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Prevalence of Atherosclerotic Disease in Microscopic Colitis Patients
Paul Hong1, Karolina Krawczyk1, Rehmat U Awan1
1Department of Internal Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois.
Background And Aims:
The preponderance of microscopic colitis (MC) in females may be associated with postmenopausal increased risk of atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of atherosclerotic diseases in adults with MC.
Methods:
Retrospective observational study of patients with a diagnosis of MC or incomplete MC at our institution from 2008 to 2018. We performed a chart review and extracted data on demographics, comorbidities, medications, diagnosis, imaging, and endoscopy. Data were analyzed descriptively. Logistic regression was used to estimate the unadjusted effects of different variables on MC.
Results:
Of 269 patients, 265 had a MC diagnosis; 236 (89.06%) had collagenous colitis or lymphocytic colitis; and 29 (10.94%) were diagnosed with incomplete MC. Majority were female (79.55%), ≥ 65 years (59.11%), and white (88.81%). Majority had the following risk factors for atherosclerosis, smoking (52.04%), hypertension (58.21%), and hyperlipidemia (59.5%). The prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral artery disease (PAD), and cerebrovascular disease (CVD) was 16.79% (12.32, 21.27), 8.58% (5.23-11.94), and 7.49% (4.33-10.65), respectively. There was no difference in the prevalence of CAD and CVD after adjusting for sex. Females with MC had reduced odds of PAD compared with males.
Conclusion:
The prevalence of CAD, PAD, and CVD was 16.79%, 8.58%, and 7.49%, respectively. Similar to the general population, smoking, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia are risk factors for atherosclerosis in MC.
Insights
Microscopic colitis (MC) patients have a notable prevalence of atherosclerotic diseases, including coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral artery disease (PAD), and cerebrovascular disease (CVD). Risk factors like smoking and hypertension are common in this population.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and Cardiology
- Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
- Vascular Health
Background:
- Microscopic colitis (MC) is more common in females, potentially linking it to postmenopausal atherosclerosis risk.
- Understanding atherosclerotic disease prevalence in MC patients is crucial for comprehensive patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of atherosclerotic diseases in adults diagnosed with microscopic colitis.
- To identify common risk factors for atherosclerosis within the MC patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective observational study of 269 patients with MC or incomplete MC from 2008-2018.
- Data extraction included demographics, comorbidities, medications, and diagnostic findings.
- Descriptive analysis and logistic regression were employed to analyze the data.
Main Results:
- The study included 265 MC patients, predominantly female (79.55%) and over 65 years old (59.11%).
- High prevalence of atherosclerosis risk factors: smoking (52.04%), hypertension (58.21%), and hyperlipidemia (59.5%).
- Prevalence rates: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) 16.79%, Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) 8.58%, Cerebrovascular Disease (CVD) 7.49%. No sex difference in CAD/CVD prevalence; females with MC had lower PAD odds.
Conclusions:
- Significant prevalence of CAD, PAD, and CVD observed in microscopic colitis patients.
- Standard atherosclerosis risk factors (smoking, hypertension, hyperlipidemia) are prevalent in MC patients.
- Findings highlight the importance of cardiovascular risk assessment in individuals with microscopic colitis.
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