Association Between Left Atrial Volume Index and Severity of Diastolic Dysfunction in Hypertensive Patients

Abstract

Objectives: The study aimed to determine the prevalence of diastolic dysfunction (DD) in hypertensive patients and to examine the association between the Left Atrial Volume Index (LAVI) and the severity of diastolic dysfunction in these patients. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Cardiology Department of CPEIC, Multan, from November 2, 2023, to May 31, 2024. A total of 310 hypertensive patients aged 30 to 70 years were enrolled. All participants underwent transthoracic and Doppler echocardiography to assess LAVI, diastolic dysfunction, and the severity of diastolic dysfunction (Grade I, II, or III), along with LAVI categorization (slightly, moderately, or grossly increased). Results: Among the 310 participants, the mean age was 48.48 ± 9.95 years, with 221 (71.29%) being male. Diastolic dysfunction was observed in 214 (69.03%) patients. Of the 214 with DD, 174 (95.6%) had an increased LAVI (p < 0.0001). In patients with normal LAVI, Grade I DD was observed in 18 (45%) patients, Grade II in 9 (22.5%), and Grade III in 13 (32.5%) patients. In contrast, among patients with increased LAVI, Grade I DD was present in 88 (50.6%) patients, Grade II in 57 (32.8%), and Grade III in 29 (16.7%) patients (p = 0.06). Conclusion: Diastolic dysfunction is prevalent in a significant proportion of hypertensive patients. The Left Atrial Volume Index (LAVI) is significantly associated with the presence and severity of diastolic dysfunction, highlighting its potential value in predicting the prognosis of hypertensive patients.