Subclinical Atherosclerosis and Atherogenic Index of Plasma in Lichen Planus Patients- A Comparative Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Lichen Planus (LP) is an idiopathic and chronic inflammatory disease that affects the skin and the mucous membranes, and studies have proven its association with increased risk for Cardiovascular (CV) diseases. Subclinical atherosclerosis and Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP) are strong predictors of CV risk. Aim: The primary aim of this study was the evaluation of Common Carotid artery mean Intima-Media wall Thickness (CIMT) and AIP which are predictors of CV risk in patients with LP. Materials and Methods: Fifty patients with LP and fifty age, gender and Body Mass Index (BMI) matched healthy controls (from the general population without the disease) were included in the study. CIMT was measured using ultrasound. Lipid profile was calculated by biochemical analysis. AIP was calculated from lipid profile using validated formula. Data was analysed using SPSS version 16.0 software. Results: Compared to healthy controls, patients had significantly higher CIMT. A 28% of patients had subclinical atherosclerosis compared to 2% of controls (p<0.001). Dyslipidemia was detected in 42% of patients and only 10% of controls (p<0.001). AIP was significantly elevated in LP patients compared to controls (p<0.001). A 36% of patients had high CV risk according to AIP versus 8% of controls. The 80% of controls had low CV risk versus 48% of patients (p<0.001). Conclusion: LP patients were found to have increased CV risk. CIMT, lipid profile and AIP can serve as important diagnostic markers of CV risk. Educating the patients about such a risk will enable them to follow lifestyle modifications so as to prevent further complications and morbidity.