scholarly journals Transition from parental prostacyclin to selexipag: a case series of five pulmonary arterial hypertension patients

2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
pp. 204589401986216 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nathan Holthaus ◽  
Kurt W. Prins ◽  
Lauren Rose ◽  
Sasha Prisco ◽  
Marc Pritzker ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Cardiac Index ◽  
Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Case Series ◽  
Central Line ◽  
Functional Class ◽  
Sociocultural Factors ◽  
Pulmonary Vascular Disease ◽  
Inpatient Setting ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial

Parental prostacyclin is the only therapy with a proven survival benefit in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, some patients are unable to tolerate continuous prostacyclin infusion because of central line infection, side effects, or sociocultural factors. Selexipag is a recently approved prostacyclin receptor agonist that is able to blunt PAH disease progression. Although in the same molecular pathway, the interchangeability of selexipag with prostacyclin infusions is relatively unexplored. Here, we present a case series of five stable PAH patients who were functional class (FC) I or II that were transitioned from prostacyclin infusion to selexipag using a standardized protocol in the inpatient setting. We show that the transition to selexipag in five highly selected patients was tolerated with no significant changes in FC, minimal changes in pulmonary vascular disease severity, and no significant PAH-related complications. However, there was a trend for a reduction in cardiac index after transition to selexipag. These data suggest that a transition from prostacyclin infusion to selexipag can be achieved in clinically stable PAH patients who are unable to tolerate continuous prostacyclin infusion. However, this approach should only be selectively implemented at specialized centers with close follow-up due to the trend for a reduction in cardiac index after transition to selexipag.

scholarly journals The Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale does not predict hospitalization in pulmonary arterial hypertension

2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 384-390 ◽  
Author(s):  
Debasree Banerjee ◽  
Jane Kamuren ◽  
Grayson L. Baird ◽  
Amy Palmisciano ◽  
Ipsita Krishnan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Functional Class ◽  
World Health ◽  
Pulmonary Vascular Disease ◽  
Common Symptom ◽  
Class Iii ◽  
Patient Reported ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial ◽  
Minute Walk

Background Breathlessness is the most common symptom reported by patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale (MBS) is routinely obtained during the six-minute walk test in the assessment of PAH patients, but it is not known whether the MBS predicts clinical outcomes such as hospitalizations in PAH. Methods We performed a retrospective study of World Health Organization (WHO) Group 1 PAH patients followed at our center. The dates of the first three MBS and hospitalizations that occurred within three months of a documented MBS were collected. Marginal Cox hazard regression modeling was used to assess for a relationship between MBS and all-cause as well as PAH-related hospitalization. Results A total of 50 patients were included; most (92%) were functional class III/IV, 44% and 65% were treatment-naïve prior to their first MBS and hospitalization, respectively. The first recorded MBS was inversely correlated with the first recorded six-minute walk distance (6MWD) (r = –0.41, P < 0.01) but did not track with WHO functional class (r = 0.07, P = 0.63). MBS did not predict all-cause (hazard ratio [HR], 0.91; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.76–1.08; P = 0.28) or PAH-related hospitalization (HR, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.89–1.23; P = 0.61), though there was a strong relationship between 6MWD and PAH-related hospitalization ( P = 0.01). These findings persisted after multivariable adjustment. Conclusions Breathlessness as assessed by MBS does not predict all-cause or PAH-related hospitalization. Robust and validated patient-reported outcomes are needed in pulmonary vascular disease.

scholarly journals Favorable Pregnancy Outcomes in Women With Well-Controlled Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nadine Corbach ◽  
Charlotte Berlier ◽  
Mona Lichtblau ◽  
Esther I. Schwarz ◽  
Fiorenza Gautschi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Pregnancy Outcomes ◽  
Multidisciplinary Team ◽  
Heart Function ◽  
Case Series ◽  
Functional Class ◽  
Tertiary Referral Center ◽  
Right Heart Function ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial

Introduction: Since pregnancy in women with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is associated with a high risk of morbidity and mortality, it is recommended that pregnancy should be avoided in PAH. However, some women with mild PAH may consider this recommendation as unsuitable. Unfortunately knowledge on pregnancy outcomes and best management of PAH during pregnancy is limited.Methods: Data from all women with PAH who were followed during pregnancy by a multidisciplinary team at a tertiary referral center for PAH and who delivered between 2004 and 2020 were retrospectively analyzed in a case series. PAH risk factor profiles including WHO functional class (WHO-FC), NT-pro-BNP, echocardiographic pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) and right heart function were analyzed prior to, during and following pregnancy.Results: In seven pregnancies of five women with PAH (median age 29 (27; 31) years), there were no abortions or terminations. Five pregnancies were planned (all in WHO-FC I-II), two incidental (WHO-FC II, III). During pregnancy none of the women had complications or clinical worsening of PAH. After a median pregnancy duration of 37 1/7 weeks all gave birth to healthy babies by cesarean section in spinal anesthesia. During pregnancy, PAP tended to increase, whilst the course of WHO-FC and NT-pro-BNP were variable and no trend could be detected.Conclusion: Women with PAH with a low risk profile closely followed by a multidisciplinary team had a favorable course during and after pregnancy, resulting in successful deliveries of healthy newborns.

scholarly journals Survival in systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension in the modern management era

2012 ◽  
Vol 72 (12) ◽  
pp. 1940-1946 ◽  
Author(s):  
David Launay ◽  
Olivier Sitbon ◽  
Eric Hachulla ◽  
Luc Mouthon ◽  
Virginie Gressin ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systemic Sclerosis ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Cardiac Index ◽  
Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Univariate Analysis ◽  
Functional Class ◽  
Male Gender ◽  
Newly Diagnosed ◽  
Modern Management ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial

ObjectiveTo assess the survival and prognostic factors in patients with newly diagnosed incident systemic sclerosis (SSc)–associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in the modern management era.MethodsProspectively enrolled SSc patients in the French PAH Network between January 2006 and November 2009, with newly diagnosed PAH and no interstitial lung disease, were analysed (85 patients, mean age 64.9±12.2 years). Median follow-up after PAH diagnosis was 2.32 years.ResultsA majority of patients were in NYHA functional class III–IV (79%). Overall survival was 90% (95% CI 81% to 95%), 78% (95% CI 67% to 86%) and 56% (95% CI 42% to 68%) at 1, 2 and 3 years from PAH diagnosis, respectively. Age (HR: 1.05, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.09, p=0.012) and cardiac index (HR: 0.49, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.89, p=0.019) were significant predictors in the univariate analysis. We also observed strong trends for gender, SSc subtypes, New York Heart Association functional class, pulmonary vascular resistance and capacitance to be significant predictors in the univariate analysis. Conversely, six-min walk distance, mean pulmonary arterial and right atrial pressures were not significant predictors. In the multivariate model, gender was the only independent factor associated with survival (HR: 4.76, 95% CI 1.35 to 16.66, p=0.015 for male gender).ConclusionsIncident SSc-associated PAH remains a devastating disease even in the modern management era. Age, male gender and cardiac index were the main prognosis factors in this cohort of patients. Early detection of less severe patients should be a priority.

scholarly journals Haemodynamics and serial risk assessment in systemic sclerosis associated pulmonary arterial hypertension

2018 ◽  
Vol 52 (4) ◽  
pp. 1800678 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jason Weatherald ◽  
Athénaïs Boucly ◽  
David Launay ◽  
Vincent Cottin ◽  
Grégoire Prévot ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Assessment ◽  
Systemic Sclerosis ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Cardiac Index ◽  
Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Arterial Compliance ◽  
Functional Class ◽  
Free Survival ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial

The prognostic importance of follow-up haemodynamics and the validity of multidimensional risk assessment are not well established for systemic sclerosis (SSc)-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).We assessed incident SSc-PAH patients to determine the association between clinical and haemodynamic variables at baseline and first follow-up right heart catheterisation (RHC) with transplant-free survival. RHC variables included cardiac index, stroke volume index (SVI), pulmonary arterial compliance and pulmonary vascular resistance. Risk assessment was performed according to the number of low-risk criteria: functional class I or II, 6-min walking distance (6MWD) >440 m, right atrial pressure <8 mmHg and cardiac index ≥2.5 L·min−1·m−2.Transplant-free survival from diagnosis (n=513) was 87%, 55% and 35% at 1, 3 and 5 years, respectively. At baseline, 6MWD was the only independent predictor. A follow-up RHC was available for 353 patients (median interval 4.6 months, interquartile range 3.9–6.4 months). The 6MWD, functional class, cardiac index, SVI, pulmonary arterial compliance and pulmonary vascular resistance were independently associated with transplant-free survival at follow-up, with SVI performing better than other haemodynamic variables. 1-year outcomes were better with increasing number of low-risk criteria at baseline (area under the curve (AUC) 0.63, 95% CI 0.56–0.69) and at first follow-up (AUC 0.71, 95% CI 0.64–0.78).Follow-up haemodynamics and multidimensional risk assessment had greater prognostic significance than at baseline in SSc-PAH.

scholarly journals Bisoprolol in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension: an explorative study

2016 ◽  
Vol 48 (3) ◽  
pp. 787-796 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jasmijn S.J.A. van Campen ◽  
Karin de Boer ◽  
Mariëlle C. van de Veerdonk ◽  
Cathelijne E.E. van der Bruggen ◽  
Cor P. Allaart ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Heart Rate ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Cardiac Index ◽  
Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Prognostic Significance ◽  
Right Ventricular Ejection Fraction ◽  
Functional Class ◽  
Walking Distance ◽  
Ventricular Ejection Fraction ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial

While beta-blockers are considered contraindicated in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), the prognostic significance of sympathetic nervous system over-activity suggests a potential benefit of beta-blocker therapy. The aim of this randomised, placebo-controlled, crossover, single centre study was to determine the effects of bisoprolol on right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF) in idiopathic PAH (iPAH) patients. Additional efficacy and safety parameters were explored.Patients with optimally treated, stable iPAH (New York Heart Association functional class II/III) were randomised to placebo or bisoprolol. Imaging and functional measurements were performed at baseline, crossover and end of study.18 iPAH patients were included, because inclusion faltered before enrolment of the targeted 25 patients. 17 patients completed 6 months of bisoprolol, 15 tolerated bisoprolol, one patient required intravenous diuretics. Bisoprolol was associated with a lower heart rate (17 beats per minute, p=0.0001) but RVEF remained unchanged. A drop in cardiac index (0.5 L·min−1·m−2, p=0.015) was observed, along with a trend towards a decreased 6-min walking distance (6MWD).Although careful up-titration of bisoprolol was tolerated by most patients and resulted in a decreased heart rate, no benefit of bisoprolol in iPAH was demonstrated. Decreases in cardiac index and 6MWD suggest a deteriorated cardiac function. The results do not favour the use of bisoprolol in iPAH patients.

Transition From Subcutaneous or Inhaled Treprostinil to Oral Treprostinil at Home in Patients With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Retrospective Case Series

2017 ◽  
Vol 31 (2) ◽  
pp. 163-166 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kimberly A. Ackerbauer ◽  
Rajive Tandon
Keyword(s):  
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Hospital Setting ◽  
Case Series ◽  
Common Adverse Event ◽  
Functional Class ◽  
World Health ◽  
Retrospective Case ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial ◽  
At Home

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive condition that can lead to right ventricular failure and death. Treprostinil is a prostacyclin analogue that has proven clinical efficacy in patients with PAH. Difficulties in the administration of inhaled and parenteral prostacyclins led to the development of extended-release treprostinil diolamine for oral use. Limited data exist on the transition to oral treprostinil. The purpose of this case series is to describe the transition from subcutaneous or inhaled treprostinil to oral treprostinil in the outpatient setting. With the current availability of oral prostacyclins and prostacyclins analogues, most transitions to oral therapy are done in the hospital setting resulting in increased cost and risk of hospital-acquired infections. Four patients on background phosphodiesterase type 5 therapy with baseline World Health Organization functional class (WHO FC) II PAH were transitioned at home. Three of the 4 patients were safely transitioned as outpatients and maintained WHO FC II status at 10 and 12 months. The fourth patient had worsening right heart failure and was admitted within 2 months of the transition and started back on parenteral prostacyclin therapy. The 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) increased in patients transitioning from inhaled therapy and decreased in the patient transitioning from subcutaneous therapy. The most common adverse event was nausea.

scholarly journals Heart and lung transplantation in pulmonary arterial hypertension related to congenital heart disease: an unusual indication

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (S1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Rosaria Barracano ◽  
Heba Nashat ◽  
Andrew Constantine ◽  
Konstantinos Dimopoulos
Keyword(s):  
Pulmonary Hypertension ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Lung Transplantation ◽  
Atrial Septal Defect ◽  
Septal Defect ◽  
Pulmonary Vascular Disease ◽  
Eisenmenger Syndrome ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial ◽  
Recurrent Haemoptysis

Abstract Background Eisenmenger syndrome is a multisystem disorder, characterised by a significant cardiac defect, severe pulmonary hypertension and long-standing cyanosis. Despite the availability of pulmonary hypertension therapies and improved supportive care in specialist centres, Eisenmenger patients are still faced with significant morbidity and mortality. Case presentation We describe the case of a 44-year-old woman with Eisenmenger syndrome secondary to a large secundum atrial septal defect. Her pulmonary vascular disease was treated with pulmonary vasodilators, but she experienced a progressive decline in exercise tolerance, increasing atrial arrhythmias, resulting in referral for transplantation. Her condition was complicated by significant recurrent haemoptysis in the context of extremely dilated pulmonary arteries and in-situ thrombosis, which prompted successful heart and lung transplantation. She made a slow recovery but remains well 3 years post-transplant. Conclusions Patients with Eisenmenger syndrome secondary to a pre-tricuspid lesion, such as an atrial septal defect have a natural history that differs to patients with post-tricuspid shunts; the disease tends to present later in life but is more aggressive, prompting early and aggressive medical intervention with pulmonary arterial hypertension therapies. This case illustrates that severe recurrent haemoptysis can be an indication for expediting transplantation in Eisenmenger syndrome patients.

scholarly journals Contemporary use of Selexipag in pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with congenital heart disease: a case series

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah Blissett ◽  
David Blusztein ◽  
Vaikom S Mahadevan
Keyword(s):  
Congenital Heart Disease ◽  
Heart Disease ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Side Effects ◽  
Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Exercise Capacity ◽  
Congenital Heart ◽  
Pulmonary Veins ◽  
Case Series ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial

Abstract Background There are significant risks of parenteral prostacyclin use in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with congenital heart disease (PAH-CHD), which may limit their use. Selexipag is an oral, selective prostacyclin analogue that has been shown to reduce disease progression and improve exercise capacity in patients with PAH-CHD. Administering Selexipag in patients with PAH-CHD could potentially overcome some of the risks of parenteral therapy while improving clinical outcomes. Case summary We report five cases highlighting the clinical uses of Selexipag in patients with PAH-CHD. In the first two cases, Selexipag was initiated as part of a Treat-to-close strategy. In the third case, initiation of Selexipag improved symptoms and objective exercise capacity in a patient with Eisenmenger syndrome. In the fourth and fifth cases, rapid cross-titration protocols were used to transition from parenteral prostacyclins to Selexipag. In the fourth case, Selexipag was initiated in the context of significant side effects limiting parenteral prostacyclin use. In the fifth case, Selexipag was used to down-titrate from parenteral prostacyclins following closure of a sinus venosus atrial septal defect and redirection of anomalous pulmonary veins. Discussion Selexipag is a promising oral therapy for patients with at various stages of the spectrum of PAH-CHD to improve symptoms, exercise capacity and, in some cases, haemodynamics. Our cases also highlight practical aspects of Selexipag use including targeting the individualized maximally tolerated dose for each patient, managing side effects and managing dose interruptions.

scholarly journals EXPRESS: The transition from Parenteral Prostacyclins to Selexipag: Safety and Feasibility in Select Patients

2021 ◽  
pp. 204589402110366
Author(s):  
Nael Aldweib ◽  
Nate Verlinden ◽  
Hayah Kassis-george ◽  
Amresh Raina
Keyword(s):  
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Arterial Hypertension ◽  
Case Series ◽  
Outpatient Setting ◽  
Limited Data ◽  
Standardized Protocol ◽  
Pulmonary Arterial

There is limited data regarding the feasibility of transitioning from intravenous prostacyclins to selexipag in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) patients. We present a case series of successful transitions from intravenous prostacyclins to selexipag in the majority of carefully selected five stable PAH patients using a standardized protocol in the outpatient setting.

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