Multiple cerebral mycotic aneurysms due to left atrial myxoma: are there any pitfalls for the cardiac surgeon?

Acute cerebral embolism or cerebral aneurysm formation as a consequence of left atrial myxomas has been well documented, but the formation of multiple cerebral aneurysms resulting from atrial myxoma is a very rare neurological complication. We present the case of a 72-year-old-woman with a cardiac myxoma who suffered multiple cerebral mycotic aneurysms. After experiencing both vertigo and a sudden collapse accompanied by loss of consciousness, she underwent cerebral computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations, which revealed multiple cerebral mycotic aneurysms of various dimensions and a large cyst, as a result of a previous haemorrhage.

Congenital hypopituitarism: monitoring after coronary artery bypass grafting.

Cardiovascular disease in patients with congenital hypopituitarism is not rare; however, there is a lack of reports referring to cardiac interventions in such patients. We present a 76-year-old man with complete pituitary hormone deficiency, who presented with recurrent events of unstable angina. He had a significant stenosis of the left anterior descending artery and he underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass.

Is there any difference in carotid stenosis between male and female patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting?

Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death in women. Significant gender differences have been reported among patients with symptomatic carotid artery disease. The aim of this study is to examine if the female sex is a predisposing factor for carotid stenosis in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) patients.

Circulating matrix metalloproteinase 3 due to myocardial ischemia.

Background: Experimental data suggest that matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) such as MMP-3 have a central role in the remodeling period after a myocardial infarction (MI). The aim of this study was to use an experimental small-animal model to investigate the fluctuation in MMP-3 levels occurring in vivo after an acute MI.

Methods: We studied 13 New Zealand white rabbits weighing between 3 and 4 kg.