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Published on: January 13, 2012
Increase of carotid artery stiffness and decrease of baroreflex sensitivity in exfoliation syndrome and glaucoma
Z Visontai1, B Merisch, M Kollai
1Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary. hg@szem1.sote.hu
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|February 21, 2006
Summary
Exfoliation syndrome/glaucoma (XFS/XFG) patients show elevated homocysteine levels, reduced arterial distensibility, and impaired baroreflex sensitivity (BRS). These vascular changes worsen with age and higher homocysteine, indicating pathological large artery function.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Exfoliation syndrome/glaucoma (XFS/XFG) is associated with systemic vascular abnormalities.
- The relationship between arterial distensibility, baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), and homocysteine in XFS/XFG requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess common carotid artery (CCA) distensibility and BRS in XFS/XFG patients.
- To determine the correlation between plasma homocysteine levels and these vascular parameters in XFS/XFG.
Main Methods:
- Homocysteine levels were measured in 30 XFS/XFG patients and 18 controls.
- CCA distensibility and BRS were assessed in 21 XFS/XFG patients and 17 controls.
Main Results:
- XFS/XFG patients had significantly higher homocysteine levels and CCA stiffness compared to controls.
- Reduced CCA distensibility, strain, compliance, and BRS were observed in XFS/XFG patients.
- Positive correlation between age and homocysteine, and negative correlations between age/homocysteine and BRS were found in XFS/XFG.
Conclusions:
- XFS/XFG is linked to pathological large artery function and altered parasympathetic vascular control.
- Age and elevated homocysteine concentration exacerbate these vascular impairments in XFS/XFG.
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