Endothelial Dysfunction and Carotid Plaque in Northern Manhattan
Author Information
Author(s): Rundek Tatjana, Hundle Rameet, Ratchford Elizabeth, Ramas Romel, Sciacca Robert, Di Tullio Marco R, Boden-Albala Bernadette, Miyake Yumiko, Elkind Mitchell SV, Sacco Ralph L, Homma Shunichi
Primary Institution: Columbia University
Hypothesis
Is endothelial dysfunction independently associated with carotid plaque in a community of northern Manhattan?
Conclusion
Decreased brachial FMD is independently associated with carotid plaque.
Supporting Evidence
- The mean brachial FMD was 5.78 ± 3.83%.
- Carotid plaque was present in 339 (53%) subjects.
- Each percent of FMD decrease was associated with a significant 0.02 mm increase in MCPT.
- Blunted FMD was associated with an increased risk of MCPT ≥ 2.0 mm.
- The mean MCPT was 1.68 ± 0.82 mm.
Takeaway
If your blood vessels don't work well, you might have more plaque in your neck arteries, which can be bad for your heart.
Methodology
High-resolution B-mode ultrasound images of the brachial and carotid arteries were obtained in 643 stroke-free subjects, and brachial FMD was measured during reactive hyperemia.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to patient cooperation in controlling factors affecting FMD.
Limitations
The study is cross-sectional, limiting the ability to determine causation, and FMD measurements may be influenced by various factors.
Participant Demographics
Mean age 66 years; 55% women; 65% Caribbean-Hispanic, 17% African-American, 16% Caucasian.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.028
Confidence Interval
95% CI, 1.03–1.19
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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