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Biochemical markers for cardiovascular risk following treatment in endogenous Cushing's syndrome

C Kristo1, T Ueland, K Godang

  • 1Section of Endocrinology, Research Institute of Internal Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway. cybele.kristo@rikshospitalet.no

Journal of Endocrinological Investigation
|June 19, 2008
PubMed

Insights

This study investigated inflammation markers in Cushing's syndrome (CS) patients, finding elevated interleukin-8 and osteoprotegerin levels that decreased post-surgery, suggesting a complex role in cardiovascular disease risk.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is more prevalent in Cushing's syndrome (CS) patients.
  • Inflammation is implicated in atherogenesis, but its role in CS-associated CVD is unclear.
  • This study aimed to clarify the role of inflammation in CS by measuring inflammatory markers.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess inflammatory markers in patients with endogenous Cushing's syndrome.
  • To evaluate changes in these markers after surgical treatment and potential cure.
  • To understand the link between inflammation and cardiovascular risk in CS.

Main Methods:

  • Twenty-eight CS patients were studied at baseline and post-surgery.
  • Twenty-one patients were followed longitudinally for a mean of 33 months.
  • Twenty-four healthy individuals served as controls.

Main Results:

  • Interleukin-8 (IL-8) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) were elevated in CS patients pre-operatively and decreased post-surgery.
  • C-reactive protein (CRP) and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM) were decreased at baseline and normalized post-surgery.
  • Soluble CD40 ligand, a marker of platelet-mediated inflammation, was elevated during follow-up.

Conclusions:

  • Cushing's syndrome exhibits a complex interaction with inflammation.
  • Elevated IL-8 and OPG in CS patients may indicate an inflammatory and pro-atherogenic phenotype.
  • Further research is needed to clarify the clinical significance of these inflammatory findings.
Abstract

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