Homocysteine in CAD patients-Does it matter?

Introduction and Aim: Homocysteine (Hcy) is considered as an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) may be caused due to the deficiency of vitamin B12, folic acid (FA), and pyridoxine (B6) or due to genetic polymorphism in methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR). A pilot study was undertaken to investigate Hcy levels and its association with lipid profile in patients with CAD. Methods: Lipid profile values were obtained from laboratory reports and the Hcy levels were estimated by enzymatic cycling assay using the commercial kits in autoanalyzer in subjects with CAD (n=12). Results: Hcy (14.58 ± 8.32 µmol/L), LDL (134.75 ± 45.02 mg/dl) and non-HDL (150.25 ± 56.89 mg/dl) levels were found to be elevated in patients with CAD. Conclusion: Dyslipidemia was associated with variable Hcy levels. Few patients with HHcy showed concurrent upsurge in LDL and non-HDL levels.