Assessment of left atrial functions in cardiac syndrome X

M Kuzeytemiz1, E Tenekecioglu, M Yilmaz

  • 1Cardiology Clinic, Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Research and Education Hospital, Bursa, Turkey. erhantenekecioglu@yahoo.com.

Insights

Cardiac syndrome X (CSX) patients show impaired left ventricular diastolic function and increased left atrial active contractile pump function as a compensatory mechanism. Maintaining sinus rhythm is crucial for these patients.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Cardiac Physiology
  • Echocardiography

Background:

  • Cardiac syndrome X (CSX) is characterized by myocardial ischemia affecting left ventricular function.
  • Left atrial function alterations in CSX are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate changes in left atrial functions in patients diagnosed with Cardiac Syndrome X.

Main Methods:

  • Transthoracic echocardiography and tissue Doppler echocardiography were used.
  • Left ventricular and atrial functions were assessed in 100 CSX patients and 80 controls.

Main Results:

  • CSX patients exhibited impaired left ventricular diastolic function and increased left atrial volumes.
  • Left atrial active emptying volume and active ejection fraction were significantly increased in CSX patients.
  • Left atrial conduit volume was decreased, suggesting altered filling dynamics.

Conclusions:

  • Increased left atrial pump function in CSX patients serves as a compensatory mechanism for impaired left ventricular diastolic function.
  • These findings highlight the importance of maintaining sinus rhythm in managing CSX.
  • Echocardiographic assessment of left atrial function provides insights into CSX pathophysiology.
Abstract

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