CHANGES IN AORTIC-WALL STIFFNESS IN MEN WITH ALPHA(1)-ANTITRYPSIN DEFICIENCY

Objectives: To examine the diameter and distensibility of the abdomina l aorta in patients with severe alpha(1)-antitrypsin deficiency, and t o compare the results with those of normal subjects. Material and Meth ods: Abdominal aortic diameter and stiffness (beta) was measured using echo-tracking sonography in 19 men (mean age 50, range 25-79) and 17 women (mean age 46, range 26-62) with severe alpha(2)-antitrypsin defi ciency. The results were compared with those of healthy individuals of corresponding age and gender. Results: There was no significant diffe rence in the abdominal aortic diameter between controls and patients w ith alpha(1)-antitrypsin deficiency when corrected for age, sex and bo dy surface area (men p = 0.20, women p = 0.10). Men with alpha(1)-anti trypsin deficiency showed significantly lower stiffness in the abdomin al aorta compared to controls (p=0.025), whereas women did not (p = 0. 27). Conclusions: No significant difference in abdominal aortic diamet er could be detected in patients with alpha(1)-antitrypsin deficiency compared with controls. However, aortic distensibility in men with alp ha(1)-anitrypsin deficiency is altered. This may reflect early vessel wall abnormality.