The following is a summary of “Increased epicardial adipose tissue is associated with left atrial mechanical dysfunction in patients with heart failure with mildly reduced and preserved ejection fraction,” published in the May 2024 issue of Cardiology by Lobeek et al.
Heart failure (HF) with mildly reduced and preserved ejection fraction (HFmrEF/HFpEF) is often accompanied by atrial dysfunction. Some think that ectopic fat deposits near the heart, such as epicardial adipose tissue, might affect heart muscle cells, contributing to atrial mechanical issues.
Researchers conducted a retrospective study exploring how epicardial fat relates to dysfunction in the left atrial (LA).
They enrolled 82 patients with HF with an ejection fraction over 40%. Using CMR scans during normal sinus rhythm. The LA mechanical dysfunction was defined by the presence of LA end-systolic volume index >52 mL/m2 and LA reservoir strain <23%. EAT volume was adjusted for body size.
The results showed that among 82 patients, the mean age was 69±10 years, 42 (51%) were women, and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 29±6 kg/m2. Mean LVEF was 55±9%, and 34 (41%) patients had LA mechanical dysfunction. Those with dysfunction had higher EAT volume (90 vs. 105 mL/m2, P=0.02) but similar BMI. Multivariate analysis confirmed EAT’s link to dysfunction. (OR 1.31, 95% CI: 1.03-1.66, P=0.03).
Investigators concluded that in patients with HFmrEF and HFpEF, more epicardial fat is tied to left atrial mechanical issues. They emphasized the need for more research to understand why this association exists.
Source: link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00392-024-02466-7
