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Changes in extracranial arteries in obstructive sleep apnoea
R Schulz1, W Seeger, C Fegbeutel
1Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Dept of Internal Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Klinikstr. 36, 35392 Giessen, Germany. Richard.Schulz@innere.med.uni-giessen.de
The European Respiratory Journal
|January 11, 2005
Summary
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) significantly increases atherosclerosis risk. Patients with OSA showed thicker carotid arteries and more vessel plaques, highlighting OSA as an independent cardiovascular disease risk factor.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Sleep Medicine
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is associated with cardiovascular risks.
- Atherosclerosis development in OSA patients requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate atherosclerosis markers in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea.
- To determine the relationship between OSA severity and arterial changes.
Main Methods:
- Ultrasonography of large extracranial vessels was used.
- Common carotid artery-intima media thickness (CCA-IMT) and plaque presence were measured.
- 35 OSA patients and 35 non-OSA controls were studied in a blinded manner.
Main Results:
- OSA patients exhibited significantly increased CCA-IMT compared to controls.
- Increased CCA-IMT correlated with nocturnal hypoxia severity.
- More pronounced plaque formation and extracranial stenosis were observed in OSA patients.
Conclusions:
- Obstructive sleep apnoea independently influences arterial wall atherosclerotic changes.
- Findings support OSA as a standalone risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- Early detection and management of OSA may mitigate cardiovascular risks.