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Background: CAD is the most common heart disease. It can describe asymptomatic atherosclerosis, stable angina, and acute coronary syndrome (unstable angina, NSTEMI, STEMI). Multifactorial CAD. Modifiable and non-modifiable etiologic factors exist. Gender, age, family history, and genetics are unchangeable. Smoking, obesity, cholesterol levels, and psychosocial factors are modifiable. Methods: Institutional Ethics Committee approved the prospective observational case-control study (Regd. No. ECR/84/Inst/OR/2013/RR-20). The Department of Cardiology at S.C.B Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, comprised 80 CAD outpatients or inpatients between 2020 and 2022. Controls were age- and sex-matched. Patients with acute or chronic kidney illness, traumatic heart disease, head injury, morbidity, or refusal were eliminated. Results: FBS, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, total and direct bilirubin, SGOT, SGPT, and alkaline phosphatase differed between groups (P<0.05). 56.25 percent had severe CAD and 30 percent mild. Cases have greater copeptin than controls (P<0.0001). ROC curve analysis found a cut-off value of 0.98 and sensitivity and specificity of 83.8% and 76.2%. Conclusion: In contrast to healthy controls, CAD patients had greater copeptin levels, according to our study. In these cases, copeptin levels can be employed as a biomarker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eptifibatide, a GPIIb/IIIa receptor inhibitor, has shown its efficacy and safety in patients with high clot burden in their coronary vessels. It is widely used in patients with this condition. However, this medication use is accompanied by complications in some cases. Thrombocytopenia which is a relatively common condition in patients admitted to the hospital, especially in the acute setting, can be caused by medications. This condition can occur as an antibody or non‐antibody‐mediated process, caused by medications, such as heparin, clopidogrel, and eptifibatide. In this case, we present a woman with acute coronary syndrome and a complex lesion with a clot in her coronary vessel who was treated with eptifibatide. It led to asymptomatic thrombocytopenia. Once detected in laboratory data, the infusion was held, and the platelet count recovered in less than 5 days without additional treatment for this adverse effect. Eptifibatide is a medication used to treat acute coronary syndrome patients with a large thrombus in their coronary vessels. The mechanism of inducing thrombocytopenia by eptifibatide has not been proven yet, but it might be related to IgG antibodies. The severity of the disease can vary significantly, and the treatment is based on this factor. However, the main pillar of the treatment is the cessation of eptifibatide as soon as possible. This case draws the attention of physicians to one of the infrequent adverse effects of a commonly used medication in cardiology patients. Thrombocytopenia and its manifestations should be investigated and considered in patients who receive eptifibatide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: this study aimed to assess the complex relationship between EAT thickness, as measured with echocardiography, and the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD). We investigated whether individuals with higher EAT thickness underwent coronary revascularization. Subsequently, we conducted a three-year follow-up to explore any potential modifications in EAT depots post-angioplasty. Methods: we conducted a prospective and retrospective cross-sectional observational study involving 150 patients consecutively referred for acute coronary syndrome, including ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and unstable angina. Upon admission (T0), all patients underwent coronary angiography to assess the number of pathologic coronary vessels. Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) was performed based on angiogram results if indicated. The sample was categorized into two groups: non-revascularized (no-PTCA) and revascularized (PTCA). Transthoracic echocardiograms to measure epicardial fat thickness were conducted at admission (T0) and after a 3-year follow-up (T1). Results and conclusions: findings revealed a positive correlation between EAT thickness and the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD), with patients undergoing PTCA showing decreased EAT thickness after three years. Echocardiography demonstrated reliability in assessing EAT, offering potential for risk stratification. The study introduces a cut-off value of 0.65 cm as a diagnostic tool for cardiovascular risk. Incorporating EAT measurements into clinical practice may lead to more precise risk stratification and tailored treatment strategies, ultimately reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronary tortuosity has been recognized as a potential pathophysiological mechanism in the development of non-obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). The aim of this study was to examine the role of two coronary tortuosity measurement methods in the detection of clinically significant coronary tortuosity. The study included 160 patients with angina symptoms and myocardial ischemia detected by cardiac stress tests in chronic settings and those diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome. After coronary angiography, tortuosity of coronary arteries was assessed by two methods, including measurement of tortuosity angles and calculating of tortuosity index. Significantly more tortuous coronary arteries were detected in the group with non-obstructive CAD (p < 0.01 for all three arteries), with significantly higher tortuosity index (TI) for all three coronary arteries in this group of patients, compared to patients with obstructive CAD. The highest TI for LCX was found in patients with lateral ischemia (p < 0.001) and for LAD in patients with anterior ischemia (p < 0.001). When measured by the angle method, the only association was found between LCX tortuosity and lateral ischemia (OR 4.9, p = 0.046). In conclusion, coronary tortuosity represents a pathophysiological mechanism for myocardial ischemia in non-obstructive CAD. The coronary tortuosity index could be a reliable and widely applicable tool for the quantification of coronary tortuosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiac involvement in diabetes commonly manifests as coronary artery disease. The current study's objective is to evaluate, via coronary angiography, the association between diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease. Methods: The coronary angiography of 100 patients with significant coronary obstruction, between the age group from 30 years to 75 years of age, who were admitted with acute coronary syndrome from July 2023 to December 2023 at our centre were analysed. The coronary vessels involvement among patients with diabetes mellitus and without diabetes were compared. Results: Total 100 patients data was analysed, 50 with diabetes and 50 without diabetes with significant coronary vessel disease. In our study we found that the incidence of Triple vessel disease in diabetic patients was much higher (50%) compared to non-diabetics (18%). The incidence of double vessel disease in diabetic patients was also higher (26%) compared to non-diabetics (22%). And single vessel disease was much higher in non-diabetics (60%) than in nondiabetic patients. Conclusion: In comparison to non-diabetics with acute coronary syndrome, our study demonstrated that the incidence of multivessel disease, severity and diffuse involvement of the coronary vessels, and earlier onset of coronary vessel involvement were all significantly greater in diabetic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To explore the association between serum neutrophil percentage to albumin ratio (NPAR) level and coronary artery layered plaque in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods 222 patients who underwent coronary angiography (CAG) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) examination of culprit vessels immediately after angiography at the Heart Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from January 2018 to January 2023 and diagnosed with ACS were selected as the study subjects, and they were classified into 111 cases of layered plaque and 111 cases of non-layered plaque according to the OCT image results. Serum NPAR level was compared between the layered plaque group and the non-layered plaque group, and the influencing factors of coronary artery layered plaque were analyzed by multivariate Logistic regression analysis. Results Comparing the clinical and biochemical index data between the layered plaque group and the non-layered plaque group, the history of alcohol consumption, lumen stenosis rate, neutrophil percentage level, NPAR level was higher in the layered plaque group than that in the non-layered plaque group, and the albumin level was lower than that in the non-layered plaque group, the differences were statistically significant (P<0. 05). Comparison of the OCT characteristics showed that lipid arcs were larger and fibrous cap thickness was thinner, macrophage infiltration rate was higher, vulnerable plaques, plaque rupture, cholesterol crystals, microvessels, thrombus, calcified nodules, calcified plaques were detected at a higher rate, and fibrous plaques were detected at a lower rate in the layered plaque group, and the differences were all statistically significant (P<0. 05). Spearman correlation analysis showed that the serum NPAR a positive correlation with the rupture of plaques, and the TCFA (r =0. 436 and r =0. 622, respectively, both P<0. 05). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that high level of NPAR was an independent risk factor for the development of layered plaque in culprit vessels in ACS patients (OR=10. 186, 95% CI: 3. 242 ~31. 999, P<0. 001). Conclusion Layered plaque is associated with plaque vulnerability characteristics, and serum NPAR level is elevated in patients with layered plaque in culprit vessels with ACS, which is an independent risk factor for coronary layered plaque in ACS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review is based on the case of a 71-year-old female patient, with cardiovascular risk factors, who was referred for emergency cardiological evaluation after experiencing severe anterior chest pain that had lasted for more than 5 hours at the time of admission. A diagnosis of inferior-posterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction was established, and emergency coronary angiography was performed. It revealed severe, diffuse dilation of the entire arterial coronary tree with slow flow and the presence of a large quantity of thrombotic material in the right coronary artery. Thromboaspiration was deemed unfit since the operator believed that there was a high risk of distal embolization with subsequent no-reflow, when passing with the catheter. As such, the patient started receiving anticoagulant therapy, and after one month she was scheduled for a control angiogram. The follow-up coronary angiography identified complete dissolution of the thrombus from the right coronary artery and a moderate stenosis in the distal segment, so no stent implantation was required. After performing a complete and comprehensive differential diagnosis, presence of isolated coronary artery ectasia was established. Coronary artery ectasia is a rare disease, usually found incidentally during coronary angiograms performed for other indications (chronic and acute coronary syndromes) with a vast etiology and complex pathophysiology. Because there are common morphopathologic pathways between coronary artery ectasia and atherosclerotic coronary artery disease, the clinical presentation of the former might have similar characteristics with the latter, but the management and prognosis of these patients is much less studied compared to the patients suffering from different phenotypes of coronary atherosclerosis. This review aims to summarize the etiopathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic modalities, and different management pathways of coronary artery ectasia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Myocardial bridging (MB) is a congenital coronary artery anomaly that has limited molecular disease state characterization. Though a large portion of individuals may be asymptomatic, the myocardial ischemia caused by this anomaly can lead to angina, acute coronary syndrome, coronary artery disease, and sudden cardiac death in patients. Objective: This study aims to summarize and consolidate the current literature regarding the genomic associations of myocardial bridge development and, in doing so, prompt further investigation into the molecular basis of myocardial bridge development. Methods: We performed a systematic literature review of myocardial bridging using the key search terms "Myocardial Bridging" AND ("Gene" OR "Allelic Variants" OR "Genomic") in the databases of PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, and Cochran. We then performed a detailed review of the resulting abstracts and a full-text screening, summarizing these findings in this report. Results: In total, we identified eight articles discussing the associated genomics behind MB development. Studies included review articles, case reports and genomic studies that led to the discussion of several genes: DES (E434K), FBN1 (I1175M), and COMMD10; MACROD2, SLMAP, MYH7 (A1157G), and DPP6 (A714T); MYH7 (A862V); SCN2B (E31D); and NOTCH1 (R2313Q), and to the discussion of miRNAs (miR-29b, miR-151-3p, miR-126, miR-503-3p, and miR-645). Conclusions: Our study is the first to summarize the genes and molecular regulators related to myocardial bridges as they exist in the current literature. This work concludes that definitive evidence is lacking, warranting much broader genetic and genomic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) has been shown to have a significant role in pathogenesis of atherosclerosis development and plaque destabilization. The present study was done to investigate the association of sCD40L with angiographic severity of coronary artery disease in patients suffering from acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods: The study group comprised of 75 patients suffering from acute coronary syndrome. Blood sample was collected witnin 24 hours of admission prior to any intervention or angioplasty. Patients were divided into three groups of angiographic vessel score (AVS) according to coronary artery blockage - AVS1, AVS2, AVS3. Serum levels of sCD40L and CRP were measured using an ELISA and Troponin T was estimated by electro chemiluminiscence. Severity of coronary artery disease was evaluated using angiograpic vessel score (AVS). Results: Out of 75 study patients, 65 (87.5%) were males with mean age of 51.7 years. There was significant association between sCD40L levels and Angiographic vessel score (p=0.001) with sCD40L levels increasing with its severity [AVS-1, AVS-2 and AVS-3; 0.65 ng/dl (2.5), 0.20 ng/dl(2.66), 3.7 ng/dl(5.99)]. On the other hand, the median hs-CRP levels had no significant relationship with Angiographic vessel score (AVS-1, AVS-2 and AVS-3; 7.42 (5.3), 5.92 (5.9) and 7.19 (6.25) respectively) Conclusion: Serum sCD40L levels were found to be significantly associated with angiographic severity in patients suffering from acute coronary syndrome compared to hs-CRP levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The left main stem (MS) coronary artery (CA) (MSCA) thrombosis is a rare but potentially lethal manifestation of acute coronary syndrome. The standard approach in treating such patients is the primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) or CA bypass graft surgery. In some cases, depending on the morphological appearance of the thrombus, findings and flow rates assessed on coronary angiography (CAn), clinical conditions, and cardiologist's experiences, another possible method of treatment can be the conservative approach using antithrombotic therapy. Case report. A 37-year-old male was admitted to the emergency room with symptoms of an acute myocardial infarction with an ST elevation in diaphragmal localization. Using an emergency CAn, we have visualized a thrombus at the ostial and proximal part of the left MSCA, with no complete obstruction of the blood flow. Initially, dual antithrombotic therapy (ticagrelor and acetylsalicylic acid) was applied, and in the further procedure, it was decided to introduce glycoprotein IIb/IIIa platelet receptor inhibitor (tirofiban) as an intracoronary bolus (0.3 µg/kg) and later as a continuous infusion (0.1 µg/kg/min). Four days later, a control CAn and intravascular echocardiography were performed, and it was decided to continue the treatment using conservative therapy without a pPCI procedure. The patient was discharged in good condition with no signs of illness on the eighth day after hospital admission for home recovery, with planned frequent follow-ups in the future. Conclusion. In the case of non-obstructive thrombotic masses without significant atherosclerotic stenotic lesions, conservative treatment modality with the use of aggressive antithrombotic therapy may be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute coronary syndromes (ACSs) present most frequently with chest pain, but angina equivalents such as dyspnea, diaphoresis, and fatigue are not uncommon. Atypical presentations are especially seen in women, the elderly, and diabetics. Cardiac evaluation using a transthoracic echocardiogram is almost always done before or immediately after someone undergoes left heart catheterization for ACS. It provides information valuable information regarding wall motion, left ventricular systolic function, diastolic function, right ventricular involvement, pulmonary pressures, incidental valvular disease, pericardial fluid, or any other unsuspected abnormality. We describe a novel case where an atypical presentation of ACS was suspected based on the lack of intravenous contrast administered, to enhance endocardial border resolution. The use of contrast during echocardiography has been used during stress protocols to assess microcirculation during perfusion assessment studies. However, we described a reduced uptake during the acquisition of resting myocardial echocardiogram images and it was very useful to direct therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) are rare disorders, especially the left main CAA. In the literature, there are several reported cases with CAAs, various localization, size, clinical presentation, and way of treatment. There is no unique consensus about the most adequate treatment for these patients; however, surgery is still preferable, although there are some new experiences of percutaneous treatment. The decision is made for each patient individually. We report a case of giant left main CAA, with acute coronary syndrome and heart failure presentation, surgically treated. Case report. A 66-year-old female patient was admitted to the emergency department of our clinic due to chest pain and dyspnea. Acute non-STelevation segment myocardial infarction (STEMI) of anterolateral localization was diagnosed (creatine kinase max 1,111 U/L, troponin T 3.754 ng/mL), complicated with acute heart failure. Heart catheterization and coronary angiography revealed a giant saccular, 3.5 × 3.5 mm left main CAA full with thrombi, compressing the proximal segments of the left anterior descending and circumflex artery. Conclusion. Giant left main CAAs are rare pathologic findings, and there are no established principles for treatment. Although the percutaneous way of treatment is now available in selected cases, the surgical approach is still preferred for these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the role of coronary arteries in acute coronary syndrome patients who have survived sudden cardiac arrest. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Department of Cardiology at Chaudhary Pervaiz Elahi Institute of Cardiology, Multan from 1st May 2021 to 1st October 2021. A total of 203 patients who were diagnosed with sudden cardiac arrest were included as subjects of the study. Baseline data of all patients including age, sex, body mass index, history of smoking, diabetes and hypertension was noted. Coronary angiography was performed in all patients within five days after admission in hospital due to SCA. Results: The average age of patients was 52.61±11.09 years. There were 140 (68.97%) male and 63 (31.03%) female patients. There were 131 (64.53%) patients with STEMI and 72 (35.47%) patients with Non-STEMI. LMCAD were diagnosed in 29 (14.29%) patients, RCA in 88 (43.35%) patients, LAD in 174 (85.71%) Patients and LCX in 41 (20.20%) patients. Conclusion: LAD has the most involvement among the coronary arteries (85.71%) in patients with sudden cardiac arrest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the frequency of multi-vessel coronary artery disease (MVD) in diabetic patients presenting with anterior wall myocardial infarction (AWMI). Methodology: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, we included diabetic patients with AWMI aged between 30-70 years. Patients with either a history of clinical diagnosis based on HbA1c >6.5% / fasting blood sugar > 126 mg/dL/ random blood sugar >200 mg/dL or taking anti-hyperglycemic treatment for at least six months were taken as diabetics. Patients with angiographic evidence of significant (>70%) stenosis in two major epicardial vessels were categorized for MVD. Results: A total of 196 diabetic patients with anterior wall MI were included. Of which the mean age was 57.6±12.3 years, and 128 (65.3%) were male patients. MVD was observed in 91 (46.4%) patients. The MVD was found to be associated with a BMI ≥ 24 kg/m² with a frequency of 51.5% vs. 35%; p=0.033, as compared to a BMI < 24 kg/m². The frequency of MVD was higher among middle-class patients, with a frequency of 36.2%, 58.3%, and 39.5% (p=0.014) for patients in the low, middle, and upper classes, respectively. Similarly, the MVD frequency was higher among patients with hypertension (60.6% vs. 28.7%) and hyperlipidemia (62.1% vs. 38.5%) compared to non-hypertensive and non-hyperlipidemia, respectively. Conclusion: It is to be concluded that MVD is highly prevalent in diabetic patients presenting with AWMI, and it was found to be associated with BMI ≥ 24 kg/m², middle class, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pharyngitis and tonsillitis are common reasons for seeking medical care. While mostly viral, Streptococcus pyogenes causes 5-20% of adult cases. Non-rheumatic streptococcal myocarditis is a distinct form of myocarditis associated with streptococcal infection and has clinical features resembling acute coronary syndrome. It mainly affects young men and can lead to significant complications, including sudden cardiac death. We present a case of a young man with non-rheumatic streptococcal myocarditis that developed three days after streptococcal pharyngitis. This is the first documented case in which a treatment approach using a combination of benzathine phenoxymethylpenicillin, perindopril, and bisoprolol, followed by extended therapy with extencillin, resulted in a rapid improvement in the patient’s cardiac function and general health. The insights gained from this case offer valuable guidance for managing similar conditions in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To study the clinical and angiographic profile of patients who are diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome having non obstructive coronary arteries. Materials and method: The study was designed to study seventy-three patients who had been diagnosed with ACS and found to have normal coronaries that is obstruction less than 50% after coronary angiography. All these subjects detailed clinical profile; angiographic profile was analysed. Results: This study on 73 MINOCA patients 41.10 % of them were young in the age group of 31- 40 years and most of them were males (56.2%) with dyslipidaemia (71.2%), comorbidities like diabetes mellitus is found in 78% of MINOCA patients. 78.1% had alcohol consumption history and smokers were 28.8% of study population. Positive family history of CAD was found among 42.5 % of study population. Majority of the subjects had NSTEMI (80.8%), elevated troponin (98.6%), RWMA in found among 49.3% and 35.6% had heart failure at presentation. Slow flow coronaries were found in 16.4% and culprit artery was LAD in 49.3% of MINOCA patients. Conclusion: This study complements the study of MINOCA and provides some new data in this field that could improve the future management of these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronary artery ectasia is a rare angiographic finding and results from a disease process that compromises the integrity of the vessel wall. Its prevalence ranges between 0.3% and 5% of patients undergoing coronary angiography (Swaye et al. in Circulation 67:134–138, 1983). Coronary artery ectasia in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events and death after percutaneous coronary intervention. Case presentation: We report the case of a 50-year-old male Caucasian patient, admitted for ventricular tachycardia at 200 beats per minute hemodynamically not tolerated that was reduced by external electric shock. Electrocardiogram after cardioversion showed a sinus rhythm with anterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction. Thrombolytic therapy was chosen after exposure to dual antiplatelet therapy and heparin since the expected time to percutaneous coronary intervention was greater than 120 minutes from first medical contact and the patient presented within 12 hours of onset of ischemic symptoms. The electrocardiogram after thrombolysis showed the resolution of the ST segment. The echocardiogram showed a dilated left ventricle with severe dysfunction with left ventricle ejection fraction at 30%. Coronary angiography revealed non-obstructive giant ecstatic coronaries without any thrombus. A check-up to look for possible etiologies for coronary artery ectasia was carried out and returned normal. Since no etiology for coronary artery ectasia was found at the limit of available exams in our center, the patient was discharged with antiplatelet therapy (aspirin 100 mg once a day) and heart failure treatment with an indication for an implantable cardiac defibrillator. Conclusions: Coronary artery ectasia in the context of acute myocardial infarction is a rare condition that may have dangerous complications, especially when an optimal treatment for ecstatic culprit vessels is still controversial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The relationship of layered plaque detected by optical coherence tomography (OCT) with coronary inflammation and coronary flow reserve (CFR) remains elusive. We aimed to investigate the association of OCT-defined layered plaque with pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT) inflammation assessed by coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and global (G)-CFR assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods: We retrospectively investigated 88 patients with first ACS who underwent preprocedural CCTA, OCT imaging of the culprit lesion prior to primary/urgent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and postprocedural CMR. All patients were divided into two groups according to the presence and absence of OCT-defined layered plaque at the culprit lesion. Coronary inflammation was assessed by the mean value of PCAT attenuation (−190 to −30 HU) of the three major coronary vessels. G-CFR was obtained by quantifying absolute coronary sinus flow at rest and during maximum hyperemia. CCTA and CMR findings were compared between the groups. Results: In a total of 88 patients, layered plaque was detected in 51 patients (58.0%). The patients with layered plaque had higher three-vessel-PCAT attenuation value (-68.58 ± 6.41 vs. -71.60 ± 5.21 HU, P = 0.021) and culprit vessel-PCAT attenuation value (-67.69 ± 7.76 vs. -72.07 ± 6.57 HU, P = 0.007) than those with non-layered plaque. The patients with layered plaque had lower G-CFR value (median, 2.26 [interquartile range, 1.78, 2.89] vs. 3.06 [2.41, 3.90], P = 0.003) than those with non-layered plaque. Conclusions: The presence of OCT-defined layered plaque at the culprit lesion was associated with high PCAT attenuation and low G-CFR after primary/urgent PCI in patients with ACS. OCT assessment of culprit plaque morphology and detection of layered plaque may help identify increased pericoronary inflammation and impaired CFR, potentially providing the risk stratification in patients with ACS and residual microvascular dysfunction after PCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronary artery anomalies are characterized by an abnormality in the course or origin of three main coronary arteries. There needs to be more scientific evidence to promptly treat coronary artery anomalies with poorly understood prognostic implications, especially anomalous aortic origin of the right coronary artery from the left coronary cusp. Case presentation: A 58-year-old Caucasian female presented multiple times over 6 months with atypical chest discomfort and palpitations. The treadmill exercise test demonstrated exercise-induced non-sustained ventricular tachycardia. A coronary angiogram revealed no obstructive coronary artery disease and an anomalous aortic origin of the right coronary artery from the left coronary cusp with an interarterial course. She was managed conservatively with medications, despite persistent recurrent symptoms. Conclusion: It is essential to identify subtle symptoms and insidious onset of anomalous aortic origin of the right coronary artery symptoms as seen in our patient, which can contribute to significant morbidity. There are discrepancies in existing guidelines between different cardiovascular societies in managing selected subgroups of patients with anomalous aortic origin of the right coronary artery who do not have high-risk features, but continue to remain symptomatic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC) is characterized by transient systolic dysfunction, presenting with electrocardiographic (ECG) changes and mimicking acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Studies have shown that 95% of patients have changes in ECG. ECG changes in TC syndrome may be similar to myocardial infarction)MI(. ECG changes can be seen in the form of ST-segment elevation or deep T-wave inversion. TC can be considered a special form of ACS. TC is not a benign entity, and conduction abnormalities can occur. The acute phase can be predicted based on decreased EF and arrhythmia. Different treatments are used in the acute phase of TC, depending on the hemodynamic condition. Our case elucidates the importance of age, female gender, symptoms, such as stress and emotion, clinical manifestations, ECG characteristics, and echocardiography in TC. This paper describes a case of TC from a hospital affiliated to Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences. The case was a 75-year-old woman with no history of cardiovascular diseases who has been admitted to the hospital with myocardial infarction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long-term outcomes of patients with myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) are still not well known. This study aimed to compare the characteristics and outcomes between MINOCA and STEMI patients in a 5-year follow-up. Between 2010 and 2015 we identified 3171 coronary angiography procedures performed due to acute coronary syndrome, from which 153 had a working MINOCA diagnosis, and the final diagnosis of MINOCA was ascribed to 112 (5.8%) patients. Additionally, we matched 166 patients with STEMI and obstructive coronary arteries as the reference group. In MINOCA patients (mean age of 63 years), there were more females (60% vs. 26%, p < 0.001), and patients presented most frequently with NSTEMI (83.9%). Patients with MINOCA had more frequent atrial fibrillation (22% vs. 5.4%, p < 0.001) and higher left ventricular ejection fraction (59 ± 10% vs. 54 ± 10%, p < 0.001) compared to STEMI patients. We observed only a trend for a higher rate of MACE in STEMI patients at 5 years (11.6% vs. 18.7%, HR 1.82, 95% CI 0.91–3.63, p = 0.09). In multivariable Cox regression, only beta-blocker use was a protective factor (a trend observed), with HR 0.33, 95% CI 0.10–1.15, p = 0.082 of future MACE. The outcomes of MINOCA and STEMI patients were comparable in the 5-year follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection is an underdiagnosed cause of acute coronary syndrome, often occurring in younger females. Such a diagnosis should always be considered in this demographic. In this case report, we focus on the importance of optical coherence tomography in the diagnosis and management of this condition in the elective setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To represents the demographic profile, clinical characteristics, frequency of risk factors and distribution of lesions and findings on coronary angiogram in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients. Methodology: This retrospective cross sectional study was conducted from January 2020 to December 2021 at the Department of Cardiology, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar. Clinical profile, risk factors and angiographic finding were collected from the history ans medical record of patients and entered on proforma. The study comprised of all patients presenting with ACS to tertiary care set up. Inclusion criteria was patients presenting with chest pain suggestive of angina presenting to the ER of the hospital. Results: Of the total 800 patients, 62.50 % were male. Mean age of the study population was 55.58±11.16. Majority had normal BMI. Overall, 33.75% of the patients were smoker. Hypertension was present in 48 % of the patients. Diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia was observed in 38.8% and 31.2% respectively. Most common presenting complaint was chest pain. Myocardial infarction was observed in 33.25% of the patients. Angiographic distribution of lesion showed that 20.38% had SVCAD. About 30% had DVCAD and 27.50% had TVCAD. On the other hand, 22.25% patient had normal coronary vessel. PCI was performed in 350(43.75%) of the patients where CABG was recommended in 16.13%. Right dominance was observed in 705(88.12%) of the individuals. Conclusion: Single vessel coronary artery disease is the most common finding and most common treatment option is PCI. Hypertension and smoking were the most common risk factors in patients presenting as ACS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Small vessel disease (SVD) usually refers to atherosclerosis within vessels of diameter of < 2.5 mm. Conflicting data exist regarding the outcomes of its revascularization. Aim: To evaluate the outcome of invasive treatment in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and SVD and the predictors of angina recurrence after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Material and methods: This was an observational, retrospective, single-center study. It covered consecutive 127 patients (26.77% women; median age: 69.74 ±8.97 years) with ACS who underwent PCI in the Upper-Silesian Medical Center in Katowice between 2018 and 2020. The study population was stratified by means of presence of SVD defined by PCI of the culprit artery with a diameter of = 2.5 mm. The major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) and angina recurrence were analyzed in a 12-month follow-up period. Results: Overall 99 (77.95%) patients were diagnosed with small-vessel coronary artery disease. MACCE were documented in 14 (11.02%) patients. Univariate analysis revealed the following factors associated with MACCE: left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) (OR = 0.95, p = 0.0212), left main (LM) stenting (OR = 18.17, p = 0.0216), number of former PCIs (OR = 1.48, p = 0.0235). According to logistic regression analysis the factors were LM stenting (OR = 20.04, p = 0.0216) and number of former PCIs (OR = 1.53, p = 0.0203). Patients with SVD had more often refractory or recurrent angina in symptomatic class III/IV on follow-up (52.53% vs. 10.71%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Outcome of invasive treatment in patients with ACS is related to LM stenting and former PCIs but not to SVD occurrence. Patients with SVD have a high rate of recurrent/refractory angina despite successful PCI in this clinical setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the prevalence and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with acute myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary lesions in coronary arteriography in a health institution with intermediate and specialized care in the city of Valledupar (Cesar), Colombia. Materials and methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional, single-center study. All patients included were over 18 years of age. They presented an acute coronary syndrome and were treated in a health center in Valledupar, Colombia. Coronary arteriography was completed, and patients met the criteria for MINOCA according to the fourth universal definition of myocardial infarction. The prevalence of MINOCA and description by sex, age, cardiovascular risk factors, and type of ACS presentation were calculated. The study was carried out between January 2016 and December 2019. Results: Of the 3.022 patients diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction, 215 did not have non-obstructive coronary lesions, with a prevalence of 7.11% (CI 95%: 6.20-8.03%). Most subjects were women (53.02 %), and the mean age was 56.6 years. 75.8% of participants had at least one cardiovascular risk factor, predominantly arterial hypertension (67.4%). Most patients had non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (93.5%). Conclusion: The prevalence of MINOCA in our institution is within the range described in the medical literature. The clinical characteristics found were similar to those reported in the literature. Further studies need to be conducted to determine the cause in this type of patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin-cap fibroatheroma (TCFA) and plaque rupture have been recognized as the most frequent risk factor for thrombosis and acute coronary syndrome. Intravascular optical coherence tomography (IVOCT) can identify TCFA and assess cap thickness, which provides an opportunity to assess plaque vulnerability. We developed an automated method that can detect lipidous plaque and assess fibrous cap thickness in IVOCT images. This study analyzed a total of 4360 IVOCT image frames of 77 lesions among 41 patients. Expert cardiologists manually labeled lipidous plaque based on established criteria. To improve segmentation performance, preprocessing included lumen segmentation, pixel-shifting, and noise filtering on the raw polar (r, θ) IVOCT images. We used the DeepLab-v3 plus deep learning model to classify lipidous plaque pixels. After lipid detection, we automatically detected the outer border of the fibrous cap using a special dynamic programming algorithm and assessed the cap thickness. Our method provided excellent discriminability of lipid plaque with a sensitivity of 85.8% and A-line Dice coefficient of 0.837. By comparing lipid angle measurements between two analysts following editing of our automated software, we found good agreement by Bland–Altman analysis (difference 6.7° ± 17°; mean ~ 196°). Our method accurately detected the fibrous cap from the detected lipid plaque. Automated analysis required a significant modification for only 5.5% frames. Furthermore, our method showed a good agreement of fibrous cap thickness between two analysts with Bland–Altman analysis (4.2 ± 14.6 µm; mean ~ 175 µm), indicating little bias between users and good reproducibility of the measurement. We developed a fully automated method for fibrous cap quantification in IVOCT images, resulting in good agreement with determinations by analysts. The method has great potential to enable highly automated, repeatable, and comprehensive evaluations of TCFAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection has been shown to increase the risk of cardiovascular events and all-cause death among individuals with clinically apparent cardiovascular disease (CVD). Whether this association exists in individuals with no history of CVD remains unclear. Serum levels of HCMV IgG antibody were measured using an ELISA in 2050 participants aged 40–80 years from the 1994/1995 Busselton Health Survey who did not have CVD at baseline. Outcomes were all-cause death, cardiovascular death, acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and major adverse coronary and cerebrovascular events (MACCE, composite of all-cause death, ACS, stroke and coronary artery revascularisation procedures). Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to investigate HCMV antibody levels as a predictor of death and cardiovascular outcomes during follow-up periods of 5, 10 and 20 years. At baseline, participants had a mean age of 56 years and 57% were female. During the 20-year follow-up, there were 448 (21.9%) deaths (including 152 from CVD), 139 (6.8%) participants had ACS and 575 (28.0%) had MACCE. In the fully adjusted model, levels of HCMV antibody at 20 years was associated with all-cause death (HR 1.04; 95% CI 1.00, 1.07, p = 0.037) but not with CVD death, ACS or MACCE. Levels of HCMV antibody are associated with all-cause death but not with cardiovascular outcomes in adults without pre-existing CVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular disease is the leading global cause of death in women but remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Health professionals play an important role in improving the heart health of Australian women. Routine heart health checks should be offered to all women 45 years of age and older and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women 30 years of age and older. Cardiovascular risk assessment in women must include traditional and sex-specific risk factors, including their pregnancy history and early-onset menopause. Women with pregnancy-related hypertensive and metabolic disorders have an increased longterm cardiovascular risk and require close monitoring. Women with acute coronary syndrome may not experience classical chest pain. More often, they experience cardiovascular events in the absence of obstructive coronary disease and have poorer cardiovascular outcomes. The recognition of sex-specific differences and more sex-specific trials are key to improving clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The early prediction of significant coronary artery lesion, including coronary vasospasm, have yet to be studied. It is essential to discern the disorders with significant coronary lesions (SCDs) requiring coronary angiography from mimicking disease. We aimed to determine which of all clinical variables were more important using conventional logistic regression (cLR) and machine learning (ML). Materials: Of 3382 patients with chest pain/discomfort or dyspnea in whom CAG was performed, 1893 were included. All clinical data were divided as follows (i): Demographics, history, and physical examination; (ii): (i) plus electrocardiography; and (iii): (ii) plus echocardiography, and analyzed by cLR and ML. Results: In multivariable analysis via cLR, the AUC and accuracy of the model using the final 20 variables were 0.795 and 72.62%, respectively. In multivariable analysis via ML, the best AUCs in the internal validation were 0.8 with (i), 0.81 with (ii), 0.83 with (iii), and in external validation, the best AUCs were 0.71 with (i), 0.74 with (ii), and 0.79 with (iii). The best AUCs and accuracy of the fittest model including 21 importance variables by ML were 0.81 and 72.48% in internal validation; and 0.75 and 70.5% in external validation, respectively. The importance variables in ML and cLR were similar, but slightly different and the additional discriminators via ML were found. Conclusion: The assessment using the fittest importance variables can assist physicians in differentiating mimicking diseases in which coronary angiography may not be required in patients suspected of having acute coronary syndrome in emergency department. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronary artery aneurysm (CAA) is an abnormal dilatation of a coronary artery segment; those coronary artery aneurysms that are very large in size are defined as giant. However, a standardized dimension cut-off to define giant CAAs is still missing. The reported prevalence of coronary aneurysms in the population who underwent coronary angiography ranges from 0.3% to 5%, and often CAAs are found in patient with aneurysms in other sites, such as the ascending or abdominal aorta. In half of the cases an atherosclerotic etiology could be recognized; often, CAA is found in the context of acute coronary syndrome. Seldomly, CAA is found at the autopsy of patients who died due to sudden cardiac death. Currently, very few data exist about CAA management and their prognostic relevance; moreover, CAA treatment is still not clearly codified, but rather case-based. Indeed, currently there are no published dedicated studies exploring the best medical therapy, i.e., with antiplatelets or anticoagulant agents rather than an interventional approach such as an endovascular or surgical technique. In this review, through two clinical cases, the current evidence regarding diagnostic tools and treatment options of CAAs will be described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opium is one of the most abused substances in the Middle East. The effects of opium use on coronary artery disease (CAD) are a matter of debate. This study aimed to assess the association between opium use and angiographic findings as well as the complexity of CAD in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) diagnosis. In this case–control study, all patients admitted for coronary angiography from 2019 to 2020 were evaluated. After applying the eligibility criteria, they were categorized into two groups opium and non-opium based on their history of opium use. Both groups were matched regarding the demographic features. The prevalence, location, and severity of obstruction of the vessels were compared between the non-opium and opium groups. The SYNTAX score was also calculated and compared between the two groups. The scores ≤ 22 are considered low risk and the higher scores are a non-low risk. P value < 0.05 is considered significant. A total of 170 patients with a mean age of 61.59 ± 9.07 years were finally enrolled in our study. Regarding the severity of vascular involvement, there was a significant difference between the non-opium and opium groups in LAD (P = 0.025), and PLV (P = 0.018) vessels. From the location points of view of obstructive coronary artery involved segments, only in the PDA (P = 0.006), and LCX (P = 0.004) vessels, a significant difference was observed. Moreover, 47.1% of opium and 30.6% of non-opium use group were in the non-low risk SYNTAX score classification which is a statistically significant difference between these two groups (P value = 0.048). Opium, as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, can have specific effects on angiographic findings in patients with acute coronary syndrome. Likewise, the complexity of CAD in opium users who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention is significantly higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With the established use of crossover stenting technique in bifurcation coronary artery lesions, added clinical benefit of final kissing of the side branch remains debatable. We report a case of a stenosis and thrombus formation of an ostial side branch after crossover stenting. Case Summary: A 38-year-old man was admitted with acute coronary syndrome complicated by acute pulmonary oedema. He was treated with stenting of the left descending artery (LAD) into the left main coronary artery (LMCA) 12 months earlier. Coronary angiography showed a filling defect in the ostial left circumflex coronary artery (LCX). Optical coherence tomography revealed neointimal growth of the LAD stent resulting in narrowing the LCX orifice and a large thrombus behind stent struts. After treatment of the lesion and optimised implantations of drug-eluting stents, the patient was transferred to the intensive care unit and monitored closely. Given his advanced ischaemic cardiomyopathy, the patient is being evaluated for heart transplantation eligibility. Discussion: Stent struts across a bifurcated major side branch after crossover stenting could risk late stenosis and thrombus formation of the side branch. The clinical usefulness of routine imaging-guided kissing techniques even with good angiographic results in these cases should be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronary artery perforations are one of the most feared, rare, and catastrophic complication of percutaneous coronary intervention. Despite the remarkable increase in coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention, there is no large database that collects coronary artery perforation for the Turkish population. Our study aimed to report our experience over a 10-year period for clinical and angiographic characteristics, management strategies, and outcomes of coronary artery perforation during the percutaneous coronary intervention at different cardiology departments in Turkey. Methods: The study data came from a retrospective analysis of 48 360 percutaneous coronary intervention procedures between January 2010 and June 2020. A total of 110 cases who had coronary artery perforation during the percutaneous coronary intervention were found by angiographic review. Analysis has been performed for the basic clinical, angiographic, procedural characteristics, the management of coronary artery perforation, and outcome of all patients. Results: The coronary artery perforation rate was 0.22%. Out of 110 patients with coronary artery perforation, 66 patients showed indications for percutaneous coronary intervention with acute coronary syndrome and 44 patients with stable angina pectoris. The most common lesion type and perforated artery were type C (34.5%) and left anterior descending (41.8%), respectively. The most observed coronary artery perforation according to Ellis classification was type III (37.2%). Almost 52.7% of patients have a covered stent implanted in the perforated artery. The all-cause mortality rate of coronary artery perforation patients in the hospital was 18.1%. Conclusion: The observed rate of coronary artery perforation in our study is consistent with the studies in this literature. However, the mortality rates related to coronary artery perforation are higher than in other studies in this literature. Especially, the in-hospital mortality rate was higher in type II and type III groups due to perforation and its complications. Nevertheless, percutaneous coronary intervention should be done in selected patients despite catastrophic complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vasospastic angina (VSA) is an under-appreciated cause of chest pain. It is characterised by transient vasoconstriction of the coronary arteries and plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of stable angina and acute coronary syndromes. Complex mechanistic pathways characterised by endothelial dysfunction and smooth muscle hypercontractility lead to a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations ranging from recurrent angina to fatal arrhythmias. Invasive provocation testing using intracoronary acetylcholine or ergonovine is considered the current gold standard for diagnosis, but there is a wide variation in protocols amongst different institutions. Conventional pharmacological therapy relies on calcium channel blockers and nitrates; however, refractory VSA has limited options. This review evaluates the pathophysiology, diagnostic challenges, and management strategies for VSA. We believe global efforts to standardise diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines will improve the outcomes for affected patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The main cause of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is coronary artery obstruction due to atherosclerotic plaque growth or thrombus formation secondary to plaque rupture or erosion. However, there is a subgroup of patients with signs and symptoms suggestive of ACS but without relevant coronary artery obstruction on coronary angiography. This population is defined as myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA). The present study analyzes the clinical features and outcomes of very young patients with a diagnosis of MINOCA.Method: Nested case-control study of ≤40-year-old patients referred for coronary angiography due to clinical suspicion of ACS. Patients were divided into three groups: patients with obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD), patients diagnosed with MINOCA, and controls with non-coronary artery disease.Results: Of 19,321 coronary angiographies performed in our center in a period of 10 years, 408 (2.1%) were in patients ≤40 years old, and MINOCA was identified in 32 (21%) patients. The cardiovascular risk factors for obstructive CAD and MINOCA were very similar. The incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) at follow-up was significantly higher in the MINOCA (HR 4.13 (95%CI 1.22-13.89) and obstructive CAD (HR 4.59 (95%CI 1.90-10.99) patients compared to controls. Cocaine use HR 14.58 (95%CI 3.08-69.02), family history of CAD HR 6.20 (95%CI 1.40-27.43), and depression HR 5.16 (95%CI 1.06-25.24) were associated with a poor outcome in the MINOCA population.Conclusion: Very young patients with MINOCA had a poor prognosis at long-term follow-up, similar to patients with obstructive CAD. Focusing efforts on secondary prevention is essential in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction-Coronary artery ectasia and aneurysm is an uncommon angiographic finding, which involves a part or complete length of the coronary artery. It leads to significant cardiovascular outcomes and is considered a risk factor for coronary artery thrombosis. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of coronary artery ectasia and aneurysm, their segmental involvement, and clinical presentation in patients with and without coronary artery disease (CAD). Material and methods- We did a cross-sectional, retrospective analysis of 1764 coronary angiogramsperformed between July 2019 to June 2020. Segmental involvement of coronary artery ectasia and aneurysm is studied in patients with and without CAD. Results- Prevalence of isolated aneurysm was 1.1%, isolated ectasiawas 20.2%, and ectasia with the aneurysm was 2.9%. Prevalence of aneurysm was similar between CAD and non-CAD group (1.2 vs. 1.1%, p < 1.000). Prevalence of aneurysm with ectasia was also similar between CAD and non-CAD groups (2.9 vs. 3.2%, p = 0.785). The prevalence of isolated ectasia was more in the CAD vs. non-CAD group (22 vs. 13.7%, p < 0.001). Most commonly, coronary artery aneurysm and ectasia are presented as NSTEMI (non-ST elevation myocardial infarction) followed by STEMI (ST-elevation myocardial infarction). Conclusion- Coronary artery ectasia is more common than aneurysms. Isolated coronary ectasiawas prevalent in patients with coexisting coronary artery disease, unlike the aneurysm. Coronary artery ectasia and aneurysm most commonly presented as NSTEMI, followed by STEMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern antineoplastic therapy improves survival and quality of life in cancer patients, but its indisputable benefits are accompanied by multiple and major side effects, such as cardiovascular ones. Endothelial dysfunction, arterial spasm, intravascular thrombosis, and accelerated atherosclerosis affect the coronary arteries, leading to acute and chronic coronary syndromes that negatively interfere with the oncologic treatment. The cardiac toxicity of antineoplastic agents may be mitigated by using adequate prophylactic measures. In the absence of dedicated guidelines, our work provides the most comprehensive, systematized, structured, and up-to-date analyses of the available literature focusing on measures aiming to protect the coronary arteries from the toxicity of cancer therapy. Our work facilitates the implementation of these measures in daily practice. The ultimate goal is to offer clinicians the necessary data for a personalized therapeutic approach for cancer patients receiving evidence-based oncology treatments with potential cardiovascular toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. "Coronary anomaly" is defined as the coronary feature or pattern seen in <1% of the population. The most common CAAs are anomalies of origin, specifically having a separate LCX and LAD origin with an incidence of 0.41%. The second most common anomaly is the LCX arising from the RCA (0.37%). Treatment options include CABG, coronary unroofing, reimplantation, or medical therapy. Case Presentation. We present the case of an 85-year-old male who presents with an acute coronary syndrome who was found to have an extremely rare combination of different coronary anomaly patterns including left main coronary artery (LMCA) atresia, small LAD arising posteriorly from the right coronary cusp, anomalous left circumflex artery arising from the RCA, and an anomalous LAD arising from the left circumflex artery which is originating from the RCA. Conclusions. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report to describe four coronary anomalies in a single patient. When CAAs are diagnosed, it is of utmost importance for cardiologists to do further imaging and workup that might include a stress test to be able to offer patients the best management options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Acute Coronary Syndrome is a disease of the circulatory system characterized by the partial or complete blockage of coronary arteries. In thrombosis, a major role is played by platelets—the smallest, anucleate, morphotic elements in the bloodstream. Platelets are involved in the process of hemostasis, which ensures the continuity of the blood vessel by forming a clot that prevents blood loss. Unique structures of blood platelets ensure their high reactivity in the vascular microenvironment due to the interaction with many biologically active molecules, which is recognized by the surface receptors. The research carried out in the manuscript is aimed at detecting potential changes at the molecular level in platelet surface receptors that could constitute the potential importance of the occurrence of Acute Coronary Syndrome. The obtained results indicate that the P2Y12 receptor, which is the main target of antiplatelet therapy, is expressed more frequently among patients. In addition, we have shown that at the genetic level, quantitative changes also occur in the case of other receptors that are important in the activation of platelets. The following manuscript suggests the potential mechanisms responsible for the differences between patients and healthy donors due to a better understanding of the molecular causes of Acute Coronary Syndrome pathogenesis. The pathological conditions caused by blood platelet activation constitute a fundamental core in the pathogenesis of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS). The hyperactivity of platelets in ACS is well-documented, but there is still little research into the molecular basis of phenotypic changes in platelet functionality. To expand the knowledge of this phenomenon, we analyzed the disturbances in the expression of several key platelet receptors and the aspect of regulating potential abnormalities. Platelet surface receptors are responsible for maintaining the hemostatic balance, platelet interaction with immune cells, and support of the coagulation cascade leading to occlusion of the vessel lumen. Due to their prominent role, platelet receptors constitute a major target in pharmacological treatment. Our work aimed to identify the molecular alteration of platelet surface receptors, which showed augmented mRNA expression of P2Y12, GP1BB, ITGA2B, and ITGB3 and increased protein concentrations of P2Y12 and GP IIb/IIIa in ACS. The upregulation of the P2Y12 level was also confirmed by confocal and cytometric visualization. Furthermore, we evaluated the expression of two microRNAs: miR-223-3p and miR-126-3p, which were suggested to regulate platelet P2Y12 expression. Results of our study present new insight into the molecular background of ACS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slow‐flow and no‐reflow phenomenon are taken to sudden loss of coronary artery flow, typically after stenting or angioplasty in primary PCI. Otherwise conventional therapy, we report a technique, which autologous blood into intracoronary to supply oxygen and break process thrombosis results in successfully management no‐reflow in primary PCI in ACS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. To explore the application value of layered strain technique in non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS). Methods. 120 patients with suspected NSTE-ACS undergoing coronary angiography in our hospital from December 2018 to December 2019 were prospectively selected. According to the results of coronary angiography, the patients were divided into the significant CAD group and the nonsignificant CAD group. Echocardiography was performed 1-2 hours before invasive coronary angiography. The long axis and circumferential strain of the endocardium, myocardial layer, and epicardium were evaluated by the layered strain technique. The territorial longitudinal strain (TLS), the global longitudinal strain (GLS) of the three myocardial layers, and the global circumferential strain (GCS) were calculated based on the perfusion region of the three coronary arteries and the 17-segment model of the left ventricle. The primary endopoints were TLS and GCS of the three-layer myocardium. Results. Compared with the nonsignificant CAD patients, the TLS and GCS of three-layer myocardium in significant CAD patients were decreased, especially in the endocardium. The absolute values of TLS and GCS of the endocardium and epicardium in significant CAD patients were lower than those in nonsignificant CAD patients. This indicates a significant decrease in endocardial function. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that endocardial TLS was superior to LVEF, Troponin I (TnI), and other strain parameters in evaluating the extent of coronary lesions. Conclusions. The layered strain technique of 2D-STE can evaluate the severity of coronary lesions in patients with NSTE-ACS, and for significant CAD patients, endocardial function is significantly more impaired than epicardial function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background / Aim: More people die each year due to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) than from any other cause. The most common cause of ischaemic heart diseases (IHD) is atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries. Risk factors for the development of coronary heart disease (CHD) can be preventable and non-preventable. The aim of the study was to determine the frequency of individual risk factors in patients with CHD. Methods: Retrospective analysis included patients with diagnoses of stable angina pectoris (AP), unstable angina pectoris and myocardial infarction - acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and ischaemic cardiomyopathy (iCMP). The prevalence of the following risk factors for IHD was analysed: hypertension, diabetes, obesity, cholesterol, smoking, family history, age and sex. Data were taken from the Register of Patients with Chronic Diseases and Risk Factors and electronic patient records. Results: Of the total number of respondents older than 18, 4.95 % had CHD. Of the 178 patients with IHD, 70 (39.3 %) patients had AP, 60 (33.7 %) patients had ACS and 48 (27.0 %) patients had iCMP. Positive family history had 63.5 % of patients, 72 % were older than 66, 24.1 % were smokers and 74.2 % of patients had elevated blood cholesterol levels. Diabetes mellitus affected 29.2 % of patients, hypertension 88.8 %, and BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 had 70.8 % of patients. Of the total number of patients with ACS, 68.3 % were men, while higher percentage of women suffered from AP (62.9 %) (p = 0.002). In the age below 65, CHD was more common in men (p = 0.007). Cholesterol was elevated more often in patients with AP than iCMP (p = 0.001). Patients with ACS were more likely to have diabetes mellitus compared to patients with AP and iCMP (p = 0.010). Conclusion: The prevalence of preventable risk factors is alarmingly high. Of particular importance is the timely detection and treatment of risk factors by family physicians and strengthening the personal responsibility of each individual in choosing their lifestyle and active involvement in the therapeutic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: It is usually considered that pain in acute coronary syndrome has no localising value to identify the coronary artery involved. A few studies have tried to correlate the location and radiation of pain to the occluded vessel with conflicting results. The present study was done to find out the relationship between the site and / or radiation of chest pain with culprit artery in acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods: Out of 469 patientsadmitted with STEMI for primary PCI, 274 patients were included. Exclusion criteria included patients with prior historyof coronary syndrome, patients with multivessel disease (>50% lesion in non-culprit vessels), unable to localise thesite and/or radiation of chest pain and unwillingness to give consent. Results: Majority of the patients (62.5%) withchest pain radiating to left arm were having LAD occlusion while the majority of the patients (57.1%) with chest painradiating to right arm were having RCA occlusion. Patients with chest pain radiating to neck and or jaw were havingstatistically significant higher occlusion of RCA (96.4%) with a p value of <0.05. Surprisingly, LAD involvement was notpresent even in single case in acute coronary syndrome patients presented with chest pain radiating to neck/jaw. Conclusion: The present study showed a very high positive predictive value (96.42%) of radiation of anginal pain toneck/jaw radiation for predicting the RCA occlusion in patients presenting with acute ST elevation MI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: It is usually considered that pain in acute coronary syndrome has no localising value to identify the coronary artery involved. A few studies have tried to correlate the location and radiation of pain to the occluded vessel with conflicting results. The present study was done to find out the relationship between the site and / or radiation of chest pain with culprit artery in acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods: Out of 469 patients admitted with STEMI for primary PCI, 274 patients were included. Exclusion criteria included patients with prior history of coronary syndrome, patients with multivessel disease (>50% lesion in non-culprit vessels), unable to localise the site and/or radiation of chest pain and unwillingness to give consent. Results: Majority of the patients (62.5%) with chest pain radiating to left arm were having LAD occlusion while the majority of the patients (57.1%) with chest pain radiating to right arm were having RCA occlusion. Patients with chest pain radiating to neck and or jaw were having statistically significant higher occlusion of RCA (96.4%) with a p value of <0.05. Surprisingly, LAD involvement was not present even in single case in acute coronary syndrome patients presented with chest pain radiating to neck/jaw. Conclusion: The present study showed a very high positive predictive value (96.42%) of radiation of anginal pain to neck/jaw radiation for predicting the RCA occlusion in patients presenting with acute ST elevation MI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although the inter-arm blood pressure (BP) difference has been advocated to be associated with cardiovascular events, the implication of inter-leg BP difference has not been well established. This study was conducted to investigate whether inter-arm and -leg BP differences have prognostic value in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: In this prospective study, we consecutively enrolled 667 patients who underwent PCI. Both arm and leg BPs were measured at the day after PCI. The primary outcome was a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) including cardiac death, acute coronary syndrome, coronary revascularization, stroke, and hospitalization for heart failure during the follow-up period. Results: Mean age was 64.0±11.1 years old, and males were predominant (70.5%). During a mean follow-up period of 3.0 years, MACE occurred in 209 (31.3%) patients. The inter-leg systolic BP difference (ILSBPD) was significantly higher in patients with MACE than those without (9.9±12.3 vs. 7.2±7.5 mmHg, P = 0.004). The inter-arm systolic BP difference was not significantly different between patients with and without MACE (P = 0.403). In multivariable Cox regression analysis, increased ILSBPD was independently associated with the development of MACE (per 5 mmHg; hazard ratio, 1.07; 95% confidence interval, 1.01–1.14). The inter-arm systolic BP difference was not associated with MACE in the multivariable analysis. Conclusion: Increased ILSBPD was independently associated with worse cardiovascular outcomes after PCI. As ILSBPD is easy to measure, it may be helpful in the risk stratification of patients undergoing PCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single coronary artery anomalies are those where the entire myocardium is supplied by an artery arising from one ostium. It is a rare coronary anomaly and has been there in literature ever since 1867. Over the years, this has intrigued anatomists and physicians whether its presence has life-threatening consequences or is mere a benign entity. Most of the cases are generally silent except for the interarterial course variants which are associated with sudden deaths. We report the case of a patient presenting with recurrent inferior wall ST-elevation myocardial infarction who was found to have a single coronary artery on angiography. The patient underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention and uneventful further course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The previous studies have showed that serum retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) levels increase in metabolic disorders which are closely associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). However, the human studies investigating the role of RBP4 in CVD are conflicted. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between RBP4 with the presence and severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) in this study. Methods: 55 patients with presenting acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and 43 control subjects who had various cardiovascular risk factors with normal coronary artery on coronary angiography were included in this study. The serum RBP4 concentrations were measured using ELISA method, clinically and anatomically score models were used to assess the severity of coronary lesion. Results: Serum RBP4 levels were significantly higher in patients with ACS compared to the without ACS (68.40 ± 47.94 mg/Lvs. 49.46 ± 13.64 mg/L; p = 0.014). RBP4 was correlated with GENSINI and SYNTAX I score (r = 0.286 p = 0.034; r = 0.403 p = 0.002 respectively). However, there was no relationship between RBP4 and GRACE score. Conclusions: The serum RBP4 levels increase in patients with CAD and its increased levels may be correlated with CAD severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plaque erosion, a distinct histopathological and clinical entity, accounts for over 30% of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Optical coherence tomography allows in vivo diagnosis of plaque erosion. Local flow perturbation with activation of Toll-like receptor 2 and CD8+ T cells and subsequent desquamation of endothelium and neutrophil extracellular trap formation contribute to mechanisms of plaque erosion. Compared with ACS patients with plaque rupture, those with plaque erosion are younger, have fewer traditional cardiovascular risk factors, have lower plaque burden, and are more likely to present with non-ST-segment elevation ACS. Early evidence suggests that in patients with ACS caused by plaque erosion, antithrombotic therapy without stenting may be a safe and effective option. Future randomized trials are needed to validate these findings. Clinical studies to develop noninvasive point-of-care biomarkers that distinguish plaque rupture from erosion, and to test novel therapies that target molecular pathways involved in plaque erosion are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plaque rupture is the most common cause of acute coronary syndromes and sudden cardiac death. Characteristics and pathobiology of vulnerable plaques prone to plaque rupture have been studied extensively over 2 decades in humans using optical coherence tomography (OCT), an intravascular imaging technique with micron scale resolution. OCT studies have identified key features of plaque vulnerability and described the in vivo characteristics and spatial distribution of thin cap fibroatheromas as major precursors to plaque rupture. In addition, OCT data supports the evolving understanding of coronary heart disease as a panvascular process associated with inflammation. In the setting of high atherosclerotic burden, plaque ruptures often occur at multiple sites in the coronary arteries, and plaque progression and healing are dynamic processes modulated by systemic risk factors. This review details major investigations with intravascular OCT into the biology and clinical implications of plaque vulnerability and plaque rupture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Congenital defects/diseases Background: Coronary artery anomalies (CAAs) are rare congenital malformations with different clinical presentations and pathophysiological mechanisms. These anomalies are frequently the cause of sudden death in young patients. Most CAAs are incidental findings owing to the lack of symptoms; however, they may be associated with acute coronary syndrome in rare cases. Case Report: We describe the case of a 47-year-old man who presented with a 1-day history of progressive typical chest pain and elevated troponin levels. The patient underwent a coronary angiography, which unveiled the anomalous origin of the left main coronary artery arising from the right coronary artery, with an interarterial course between the ascending aorta and the pulmonary artery, without coronary artery disease. Coronary computed tomography angiography confirmed the CAA and its relationship with the symptoms. An uneventful coronary artery bypass graft was undertaken, and at the 1-year follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic, with a normal stress test. Conclusions: This case depicts the presentation of atypical acute coronary syndrome in a young patient with a rare CAA. In such patients, coronary angiography and coronary computed tomography angiography are essential tools to confirm the diagnosis and to determine treatment. Although controversial, in young individuals presenting CAA with an interarterial course, such as the left main coronary artery arising from the right coronary artery, coronary artery bypass graft may be an important treatment option to avoid sudden death in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]