Endothelial Dysfunction and Cardiovascular Risk in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Review Article

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pulmonology
• Sleep Medicine

Background:

• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent respiratory disorder characterized by repeated upper airway obstruction during sleep.
• Despite affecting 30% of the population, OSA remains underdiagnosed due to vague symptoms and inadequate screening tools.
• OSA is linked to endothelial dysfunction, triggering various physiological responses including hypoxia, hypercapnia, and oxidative stress.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the relationship between OSA and endothelial dysfunction.
• To explore the association between OSA, endothelial dysfunction, and cardiovascular pathologies like hypertension.
• To define current treatments, their limitations, and future research directions in OSA.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating OSA, endothelial dysfunction, and cardiovascular disease.
• Analysis of biological responses associated with OSA, including hypoxia and oxidative stress.
• Examination of clinical features and potential biomarkers for OSA diagnosis and therapy.

Main Results:

• OSA is associated with endothelial dysfunction, leading to increased cardiovascular disease risk.
• Hypertension is a common cardiovascular pathology linked to OSA.
• Endothelial progenitor cell alterations are identified as potential biomarkers.

Conclusions:

• OSA significantly contributes to endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular morbidity.
• Improved diagnostic tools and targeted therapies are needed for effective OSA management.
• Further research into biomarkers like endothelial progenitor cells could enhance early diagnosis and treatment strategies.