Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases and Vascular Function: The Concept of Autoimmune Atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Cardiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs) are rising, affecting up to 5% of the population.
• AIRDs cause organ damage and increased mortality, with cardiovascular diseases accounting for one-third of deaths.
• Atherosclerosis, a chronic immune-inflammatory disease, is the primary driver of cardiovascular disease in AIRD patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of chronic inflammation in atherosclerosis development and progression in AIRDs.
• To detail how AIRDs impact vascular function.
• To present findings on vascular function changes using advanced techniques and biomarkers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on chronic inflammation in AIRDs and atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of studies assessing vascular function in AIRD patients.
• Examination of innovative endothelial function biomarkers.

Main Results:

• Inflammatory mediators (TNFa, IL-6, IL-1) and immune cells (T and B cells) are key in atheroma formation.
• Elevated levels of antioxidized LDL antibodies, ANA, and RF are observed in atherosclerotic patients with AIRDs.
• Traditional risk factors do not fully explain the heightened atherosclerosis risk in AIRDs.

Conclusions:

• Chronic inflammation is central to atherosclerosis etiology and progression in AIRDs.
• AIRDs significantly affect vascular function, contributing to cardiovascular disease.
• Further research using advanced techniques is crucial for understanding and managing vascular complications in AIRDs.