Searchable abstracts of presentations at key conferences in endocrinology
Endocrine Abstracts (2006) 11 P412

1Asclepeion Hospital, Athens, Greece; 2Metaxa Hospital, Pireaus, Greece.


Epidemiological studies show increased mortality in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). One of the causes of death in RA patients is cardiovascular disease. Lipoprotein Lp(a) appears to be an independent risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases. The aim of the study was to evaluate serum lipid and lipoprotein Lp(a) levels in patients with RA.

Patients with RA, n=50, aged 24–65 years and healthy controls, n=50 were included in the study. In patients and controls the levels of hematocrit, hemoglobin, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL and Lp(a) were measured.

The levels of Lp(a) (normal values <30 mg/dl) were found increased in 12 of 50 patients with RA (24%) and in 6 of 50 controls (12.5%). Within the RA cohort 9 of the 12 patients with increased Lp(a) levels had increased inflammation markers and increased DAS28.

Lipoprotein Lp(a) levels were found increased in patients with RA. Patients with RA appear to be at increased risk for the development of atherosclerosis. Lipoprotein Lp(a) levels seem to be increased in patients with active RA and inflammation may alter Lp(a) levels.

Volume 11

8th European Congress of Endocrinology incorporating the British Endocrine Societies

European Society of Endocrinology 
British Endocrine Societies 

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