Carotid artery intima media thickness and HsCRP: Predictors for atherosclerosis in prediabetic patients

Objective: We aimed to assess carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) and serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels as estimated markers of subclinical atherosclerosis and inflammation in prediabetic patients.

Methodology: One hundred and ten patients were defined as prediabetic and seventy-six subjects (age and sex matched) were assigned as control group in our cross sectional study. Bilateral CIMT measurements and hs-CRP levels were evaluated.

Results: The prevalance of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, angiotensin receptor blockers and antihyperlipidemic medication use were statistically higher in the prediabetic group. Serum hs-CRP levels, left, right and maximum CIMT were statistically higher among prediabetics compared to control group. There was a positive, significant correlation between left, right, maximum CIMT and fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, hs-CRP levels and BMI.

Conclusion: Recognising and focusing on the intervention of prediabetic state as early as possible and identifying the susceptible patients who may benefit from more aggressive preventive therapy is an important issue of primary prevention of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.