Impaired aortic function in patients with coeliac disease

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Gastroenterology
• Immunology

Background:

• Coeliac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder affecting the small intestine.
• Aortic function, encompassing aortic stiffness index, strain, and distensibility, is a known predictor of atherosclerosis.
• The relationship between CD and cardiovascular health, specifically aortic function, requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between key indicators of aortic function and coeliac disease.
• To determine if CD is linked to altered aortic stiffness, strain, or distensibility.

Main Methods:

• Echocardiography was used to assess aortic distensibility, strain, and stiffness index.
• Serological markers for autoimmune activity were measured in 36 CD patients and 35 controls.
• Statistical analysis was performed to identify correlations between CD and aortic function parameters.

Main Results:

• Patients with CD exhibited significantly lower aortic strain and distensibility compared to controls.
• A significantly higher aortic stiffness index was observed in CD patients.
• Coeliac disease was identified as an independent predictor of all measured aortic function parameters.

Conclusions:

• Deteriorated aortic function, indicative of subclinical atherosclerosis, was demonstrated in CD patients via echocardiography.
• Impaired aortic function in CD patients highlights a potential increased risk for cardiovascular events.
• Enhanced collaboration between cardiology and gastroenterology, along with increased awareness among healthcare providers and patients, is crucial for managing cardiovascular risk in CD.