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A Methodological Approach to Non-invasive Assessments of Vascular Function and Morphology
09:33

A Methodological Approach to Non-invasive Assessments of Vascular Function and Morphology

Published on: February 7, 2015

Relationship between serum bilirubin and carotid atherosclerosis in hypertensive patients

Xia-Feng Yang1, Yuan-Zhi Chen, Jiang-Li Su

  • 1Department of Neurology, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng Clinical School of Taishan Medical University, Shandong, People's Republic of China.

Internal Medicine (Tokyo, Japan)
|September 17, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Lower serum bilirubin levels are linked to carotid atherosclerosis in hypertensive patients. This finding suggests bilirubin may play a protective role against cardiovascular disease in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Biochemistry
  • Vascular Medicine

Background:

  • Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
  • Carotid atherosclerosis is a key indicator of systemic atherosclerosis and a predictor of cardiovascular events.
  • Serum bilirubin, a byproduct of heme metabolism, has shown antioxidant properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between serum bilirubin levels and the presence of carotid atherosclerosis in patients diagnosed with hypertension.
  • To explore the relationship between serum bilirubin, C-reactive protein (CRP), and carotid atherosclerosis in hypertensive individuals.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 198 hypertensive patients underwent carotid artery ultrasonography.
  • Serum levels of total bilirubin and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured concurrently.
  • Statistical analyses, including logistic regression, were performed to assess associations, adjusting for potential confounders.

Main Results:

  • Carotid atherosclerosis was identified in 133 patients, with 87 exhibiting carotid artery plaque.
  • Patients with atherosclerosis had significantly lower serum bilirubin levels and higher CRP levels compared to those without atherosclerosis.
  • Serum total bilirubin was negatively associated with carotid atherosclerosis in both men and women, even after adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusions:

  • Carotid atherosclerosis is prevalent in hypertensive patients and is associated with a higher incidence of stroke and myocardial infarction.
  • Lower serum bilirubin levels are independently associated with carotid atherosclerosis in hypertensive individuals.
  • Serum bilirubin may serve as a potential biomarker for cardiovascular risk in patients with hypertension.
Abstract

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