, ejection fraction <45% (Simpson method) without previous therapy with carvedilol were selected. For statistical analysis, Wilcoxon and McNemar tests, Spearman coefficient and multiple linear regression were used. Results: There was significant improvement in the left ventricular (LV) systolic function parameters: DSF, ESV, Simpson EF, EFVI. There was no significant improvement in the diastolic function parameters derived from Doppler: E’, E/E’, VP, E/VP. Diastolic function behavior through VAE showed significant improvement: LAV (83.2±33.4 mL vs. 73.7±29.8 mL, p=0.009), LAV index (44.8±15.8 mL/m2 vs. 39.7±14.5 mL/m2, p=0.014). Conclusions: LAV regression after short-term therapy with carvedilol was not associated with improvement in other diastolic function indexes, but was associated with improved LV systolic function. These findings suggest that LAV reduction is secondary to improvement in systolic performance.

La prueba de esfuerzo cardiopulmonar en la insuficiencia cardiaca de fraccion de eyeccion normal

ABSTRACT Introduction: The cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) provides data that guide treatment, prognosis and decision making. However its use in heart failure with normal ejection fraction (HFnEF) is still not all clear, especially considering new variables that are emerging. Objective: To compare the behavior of key diagnostic and prognostic variables of CPX testing between two groups; patients with heart with reduced ejection fraction of (HfrEF) and those with HFnEF). Methods: 36 patients with heart failure were evaluated in Nyah functional class II-III: 20 with HFnEF and 16 patients with HFrEF at the Hospital Universitario Antonio Pedro (UFF). The patients from HFrEF group were those with EF<35%, and those from the HFnEF group follow the diagnostic criteria of the European Society of Cardiology 2007. CPX was performed on a treadmill with a ramp protocol, with gas analyzer VO2000. The Student t test, Mann-Whitney test and Fisher, generalized linear model and the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test for statistical analysis were applied. Results: The HFnEF group presented higher levels of blood pressure at rest, higher response to exertion, higher circulatory and ventilatory power, and longer recovery kinetics of oxygen uptake. There was no difference in relation to other prognostic variables of CPX in the HFrEF group. Conclusions: The blood pressure at rest and during exercise, the circulatory and ventilatory capacity and the kinetics of VO2 (T1/2), were the variables that showed the highest discriminative value between the two populations by CPX.Keywords: exercise test; heart failure; exercise.

Cardiopulmonary stress testing in heart failure with normal ejection fraction

ABSTRACT Introduction: The cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) provides data that guide treatment, prognosis and decision making. However its use in heart failure with normal ejection fraction (HFnEF) is still not all clear, especially considering new variables that are emerging. Objective: To compare the behavior of key diagnostic and prognostic variables of CPX testing between two groups; patients with heart with reduced ejection fraction of (HfrEF) and those with HFnEF). Methods: 36 patients with heart failure were evaluated in Nyah functional class II-III: 20 with HFnEF and 16 patients with HFrEF at the Hospital Universitario Antonio Pedro (UFF). The patients from HFrEF group were those with EF<35%, and those from the HFnEF group follow the diagnostic criteria of the European Society of Cardiology 2007. CPX was performed on a treadmill with a ramp protocol, with gas analyzer VO2000. The Student t test, Mann-Whitney test and Fisher, generalized linear model and the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test for statistical analysis were applied. Results: The HFnEF group presented higher levels of blood pressure at rest, higher response to exertion, higher circulatory and ventilatory power, and longer recovery kinetics of oxygen uptake. There was no difference in relation to other prognostic variables of CPX in the HFrEF group. Conclusions: The blood pressure at rest and during exercise, the circulatory and ventilatory capacity and the kinetics of VO2 (T1/2), were the variables that showed the highest discriminative value between the two populations by CPX.Keywords: exercise test; heart failure; exercise.