Alpha 1-anti-trypsin concentration and atheromatosis risk factors in patients with abdominal aorta aneurysmata

Abstract number: P0686

Knapik-Kordecka M., Doskocz R. E., Adamiec R.

Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland

Introduction  

Elastin aortic media destruction seems to play an important role in pathogenesis of abdominal aorta aneurysmata. Elastase released from polynuclear neutrophiles induces that process, which begins vascular wall weakness. Lack of balance between elastase and its inhibitor: alpha-1 anti-trypsin (alpha1-AT) is the predisposing factor of aneurysmata genesis. In pathologic conditions we can meet congenital and also functional alpha1-AT deficiency, mainly caused by smoking and hyperlipidemia. The aim of the study was alpha 1-anti-trypsin estimation in patients with aortic abdominal aneurysmata and investigation of alpha 1-dependence on aneurysm diameter, parametric and nonparametric factors.

Methods  

There were 31 patients (28 men and 3 women) with abdominal aorta aneurysm proved in USG or CT scan. As a control 11 healthy persons aged 59.4 years had been taken. Presence of aorta aneurysm was excluded. Blood was taken from ulnar vein. The concentration of a1-anti-tripsin was assessed in serum by means of the radial immunodiffusion method with the use of M Partigen plates manufactured by Behring.

Summary  

1. Alpha 1 anti-trypsin statistical significant increasing in patient vs. healthy was proved. Mean concentration of a1-anti-trypsin in patient group was 1.48 g L^-1, and in control group 1.28 g L^-1 (P < 0.017). 2. There was neither correlation between alpha 1 anti-trypsin concentration and aneurysms diameter nor with another atheromatosis risk factors. 3. There was positive correlation between alpha 1 anti-trypsin concentration and patients' age.

Conclusion  

Alpha 1 AT can be recognized as an inflammation changes marker in abdominal aorta aneurysmata, independent on atheromatosis risk factors like: sex, smoking, obesity, arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and hyperuricemia. It depends on the age of the patient only.