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Neutrophil count and activation in vascular disease
M H Jackson1, A Collier, J J Nicoll
1Department of Medicine, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh.
Scottish Medical Journal
|April 1, 1992
Summary
Elevated white blood cell counts are linked to vascular disease. This study found higher neutrophil counts and activation, indicated by neutrophil elastase, in patients with heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Hematology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Elevated peripheral leucocyte count is a known risk factor for myocardial infarction and coronary artery disease progression.
- Neutrophils play a critical role in inflammation and immune responses, potentially impacting vascular health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate neutrophil count and activation, using plasma neutrophil elastase as a marker, in patients with stable ischemic heart disease, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, and essential hypertension.
- To compare these markers between patient groups and a control cohort.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study comparing patient groups (ischemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension) with a control group.
- Measurement of neutrophil count and plasma neutrophil elastase levels.
- Statistical analysis to determine significant differences and correlations.
Main Results:
- Significantly higher neutrophil counts and neutrophil elastase levels were observed in patients with ischemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension compared to controls.
- Neutrophil elastase levels did not correlate with patient age or overall leucocyte count.
- Findings confirm the association between leucocyte count and vascular disease.
Conclusions:
- Neutrophil activation, evidenced by increased neutrophil elastase, is implicated in the progression of vascular diseases.
- These findings support the role of neutrophils in the pathophysiology of ischemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and essential hypertension.