Predictors of slow flow in angiographically normal coronary arteries

Slow coronary flow (SCF) is a well-known angiographic finding; however, the pathophysiology of SCF remains only partially understood. In this study, we have examined the risk factors of slow coronary flow.

Seventy patients with angiographically proven SCF were studied along with 60 control participants. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the angiographic findings as with or without SCF. In both groups, clinical information was collected and laboratory parameters were measured and compared.

Patients with SCF had higher serum uric acid, creatinine and hemoglobin levels. They also more commonly had a history of smoking. On the other hand, C-reactive protein and hematologic parameters such as mean platelet volume (MPV), red cell distribution width (RDW), and neutrophil to lymphocyte (N/L) ratio did not differ significantly between the two groups. In the logistic regression analysis, only uric acid (odds ratio [OR]=1.583, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.011-2.349, P=0.034) was found as an independent correlate of SCF.

This study demonstrates that serum uric acid level is significantly correlated with SCF and may play a role in the development of the condition. These findings provide impetus for additional studies to confirm these results and treatment of SCF.