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Accelerated atherosclerosis in patients with systemic autoimmune diseases
Karina de Leeuw1, Cees Kallenberg, Marc Bijl
1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology, University Hospital, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, the Netherlands. k.de.leeuw@int.umcg.nl
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|August 30, 2005
Summary
Systemic autoimmune diseases significantly increase cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Nontraditional factors beyond traditional ones contribute to accelerated atherosclerosis in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Cardiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Systemic autoimmune diseases (SADs) like lupus and Wegener's granulomatosis show higher cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevalence.
- Traditional CVD risk factors do not fully account for atherosclerosis in SAD patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review factors contributing to accelerated atherosclerosis in systemic autoimmune diseases.
- To highlight both traditional and nontraditional risk factors involved in atherogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on atherosclerosis pathogenesis in autoimmune conditions.
- Analysis of disease-related factors, inflammatory mediators, and advanced glycation end products.
Main Results:
- Endothelial activation and dysfunction are early steps in atherogenesis, influenced by all risk factors.
- Nontraditional risk factors play a significant role in accelerated atherosclerosis in SADs.
Conclusions:
- Accelerated atherosclerosis in SADs results from a combination of traditional and nontraditional risk factors.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for managing CVD risk in patients with autoimmune diseases.
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