Chronic inflammation as a new cardiovascular disease factor

Abstract

Introduction. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major public health problem, in most areas of the world. While traditional risk factors for the development of CVD have been researched, the science community has recently identified chronic Inflammation as an additional risk factor. Inflammation is the result of the body's immune system activity recognizing and removing harmful stimuli to start the healing process. Chronic inflammation is referred to as a long-term disorder. Chronic inflammatory disorders include diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic sclerosis (SSc), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) etc., which play a crucial role in the process of atherogenesis. Aim of the study. This research was on studying cardiovascular patients, that previously have been diagnosed with a form of chronic inflammation, to show that patients with chronic inflammatory diseases are likely at high risk of developing CVD. Materials and methods. The aim of the research consisted in studying cardiovascular patients, that have been previously diagnosed with a form of chronic inflammation, to show that patients with chronic inflammatory diseases are likely to be at a high risk of developing CVD. Results. By studying the significant inflammatory indicators like C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, Cytokines interleukin, the helper T cells, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, etc. and their effects on atherosclerosis we can underline the pathophysiology of atherogenesis. When the pro-inflammatory activity starts, it also commences the alteration of lipoprotein concentrations, oxidative stress, and macrophage accumulation, the injury of the endothelial and the activation of the immune system. All these factors and many others are increasing the risk of the atherosclerosis/arteriosclerosis and supported by the traditional factors they create the best conditions for the development of CVD. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis are in the group of an increased risk of CVD; the EULAR recommendations in 2017, updated in 2019, announced that the estimated risks are multiplied by 1.5- 2 for all patients with RA. The same data was found on systemic lupus erythematosus, in which the risks increase by 2-3 times. A similarity was suggested also on psoriatic arthritis and systemic sclerosis. Conclusions. Chronic inflammatory disorders, influenced by their pro-inflammatory effects are relevant as the new risk factors of Cardiovascular disease such as atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, acute coronary syndrome, etc.