Objective: We aimed to assess the prevalence of non-calcified plaque (NCP) on computed tomography angiography (CCTA) in symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. In addition, we seek to compare plaque assessment on CCTA with intravascular ultrasound–virtual histology (IVUS-VH) and to assess the prognostic value of non-calcified plaques (NCPs). Background: The CCTA can characterize coronary plaques and help quantify burden. Furthermore, it can provide additional prognostic information which can enable further risk stratification of patients. Methods: We performed a broad comprehensive review of the current literature pertaining to CCTA and primarily isolated NCP in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. In addition, our review included studies correlating plaque on CT with IVUS-VH. Conclusions: NCP is the initial precursor of calcified plaque and serves as a prominent marker of early coronary atherosclerosis. By detecting NCP during early stages, several measures can be implemented which can alter the evolutionary course of the underlying disease. This can potentially lead to a lower incidence of cardiovascular events.
9 September 2024 in Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is described as transient, ventricular dysfunction. A relatively rare pathology accounting for 0.02% of hospitalizations, recurrent episodes are even less common, occurring at 1-6%. Here, we present a case of an elderly woman presenting with multiple, recurrent episodes of takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Similarities and differences between our case and others presented in literature are compared. Our case highlights the importance of maintaining a broad differential when presented with multiple episodes of recurrent, acute heart failure in the setting of chest pain and ST segment elevations. Keywords: Takotsubo cardiomyopathy; Acute coronary syndrome; ST elevation; heart failure; apical myocardial ballooning
We present a rare case of CardioMEMS device migration six years post-implantation. Much is still being learned about endothelization of pulmonary vasculature and this case highlights the importance of device surveillance and device-related complications.
18 May 2023 in Journal of the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions