Continuing Education Activity

Heart failure (HF) is a prevalent and potentially life-threatening condition when not addressed. This article strives to delineate the various forms of heart failure, elucidating the stages, types of HF, and methods of diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, it underscores the significance of an interprofessional approach that includes patients, physicians, nurses, families, and caretakers.

Objectives:

• Describe the different types and stages of heart failure.

• Identify the etiologies, epidemiology, clinical symptoms, and signs of heart failure.

• Highlight the significance of diverse therapeutic approaches in managing heart failure, including non-medical, medical, and interventional therapies.

• Outline the importance of the interprofessional team to improve outcomes and enhance care delivery in patients affected by heart failure.

Introduction

Heart failure (HF) remains a prevailing cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality globally despite advancements in therapies and preventive measures. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 6.7 million individuals aged 20 or older in the United States are affected by HF. It is anticipated that the prevalence of HF will increase to 8.5 million Americans by 2030.

Definition of Heart Failure

HF is a multifaceted clinical syndrome arising from functional or structural impairment in the filling or ejection of blood by the ventricles, leading to a diverse range of symptoms.

American College of Cardiology/ American Heart Association Stages of Heart Failure

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association (AHA) have outlined stages of heart failure to classify the progression and severity of the condition (Table 1. ACC/AHA Stages of Heart Failure).[1] 

Patients who have resolved symptoms and signs of HF with persistent left ventricular dysfunction are categorized as stage C and should receive appropriate treatment. If all HF symptoms, signs, and structural abnormalities completely resolve, the patient is deemed to be in remission from HF.

Table 1. ACC/AHA Stages of Heart Failure

Classification of Heart Failure by Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction

Patients with HF are frequently classified by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).[1] This classification system acknowledges the different prognoses and responses to guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) for patients with heart failure. The 2022 AHA/ACC/Heart Failure Society of America (HSFA) Guideline for the Management of Heart Failure identifies 4 classes of HF by LVEF (Table 2. Classification of Heart Failure by Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction).

Table 2. Classification of Heart Failure by Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction 

New York Heart Association Classification of Heart Failure

The NYHA classification of HF is a subjective evaluation by a clinician to delineate the functional capacity and symptoms of individuals diagnosed with ACC/AHA stage C or D heart failure. Serving as an independent predictor of mortality, the NYHA Classification is employed in clinical settings to assess the appropriateness of therapeutic interventions for patients in stage C or D of heart failure.[1] The 4 NYHA heart failure classes are:

• Class I (Mild HF): No restrictions in physical activity. Ordinary physical activity does not induce undue fatigue, palpitations, or dyspnea.
• Class II (Mild-to-Moderate HF): Slight limitations in physical activity. Comfortable at rest, but ordinary activities result in fatigue, palpitations, or dyspnea. 
• Class III (Moderate-to-Severe HF): Significant restrictions in physical activity. Comfortable at rest, but less than ordinary activities lead to fatigue, palpitations, or dyspnea. 
• Class IV (Severe HF): Unable to engage in physical activity without discomfort. Symptoms of heart failure are present at rest, and any physical activity exacerbates the discomfort.

Etiology

The etiology of HF will vary among LVEF classifications. The etiology of HF may be multifactorial, and individual cases may have multiple contributing factors.

Etiologies of HFrEF: Common causes of HFrEF include myocardial infarction, ischemic heart disease, dilated cardiomyopathy, and viral infections affecting the heart muscle. Other contributing factors may include hypertension, valvular heart disease, and genetic predisposition.

Etiologies of HFmrEF: The etiologies of HFmrEF are similar to HFrEF and HFpEF. Causes of HFmrEF may include a combination of myocardial infarction, ischemic heart disease, and underlying structural heart abnormalities that fall between those seen in HFrEF and HFpEF.

Etiologies of HFpEF: Common causes of HFpEF include hypertension, atrial fibrillation, age-related cardiac changes, and underlying structural heart abnormalities such as hypertensive heart disease. Other contributing factors may include diabetes, obesity, and chronic kidney disease.

Other possible nonischemic etiologies of HF include:

• Cardiotoxic medications, including some chemotherapeutic medications
• Rheumatological or autoimmune diseases
• Endocrinopathies, including thyroid disease, acromegaly, pheochromocytoma, and diabetes
• Obesity
• Familial, genetic, or heritable cardiomyopathies and cardiac diseases
• Dysrhythmias, including tachycardias, right-ventricular pacing, or frequent premature ventricular contractions
• Hypotension
• Infiltrative cardiac diseases, including sarcoidosis, Fabry disease, hemochromatosis, and amyloidosis
• Myocarditis of any etiology
• Peripartum cardiomyopathy
• Stress cardiomyopathy such as Takotsubo and reverse Takotsubo cardiomyopathies
• Substance misuse, including alcohol, cocaine, and methamphetamines
• Congenital heart disease
• Pulmonary hypertension causing right HF
• Pulmonary embolism causing right HF.

Epidemiology

HF is a significant public health problem with a prevalence of over 5.8 to 6.5 million in the U.S.[2][3] and around 26 million worldwide.[4] The expectation is that 8 million people in the United States will have this condition by 2030, accounting for a 46% increase in prevalence.[5]  At age 45 years, the lifetime risks for HF through age 75 or 95 years were 30% to 42% in white men, 20% to 29% in black men, 32% to 39% in white women, and 24% to 46% in black and higher BP and BMI at all ages led to higher lifetime risks.[6] The increase in HF prevalence does not necessarily have links with an increase in HF incidence. The aging of the population and modern therapies for cardiac patients that led to increased survival could explain the increase in prevalence even with a reduction in the incidence.[7] Information collected during the second 25-year period of the Framingham Heart Study reveals that the lifetime risk of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) is estimated at around 19.3%. This surpasses the approximate 11.4% lifetime risk associated with Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF). Notably, this trend appears more pronounced in women, with an apparent lifetime risk of HFpEF at 10.7%, compared to 5.8% for HFrEF. Additionally, these risks demonstrate variability based on ethnicity. Between 13% and 24% of patients with HF have HFmrEF.[8][9]

Pathophysiology

Heart failure is a complex clinical syndrome that occurs when the heart is unable to pump or receive blood effectively, leading to inadequate perfusion of organs and tissues. The pathophysiology of heart failure involves various mechanisms, and it often develops as a result of underlying cardiovascular diseases or conditions that strain the heart. 

Following the initiation triggered by various risk factors such as coronary artery disease, tachyarrhythmias, valvular heart disease, myocarditis, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes, a cascade of mechanisms unfolds within the heart. Activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, stimulation of the sympathetic adrenergic system, vasopressin secretion through beta receptor mediation leading to excessive water absorption, persistent elevation of inflammatory markers resulting in fibrosis, maladaptive intracellular calcium handling, ATP-related energy depletion, and increased production of reactive oxygen species collectively exert detrimental effects on the left ventricle. (Figure 1)

Conversely, pathways involving natriuretic peptides and positive adaptations in intracellular calcium handling exhibit protective effects on the left ventricle. These mechanisms collectively impose strain on the heart, giving rise to the phenotypic expression of the heart failure spectrum. This expression manifests as changes in ventricular preload or afterload, variations in inotropy (increased or decreased contractility), lusitropy (the ability of the ventricle to relax), and chronotropy (heart rate regulation), ultimately resulting in permanent morphological alterations in the left ventricle.

In heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, the left ventricle enlarges and weakens, and the pressure-volume relationship reveals a reduction in stroke volume, an elevation in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, and an increase in left ventricular end-diastolic volume. Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction is associated with hypertrophy and abnormal lusitropy, and the pressure-volume relationship indicates an elevation in end-diastolic pressure along with a reduction in stroke volume and left ventricular end-diastolic volume.

Histopathology

Common histopathological findings in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction include fibrosis, hypertrophy, inflammation, and amyloidosis. Identifying amyloid traditionally involves Congo red staining, although its effectiveness varies based on staining quality and laboratory expertise. Crystal violet is an alternative stain that offers more consistency and better visibility under conventional light microscopy.

In glycogen storage disorders, enlarged myocytes with cytoplasmic vacuoles containing glycogen are observed, highlighted by periodic acid–shiff staining. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is characterized by myocyte disarray, requiring at least 20% of the overall section area for diagnosis. This condition presents with haphazardly arranged myocytes or myofiber bundles and increased interstitial fibrosis.

Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction is most commonly caused by coronary artery disease. Following myocardial infarction, histologic changes, including interstitial edema, can be appreciated within 4-12 hours. Early ischemia, characterized by a neutrophilic inflammatory cell infiltrate, occurs in the first 72 hours. The subsequent stage (three to five days) involves the removal of myocytes, replaced by lymphocytes, pigment-laden histiocytes, and myofibroblasts. Two to four weeks post-infarction, collagen deposition increases, and inflammation decreases. By one to two months, dense collagen scar forms, and residual inflammatory cells are minimal.

In nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy, microscopic findings include nonspecific myocyte hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis. Sarcoidosis exhibits patchy mononuclear inflammatory infiltrates with noncaseating granulomas, often amidst prominent myocardial fibrosis. Lyme carditis is characterized by a perivascular pattern of inflammation, resembling a "road map" and a cellular composition of lymphohistiocytic with frequent plasma cells. Giant cell myocarditis pathology involves florid myocarditis with lymphocytes, histiocytes, and multinucleated giant cells, with numerous eosinophils distinguishing it from sarcoidosis. Myocarditis histopathology involves inflammation associated with myocyte injury and various cellular compositions, including lymphocyte-predominant, lymphohistiocytic, or mixed cellular patterns with eosinophils and/or neutrophils.[10]

History and Physical

A comprehensive history and physical examination are essential for all patients suspected of having heart failure (HF), as the diagnosis relies heavily on clinical symptoms and signs. This evaluation should encompass an analysis of risk factors and potential causes of HF. Regardless of ejection fraction (EF), HF symptoms exhibit similarities.

Symptoms of Heart Failure:

• Shortness of breath, orthopnea, and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea
• Persistent cough or wheezing
• Edema (generalized or lower extremity)
• Fatigue and Tiredness
• Lack of appetite and nausea
• Confusion and  impaired thinking
• Palpitations

Signs of Heart Failure:

• Pulses alternans
• Elevated jugular venous pressure
• Displaced LV apex beat
• Cardiac cachexia
• Sinus tachycardia
• Right ventricular heave
• Bilateral rales/ crepitations or a cardiac wheeze on lung exam
• Presence of S3
• Pitting edema in dependent areas
• Tender hepatomegaly
• Ascites

Regular assessment of HF symptoms and signs during clinic visits is crucial for monitoring therapy response and stability. Vital signs and volume status should be evaluated at each visit to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the patient's condition.

Evaluation

Following the initial assessment through a detailed history and physical examination, it is advisable to incorporate further diagnostic investigations. These may include an electrocardiogram, complete blood count, and a comprehensive metabolic panel encompassing liver function tests, electrolytes, and renal function tests. Additionally, considering urinalysis, lipid panel, hemoglobin A1c, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and iron studies can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the patient's health.

For a more in-depth cardiac evaluation, essential labs involve measuring NT pro-brain natriuretic peptide and brain natriuretic peptide. An NT-pro-brain natriuretic peptide exceeding 125 pg/ml and a brain natriuretic peptide equal to or greater than 35 pg/ml are reliable indicators for assessing heart failure. A transthoracic echocardiogram is crucial for assessing left ventricular ejection fraction, while a chest x-ray proves beneficial when suspecting pulmonary vascular congestion. If a transthoracic echocardiogram doesn't suffice for evaluating left ventricular function, alternative modalities like cardiac MRI, cardiac CT angiogram, or radionuclide imaging should be considered. (Figure 2)[11]

Further specialized tests may be warranted when classifying heart failure based on ejection fraction. These include a stress echocardiogram, exercise treadmill stress test, cardiac CT angiogram or nuclear imaging and a coronary angiogram for suspected ischemia, a polysomnogram for suspected sleep apnea, an autoimmune panel for autoimmune diseases, genetic counseling and testing for familial cardiomyopathy (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy, arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia, isolated noncompaction cardiomyopathy), 24-hour blood pressure monitoring for hypertensive cardiomyopathy, and heart rhythm monitoring for arrhythmias.

Other diagnostic tools involve a transesophageal echocardiogram for valvular heart disease, cardiac MRI for structural heart disease, urine toxicology for drug abuse-related cardiomyopathy, and endocardial biopsy for giant cell myocarditis. Performing right heart catheterization and cardiopulmonary exercise testing frequently provides vital information for managing heart failure. Serum and urine immunofixation with a technetium 99 pyrophosphate scan for cardiac amyloidosis. Additionally, urine or serum HCG can be employed to evaluate heart failure further. (Figure 2)

Treatment / Management

Table 3.

 Pharmacologic therapy for Heart Failure (HFrEF, HFmrEF, and HFpEF)

1. Beta-blockers (Class I) reverse sympathetic activation in HFrEF, improving survival, reducing heart failure hospitalizations, and increasing left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Randomized controlled trials support Carvedilol, metoprolol succinate, and bisoprolol.
2. Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) sacubitril/valsartan demonstrated reduced cardiovascular and all-cause mortality in HFrEF compared to enalapril in the Prospective Comparison of ARNI with ACE-I to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and Morbidity in Heart Failure (PARADIGM-HF) trial. In a predefined subgroup analysis of participants in the Prospective Comparison of ARNI with ARB Global Outcomes in HFpEF (PARAGON-HF), it was found that sacubitril-valsartan, in comparison to valsartan alone, not only decreased the overall risk of heart failure-related hospitalizations but exhibited a more pronounced reduction in women with HFpEF compared to men. The average left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in the study participants was 57%. It is indicated for symptomatic HFrEF, HFmrEF, and HFpEF.
3. ACE inhibitors (ACEi) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) (Class IA) are the primary therapies for chronic heart failure. ACE inhibitors inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), preventing the formation of angiotensin II, leading to natriuresis, diuresis, and a reduction in arterial blood pressure, subsequently reducing afterload. Numerous clinical trials demonstrated survival benefits and reduced hospitalization in chronic symptomatic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). While ARBs may be considered in patients intolerant to ACE inhibitors.  ARB is beneficial in HFmrEF and HFpEF. However, there is no substantial evidence to support ACEI benefit in HFpEF. The routine combination of ACEi and ARB is not recommended.
4. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) (Class 1A recommendation for HFrEF, Class 2A recommendation for HFpEF and HFmrEF) have shown positive results in reducing HF hospitalization and mortality. Contraindications include symptomatic hypotension, SBP <95 mmHg, and eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m².
5. Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) are indicated for NYHA class II-IV patients with EF ≤35%, stable serum creatinine, eGFR >30 mL/min/1.73 m², and stable serum potassium <5.0 mEq/L.  It is also beneficial in HFmrEF and HFpEF.
6. Nitrates plus hydralazine (Class IA) decrease afterload and preload, which is beneficial for African American patients with NYHA class III-IV HFrEF receiving optimal medical therapy (OMT).
7. Ivabradine reduces the risk of HF hospitalization in symptomatic HFrEF patients with EF <35%, sinus rhythm, and resting heart rate >70 bpm on the maximum tolerated beta-blocker dose.
8. Vericiguat diminishes heart failure hospitalizations in individuals with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and heart failure with mid-range ejection fraction (HFmrEF) if they meet the criteria of NYHA II-IV, LVEF ≤45, recent heart failure hospitalization or intravenous diuretics usage, or elevated B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels.
9. Digoxin (Class IIA) reduces HFrEF hospitalization but does not improve survival.
10. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are recommended in HfrEF patients with NYHA class II-IV.
11.   Potassium binders are recommended in HFrEF patients with hyperkalemia while on ARNi/ACEI/ARB.
12.  Diuretics recommended in any heart failure with symptoms and signs suggestive of volume overload.  It relieves congestion, improve symptoms, and prevents worsening of heart failure. Loop diuretics are preferred over thiazide diuretics, with no discernible scientific evidence favoring one loop diuretic over another in heart failure patients.

Medications to be avoided in heart failure include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), COX-2 inhibitors, calcium channel blockers (CCB) (except amlodipine and felodipine), thiazolidinediones (TZDs), the addition of an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) to an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEi), dronedarone, metformin, and cilostazol, etc.,

 Non-pharmacologic therapy for Heart Failure (HFrEF, HFmrEF, and HFpEF)

• Management of chronic heart failure requires a multidisciplinary approach, which requires primary care, general cardiology, interventional Cardiology, pulmonology-sleep medicine, cardiac rehabilitation, nurse, dietitian, and heart failure specialists.
• Nonpharmacological approaches are essential, such as lifestyle modifications, including a heart-healthy lifestyle, a low-sodium diet (less than 2 to 2.5 grams/day), regular exercise, and weight management.
• Exercise training, exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation, and weight management improved functional status, exercise performance, heart failure-specific hospitalization, and quality of life in patients with heart failure.
• Heart failure long-term management primarily depends on managing comorbidities like hypertension, diabetes, arrhythmia (eg: atrial fibrillation), obesity, coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease and sleep apnea.
• Genetic screening and counseling are recommended in first-degree relatives of patients with genetic or inherited cardiomyopathies.[40]

Non-surgical interventions

• These include implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). Before proceeding with device therapy, patients should be treated with Guideline Directed Medical Therapy (GDMT)for at least three months and reassess the LVEF. If EF remains less than or equal to 35% with a reasonable expectation of meaningful survival for more than 1 year, the recommendation is a referral for device therapy.

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)

• ACC/AHA 2013 guidelines [41] recommend ICD for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death for non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM) or ischemic CMP (ICM) at least 40 days post-MI on chronic goal-directed medical therapy (GDMT) with either LVEF ≤ 35% and NYHA class II or III symptoms or LVEF ≤ 30% and NYHA class I symptom.
• ESC 2016 guidelines [42] recommend ICD for primary prevention in symptomatic HF (NYHA II-III) with LVEF ≤ 35% despite ≥ three months of GDMT in ICM (IA) or NIDCM.

Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT)

• ACC/AHA 2013 guidelines recommend CRT for patients with HF with sinus rhythm, LVEF ≤ 35%, left bundle branch block (LBBB) with QRS duration ≥ 150 ms, and NYHA class II to ambulatory IV on GDMT. 
• ESC 2016 guidelines recommend CRT for symptomatic HF with sinus rhythm and LVEF ≤ 35% despite GDMT with LBBB with QRSd ≥ 150 ms or 130 to 149 ms. 

Invasive therapies

• Coronary revascularization is indicated for patients with HF (HFpEF, HFrEF, or HFmrEF) on GDMT with angina and suitable coronary anatomy.[43]
• The utilization of the CardioMEMS pulmonary artery pressure hemodynamic monitoring system enhances the quality of life. It reduces hospitalizations in individuals with heart failure and recurrent hospitalizations. Furthermore, the use of CardioMEMS has demonstrated improvements in underlying metabolic comorbidities concurrent with enhancements in pulmonary artery pressures.
• Transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair proves advantageous for individuals classified under NYHA class II-IV, presenting severe secondary mitral regurgitation with suitable anatomy and left ventricular ejection fraction ranging from 20-50%, a left ventricular end-systolic diameter less than 7 cm, and a pulmonary artery systolic pressure below 70 mmHg.
• Catheter ablation- pulmonary venous isolation is indicated in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction associated with symptoms attributable to atrial fibrillation.

Surgical treatment of HF

• Surgical interventions for heart failure are typically reserved for more advanced cases when medical treatments alone prove inadequate. Among the surgical options for managing heart failure is Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG), employed in cases of coronary artery disease (CAD) with heart failure. Another surgical approach involves the repair or replacement of damaged heart valves, aiming to enhance the heart's functionality. This procedure focuses on addressing issues with heart valves, ultimately contributing to improved cardiac function.
• Despite the advances in the medical management of HF, there are some circumstances in which surgery is the best treatment option. Surgical approaches to HF treatment include heart transplantation and procedures that reshape the heart, repair the heart, or replace all or part of the heart function. The basis for any decision to surgically treat HF depends on functional status, prognosis, and severity of the underlying HF and comorbidities. It should take place in centers with multidisciplinary medical and surgical teams.  

Heart Transplantation

• According to Heart Failure Society of America (HFSA) 2010 heart failure guidelines, it is recommended to evaluate patients for heart transplantation in severe HF, debilitating refractory symptoms, ventricular arrhythmia, or congenital heart disease that remains uncontrolled despite drug, device, or alternative surgical therapy (strength of evidence B).[44] Data from the registry of the International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation indicates a current 1-year survival of 84.5% and 5-year survival of 72.5%; subsequently, survival decreases linearly by approximately 3.4% per year.[45]

Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs)

• Blood is extracted from the failing ventricle and directed into a pump that channels the blood to either the aorta (in the case of left ventricular failure and LVAD) or the pulmonary artery (in the case of right ventricle failure and RVAD). Devices designed for this process include the left ventricular assist device (LVAD), right ventricular assist device (RVAD), or biventricular assist device (BiVAD). The BiVAD is inserted into the left ventricle, drawing blood from it and expelling it into the ascending aorta. These ventricular assist devices (VADs) serve as bridge therapy to heart transplantation in refractory stage D heart failure, as recommended by the ACCF/AHA, ESC, and HFSA guidelines. Alternatively, they may be used as destination therapy when the patient is not a candidate for heart transplantation. In such cases, LVADs as destination therapy have shown superiority over medical therapy, as demonstrated by the Randomized Evaluation of Mechanical Assistance for the Treatment of Congestive Heart Failure (REMATCH) trial.[41][46][44][45][47]

Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (ADHF) 

If clinical and hemodynamic indicators suggest cardiogenic shock, a multidisciplinary shock team assessment, and intervention have demonstrated improvements in 30-day all-cause mortality and reduced in-hospital mortality. The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) has proposed a classification system for cardiogenic shock, which categorizes patients into different stages based on the severity of their condition.

• Stage A: At Risk

  • Patients at risk for cardiogenic shock due to a medical condition but without evidence of hypoperfusion.
  • Cardiac power output (CPO), pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi), Lactate, and blood pressure within normal limits.

• Stage B: Beginning

  • Patients with evidence of hypoperfusion (such as elevated lactate) but without hypotension.
  • Early stages of cardiogenic shock with compensatory mechanisms still maintain blood pressure.
  • Cardiac power output (CPO), pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi), and blood pressure within normal limits. Lactate ↑.

• Stage C: Classic

  • Patients with hypoperfusion and hypotension despite adequate fluid resuscitation.
  • This represents classic cardiogenic shock with overt signs of circulatory failure.
  • Cardiac power output (CPO) ↓ or pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi) ↓. Blood pressure ↓. Lactate↑.

• Stage D: Deteriorating

  • Patients with refractory shock despite initial treatment measures.
  • Includes those who require advanced hemodynamic support, such as mechanical circulatory support devices.
  • Cardiac power output (CPO) ↓ or pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi) ↓. Blood pressure ↓. Lactate↑.

• Stage E: Extremis

  • Patients in profound refractory shock with multiorgan failure.
  • This represents the most severe stage of cardiogenic shock.
  • Cardiac power output (CPO) ↓ or pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi) ↓. Blood pressure ↓. Lactate↑.

The SCAI Stages of Cardiogenic Shock provide a framework for clinicians to categorize and manage patients based on the severity of their condition. The goal is to guide appropriate interventions and support strategies tailored to each stage.

The Forrester Classification is a system used to categorize patients with acute myocardial infarction based on their hemodynamic profile. These hemodynamic profiles help guide therapeutic decisions, such as using inotropic agents, vasopressors, and other interventions to improve cardiac output and address volume status. The classification system helps clinicians tailor their approach to the specific hemodynamic characteristics of the patient. (Figure 3)

In the management of cardiogenic shock, right heart catheterization plays a crucial role. If there is a reduction in cardiac power output (CPO) or pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi), the consideration of inotropic agents such as Milrinone or Dobutamine with or without mechanical ventricular assisted device is warranted. In cases where CPO or PAPi and blood pressure are decreased, a combination of vasopressors (such as Norepinephrine or Epinephrine) and inotropic agents with or without mechanical ventricular-assisted device is recommended. This approach addresses compromised cardiac function and optimizes hemodynamics for effective shock management and correction of precipitating factors like arrhythmias and ischemia.

Key components of therapy for patients experiencing acute decompensated Heart Failure without shock include appropriate ventilatory support and diuresis. Generally, loop diuretics are favored over thiazide diuretics, with no discernible scientific evidence favoring one loop diuretic over another in acutely decompensated heart failure patients. The Diuretic Optimization Strategies Evaluation (DOSE) trial found no clinically significant differences in symptomatic improvement between bolus and continuous intravenous loop diuretics. Some cases may necessitate a combination of diuretic classes, such as thiazide, thiazide-like, or acetazolamide. It is important to note that adding metolazone increases the risk of adverse outcomes compared to loop diuretics alone. Conversely, the Acetazolamide in Decompensated Heart Failure with Volume OveRload (ADVOR) trial demonstrated that adding acetazolamide to loop diuretics increases the incidence of successful decongestion in patients with acute heart failure within 3 days compared to placebo.

After the initial stabilization of hemodynamics and ventilation, the paramount consideration is the assessment and management of ischemia, arrhythmias, and other precipitating factors and comorbidities. Urgent revascularization is recommended in cases of acute coronary syndrome. For patients with hypertensive urgency or emergency and pulmonary edema, intravenous or topical nitroglycerin is the preferred choice, as it aids in decreasing preload in patients with pulmonary edema.

Short-term renal replacement therapy or ultrafiltration should be contemplated for symptomatic hypervolemic patients with poor renal function and minimal urine output, irrespective of supportive therapy and stable hemodynamics. Patients with poor baseline renal function or end-stage renal disease are at a significantly heightened risk of requiring renal replacement therapy.

Initiating angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), angiotensin receptor-Naprosyn inhibitors (ARNIs), mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) therapy, or beta-blockers early in stabilized acute decompensated heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and heart failure with mid-range ejection fraction (HFmrEF) patients before hospital discharge offers some benefits. However, these medications are not recommended for use in unstable patients experiencing acutely decompensated heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Thiazolidinediones and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors like sitagliptin or saxagliptin are contraindicated in cases of acutely decompensated heart failure.

Differential Diagnosis

The diagnosis of heart failure is mostly clinical, as mentioned above, but many other medical conditions can cause the same signs and symptoms. There is a broad differential diagnosis of heart failure, which includes but is not limited to bacterial pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), liver cirrhosis, acute kidney injury, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, nephrotic syndrome, pulmonary embolism respiratory failure, primary pulmonary hypertension, anemia, and venous insufficiency.

• Acute kidney injury
• Bacterial pneumonia
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome
• Cardiogenic pulmonary edema
• Interstitial (non-idiopathic) pulmonary fibrosis
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Cirrhosis
• Goodpasture syndrome
• Community-acquired pneumonia
• Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
• Myocardial infarction
• Pulmonary embolism
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Neurogenic pulmonary edema
• Pneumothorax
• Respiratory failure
• Viral pneumonia
• Venous insufficiency

Treatment Planning

Table 4.

Toxicity and Adverse Effect Management

Heart failure medications can be associated with various complications or side effects. It's important to note that the benefits of these medications often outweigh the potential risks, and individual responses can vary. Here are some potential complications associated with commonly prescribed heart failure medications:

1. ACE Inhibitors (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors):

   • Cough: ACE inhibitors may cause a persistent dry cough in some individuals.
   • Hyperkalemia: These medications can lead to elevated potassium levels in the blood.
   • Hypotension: ACE inhibitors can cause low blood pressure, especially when initiating treatment or increasing the dosage.

2. ARBs (Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers):

   • Hyperkalemia: Similar to ACE inhibitors, ARBs can increase potassium levels.
   • Hypotension: ARBs may lead to low blood pressure, particularly at the beginning of treatment.

3. Beta-Blockers:

   • Bradycardia: Beta-blockers can slow the heart rate, leading to bradycardia.
   • Hypotension: These medications may cause low blood pressure.
   • Fatigue: Some individuals may experience fatigue or weakness.

4. Diuretics:

   • Electrolyte Imbalance: Diuretics can lead to electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium levels (hypokalemia).
   • Dehydration: Excessive diuretic use may result in dehydration.
   • Renal Impairment: Long-term use of diuretics can affect kidney function.

5.  Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (Spironolactone, Eplerenone):

   • Hyperkalemia: Aldosterone antagonists can cause an increase in potassium levels.
   • Renal Impairment: These medications may impact kidney function.

6. ARNIs (Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitors):

   • Hypotension: ARNIs may lead to low blood pressure.
   • Hyperkalemia: They can cause an elevation in potassium levels.

7. Hydralazine and Isosorbide Dinitrate:

   • Headache: Combination therapy may cause headaches.
   • Fluid Retention: Fluid retention may occur.

8. Digoxin:

   • Arrhythmias: Digoxin can increase the risk of arrhythmias, especially at higher levels.
   • Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea and vomiting.

9. SGLT2 Inhibitors (Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors):

   • Genital Infections: SGLT2 inhibitors are associated with an increased risk of genital infections.
   • Hypotension: These medications may lead to low blood pressure.

10. Ivabradine:

    • Bradycardia: Ivabradine can cause a reduction in heart rate.
    • Phosphenes (Visual Phenomena): Some individuals may experience visual disturbances.

Individuals taking heart failure medications should report any new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly. Adjustments in medication dosages or alternative therapies may be considered to minimize complications.

Prognosis

• The Seattle Heart Failure Model, CHARM Risk Score, CORONA Risk Score, and MAGGIC Risk Score are predictive tools applicable to all cases of chronic heart failure. For heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), risk assessment tools like PARADIGM-HF, HF-ACTION, GUIDE-IT, and TOPCAT risk scores are commonly used. In the context of chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), the I-PRESERVE Score and TOPCAT Risk Score are relevant. For acute decompensated heart failure, outcome predictions are provided by tools such as the ADHERE Classification and Regression Tree (CART) Model, AHA Get With The Guidelines Score, and EFFECT Risk Score.[11]
• Changes in EF over time are more prognostic of HF than baseline EF. Patients who progress from HFmrEF to HFrEF have a worse prognosis than those who progress to HFpEF or remain stable in HFmrEF. The mortality rate is higher in HFrEF than HFmrEF and HFpEF, according to the OPTIMIZE-HF trail [48], showed a mortality rate of 3.9% for HFrEF, 3% for HFmrEF, and 2.9% for HFpEF. The mortality rate is also higher in symptomatic patients.

Complications

HF may cause multiple complications, including but not limited to:

• Arrhythmias: Atrial fibrillation (Afib) can be a cause or a consequence of HF and may present in 10% to 50% of chronic HF patients, and those patients with HF and Afib have a poor prognosis. Malignant ventricular arrhythmias (like sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia, sustained polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, and torsades de pointes) are common in end-stage heart failure, especially if precipitating or factors are present like electrolyte disturbance, prolonged QT interval, and digoxin toxicity. Bradyarrhythmias may also happen.[49]
• Thromboembolism: HF is a cause of stroke in 9% of patients.[50] Between 10 and 24% of patients with stroke have HF.[51][52] There is a high relative risk for deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients with HF, especially those who are under 60 years of age.[53]
• Gastrointestinal: liver shock (ischemic hepatitis), liver cirrhosis, and cardiac cachexia due to decreased intestinal blood flow in patients with HF.[54] 
• Renal: renal function may get worse in both acute and chronic HF, and that predicts poor prognosis and even a small transient rise in creatinine will be clinically relevant.[55]
• Respiratory: pulmonary congestion, respiratory muscle weakness, and rarely pulmonary hypertension 

Deterrence and Patient Education

Emphasizing diet and medical compliance to patients with heart failure is essential. One of the most common causes of readmission due to heart failure is the failure to comply with diet or medications. A single-session intervention could be beneficial. A randomized control trial of 605 patients with heart failure found that the incidence of all-cause hospitalization or mortality was not significantly reduced in patients receiving multisession self-care training compared to those receiving a single-session intervention.[56]

Printable patient education handout materials are available here:

What is Heart Failure? This printable patient education handout includes an explanation of systolic heart failure, which is also known as heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF), or heart failure with improved ejection fraction (HFimpEF). This patient education includes an explanation of diastolic heart failure, which is also called heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, or HFpEF. Heart failure symptoms and ejection fraction are discussed. 

Coping With Heart Failure. This discusses ways to feel better and how to ask for help. 

Heart Failure: How to be Active. This discusses how to safely stay active. 

Heart Failure: Assessing Your Heart. This discusses which tests may be used to diagnose heart failure and what is typically included in a treatment plan. 

Heart Failure: Making Changes to Your Diet. The buildup of excess fluid and a daily sodium goal are discussed. How to read food labels, how to limit salt and fluids, and when to call a healthcare provider are also discussed. 

Heart Failure: Procedures That May Help. This patient education handout explains procedures, such as angioplasty and valve repair, used to treat artery and valve problems. Devices used to treat heart rhythm problems are explained. These include a pacemaker, biventricular pacing/cardiac resynchronization therapy (a special type of pacemaker), implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), and wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD). A discussion on ventricular assist devices (VADs), heart transplant, and ultrafiltration for more serious cases of heart failure is provided. 

Heart Failure: Tracking Your Weight. How to use a weight chart and when to call your doctor regarding weight gain are discussed. 

Heart Failure: Warning Signs of a Flare-Up. Warning signs, including swelling, weight gain, and shortness of breath, are discussed. 

Taking Medicine to Control Heart Failure. Diuretics, SGLT2 inhibitors, aldosterone blockers, beta-blockers, angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), ACE inhibitors, hydralazine and nitrates, digoxin, sinus node I-f channel blocker, and statins are explained. This handout also includes tips for taking heart failure medications. 

All 9 heart failure patient education handouts are free and printable. 

Living Well With Heart Failure is an interactive guide for patients, families, and caregivers. This 78-page guide is a toolkit with quizzes, monitoring tools, videos, animations, and audio instruction. Included in the tool kit are a symptom chart, symptom action plan, sodium and meal log, medication list, activity log, healthcare team tracker, and resource list. The information is also printable. The interactive guide helps individuals learn how to maintain their health after experiencing heart failure. Chapters include the following:

• You Can Live Well with Heart Failure!
• Monitoring Symptoms
• Following Low-Sodium Diet
• Taking Medication
• Living with a Chronic Condition
• Steps for a Healthier Heart

Enhancing Healthcare Team Outcomes

Heart failure is a leading cause of hospitalization and represents a significant clinical and economic burden. The long-term goal of treatment is to avoid exacerbation of HF and decrease hospital readmission rates. It needs an interprofessional approach involving patients, physicians, nurses, pharmacists, families, and caretakers. Those strategies include early identification of high-risk patients, patient education, improving medication and dietary compliance, assuring close follow-up, introducing end-of-care issues, and tele-home monitoring if available. Primary care and emergency department providers often are the first to make this diagnosis. Referral to cardiologists is often appropriate. Cardiology, medical/surgical, and critical care nurses administer treatment, provide education, monitor patients, and communicate with the rest of the team so that everyone on the healthcare team operates from the same data set. The managing clinician would do well to consult with a board-certified cardiology pharmacist when initiating pharmaceutical care in HF cases. Pharmacists also review medicines, check the dosages, detect drug-drug interactions, and stress to patients and their families the importance of compliance. In end-stage cases, hospice care and nurses can work with the patient and their family to provide comfort care. These interprofessional collaborations will optimize patient outcomes in HF cases.