Correlazione fra aterosclerosi carotidea ed aortica in soggetti asintomatici

Background. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between carotid and aortic atherosclerosis in asymptomatic subjects. Methods. Eighty-three consecutive patients without history of cardio- and cerebrovascular disease, referred for transesophageal echocardiography, were enrolled into the study. Results. Aortic plaques were found in 40 out of 83 patients, whereas carotid atherosclerosis was present in 43% of the entire study population and in 75% of patients with aortic atherosclerosis (30 out of 40 patients). At multivariate logistic analysis, the presence of carotid atherosclerosis was a predictor of aortic atheroma, independently of traditional risk factors. Conclusions. In asymptomatic patients, aortic plaque occurrence may reflect the presence of carotid plaques and an ultrasound assessment should be advised.