Sex Differences in Symptoms in Patients with Aortic Stenosis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Sex Differences in the Perceived Intensity of Symptoms in Patients with Aortic Stenosis
IRAS ID
187437
Contact name
Gill Louise Buchanan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 5 days
Research summary
Aortic stenosis is the most common valvular heart disease and can often present with shortness of breath. This is a subjective experience, and can be perceived differently between men and women, the reasons for which are unclear.
This multi-centre, prospective observational study aims to determine if the perceived severity of symptoms in patients with moderate aortic stenosis differs according to the sex of the patient. Patients undergoing screening for aortic stenosis with echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart) will be identified and recruited from respective databases from the Cumberland Infirmary, Carlisle and Castle Hill Hospital, Hull. In total, 50 patients will be recruited over a six month period, according to inclusion/exclusion criteria and patient consent.Baseline clinical and echocardiographic parameters will be recorded, followed by a six minute walk test (a standardised test proven to be safe in aortic stenosis). Each participant will then complete a questionnaire to assess symptoms. The results will then be compared by sex, in addition to baseline heart size. The relationship between sex and NT Pro BNP (blood test suggesting heart dysfunction) will also be assessed. There is minimal risk to the patient.
If the data is positive, this may be a method to predict which patients will benefit for early intervention for their aortic stenosis in the future.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 1
REC reference
15/NS/0108
Date of REC Opinion
5 Nov 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion