Correlation between Serum Lead Level and Coronary Slow flow Phenomenon

Abstract

Introduction: There are some reports suggesting a link between lead exposure and cardiovascular disease but understanding the contribution of lead to specific cardiovascular diseases has remained incompletely. Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, serum lead level in 30 patients with diagnosed coronary slow flow phenomenon (CSFP) documented by coronary angiography was evaluated and compared with the values of the control group containing 30 patients with normal coronary angiography. Results: Age, sex, major clinical risk factors for coronary artery disease, laboratory and echocardiographic parameters were similar in patients with and without CSFP (p > 0.05). Significant differences were found between the 2 study groups regarding serum lead level. Conclusion: Lead is a highly poisonous metal (whether inhaled or swallowed), affecting almost every organ and system in the body. Long-term exposure to lead can cause nephropathy and rise in blood pressure. We found it may also contribute to ischemic heart disease and CSFP. The suspected mechanism is oxidative stress and inflammation.

Keywords

• Cardiovascular disease
• Coronary slow flow phenomenon
• Serum lead level