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Updated: Jun 13, 2026
09:33
A Methodological Approach to Non-invasive Assessments of Vascular Function and Morphology
Published on: February 7, 2015
[Correlation between carotid and aortic atherosclerosis in asymptomatic subjects]
Italo De Tommaso1, Giandomenico Tarsia, Mario De Michele
1Dipartimento dell'Alta Specialita del Cuore, A.O. San Carlo, Potenza. adriano77@alice.it
Giornale Italiano Di Cardiologia (2006)
|April 23, 2010
Summary
Aortic plaque presence in asymptomatic individuals may indicate carotid atherosclerosis. Ultrasound screening is recommended for early detection and management of cardiovascular risk.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Vascular Biology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Atherosclerosis affects both carotid and aortic arteries.
- Early detection in asymptomatic individuals is crucial for risk stratification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between carotid and aortic atherosclerosis.
- To determine if carotid atherosclerosis predicts aortic atheroma in asymptomatic subjects.
Main Methods:
- Eighty-three asymptomatic patients without prior cardiovascular disease were enrolled.
- Transesophageal echocardiography was used for assessment.
- Multivariate logistic analysis identified predictors of aortic atheroma.
Main Results:
- Aortic plaques were found in 40 out of 83 patients.
- Carotid atherosclerosis was present in 43% of the study population.
- Carotid atherosclerosis predicted aortic atheroma, independent of traditional risk factors.
Conclusions:
- Aortic plaque occurrence in asymptomatic patients may signify coexisting carotid plaques.
- Ultrasound assessment of carotid arteries is advised for patients with aortic plaques.
- This approach aids in identifying individuals with increased cardiovascular risk.
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