Open AccessThe effect of nifedipine on myocardial perfusion and metabolism in systemic sclerosis. A positron emission tomographic study
Author(s) -
Duboc Denis,
Kahan André,
Maziere Bernard,
Loc'H Christian,
Crouzel Christian,
Menkès Charles J.,
Amor Bernard,
Strauch Georges,
Guérin François,
Syrota André
Publication year - 1991
Publication title -
arthritis & rheumatism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1529-0131
pISSN - 0004-3591
DOI - 10.1002/art.1780340211
Subject(s) - nifedipine , perfusion , positron emission tomography , medicine , positron , cardiology , fluorodeoxyglucose , nuclear medicine , calcium , physics , quantum mechanics , electron
We assessed the effect of nifedipine on myocardial perfusion and metabolism in 9 patients with systemic sclerosis, using positron emission tomography with a perfusion tracer (potassium‐38) and a metabolic tracer ( 18 F‐fluorodeoxyglucose [ 18 FDG]). Nifedipine, 20 mg 3 times daily for 1 week, induced a significant increase in 38 K myocardial uptake, a significant decrease in 18 FDG myocardial uptake, and a significant increase in the myocardial 38 K: 18 FDG ratio. These results indicate that the increase in myocardial perfusion is associated with modifications in myocardial energy metabolism, which probably result from a beneficial anti‐ischemic effect of nifedipine in patients with systemic sclerosis.