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Investigating von Willebrand Factor Pathophysiology Using a Flow Chamber Model of von Willebrand Factor-platelet String Formation
Published on: August 14, 2017
[Homocysteine and von Willebrand factor in chronic alcoholism]
Insights
Chronic alcoholism elevates homocysteine (HC) and von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels, increasing cardiovascular risk. These factors, though not correlated, indicate significant vascular damage in alcoholic patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Clinical Biochemistry
- Addiction Medicine
Context:
- Chronic alcoholism is a significant public health concern.
- Cardiovascular disease risk is elevated in alcoholic populations.
- Biomarkers like homocysteine and VWF are implicated in cardiovascular pathology.
Purpose:
- To investigate the levels of homocysteine (HC) and von Willebrand factor (VWF) in patients with Stage II chronic alcoholism.
- To assess the potential role of HC and VWF as cardiovascular risk factors in this population.
Summary:
- Forty-one male patients with Stage II chronic alcoholism were studied.
- Elevated plasma homocysteine (HC) levels were observed in 63.4% of patients compared to controls.
- Increased content and activity of von Willebrand factor (VWF) were found in 80.6% of patients.
- No correlation was found between HC and VWF levels.
Impact:
- Findings suggest that hyperhomocysteinemia and elevated VWF contribute to increased cardiovascular risk in chronic alcoholism.
- Vascular endothelial damage is likely exacerbated by these factors.
- Highlights the need for monitoring cardiovascular risk in individuals with chronic alcoholism.
Abstract:
The levels of homocysteine (HC) and von Willebrand factor (VWF) as cardiovascular risk factors were studied in patients with Stage II chronic alcoholism. Forty-one men with Stage II chronic alcoholism without clinical signs of somatic and infectious diseases were examined. Their median age was 37 (range 32-40) years; the alcoholization period was 12 (range 8-17) years. Plasma HC and VWF (amount and activity) levels were determined. In 63.4% of chronic alcoholic patients, HC levels was twice as high as in the controls; in 80.6%, both the content and activity of VWF were increased. There was no correlation between the levels of HC and VWF. Vascular endothelial damage concurrent with hyperhomocysteinemia increases a cardiovascular risk in patients with Stage II chronic alcoholism.
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