International journal of cardiology
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The incidence of new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) is increasing both in the Asian populations and Western countries. Several demographic and clinical risk factors were independently associated with NOAF, including ageing, male sex, obesity, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, hypertension, coronary artery disease, renal dysfunction and heart failure. ⋯ While some risk scores have been developed to predict the risk of NOAF, thus far none are currently recommended or adequately validated to be used as a screening tool especially in the Asian population. The present semi-systematic review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview on the risk factors associated to NOAF, focusing on those explored in the Asian populations.
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Patients with distal residual after proximal repair of aortic dissection (AD) have shown unsatisfactory long-term prognosis. However, possible mechanisms and risk factors for distal aortic segmental enlargement (DSAE) have been poorly understood. ⋯ The location and size of remained tears are the key risk factors of DSAE patients. Long-segment aortic repair and aggressive exclusion of all distal tears located on the thoracic descending aorta in their initial therapy will be an optimal strategy.
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A fluid challenge with rapid saline infusion during right heart catheterization has been shown to be useful for the differential diagnosis between pre- and post-capillary pulmonary hypertension. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic relevance of fluid challenge-induced changes in pulmonary hemodynamics in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). ⋯ CI measured after a fluid challenge is an independent predictor of outcome in PAH.