Nonplatelet thromboxane generation is associated with impaired cardiovascular performance and mortality in heart failure.

Nonplatelet thromboxane generation, stimulated largely by oxidative stress, is a novel mortality risk factor in individuals with coronary artery disease. Though inversely associated with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), a potential role in the pathobiology of heart failure (HF) remains poorly defined. Nonplatelet thromboxane generation and oxidative stress were assessed by measuring urine thromboxane-B metabolites (TXB-M) and 8-isoPGF by ELISA in 105 subjects taking aspirin and undergoing right heart catheterization for evaluation of HF, valve disease, or after transplantation.

Hemodynamic evaluation of suspected severe aortic stenosis leads to a diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma.

The evaluation of aortic stenosis is not always straightforward. When symptoms of severe aortic stenosis are present with supporting Doppler echocardiographic or cardiac catheterization data, replacement of the aortic valve is recommended. Occasionally, Doppler- and catheter-derived data are discordant; appropriate treatment in such cases becomes less clear.

Ventricular noncompaction and associated cardiac anomalies.

An 80-year-old woman was referred for transcatheter aortic valve implantation for correction of aortic stenosis. An echocardiogram at the author's institution revealed severe hypertrophy of the left ventricle with deep recesses into the myocardium and hypokinesis involving the left ventricular apex. In addition, there was subaortic stenosis secondary to a muscular ridge.