Abstract
(1) Background: Arterial hypertension (HTN) is one of the most relevant cardiovascular risk factors. Nowadays multiple pharmaceutical treatment options exist with novel interventional methods (e.g., baroreflex activation therapy (BAT)) as a last resort to treat patients with resistant HTN. Although pathophysiology behind resistant HTN is still not fully understood. There is evidence that selected biomarkers may be involved in the pathophysiology of HTN. (2) Methods: We investigated serum SDC4-levels in patients suffering from resistant HTN before and 6 months after BAT implantation. We collected 19 blood samples from patients with resistant HTN and blood pressure above target and measured serum SDC4-levels. (3) Results: Our results showed high serum SDC4-levels in patients with resistant HTN as compared to a healthy population. Patients with both, resistant HTN and diabetes mellitus type II, demonstrated higher serum SDC4-levels. β-blockers had lowering effects on serum SDC4-levels, whereas calcium channel blockers were associated with higher levels of serum SDC4. BAT implantation did not lead to a significant difference in serum SDC4-levels after 6 months of therapy. (4) Conclusion: Based on our results we propose SDC4 is elevated in patients suffering from resistant HTN. Thus, SDC4 might be a potential marker for endothelial dysfunction in patients with resistant hypertension.
Highlights
Arterial hypertension (HTN), especially resistant HTN, cause a great amount of damage to the vascular system and enhance the progress of cardiovascular diseases
(4) Conclusion: Based on our results we propose SDC4 is elevated in patients suffering from resistant HTN
In 19 patients with resistant HTN treated with the Baroreflex activation therapy (BAT) Neo system, blood pressure (BP) measurements were performed before BAT implantation and 6 months after BAT activation
Summary
Arterial hypertension (HTN), especially resistant HTN, cause a great amount of damage to the vascular system and enhance the progress of cardiovascular diseases. It is mandatory to treat HTN as early and effectively as possible to prevent further progression to complications like myocardial infarction or the development of chronic kidney disease. Patients with ongoing high blood pressure (BP) values despite the appropriate use of more than three antihypertensive drugs (including one diuretic) are categorized as patients suffering from resistant HTN. BAT takes its effect mainly through the reduction of sympathetic over activity. Meta-analysis confirms the beneficial effect of BAT on the reduction of BP [3]. BAT has a beneficial effect on the glucose metabolism [4], the arterial stiffness [5] and renal function [6]
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