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Predictive value of the ear-crease sign in coronary artery disease

A Pasternac, M Sami

    Canadian Medical Association Journal
    |March 15, 1982
    PubMed

    Insights

    The ear-crease sign can help predict coronary artery disease in symptomatic patients. However, its value is limited in asymptomatic individuals, though it may indicate early aging and disease risk.

    Area of Science:

    • Cardiology
    • Dermatology
    • Preventive Medicine

    Background:

    • The ear-crease sign, a physical finding, has been anecdotally linked to cardiovascular health.
    • Its diagnostic utility in predicting coronary artery disease (CAD) requires rigorous evaluation.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To assess the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of the ear-crease sign for detecting coronary artery disease.
    • To investigate the association of the ear-crease sign with CAD extent, risk factors, and patient demographics.

    Main Methods:

    • A study involving 340 consecutive patients undergoing coronary arteriography.
    • Analysis of the ear-crease sign's correlation with diagnosed coronary artery disease and its characteristics.

    Main Results:

    • The ear-crease sign showed a sensitivity of 59.5% and specificity of 81.9% for CAD in this population.
    • The sign was independently associated with obstructive CAD and more extensive disease in symptomatic patients.
    • No significant correlation was found with most risk factors, except corneal arcus.

    Conclusions:

    • The ear-crease sign has moderate predictive value for coronary artery disease, particularly in symptomatic individuals.
    • It may identify a subset of patients at risk for early aging and premature CAD, suggesting a role for early intervention.

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