The HALP Score and Its Association With Coronary Collateral Circulation Development in Chronic Total Occlusion...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Biomarkers
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• Coronary collateral circulation is vital for patients with chronic total occlusion (CTO), offering compensatory blood flow.
• The HALP score (hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, platelet) reflects systemic inflammation and nutritional status.
• The association between the HALP score and collateral development in CTO patients was previously unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between the HALP score and coronary collateral circulation quality in CTO patients.
• To assess collateral circulation using the established Werner classification.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of 240 CTO patients undergoing coronary angiography.
• Calculation of the HALP score using a specific formula.
• Grading of collateral circulation via Werner classification (CC0-CC3), with good collateral defined as CC score ≥2.

Main Results:

• A significant positive correlation (r=0.807) was found between the HALP score and the Werner grade.
• HALP scores progressively increased with better collateral grades (CC0 to CC3).
• The HALP score was independently associated with good collateral circulation (OR: 3.762), with an optimal cutoff of 3.509 (AUC: 0.885).

Conclusions:

• The HALP score is significantly associated with coronary collateral circulation development in CTO patients.
• This cost-effective biomarker shows promise for risk stratification in CTO patients.
• Further prospective validation is required for clinical application.