Influencing factors of vascular endothelial function in patients with non-obstructive coronary atherosclerosis: a 1-year observational study

Abstract

Abstract Background Endothelial dysfunction may play a key role in non-obstructive coronary artery atherosclerosis. Our study aimed to evaluate the vascular endothelial function and its influencing factors in patients with non-obstructive coronary artery atherosclerosis. Methods A total of 131 consecutive patients with non-obstructive coronary artery atherosclerosis were enrolled. Flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) was measured at baseline and 1-year follow-up. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) were counted by staining the fasting venous blood with antibodies against CD34 and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2. Results Systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure and the levels of HbA1c in participants with baseline FMD 6.5% are independent risk factors for endothelial dysfunction in non-obstructive atherosclerotic patients. Elevated peripheral blood EPC counts and decreased levels of serum creatinine are independent predictors of endothelial function improvement.

Keywords

• Non-obstructive coronary atherosclerosis
• Endothelial dysfunction
• Flow-mediated dilatation
• Endothelial progenitor cells