Speckle-tracking strain assessment of left ventricular dysfunction in synthetic cannabinoid and heroin users
The Anatolian Journal of Cardiology, vol.19, no.6, pp.388-393, 2018 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus, TRDizin)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 19 Issue: 6
- Publication Date: 2018
- Doi Number: 10.14744/anatoljcardiol.2018.76429
- Journal Name: The Anatolian Journal of Cardiology
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
- Page Numbers: pp.388-393
- Trakya University Affiliated: No
Abstract
Objective: There is growing evidence regarding the numerous adverse effects of synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs) on the cardiovascular system;however, no studies have shown the cardiovascular effects of opioids using strain echocardiography. This study examines the cardiac structureand function using echocardiographic strain imaging in heroin and synthetic cannabinoid users.Methods: This double-blind study included patients who were admitted or referred to a rehabilitation center for heroin (n=31) and synthetic cannabinoid users (n=30). Heroin users and synthetic cannabinoid users were compared with healthy volunteers (n=32) using two-dimensional (2D) speckle-tracking (ST) echocardiography.Results: No differences were found in the baseline characteristics and 2D echocardiography values. The mean global longitudinal strain value was −20.5%±2.4% for SCB users, −22.3%±2.4% for opioid users, and −22.5%±2.2% for healthy volunteers (p=0.024). The mean apical 2-chamber (AP2C) L-strain values were −20.1%±3.1%, −22.4%±3.0%, and −22.3%±2.8% for SCB users, opioid users, and healthy volunteers, respectively (p=0.032). The mean apical 4-chamber (AP4C) L-strain values were −20.7%±2.5% for SCB users, −23.2%±3.2% for opioid users, and −23.8%±3.1% for healthy volunteers (p<0.001). Conclusion: SCBs are potential causes of subclinical left ventricular dysfunction.