Abstract 13314: Effect of Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Docosahexaenoic Acid on Epicardial Fat Volume; Results From a Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Epicardial adipose tissue is an ectopic fat depot that may be associated with coronary artery atherosclerosis. Reduction in weight has been associated with a reduction in epicardial fat volume in several studies. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are known to lower triglyceride level. Whether the reduction in triglyceride level is associated with a reduction in epicardial fat volume is unknown. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that EPA and DHA reduce triglyceride levels and possibly can cause regression of epicardial fat volume after 30 months of therapy. Methods: A total of 139 patients with stable coronary artery disease on statins were randomized to EPA and DHA versus none for 30 months. Epicardial fat volume was measured with coronary computed tomographic angiography at baseline and 30 months. Change in epicardial fat volume was calculated. Results: No difference in baseline characteristics was observed (Table). At 30-month follow-up, those on EPA and DHA had a significant 6.7% reduction in triglyceride level compared to a 12.6% increase in controls (p=0.02). However, there was no difference in percent change in epicardial fat volume between control and EPA/DHA groups at 30 months (-3.1% [-16.7, 4.9] vs. -5.0% [-13.1,7.3], p-value=0.80, respectively). There was no significant change in body mass index in either group at 30-month follow-up. Conclusions: EPA and DHA led to a significant reduction of triglyceride level; however, there was no corresponding significant reduction in epicardial fat volume. This finding suggests that lowering triglyceride level does not affect epicardial fat volume.