Can imaging techniques identify smoking-related cardiovascular disease?

Curr Pharm Des. 2010;16(23):2578-85. doi: 10.2174/138161210792062911.

Abstract

This article reviews the current techniques employed to assess endothelial dysfunction in different categories of smokers. Simple but effective methods to assess regional and local properties of large arteries for epidemiologic studies are firstly discussed. After, more complex but accurate image-based methods are described. In particular, the role of high resolution magnetic resonance to quantify, in a single examination, vascular function at different sites of peripheral and central arteries is summarized. Finally, the role of positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance flow mapping are described to assess myocardial microcirculation at rest and under external stressors.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / etiology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / pathology*
  • Diagnostic Imaging / instrumentation
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods*
  • Diagnostic Imaging / trends*
  • Endothelium, Vascular / pathology
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / instrumentation
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / trends
  • Positron-Emission Tomography / instrumentation
  • Positron-Emission Tomography / methods
  • Positron-Emission Tomography / trends
  • Smoking / adverse effects
  • Smoking / pathology*