A quick test predicts acute coronary events
Futterman, L.G.; Lemberg, L.
American Journal of Critical Care An Official Publication American Association of Critical-Care Nurses 12(3): 262-266
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 1062-3264 PMID: 12751402 Document Number: 564227
Inflammation of the coronary arterial wall plays a major role in atherosclerosis and ultimately thrombosis by contributing to vascular constriction, spasm, and thrombus formation. Measurement of hs-CRP level is a readily available laboratory blood test that serves as a gauge of coronary plaque inflammation. As a result, hs-CRP has become a very useful biological marker for predicting the risk of acute coronary events and for making decisions regarding treatment. It is important to recognize that lipid-lowering therapy decreases plaque inflammation and slows the progression of calcium buildup in the coronary arteries, which is readily verified by reduction in hs-CRP levels. Endothelial dysfunction is a product of plaque inflammation and as such can predict acute CV events. Endothelial function can be assessed during cardiac catheterization by measuring the vasoactive response to pharmacological or physiological stress. However, the routine use of cardiac catheterization to measure drug-induced coronary vasoactivity can have potential adverse effects in patients with unstable coronary disease. Time and costs can also be additional constraints in the routine use of this procedure. Consequently the simple and readily available hs-CRP test is accurate and preferable.