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Disordered vascular compliance in haemochromatosis
W J Cash1, S O'Neill, M E O'Donnell
1Department of Hepatology (Liver Unit), Queens University Belfast, Mullhouse Building, Grosvenor Road, Belfast, BT12 6AB, Northern Ireland, UK, Johnny.cash@belfasttrust.hscni.net.
Irish Journal of Medical Science
|September 4, 2013
Summary
Hereditary haemochromatosis patients show increased vascular stiffness (higher pulse wave velocity) in males and lower antioxidant levels. However, this study found no evidence of endothelial dysfunction or increased lipid peroxidation in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Endocrinology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Body iron stores are linked to cardiovascular risk and endothelial dysfunction.
- Hereditary haemochromatosis (HH) involves excess iron absorption.
- Understanding HH's impact on vascular health is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- Compare vascular compliance, endothelial function, and antioxidant status in HH patients versus controls.
- Investigate the cardiovascular implications of iron overload in HH.
Main Methods:
- Recruited HH patients and healthy controls.
- Assessed vascular compliance using applanation tonometry (measuring pulse wave velocity).
- Measured serological markers of endothelial function, antioxidant levels, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP).
Main Results:
- HH patients exhibited higher systolic and diastolic blood pressures.
- Male HH patients had significantly higher pulse wave velocity (PWV).
- HH patients showed significantly lower levels of ascorbate, retinol, and γ-tocopherol.
Conclusions:
- HH is associated with increased PWV in males and reduced antioxidant status in both sexes.
- No evidence of endothelial dysfunction or increased lipid peroxidation was found in HH patients.
- Further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms linking HH to vascular changes.
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