Cardiovascular Complications in Patients with Turner's Syndrome

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Genetics
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Turner syndrome (TS) is the most common chromosomal abnormality in female births.
• TS patients have a significantly increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including congenital structural defects and cardiometabolic risk factors.
• These factors contribute to higher morbidity and mortality rates in individuals with TS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the cardiovascular risks associated with Turner syndrome.
• To discuss the role of Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) and Growth Hormone (GH) in managing these risks.
• To highlight the importance of cardiovascular monitoring and specific considerations during pregnancy for TS patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on Turner syndrome and cardiovascular complications.
• Analysis of the impact of cardiometabolic risk factors in TS.
• Evaluation of current treatment strategies including MHT and GH.
• Assessment of recommended cardiovascular monitoring protocols.

Main Results:

• TS is linked to structural cardiovascular defects (e.g., coarctation, aortic dissection) and cardiometabolic issues (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia).
• MHT may improve CVD risk factors, but its effect on CVD mortality in TS is unproven.
• The precise impact of GH on cardiovascular parameters in TS requires further clarification.
• Pregnancy in TS patients carries elevated risks for CVD complications, particularly aortic dissection.

Conclusions:

• Optimal cardiovascular monitoring, including imaging like echocardiography and cardiac MRI, is essential for TS patients.
• Early detection and management of CVD risk factors and structural abnormalities are critical.
• Specific protocols are needed for managing TS patients, especially during pregnancy, to mitigate cardiovascular risks.