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Hyperhomocysteinemia prevalence among patients with venous thromboembolism
Nurdan Köktürk1, Asiye Kanbay, Müge Aydoğdu
1Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Gazi University School of Medicine, Besevler, Ankara, Turkey. kokturk.nurdan@gmail.com
Insights
Elevated plasma homocysteine levels are common in patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE), indicating hyperhomocysteinemia is a significant risk factor. Monitoring and managing this condition may help prevent VTE recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Medicine
- Hematology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant health concern.
- Plasma total homocysteine levels are implicated as a potential risk factor for VTE.
- Understanding the prevalence and impact of hyperhomocysteinemia in VTE is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate plasma total homocysteine levels in patients diagnosed with VTE.
- To investigate the influence of various risk factors on plasma homocysteine concentrations.
- To determine the association between hyperhomocysteinemia and the risk of VTE.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 93 VTE patients and 37 controls.
- Measurement of plasma total homocysteine levels.
- Analysis of factors affecting plasma homocysteine, including vitamin B12 and folate levels.
- Regression analysis to assess the risk associated with hyperhomocysteinemia.
Main Results:
- Plasma homocysteine levels were significantly higher in VTE patients compared to controls, irrespective of vitamin B12 and folate status.
- The prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia among VTE patients was 63%.
- Patients with pulmonary embolism (PE) exhibited higher homocysteine levels than those with deep venous thrombosis (DVT).
- Hyperhomocysteinemia was associated with a 4.8-fold increased risk of VTE.
Conclusions:
- Hyperhomocysteinemia is a prevalent and potentially modifiable risk factor for VTE.
- Screening for and managing hyperhomocysteinemia should be considered in VTE patients.
- Monitoring secondary causes, such as vitamin B12 deficiency, is important for preventing VTE recurrence.
Abstract:
The aim of this study is to evaluate the plasma total homocysteine level in patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) and to investigate the effect of different risk factors on plasma levels. Ninety-three-patients with VTE and 37-control participants diagnosed with other than VTE were included in the study. Plasma homocysteine levels and the factors affecting plasma homocysteine levels were evaluated. Plasma homocysteine level was higher among patients with VTE compared to the controls independent from vitamin B12 and folate levels. The prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia in VTE was 63%. Plasma homocysteine level was higher in patients with PE than deep venous thrombosis (DVT; 23 ± 13.7 vs 16 ± 5.8 μmol/L, P = .018). With regression analysis hyperhomocysteinemia was found to be associated with a 4.8-fold increased risk of VTE. Hyperhomocysteinemia is a common and possibly modifiable risk factor that should be considered when screening patients with VTE. Secondary causes of hyperhomocysteinemia especially vitamin B12 deficiency should be monitored in patients with VTE to prevent recurrences.
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