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Chlamydia pneumoniae-based atherosclerosis: a smoking gun
Vicky Y Hoymans1, Johan M Bosmans, Margareta M Ieven
1Department of Cardiology, Centre for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium. vicky.hoymans@uza.be
Acta Cardiologica
|January 25, 2008
Summary
Current evidence does not support a link between Chlamydia pneumoniae infection and atherosclerosis in humans. Antibiotic treatment for Chlamydia pneumoniae is not recommended for managing atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiovascular Research
- Microbiology
Background:
- Infectious diseases are increasingly recognized as potential contributors to atherosclerosis risk.
- Chlamydia pneumoniae has been a primary focus in the microbial agents-atherosclerosis discussion for two decades.
- In vitro studies provide the strongest evidence for a Chlamydia pneumoniae-atherosclerosis link.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review human diagnostic and therapeutic studies on Chlamydia pneumoniae and atherosclerosis.
- To evaluate the in vivo evidence linking Chlamydia pneumoniae infection to atherosclerotic disease.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and critical evaluation of human diagnostic studies.
- Analysis of therapeutic intervention data related to Chlamydia pneumoniae and atherosclerosis.
Main Results:
- Human in vivo data currently show insufficient evidence to establish a link between Chlamydia pneumoniae and atherosclerosis.
- No diagnostic markers or therapeutic benefits identified in human studies.
Conclusions:
- The association between Chlamydia pneumoniae and atherosclerosis in humans remains unproven.
- Antibiotic therapy targeting Chlamydia pneumoniae is not indicated for atherosclerosis management.
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