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[Antithrombin III activity in the elderly--association with cardiovascular disease risk factors]

Barbara Kostka1, Jadwiga Para, Wojciech Drygas

  • 1Zakład Biochemii Farmaceutycznej Uniwersytetu Medycznego w Lodzi.

Przeglad Lekarski
|March 9, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Older adults with lower Antithrombin III (AT III) activity may face increased thromboembolic risk. Age, depression, and reduced functional capacity are linked to lower AT III levels in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Hematology

Context:

  • Thromboembolic episodes and cardiovascular diseases are more prevalent in aging populations.
  • Antithrombin III (AT III) is a key natural anticoagulant crucial for maintaining adequate blood flow.
  • Understanding AT III levels in older adults is vital for assessing cardiovascular health.

Purpose:

  • To evaluate Antithrombin III (AT III) activity in community-dwelling older adults.
  • To assess the relationship between AT III activity and cardiovascular risk factors.
  • To determine associations with elements of Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment.

Summary:

  • A study of 176 older adults in Lodz, Poland, found mean AT III activity of 89.8%.
  • Significant inverse relationships were observed between AT III activity and age, Geriatric Depression Scale scores, and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) scores.
  • Positive correlation found between AT III activity and triglyceride levels.
  • No significant associations were found with gender, BMI, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, or other common risk factors.

Impact:

  • Findings suggest that advanced age, depression, and diminished functional capacity (lower IADL scores) are associated with reduced AT III activity.
  • These factors may contribute to an elevated thromboembolic risk profile in individuals over 65.
  • Highlights the importance of considering AT III levels in geriatric cardiovascular risk assessment.

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