Context: Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) is a novel biomarker for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) risk estimation with high specificity for vascular inflammation. Few studies have investigated Lp-PLA2 levels in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the role of Lp-PLA2 levels as a marker of vascular inflammation that contributes to cardiometabolic dysfunction in patients with MetS and OSAS.
Design: This is a prospective case-control study.
Subjects and methods: 83 men were enrolled. Following anthropometric measurements, laboratory analysis and overnight sleep study, patients were divided into three groups: MetS, OSAS with/without MetS. Serum Lp-PLA2 levels were determined by ELISA method.
Results: Serum Lp-PLA2 levels were statistically significant among the three groups and were higher in OSAS with MetS group than those without MetS. A significant positive relationship between increased Lp-PLA2 level and CRP (C-reactive protein) and apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was found. Average oxygen saturation (AvO2) and the lowest oxygen saturation were negatively correlated with Lp-PLA2. The number of desaturation events, oxygen desaturation index, AvO2, AHI and CRP were significant predictors of Lp-PLA2.
Conclusions: Lp-PLA2 levels are associated with OSAS severity and might play an important role in predicting CVD in OSAS with/without MetS.
Keywords: cardiovascular disease risk; lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2; metabolic syndrome; obstructive sleep apnea.