Brachial artery ultrasound: A noninvasive tool in the assessment of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins

In recent years, endothelial dysfunction has been identified as an early fe ature of atherosclerosis. Endothelial function can be measured noninvasivel y by using brachial artery ultrasound. A variety of factors associated with atherosclerosis also impair endothelial function. Some of these factors ar e lipoproteins such as various forms of low-density lipoproteins, postprand ial chylomicron remnants, fasting triglyceride-rich particles, and free fat ty acids. A high-fat diet also has an adverse effect on endothelial functio n Several interventions can improve endothelial function and, at the same t ime, reduce cardiovascular events; Measuring endothelial function may event ually serve as a useful index to determine an individual's risk for coronar y artery disease.