A study of C-reactive protein and its relationship with CHD and lipid metabolism

Inflammation is an important feature of atheroma and is associated with activation and proliferation of macrophages, endothelial and smooth muscle cells, the generation of growth factors and cytokines, the presence of other pro-inflammatory mediators, and the activation and deposition of complement particles. Increased serum CRP levels have been found recently in patients with both myocardial infarction and angina. Many trials have confirmed the association between high levels of CRP and the risk of future coronary events such as myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death. A total 60 subjects were included in the study in the age group of 50-68 years. Troponin I, hs-CRP, serum total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, and VLDL levels were estimated and LDL-cholesterol was calculated by Fried-walds formula. There was a statistically significant difference between the ages of two groups. The total cholesterol and LDL levels were significantly increased in CHD patients as compared to control subjects p<0.001). Unlike other markers of inflammation, C-reactive protein levels are stable over long periods, have no diurnal variation, can be measured inexpensively with available high-sensitivity assays, and have shown specificity in terms of predicting the risk of cardiovascular disease. We conclude that in conjunction with Troponin I values, regular assay of CRP may play a valuable part in differential diagnosis and management of CHD.