Jan Henzel, Mariusz Kruk, Cezary Kępka, Magdalena Makarewicz-Wujec, Piotr Trochimiuk, Łukasz Wardziak, Hubert Krysztofiak, Piotr N Rudziński, Rafał Dąbrowski, Zofia Dzielińska, Marcin Demkow
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Introduction: Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is a viable method for monitoring vulnerable plaque, however, non-contrast calcium scoring (CAS) has a limited utility in this context. The search for novel non-contrast imaging biomarkers able to track high-risk plaque is necessary.
Objectives: To investigate associations between low attenuation plaque (LAP) identified through CCTA and non-contrast CAS, pericardial adipose tissue (PAT), and epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) in patients with non-obstructive coronary atherosclerosis undergoing serial CCTA.
Patients and methods: We analyzed data from 89 participants (40% women, 60 [7.7] years) of the dietary intervention to stop coronary atherosclerosis in the computed tomography study. CCTA was performed at baseline and repeated at mean follow-up of 66.8 (13.7) weeks. CAS and cardiac fat were measured in non-contrast reconstructions and analyzed in relation to contrast-derived LAP.
Results: Mean decrease in LAP burden was 0.23 (1.0) % (P = 0.04), median decrease in PAT volume was 4.2 (-36.9; 8.3) cm³ (P <0.001), median decrease in EAT volume was 2.8 (-12.2; 6.7) cm³ (P = 0.01), and median increase in CAS was 21.2 (1.7; 71.7) Agatston units (P <0.001). Positive correlations were found between changes in LAP burden and both PAT and EAT volumes (r = 0.349, P = 0.001, and r = 0.490, P <0.001, respectively), but not with change in CAS. Multivariable linear regression analysis identified EAT as independent predictor of LAP regression (95% CI, 0.007; 0.032; P = 0.003).
Conclusions: Pericardial and epicardial fat volumes and their dynamics are positively associated with LAP burden, while CAS is not. Monitoring EAT volume using non-contrast computed tomography may facilitate the assessment of high-risk plaque progression or regression, overcoming the limitations of CAS.
期刊介绍:
Polish Archives of Internal Medicine is an international, peer-reviewed periodical issued monthly in English as an official journal of the Polish Society of Internal Medicine. The journal is designed to publish articles related to all aspects of internal medicine, both clinical and basic science, provided they have practical implications. Polish Archives of Internal Medicine appears monthly in both print and online versions.