HOMOCYSTEINE - A NEW RISK FACTOR FOR ATHEROSCLEROSIS

The accumulating evidence for the role of homocysteine as a risk facto r for atherosclerosis is persuasive. A high plasma homocysteine concen tration induces pathologic changes in the arterial wall and thus is st rongly associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, manifeste d as cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and peripheral vascular events. S tudies are being conducted to determine whether lowering homocysteine levels prevents occlusive events. At present, testing for elevated hom ocysteine concentrations should be considered in patients with prematu re atherosclerosis or a strong family history of atherosclerosis, sinc e hyperhomocysteinemia is a common risk factor in these patients. Trea tment of hyperhomocysteinemia is straightforward and associated with m inimal risk. This disorder is usually correctable with vitamin supplem ents containing folic acid.