[Hyperhomocystinemia as a thrombotic risk factor in patients suffering from systemic lupus erithematosus and

Laura Onetti1, Susana Villafañe, Emilia Menso

  • 1Servicio de Reumatología, UHMI 1, Hospital Nacional de Clínicas, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba.

Insights

Hyperhomocysteinemia is prevalent in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) patients, particularly those with antiphospholipid syndrome. Elevated homocysteine (Hcy) levels correlate with antiphospholipid antibodies, indicating a potential risk factor for thrombotic events in SLE.

Area of Science:

  • Rheumatology
  • Clinical Chemistry
  • Immunology

Context:

  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease associated with an increased risk of thrombosis.
  • Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a common complication of SLE, further elevating thrombotic risk.
  • Hyperhomocysteinemia (Hcy), an elevated level of homocysteine, is a potential risk factor for cardiovascular and thrombotic diseases.

Purpose:

  • To determine the prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia (Hcy) in SLE patients with and without antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
  • To compare Hcy levels between SLE patients (with and without APS) and healthy controls.
  • To investigate the correlation between hyperhomocysteinemia and antiphospholipid antibodies in SLE patients.

Summary:

  • This study included 44 SLE patients (17 with APS, 27 without) and 24 healthy controls.
  • Clinical and laboratory tests were performed, including anticardiolipin antibodies, lupus anticoagulant, and Hcy levels. Hcy > 9 was considered abnormal.
  • Hyperhomocysteinemia was detected in 61.4% of SLE patients, with higher prevalence in those with APS. Statistically significant differences in Hcy levels were observed between SLE patients (with and without APS) and controls. A correlation was found between hyperhomocysteinemia and anticardiolipin antibodies.

Impact:

  • Findings suggest hyperhomocysteinemia is a significant risk factor in SLE, especially in the presence of APS.
  • Elevated Hcy levels in SLE patients may contribute to thrombotic manifestations.
  • This study highlights the importance of monitoring Hcy levels in SLE patients for risk stratification and potential therapeutic interventions.
Abstract

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