Association between Lp (a) and atherosclerosis in menopausal women without metabolic syndrome

The association between Lipoprotein (a) (Lp [a]) and common carotid intima media thickness (IMT) has been evaluated in 222 menopausal women.

Lp (a) and IMT were measured, carotid ultrasound examination (B-Mode imaging) was performed and mean max IMT was calculated.

Lp (a) was significantly lower in women with metabolic syndrome (MS). In a multivariate analysis Lp (a) showed the following odds ratio (OR; all p < 0.05) of having common carotid IMT (≥1.30 mm): 1.03, adjusted for age, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and waist circumference; 1.02, adjusted for age LDL, homeostatic assessment model (HOMA). In women without MS, after controlling for age, LDL and waist circumference, we found the following OR for increased IMT (≥1.30; OR: 1.03; for Lp [a]); 1.02 adjusted for age, LDL and HOMA (all p < 0.05). In women with MS these relationships were not statistically significant.

Lp (a) gives additional information in the risk assessment for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, especially in menopausal women without MS.