SERUM LEVELS OF TYPE-III PROCOLLAGEN PEPTIDE AND PERIPHERAL VASCULAR-DISEASE IN DIABETIC-PATIENTS

The aim of this study was to assess the possible relationship between serum levels of Type III procollagen peptide (PIIINP) and peripheral v ascular disease (PVD) in diabetic patients. Ninety Type 2 diabetic pat ients being treated with sulfonylureas, and 37 non-diabetic subjects w ere studied using Doppler ultrasound. After an overnight fast, blood w as taken for PIIINP, glucose, glucosylated hemoglobin (HbA(1)), C-pept ide, and lipids. Data were analysed according to the non-paired Studen t's t-test and the correlation coefficient, after log transformation. PIIINP levels were significantly elevated in diabetics with PVD (n = 4 4), 4.3 mu g/l (2.4-7.6, 95% confidence limits) compared with controls 3.1 mu g/l (1.9-4.9), P < 0.001, and with diabetics without PVD (n = 46), 3.1 mu g/l (1.9-5.0), P < 0.001. No correlation was found between PIIINP and HbA(1), glucose, C-peptide, age or duration of diabetes. W e conclude that PIIINP levels are elevated in Type 2 diabetics with PV D. It may reflect an increase in collagen deposition in the large arte ries that accompanies the development of macroangiopathy.