Abstract Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a public health issue in developing countries. Effective teaching and training are vital for healthcare professionals to provide adequate care for critically ill cardiac children, but there are many obstacles to adequately training a cohort of healthcare professionals in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), where education practice is not always aligned with current education evidence. Work overload, time constraints, language, and the healthcare structure itself hinder standardization of an optimal training process for this […]

Abstract Several anthropometric parameters have been proposed as indicators of health conditions. Some have achieved wide acceptance and applicability. Others, although grounded in solid theoretical frameworks and demonstrating good diagnostic validity, have not gained the same level of recognition. These are referred to here as “unconventional anthropometric indicators”. This article aims to provide a descriptive and conceptual synthesis of these measures, addressing their nuances and applicability. It is a narrative review that discusses the following indicators: Head-to-height index (HHI), Waist-to-Height […]

Abstract Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have significantly enhanced the efficiency and quality of nuclear cardiology imaging. AI algorithms, such as generative adversarial networks (GAN) and deep learning (DL) models, are improving image acquisition by reducing noise and correcting motion to minimize radiation exposure while maintaining diagnostic accuracy. AI has also demonstrated the potential to create synthetic attenuation correction (AC) imaging, accounting for soft-tissue attenuation without added computed tomography (CT) imaging. In patients with CT attenuation imaging, AI can […]

Abstract Hypertensive emergencies (HE) are life-threatening conditions triggered by sudden increases in blood pressure (BP) exceeding 180 mmHg systolic and/or 110 mmHg diastolic levels, often resulting in acute organ damage (AOD) and the risk of death. This article discusses contemporary practices in diagnosing and managing these episodes, emphasizing early recognition and immediate therapeutic intervention. It highlights the significance of a meticulous diagnostic assessment for appropriate clinical and therapeutic approaches, including detailed medical history, physical examination, and complementary investigations. Treatment focuses […]

Abstract Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are associated with considerable morbidity and mortality across the world. The global financial burden caused by CVD emphasizes the importance of preventive strategies and appropriate management. Chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) is a new term recently introduced for stable coronary artery disease (CAD), which is associated with the highest cause-specific mortality in the Indian population. CCS adversely affects the quality of life (QoL) due to anxiety, fatigue, and prolonged disease course. Risk factor modification, adaptation to lifestyle […]

Abstract Amyloidosis is caused by the extracellular deposition of insoluble protein arrangements, formed from structural changes in different precursor proteins. The prominent clinical and epidemiological relevance of transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM), whose increased incidence is associated with the aging of the global population, given its high prevalence in the elderly population, has motivated the intensification of the search for specific therapeutic targets capable of altering the natural course of the disease. The past few years have been especially prolific with […]

Abstract The ability to measure myocardial blood flow (MBF) offers significant advantages in interpreting the phenomena underlying myocardial ischemia. Nuclear cardiology using hybrid positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) systems allows accurate measurement of MBF using noninvasive techniques. Short- or very short-lived radiopharmaceuticals are now available, as well as standardized analytical models and software for clinical use. The incremental value of quantitative measurement of MBF in the pathophysiologic assessment of ischemic heart disease compared with anatomic variables or qualitative or semi-quantitative […]

Abstract Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is an infiltrative cardiomyopathy that affects the heart mostly in two forms: immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis (AL-CM) and transthyretin amyloidosis. Transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) predominantly affects the elderly population, mainly men (about 70-80%), and usually manifests with symptoms of heart failure (HF). Despite technological advances in medicine, CA is still an underdiagnosed condition, especially in women, partly due to the known male predominance and high level of suspicion required for diagnosis. It is important to remember […]

Abstract Amyloidosis results from deposition of insoluble fibrillar protein compounds in various organs, including the heart. Cardiac involvement occurs in both atria and ventricles, leading to restrictive cardiomyopathy, heart failure (HF), and arrhythmias. Five amyloid proteins affect cardiac tissue: light and heavy chain forms of immunoglobulin, transthyretin (TTR), apolipoprotein 1, and amyloid A. Approximately 95% of cardiac involvement stems from light chain of immunoglobulin and TTR deposition in heart. Chamber stiffness and rhythm disturbances occur in cardiac amyloidosis (CA), encompassing […]

Abstract Introduction Chagas’ Disease is responsible for a high rate of morbimortality in Brazil however its real relevance on the maternal mortality is unknown. Objective The aim of this study is to review the literature on the impact of Chagas’ Disease on the Brazilian maternal mortality during the pregnancy-puerperal cycle. Method A review of literature was conducted to identify publications about maternal mortality and Chagas’ Disease. Documents were also searched in the websites of the Brazilian Ministry of Health, World […]