Is insertion/deletion polymorphism of the angiotensin I-converting enzyme gene associated with coronary artery plaque calcification as assessed by intravascular ultrasound?
Patients with CAD and the ACE DD genotype have a significantly higher incidence and greater extent of coronary lesion calcification, as determined by IVUS. This finding indicates that the ACE I/D gene polymorphism is related to the development or progression of atherosclerotic plaque calcification.
Our study has shown high prevalence of increased plasma concentrations in the total, LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides and low plasma concentrations of HDL-cholesterol, as well as the insufficient use of lipid-lowering drugs in diabetic and non-diabetic patients with previous MI. Decreasing the total cholesterol and increasing the HDL-cholesterol are significant, decreasing of triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol does not suffice. Therefore, secondary prevention measures of cardiovascular events should be intensified, especially in patients with diabetes.