Cardiovascular disease: Monocytosis, atherosclerosis and increased cardiovascular risk in mild renal dysfunction

摘要

According to new data, high plasma levels of cystatin C-a marker of mild renal dysfunction-are associated with reduced levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, high monocyte counts and increased intima-media thickness at the carotid bifurcation (an area of low shear stress that is prone to plaque formation). Based on these findings, Anjali Ganda and colleagues suggest that monocytosis and atherosclerosis might contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular events in patients with mild renal dysfunction.