Aortic rhythmic wrinkling in youth: the PDAY study

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Pathology
• Atherosclerosis Research

Background:

• Transverse aortic wrinkles, known as Querlinien or Wellenlinien, were historically considered artifacts.
• Since the 1970s, rhythmic wrinkling (RW) has been investigated for its potential role in atherosclerosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence, extent, and distribution of RW in the aorta.
• To investigate the relationship between RW, fatty streaks, and raised lesions (RL) in atherosclerosis.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 2,650 aortas from the Pathobiological Determinants of Atherosclerosis in Youth (PDAY) study.
• Examination of RW prevalence, extent, and topographical distribution.
• Correlation of RW with atherosclerotic lesions (fatty streaks and RL).

Main Results:

• RW are prevalent in the aorta, with a distinct distribution in thoracic and abdominal regions.
• RW appear to precede the development of RL, often in the same anatomical areas.
• RW are associated with the progression to advanced atherosclerosis, specifically raised lesions.

Conclusions:

• Rhythmic wrinkling is a significant finding in the aorta, not merely an artifact.
• RW may serve as an early indicator or precursor to raised atherosclerotic lesions.
• Understanding RW contributes to the study of atherosclerosis pathogenesis and progression.