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Aortitis includes both infectious and non-infectious inflammation of the arterial wall. Infectious forms have a worse prognosis, necessitating immediate diagnosis and treatment. We report a case of a patient with prosthetic valve endocarditis complicated with infectious aortitis and multiple embolic lesions, ultimately leading to death.

Background: Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a genetic disorder characterized by fibrofatty replacement of myocardial tissue, predominantly affecting the right ventricle (RV), but often involving the left ventricle (LV) as well. The early detection of fibrosis, crucial for risk stratification, has been enhanced by advanced imaging techniques. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) has shown promise as a surrogate marker for late enhancement (LE) in identifying myocardial fibrosis, yet precise cut-off values for strain are lacking. The aim of the study is to evaluate LV strain as a predictor of LE in ACM and to define strain cut-offs for early fibrosis detection, enhancing non-invasive diagnostic accuracy. Methods: This retrospective single-center study included 64 patients diagnosed with ACM. Echocardiographic analysis using speckle-tracking echocardiography was performed to assess LV strain. LE was evaluated through cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) or via cardiac computed tomography (CCT) in cases with CMR contraindications. The study aimed to correlate regional LV strain values with the presence of LE, identifying cut-off values predictive of fibrosis. Results: The study found significant correlations between reduced LV strain values and the presence of LE, particularly in the anterolateral and inferolateral segments (p < 0.05). Specific strain thresholds, such as those for segment 12 (p = 0.02) and segment 17 (p = 0.03), were identified as predictive markers for LE. These findings suggest that strain imaging could serve as a non-invasive tool for the early detection of myocardial fibrosis in ACM patients. Conclusions: LV strain analysis offers potential as a non-invasive surrogate marker for myocardial fibrosis in ACM. Incorporating strain imaging into routine echocardiographic evaluations could improve early diagnosis and risk stratification, guiding patient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Almost 25 years have now passed since the first identification of Streptococcus sinensis (S. sinensis). It can cause infections both in immunocompetent and immunocompromised hosts. However, it has been rarely described as an aetiology of infectious endocarditis. We herein report the case of a 75-year-old Italian gentleman who was admitted for shortness of breath, asthenia, weight loss, and an episode of loss of consciousness and who was subsequently diagnosed with S. sinensis endocarditis (the first reported in Italy). He was, therefore, treated with ceftriaxone for six weeks and underwent cardiac surgery. We performed a literature review on S. sinensis endocarditis cases and found 12 other reported cases. Demographics, clinical presentation, prognostic factors, treatment, and outcomes were summarized. Despite anecdotic cases being reported, S. sinensis endocarditis can occur and should be promptly and properly identified using accurate diagnostic methods. Continued research into its epidemiology, pathogenesis, antimicrobial resistance, and host interactions is essential for enhancing our knowledge and improving clinical management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are gaining increasing importance as therapeutic strategy in advanced heart failure (HF), not only as bridge to recovery or to transplant but also as destination therapy. Even though long-term LVADs are considered a precious resource to expand the treatment options and improve clinical outcome of these patients, these are limited by peri-operative and post-operative complications, such as device-related infections, haemocompatibility-related events, device mis-positioning, and right ventricular failure. For this reason, a precise pre-operative, peri-operative, and post-operative evaluation of these patients is crucial for the selection of LVAD candidates and the management LVAD recipients. The use of different imaging modalities offers important information to complete the study of patients with LVADs in each phase of their assessment, with peculiar advantages/disadvantages, ideal application, and reference parameters for each modality. This clinical consensus statement sought to guide the use of multimodality imaging for the evaluation of patients with advanced HF undergoing LVAD implantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most prevalent valvular heart disease in Europe and North America, with transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) revolutionizing its management. Hypertrophic left ventricle (HLV) frequently coexists with AS, complicating treatment due to the associated risk of left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction, heart failure, and sudden death. A rare but severe post-aortic valve replacement (AVR) complication, termed "suicide left ventricle" (SLV), has emerged, necessitating further study. This report synthesizes current literature on SLV, its pathophysiology, and management strategies, alongside four patient case studies. The patients aged 79–87 years, underwent AVR for symptomatic AS with HLV. Post-AVR, all experienced severe complications, including dynamicLVOT gradients, systolic anterior motion (SAM) of the mitral valve, and severe hypotension, leading to death in two cases. One patient survived following surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) with surgical myectomy. One patient survived after TAVI. These cases highlight the critical importance of multidisciplinary Heart Team evaluations and personalized treatment plans in managing SLV. Despite advancements in AVR, SLV remains a complex, life-threatening condition, requiring an exhaustive and multifaceted approach for optimal patient outcomes. This report offers valuable insights into SLV occurrence and management from a clinical perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading global cause of mortality, accounting for approximately 30% of all deaths. It is primarily characterized by the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. Early detection of atherosclerotic plaques is crucial to prevent major adverse cardiac events. Notably, recent studies have shown that 15% of myocardial infarctions occur in patients with non-obstructive CAD, underscoring the importance of comprehensive plaque assessment beyond merely identifying obstructive lesions. Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a cost-effective and efficient technique for excluding obstructive CAD, particularly in patients with a low-to-intermediate clinical likelihood of the disease. Recent advancements in CCTA technology, such as improved resolution and reduced scan times, have mitigated many technical challenges, allowing for precise quantification and characterization of both calcified and non-calcified atherosclerotic plaques. This review focuses on two critical physiological aspects of atherosclerotic plaques: the burden of calcifications, assessed via the coronary artery calcium score (CACs), and perivascular fat attenuation index (pFAI), an emerging marker of vascular inflammation. The CACs, obtained through non-contrast CT scans, quantifies calcified plaque burden and is widely used to stratify cardiovascular risk, particularly in asymptomatic patients. Despite its prognostic value, the CACs does not provide information on non-calcified plaques or inflammatory status. In contrast, the pFAI, derived from CCTA, serves as an indirect marker of coronary inflammation and has shown potential in predicting adverse cardiac events. Combining both CACs and pFAI assessment could offer a comprehensive risk stratification approach, integrating the established calcification burden with novel inflammatory markers to enhance CAD prevention and management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Transvenous lead extraction (TLE) is potentially complicated by significant tricuspid valve regurgitation increase (TRI). However, there are limited data on the effect of the bidirectional rotational mechanical sheaths on significant TRI. The aim of the present study was to investigate the rate of significant changes in tricuspid regurgitation (TR) severity following mechanical rotational TLE and their outcomes. Methods and results In 158 patients (mean age 66 ± 16.9 years) undergoing mechanical rotational TLE, acute changes in TR severity were assessed by echocardiography evaluation. A significant acute TRI was defined as an increase of at least one grade with a post-extraction severity at least moderate. A total of 290 leads were extracted (mean implant duration, 93 ± 65 months). Significant TRI was noted in 5.7% of patients, and it was linked to tricuspid valve damage, TLE infection indication, and longer lead implant duration. Univariate predictors of significant TRI included implant duration of all leads [odds ratio (OR) 1.01; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.003–1.018; P = 0.001] and right ventricular leads (OR 1.01; 95% CI 1.004–1.017; P = 0.002). Severe increase of TR following TLE was an independent predictor of mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 5.20; 95% CI 1.44–18.73; P = 0.012 ] along with severe systolic dysfunction (HR 2.37; 95% CI 1.01–5.20; P = 0.032), and systemic infection (HR 2.28; 95% CI 1.06–4.89; P = 0.035). Conclusion Significant TRI was detected in 5.7% of patients following transvenous rotational mechanical lead extraction. The duration of lead implantation emerged as the sole predictor of significant TRI. Physicians engaged in TLE should exercise greater vigilance for this potential complication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) is one of the leading cardiovascular causes of morbidity, mortality, and use of medical resources. After the introduction by international guidelines of the same level of recommendation to non-invasive imaging techniques in CCS evaluation, a large debate arose about the dilemma of choosing anatomical (with coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA)) or functional imaging (with stress echocardiography (SE), cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), or nuclear imaging techniques) as a first diagnostic evaluation. The determinant role of the atherosclerotic burden in defining cardiovascular risk and prognosis more than myocardial inducible ischemia has progressively increased the use of a first anatomical evaluation with CCTA in a wide range of pre-test probability in CCS patients. Functional testing holds importance, both because the role of revascularization in symptomatic patients with proven ischemia is well defined and because functional imaging, particularly with stress cardiac magnetic resonance (s-CMR), gives further prognostic information regarding LV function, detection of myocardial viability, and tissue characterization. Emerging techniques such as stress computed tomography perfusion (s-CTP) and fractional flow reserve derived from CT (FFRCT), combining anatomical and functional evaluation, appear capable of addressing the need for a single non-invasive examination, especially in patients with high risk or previous revascularization. Furthermore, CCTA in peri-procedural planning is promising to acquire greater importance in the non-invasive planning and guiding of complex coronary revascularization procedures, both by defining the correct strategy of interventional procedure and by improving patient selection. This review explores the different roles of non-invasive imaging techniques in managing CCS patients, also providing insights into preoperative planning for percutaneous or surgical myocardial revascularization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complete transposition of the great arteries (C-TGA) is a congenital cardiac anomaly characterized by the reversal of the main arteries. Early detection and precise management are crucial for optimal outcomes. This review emphasizes the integral role of multimodal imaging, including fetal echocardiography, transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), and cardiac computed tomography (CCT) in the diagnosis, treatment planning, and long-term follow-up of C-TGA. Fetal echocardiography plays a pivotal role in prenatal detection, enabling early intervention strategies. Despite technological advances, the detection rate varies, highlighting the need for improved screening protocols. TTE remains the cornerstone for initial diagnosis, surgical preparation, and postoperative evaluation, providing essential information on cardiac anatomy, ventricular function, and the presence of associated defects. CMR and CCT offer additional value in C-TGA assessment. CMR, free from ionizing radiation, provides detailed anatomical and functional insights from fetal life into adulthood, becoming increasingly important in evaluating complex cardiac structures and post-surgical outcomes. CCT, with its high-resolution imaging, is indispensable in delineating coronary anatomy and vascular structures, particularly when CMR is contraindicated or inconclusive. This review advocates for a comprehensive imaging approach, integrating TTE, CMR, and CCT to enhance diagnostic accuracy, guide therapeutic interventions, and monitor postoperative conditions in C-TGA patients. Such a multimodal strategy is vital for advancing patient care and improving long-term prognoses in this complex congenital heart disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mechanical cardiac support is currently an effective strategy to reduce morbidity and mortality in pediatric patients. However, solid evidence regarding the feasibility of intracorporeal devices in children still needs to be provided. We report our 10‐year experience with intracorporeal left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) in children. Materials and Methods: We included all patients undergoing intracorporeal, continuous‐flow LVAD implantation between 2012 and 2022. Baseline and postoperative data were collected from the institutional database. Results: Seven HeartWare and 4 HeartMate3 were implanted in 11 patients (median age 13.9 years, median body surface area – BSA – 1.42 m2, IQR 1.06–1.68). The most frequent indication to LVAD implant was dilated cardiomyopathy (72.7%). All candidates underwent a thorough preoperative advanced imaging. Three‐dimensional reconstructions and implant fit simulation were performed when BSA was <1.2 m2, weight <30 kg, or internal transverse thoracic diameter <20 cm. There was no operative death. The most common postoperative complication was surgical re‐exploration due to bleeding (27.3%). One patient died of severe neurological complications after about 3 months of hospitalization. No late deaths or unplanned re‐hospitalizations occurred in the remaining 10, 6 of whom were discharged home. There were no major complications at the follow‐up. All survivors underwent successful heart transplantation. Conclusions: Intracorporeal LVAD implantation proved to be a potentially feasible and safe option in young teenagers and children whose BSA was >1.0 m2. In borderline cases, the 3D reconstruction with implant fit simulation can effectively help to identify those patients who can safely undergo intrathoracic LVAD implantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a cost-effective and time-saving technique for excluding coronary artery disease. One valuable tool obtained by CCTA is the coronary artery calcium (CAC) score. The use of CAC scoring has shown promise in the risk assessment and stratification of cardiovascular disease. CAC scores can be complemented by plaque analysis to assess vulnerable plaque characteristics and further refine risk assessment. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the value of the CAC as a prognostic tool and its implications for patient risk assessment, treatment strategies and outcomes. CAC scoring has demonstrated superior ability in stratifying patients, especially asymptomatic individuals, compared to traditional risk factors and scoring systems. The main evidence suggests that individuals with a CAC score of 0 have a good long-term prognosis, while an elevated CAC score is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Finally, the clinical power of CAC scoring and the development of new models for risk stratification could be enhanced by machine learning algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The arterial switch operation (ASO) has become the standard surgical treatment for patients with d-transposition of the great arteries. While ASO has significantly improved survival rates, a subset of patients develop a unique anatomical anomaly known as the gothic aortic arch (GAA). Understanding cardiac mechanics in this population is crucial, as altered mechanics can have profound consequences for cardiac function and exercise capacity. The GAA has been associated with changes in ventricular function, hemodynamics, and exercise capacity. Studies have shown a correlation between the GAA and decreased ascending aorta distensibility, loss of systolic wave amplitude across the aortic arch, and adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Various imaging techniques, including echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and cardiac computed tomography, play a crucial role in assessing cardiac mechanics and evaluating the GAA anomaly. Despite significant advancements, gaps in knowledge regarding the prognostic implications and underlying mechanisms of the GAA anomaly remain. This review aims to explore the implications of the GAA anomaly on cardiac mechanics and its impact on clinical outcomes in young patients after ASO. Advancements in imaging techniques, such as computational modeling, offer promising avenues to enhance our understanding of cardiac mechanics and improve clinical management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the use of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging with the late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) technique to assess the presence of a myocardial scar in patients with an anomalous right coronary artery originating from the left sinus of Valsalva (R-ACAOS). The study included 48 patients with R-ACAOS, and 21% of them showed an ischaemic pattern of LGE. These patients were older and had high-risk anatomical features. Although most patients were asymptomatic and had negative provocative tests, the presence of an ischaemic scar suggests a potential risk for sudden cardiac death. CMR may be a useful tool for risk stratification in R-ACAOS patients. [Extracted from the article]

Caseous calcification of the mitral annulus (CCMA) is a rare variant of mitral annular calcification, and a multimodality approach is advised to ensure an accurate diagnosis. We report a case of a patient with CCMA, associated with severe mitral regurgitation. An 82‑year‑old woman was admitted due to worsening heart failure. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed a fixed, hyperechogenic mass, accompanied by restriction of the posterior mitral leaflet, and subsequent severe mitral regurgitation. Transesophageal echocardiography demonstrated a restricted motion of the posterior mitral leaflet, because of a large, echogenic mass (15 mm × 11 mm), attached to the mitral annulus, vacuolated with a central echolucent aspect, lacking acoustic shadowing. Contrast‑enhanced cardiac computed tomography identified a distinct oval mass (18 mm × 11 mm × 19 mm) presenting a central hypodense content and peripheral calcification, strongly suggestive of CCMA. Considering the patient’s profile, surgical valvular replacement was considered unsuitable. Therefore, a transcatheter edge‑to‑edge repair was performed, resulting in mild residual regurgitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced heart failure (AHF) presents a complex landscape with challenges spanning diagnosis, management, and patient outcomes. In response, the integration of multimodality imaging techniques has emerged as a pivotal approach. This comprehensive review delves into the profound significance of these imaging strategies within AHF scenarios. Multimodality imaging, encompassing echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), nuclear imaging and cardiac computed tomography (CCT), stands as a cornerstone in the care of patients with both short- and long-term mechanical support devices. These techniques facilitate precise device selection, placement, and vigilant monitoring, ensuring patient safety and optimal device functionality. In the context of orthotopic cardiac transplant (OTC), the role of multimodality imaging remains indispensable. Echocardiography offers invaluable insights into allograft function and potential complications. Advanced methods, like speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), empower the detection of acute cell rejection. Nuclear imaging, CMR and CCT further enhance diagnostic precision, especially concerning allograft rejection and cardiac allograft vasculopathy. This comprehensive imaging approach goes beyond diagnosis, shaping treatment strategies and risk assessment. By harmonizing diverse imaging modalities, clinicians gain a panoramic understanding of each patient's unique condition, facilitating well-informed decisions. The aim is to highlight the novelty and unique aspects of recently published papers in the field. Thus, this review underscores the irreplaceable role of multimodality imaging in elevating patient outcomes, refining treatment precision, and propelling advancements in the evolving landscape of advanced heart failure management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vascular inflammation is recognized as the primary trigger of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, current noninvasive methods are not capable of accurately detecting coronary inflammation. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT), in addition to their role as an energy reserve system, have been found to contribute to the development and progression of coronary artery calcification, inflammation, and plaque vulnerability. They also participate in the vascular response during ischemia, sympathetic stimuli, and arrhythmia. As a result, the evaluation of EAT and PCAT using imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT), cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), and nuclear imaging has gained significant attention. PCAT-CT attenuation, which measures the average CT attenuation in Hounsfield units (HU) of the adipose tissue, reflects adipocyte differentiation/size and leukocyte infiltration. It is emerging as a marker of tissue inflammation and has shown prognostic value in coronary artery disease (CAD), being associated with plaque development, vulnerability, and rupture. In patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), an inflammatory pericoronary microenvironment promoted by dysfunctional EAT/PCAT has been demonstrated, and more recently, it has been associated with plaque rupture in non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Endothelial dysfunction, known for its detrimental effects on coronary vessels and its association with plaque progression, is bidirectionally linked to PCAT. PCAT modulates the secretory profile of endothelial cells in response to inflammation and also plays a crucial role in regulating vascular tone in the coronary district. Consequently, dysregulated PCAT has been hypothesized to contribute to type 2 myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) and coronary vasculitis. Recently, quantitative measures of EAT derived from coronary CT angiography (CCTA) have been included in artificial intelligence (AI) models for cardiovascular risk stratification. These models have shown incremental utility in predicting major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) compared to plaque characteristics alone. Therefore, the analysis of PCAT and EAT, particularly through PCAT-CT attenuation, appears to be a safe, valuable, and sufficiently specific noninvasive method for accurately identifying coronary inflammation and subsequent high-risk plaque. These findings are supported by biopsy and in vivo evidence. Although speculative, these pieces of evidence open the door for a fascinating new strategy in cardiovascular risk stratification. The incorporation of PCAT and EAT analysis, mainly through PCAT-CT attenuation, could potentially lead to improved risk stratification and guide early targeted primary prevention and intensive secondary prevention in patients at higher risk of cardiac events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common complex congenital heart disease with long-term survivors, demanding serial monitoring of the possible complications that can be encountered from the diagnosis to long-term follow-up. Cardiovascular imaging is key in the diagnosis and serial assessment of TOF patients, guiding patients' management and providing prognostic information. Thorough knowledge of the pathophysiology and expected sequalae in TOF, as well as the advantages and limitations of different non-invasive imaging modalities that can be used for diagnosis and follow-up, is the key to ensuring optimal management of patients with TOF. The aim of this manuscript is to provide a comprehensive overview of the role of each modality and common protocols used in clinical practice in the assessment of TOF patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides comprehensive insights into the evaluation of simple congenital heart diseases (CHDs) in adults, emphasizing the pivotal role of echocardiography. By focusing on conditions such as congenital aortic stenosis, aortic coarctation, patent ductus arteriosus, atrial septal defects (ASDs), and ventricular septal defects (VSDs), the review underscores echocardiography's intricate contributions to precise clinical decision-making. Echocardiography serves as the primary imaging modality, offering high-resolution visualization of anatomical anomalies and quantification of hemodynamic parameters. It enables tailored therapeutic strategies through its capacity to discern the dimensions, spatial orientation, and dynamic shunt dynamics of defects such as ASDs and VSDs. Moreover, echocardiography's advanced techniques, such as tissue Doppler imaging and speckle tracking, provide detailed insights into atrial mechanics, diastolic function, and ventricular filling kinetics. Integration of echocardiographic findings into clinical practice empowers clinicians to create personalized interventions based on quantified ventricular function, which spans systolic and diastolic aspects. This approach facilitates risk stratification and therapeutic planning, particularly pertinent in heart failure management within the CHD patient population. In summary, echocardiography transcends its role as an imaging tool, emerging as a precision-guided instrument adept at navigating the complexities of simple CHD in adults. Its ability to expedite diagnosis, quantify hemodynamic impacts, and unravel multifaceted functional dynamics culminates in a comprehensive depiction of these conditions. The fusion of these insights with clinical expertise empowers clinicians to navigate the intricate pathways of CHD, crafting tailored therapeutic strategies characterized by precision and efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital heart disease (CHD) affects approximately one in every one hundred infants worldwide, making it one of the most prevalent birth abnormalities globally. Despite advances in medical technology and treatment choices, CHD remains a significant health issue and necessitates specialized care throughout an individual′s life. Childhood obesity has emerged as a novel global epidemic, becoming a major public health issue, particularly in individuals with lifelong conditions such as CHD. Obesity has profound effects on cardiac hemodynamics and morphology, emphasizing the importance of addressing obesity as a significant risk factor for cardiovascular health. Obesity-induced alterations in cardiac function can have significant implications for cardiovascular health and may contribute to the increased risk of heart-related complications in obese individuals. Moreover, while diastolic dysfunction may be less apparent in obese children compared to adults, certain parameters do indicate changes in early left ventricular relaxation, suggesting that obesity can cause cardiac dysfunction even in pediatric populations. As most children with CHD now survive into adulthood, there is also concern about environmental and behavioral health risk factors in this particular patient group. Addressing obesity in individuals with CHD is essential to optimize their cardiovascular health and overall quality of life. This review aims to succinctly present the data on the impact of obesity on CHD and to enhance awareness of this perilous association among patients, families, and healthcare providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart transplantation (HT) is the established treatment for end-stage heart failure, significantly enhancing patients' survival and quality of life. To ensure optimal outcomes, the routine monitoring of HT recipients is paramount. While existing guidelines offer guidance on a blend of invasive and non-invasive imaging techniques, certain aspects such as the timing of echocardiographic assessments and the role of echocardiography or cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) as alternatives to serial endomyocardial biopsies (EMBs) for rejection monitoring are not specifically outlined in the guidelines. Furthermore, invasive coronary angiography (ICA) is still recommended as the gold-standard procedure, usually performed one year after surgery and every two years thereafter. This review focuses on recent advancements in non-invasive and contrast-saving imaging techniques that have been investigated for HT patients. The aim of the manuscript is to identify imaging modalities that may potentially replace or reduce the need for invasive procedures such as ICA and EMB, considering their respective advantages and disadvantages. We emphasize the transformative potential of non-invasive techniques in elevating patient care. Advanced echocardiography techniques, including strain imaging and tissue Doppler imaging, offer enhanced insights into cardiac function, while CMR, through its multi-parametric mapping techniques, such as T1 and T2 mapping, allows for the non-invasive assessment of inflammation and tissue characterization. Cardiac computed tomography (CCT), particularly with its ability to evaluate coronary artery disease and assess graft vasculopathy, emerges as an integral tool in the follow-up of HT patients. Recent studies have highlighted the potential of nuclear myocardial perfusion imaging, including myocardial blood flow quantification, as a non-invasive method for diagnosing and prognosticating CAV. These advanced imaging approaches hold promise in mitigating the need for invasive procedures like ICA and EMB when evaluating the benefits and limitations of each modality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The left atrium (LA) is a vital component of the cardiovascular system, playing a crucial role in cardiac function. It acts as a reservoir, conduit, and contractile chamber, contributing to optimal left ventricle (LV) filling and cardiac output. Abnormalities in LA function have been associated with various cardiovascular conditions, including heart failure, atrial fibrillation, valvular heart disease, and hypertension. Elevated left ventricular filling pressures resulting from impaired LA function can lead to diastolic dysfunction and increase the risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Understanding the relationship between LA function and LV filling pressures is crucial for comprehending the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases and guiding clinical management strategies. This article provides an overview of the anatomy and physiology of the LA, discusses the role of LA mechanics in maintaining normal cardiac function, highlights the clinical implications of elevated filling pressures, and explores diagnostic methods for assessing LA function and filling pressures. Furthermore, it discusses the prognostic implications and potential therapeutic approaches for managing patients with abnormal LA function and elevated filling pressure. Continued research and clinical focus on left atrial function are necessary to improve diagnostic accuracy, prognostic assessment, and treatment strategies in cardiovascular diseases. It will explore the importance of assessing LA function as a marker of cardiac performance and evaluate its implications for clinical practice. In accordance with rigorous scientific methodology, our search encompassed PubMed database. We selected articles deemed pertinent to our subject matter. Subsequently, we extracted and synthesized the salient contents, capturing the essence of each selected article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a cause of acute coronary syndrome and myocardial infarction, more frequent among young women. Invasive coronary angiography (ICA) is the gold standard for the diagnosis of SCAD, although the risk of propagating dissection flap is considerable. Therefore, coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is an emerging alternative modality to diagnose SCAD with the advantage of being a non-invasive technique. Clinicians should be aware of the predisposing conditions and pathophysiology to raise the pre-test probability of SCAD and select the most appropriate diagnostic tools. In recent times, improvements in spatial and temporal resolution and the use of semi-automated software providing quantitative assessment make CCTA a valid alternative to ICA also for the follow-up. Moreover, CCTA may be helpful to screen and evaluate extra-coronary arteriopathies closely related to SCAD. In this review, we illustrate the current and the potential role of CCTA in the diagnosis of SCAD, highlighting advantages and disadvantages of this imaging modality compared to ICA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD) refers to the spontaneous separation of the layers of the vessel wall caused by intramural hemorrhage, with or without an intimal tear. The "typical" SCAD patient is a middle-aged woman with few traditional cardiovascular risk factors, and it's frequently associated with pregnancy. Because of its low incidence, its pathophysiology is not fully understood. SCAD presents as an acute coronary syndrome, with chest pain, dyspnea, syncope, or heartbeat, even if diagnosis and clinical handling are different: coronary angiography is currently the main tool to diagnose SCAD; however, in doubtful cases, the use of both invasive and noninvasive cardiovascular imaging methods such as intravascular ultrasound or optical coherence tomography may be necessary. This paper aims to review the current state of knowledge on SCAD to address its demographic features, clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes, focusing on diagnostic algorithms and main multimodality imaging techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the last few years, a phenotypic variant of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) labeled arrhythmogenic left ventricular cardiomyopathy (ALVC) has been defined and researched. This type of cardiomyopathy is characterized by a predominant left ventricular (LV) involvement with no or minor right ventricular (RV) abnormalities. Data on the specific risk and management of pregnancy in women affected by ALVC are, thus far, not available. We have sought to characterize pregnancy course and outcomes in women affected by ALVC through the evaluation of a series of childbearing patients. Methods: A series of consecutive female ALVC patients were analyzed in a cross-sectional, retrospective study. Study protocol included 12-lead ECG assessments, 24-h Holter ECG evaluations, 2D-echocardiogram tests, cardiac magnetic resonance assessments, and genetic analysis. Furthermore, the long-term disease course of childbearing patients was compared with a group of nulliparous ALVC women. Results: A total of 35 patients (mean age 45 ± 9 years, 51% probands) were analyzed. Sixteen women (46%) reported a pregnancy, for a total of 27 singleton viable pregnancies (mean age at first childbirth 30 ± 9 years). Before pregnancy, all patients were in the NYHA class I and none of the patients reported a previous heart failure (HF) episode. No significant differences were found between childbearing and nulliparous women regarding ECG features, LV dimensions, function, and extent of late enhancement. Overall, 7 patients (20%, 4 belonging to the childbearing group) experienced a sustained ventricular tachycardia and 2 (6%)—one for each group—showed heart failure (HF) episodes. The analysis of arrhythmia-free survival patients did not show significant differences between childbearing and nulliparous women. Conclusions: In a cohort of ALVC patients without previous episodes of HF, pregnancy was well tolerated, with no significant influence on disease progression and degree of electrical instability. Further studies on a larger cohort of women with different degrees of disease extent and genetic background are needed in order to achieve a more comprehensive knowledge regarding the outcome of pregnancy in ALVC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of right-sided infective endocarditis (RSIE) is steadily increasing and it has been reported to be associated with high risk of embolic events (EE). The aim of our study was to identify the clinical characteristics of patients with RSIE complicated by PE. Indeed, the identification of patients at high risk of significant PE who will benefit from a more aggressive therapeutic strategy may improve the prognosis. From January 2015 to September 2020, 176 patients (pts) in 6 centers were found to have definite RSIE complicated by PE. Advanced imaging for PE including computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) was performed in 28 pts (16%) who represent our study group (24 male, mean age 50.6±18.29 years). They all underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), in 12 cases (43%) also three-dimensional (3D) TEE, and 27 patients (99%) had both TEE and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). A total of 53 vegetations (V) were detected. In 18 pts (64%) two or more vegetations were found. Native tricuspid valve was the most frequently involved valve (38 V, 71.7%), followed by catheter (5 V, 9.4%), tricuspid valve prosthesis (4 V, 7.5%), chordae and papillary muscle (2 V, 3.8%) and one vegetation (9%) in each of the following: pulmonic valve, inferior vena cava, eustachian valve, and right atrium. The most common location for vegetations was the anterior leaflet of the tricuspid valve (19 V, 35.8 %) followed by the posterior leaflet (11 V, 20.8%). The most common vegetations morphology was raceme-like shaped (35.8%). Staphylococcus aureus was the most common causative pathogen (14 pts, 50%). The incidence of PE was very high in patients with vegetation length above 1.5 cm (median 17.6±6.5 mm by TEE). Our results suggest that a routine CTPA should be advised in the presence of vegetations larger than 1.5 cm and with S. aureus infection. This behavior would identify patients at high risk of PE who will benefit from a more aggressive therapeutic strategy, leading to an improvement in the prognosis. Further prospective studies are required to better confirm our hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thyroid hormones have a considerable influence on cardiac function and structure. There are direct and indirect effects of thyroid hormone on the cardiovascular system, which are prominent in both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. In this review, we discuss how thyroid dysfunction impacts cardiovascular pathophysiology and the underlying molecular mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical evidence has emphasized the importance of coronary plaques' characteristics, rather than lumen stenosis, for the outcome of cardiovascular events. Coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) has a well-established role as a non-invasive tool for assessing plaques. The aim of this study was to compare clinical characteristics and CCTA-derived information of stable patients with non-severe plaques in predicting major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) during follow-up. We retrospectively selected 371 patients (64% male) who underwent CCTA in our center from March 2016 to January 2021 with Coronary Artery Disease—Reporting and Data System (CAD-RADS) 0 to 3. Of those, 198 patients (53% male) had CAD-RADS 0 to 1. Among them, 183 (49%) had normal pericoronary fat attenuation index (pFAI), while 15 (60% male) had pFAI ≥ 70.1 Hounsfield unit (HU). The remaining 173 patients (76% male) had CAD-RADS 2 to 3 and were divided into patients with at least one low attenuation plaque (LAP) and patients without LAPs (n-LAP). Compared to n-LAP, patients with LAPs had higher pFAI (p = 0.005) and had more plaques than patients with n-LAP. Presence of LAPs was significantly higher in elderly (p < 0.001), males (p < 0.001) and patients with traditional risk factors (hypertension p = 0.0001, hyperlipemia p = 0.0003, smoking p = 0.0003, diabetes p = <0.0001, familiarity p = 0.0007). Among patients with CAD-RADS 0 to 1, the ones with pFAI ≥ 70.1 HU were more often hyperlipidemic (p = 0.05) and smokers (p = 0.007). Follow-up (25,4 months, range: 17.6–39.2 months) demonstrated that LAP and pFAI ≥ 70.1 significantly and independently (p = 0.04) predisposed to outcomes (overall mortality and interventional procedures). There is an added value of CCTA-derived features in stratifying cardiovascular risk in low- to intermediate-risk patients with non-severe, non-calcified coronary plaques. This is of utmost clinical relevance as it is possible to identify a subset of patients with increased risk who need strengthening in therapeutic management and closer follow-up even in the absence of severe CAD. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effect of medical treatments on pericoronary inflammation and plaque composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]