Endothelial dysfunction in patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

Abstract

Purpose: Evaluation of peripheral endothelial function using EndoPAT 2000 device in patients with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and correlation with clinical characteristics of the patients. Material and methods: The study included 39 patients with NSTEMI, hospitalized in 2 PCI centers, in the period 03.2022-03.2023. At 72 hours after admission, peripheral endothelial function was assessed using the EndoPAT 2000 device. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the presence of peripheral endothelial dysfunction (RHI <1.67). Statistical analysis of the data was performed using the t-test and the χ2 test. Results: The average value of the reactive hyperemia index (RHI) was 1.73 ± 0.47. Endothelial dysfunction was diagnosed in 51,3% of NSTEMI patients. Group I included 19 patients with normal endothelial function (RHI>1.67), and group II – 20 patients with endothelial dysfunction (RHI<1.67). In the group of patients with endothelial dysfunction, two- or three-vessel disease prevailed (χ2=2.7, p=0.43) and a higher rate of coronary angioplasty was recorded (χ2=4.36, p=0.037). Conclusion: Peripheral endothelial dysfunction estimated by the EndoPat 2000 method is identified in 51,3% of patients with NSTEMI. The endothelial dysfunction correlated with severity of coronary lesions. Further studies are needed to assess the diagnostic and prognostic value of the method.