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Differences in left and right carotid intima-media thickness and the associated risk factors

X Luo1, Y Yang, T Cao

  • 1Department of Ultrasound, Beijing An Zhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, An Zhen Road No. 2, Chao Yang, Beijing, China.

Clinical Radiology
|February 18, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Carotid artery intima-media thickness (CIMT) increases with age. The left CIMT is thicker than the right between ages 35-65, with differing risk factor associations for each side.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular biology and aging research.
  • Cardiovascular risk factor assessment.

Background:

  • Carotid artery intima-media thickness (CIMT) is a marker of subclinical atherosclerosis.
  • Age-related changes and risk factor associations with CIMT may differ between the left and right carotid arteries.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare left and right carotid artery intima-media thickness (CIMT) with advancing age.
  • To analyze the distinct risk factor associations for left and right CIMT.

Main Methods:

  • Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and hemodynamic parameters were measured in 447 individuals using the Quality Intima-Media Thickness (QIMT) technique.
  • Biochemical and anthropometric indices were assessed.
  • Correlation analyses were performed, adjusted for age.

Main Results:

  • Bilateral CIMT increased with age (p<0.001).
  • The left CIMT was significantly thicker than the right between 35 and 65 years (p=0.01-0.05), with right CIMT thickening 10 years later.
  • Right CIMT showed stronger correlation with hemodynamic parameters, while left CIMT correlated better with biochemical indices.

Conclusions:

  • Age-related hemodynamic and biochemical factors differentially impact left and right CIMT.
  • Left CIMT is notably thicker than right CIMT in the 35-65 age range, suggesting asymmetrical vascular aging.
Abstract

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