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[Infections and cardiovascular disease]
1Klinisk mikrobiologisk afdeling, H:S Hvidovre Hospital. hans.joern.kolmos@hh.hosp.dk
Abstract:
Epidemiological studies indicate that respiratory tract and dental infections increase the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Several microorganisms have been claimed as clinically important, especially Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cp) and cytomegalovirus (CMV), Cp is frequently isolated from atherosclerotic plaques, and treatment with macrolide antibiotics may have a beneficial effect on the course of ischaemic heart disease. CMV seems to play a role in the development of coronary stenosis following coronary bypass surgery and heart transplantation. Likewise, inflammatory markers are associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The pathogenetic role of microorganisms may be ascribed to the inflammatory response, which is elicited during infection. There is an urgent need for more documentation of the role of microorganisms in cardiovascular disease, and of the possible clinical effect of antibiotic treatment.
Insights
Infections like Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cp) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) are linked to cardiovascular disease risk. Further research is needed on microbial roles and antibiotic treatments for atherosclerotic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology and Immunology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- Epidemiological data links respiratory and dental infections to increased atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk.
- Specific microorganisms, notably Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cp) and cytomegalovirus (CMV), are implicated in ASCVD pathogenesis.
- Inflammatory markers are consistently associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Purpose:
- To review the evidence linking microbial infections to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
- To explore the potential role of Chlamydia pneumoniae and cytomegalovirus in cardiovascular pathology.
- To highlight the need for further investigation into the clinical efficacy of antibiotic therapies for cardiovascular disease.
Summary:
- Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cp) is frequently found in atherosclerotic plaques, and macrolide antibiotic treatment may benefit ischemic heart disease.
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) appears to contribute to coronary stenosis after bypass surgery and heart transplantation.
- The pathogenetic role of microorganisms in cardiovascular disease is likely mediated through infection-induced inflammatory responses.
Impact:
- Underscores the urgent need for more robust evidence on the contribution of microorganisms to cardiovascular disease.
- Suggests a potential therapeutic avenue through antibiotic treatment for specific cardiovascular conditions.
- Emphasizes the importance of understanding the interplay between infection, inflammation, and atherosclerosis.