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Myocardial dysfunction during H1N1 influenza infection
David Fagnoul1, Pierre Pasquier, Laurent Bodson
1Department of Intensive Care, Erasme University Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
Journal of Critical Care
|April 10, 2013
Summary
Critically ill patients with severe H1N1 influenza infection frequently develop cardiac dysfunction, impacting treatment intensity. This study highlights the high incidence of right ventricular (RV) and left ventricular (LV) abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Severe H1N1 influenza infection poses significant risks to critically ill patients.
- Cardiac complications, particularly ventricular dysfunction, can arise in severe respiratory infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of right ventricular (RV) and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in critically ill H1N1 patients.
- To evaluate the hemodynamic consequences of RV and LV dysfunction in this population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of patients admitted to an intensive care unit with severe H1N1 infection.
- Daily hemodynamic and respiratory assessments were conducted.
- Echocardiography was used to evaluate ventricular function on admission and during hospitalization.
Main Results:
- 72% of patients exhibited abnormal ventricular function upon admission.
- Isolated LV abnormalities (46%), isolated RV dysfunction (39%), and biventricular dysfunction (14%) were observed.
- Ventricular dysfunction correlated with the need for more aggressive therapies, including vasopressors, inotropes, and advanced ventilatory support.
Conclusions:
- Cardiac dysfunction is highly prevalent in patients with severe H1N1 influenza.
- Understanding ventricular dysfunction is crucial for managing critically ill H1N1 patients.
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