Abstract 239: LDL Apheresis Is Associated With a Reduction in Markers of Chronic Inflammation in Patients With Familial Hypercholesterolemia

Background: Familial Hypercholesterolemia is an inherited disease characterized by severely elevated levels of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) and associated with premature coronary artery disease (CAD). LDL apheresis (LA) is indicated for management of CAD patients with LDL-C>200 mg/dl despite medical therapy. LA may reduce LDL-C concentrations by up to 70%; this in turn has been associated with regression of atherosclerosis. NMR measurement of signals corresponding to methyl group protons of glycoproteins (GlycA and GlycB) has recently been validated in prediction of atherosclerosis and chronic systemic inflammation. Studies have demonstrated a reduction in inflammatory cytokines with LA, but no study to date has evaluated the impact of LA on levels of glycoproteins as markers of chronic inflammation. Objective: To determine the effect of LA on plasma levels of glycoproteins using a novel NMR based technique, and to correlate these findings with changes in lipoprotein subclasses. Methods: Comprehensive NMR lipo...