Ramipril, Endothelial Function and Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Ramipril Improves Endothelial Function and Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: a Randomized and Controlled Study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ramipril on the endothelial function and on the number of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients.

The early detection of additional risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) such as endothelial dysfunction and low number of EPC in SLE patients, and an intervention proven effective could reduce the cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. No study assessed the effect of ramipril on endothelial function and EPCs in SLE patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• SLE according 1997 modified American College Rheumatology criteria
• age older than 18 years
• stable treatment for lupus for at least 3 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• previous coronary artery disease
• hypertension
• dyslipidemia (LDL>149 mg/dL)
• renal insufficiency (creatinine ≥1.4 mg/dL)
• diabetes
• smoking
• obesity (BMI≥30)
• pregnancy
• menopause
• patients taking statins or angiotensin convertor enzyme inhibitor within the last 6 months