A Systematic Review of Oxidative Stress Markers and Risk of Coronary Artery Calcification.

Abstract

Background: Early diagnosis of atherosclerosis, particularly in its subclinical phase, is crucial for reducing mortality and morbidity associated with cardiovascular diseases. This study aims to investigate the relationship between oxidative stress markers and coronary artery calcification (CAC), enhancing our understanding of the pathophysiology of CAC.

Methods: In October 2022, we conducted a systematic search of the Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Embase databases without language or time restrictions, screening a total of 557 records. We excluded studies involving animals, in vitro experiments, reviews, case reports, clinical trials, editorials, and clinical guidelines. Eligible human observational studies (cohort and cross-sectional) that examined the link between CAC and oxidative stress markers were included. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was employed to assess the quality of the included studies.

Results: Our systematic review encompassed 40 studies, all of which included both male and female participants, predominantly using cross-sectional designs. Participants included individuals at low, intermediate, or high risk of coronary artery disease, patients with type 2 diabetes, those with existing cardiovascular disease, and asymptomatic individuals. The studies investigated various oxidative stress markers, including serum uric acid and 8-isoprostane, both of which showed strong correlations with CAC incidence and severity.

Conclusion: Oxidative stress markers may positively correlate with CAC scores, indicating a potential avenue for identifying individuals at heightened risk. This review underscores the need for further studies to facilitate early diagnosis of cardiovascular complications and the establishment of novel pharmacological targets.