High-Sensitive CRP and Carotid Stiffness Between Patients With and Without Coronary Slow Flow

Comparative Assessment of High Sensitive CRP and Carotid Stiffness Between Patients With and Without Coronary Slow Flow

This study aims to compare the levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and carotid artery stiffness between patients with coronary slow flow phenomenon (CSFP) and those with normal coronary flow.

The coronary slow flow phenomenon (CSFP) is characterized by delayed opacification of the coronary arteries during angiography in the absence of significant epicardial coronary artery disease.

Hypothesis: High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a well-established biomarker of systemic inflammation and has been associated with various cardiovascular conditions. Elevated hs-CRP levels have been observed in patients with CSFP, suggesting an inflammatory component in its pathogenesis. This marker not only predicts future cardiovascular events but may also reflect ongoing vascular inflammation in patients with angiographically normal coronary arteries.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥18 years old.
• Both sexes.
• Patients undergo coronary angiography for evaluation of chest pain or suspected ischemia.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• History of cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Diagnosed autoimmune disorders, chronic hepatic or renal diseases.
• Current or recent infections.
• History of malignancy.
• Patients taking medications known to affect inflammatory markers (e.g., corticosteroids or immunosuppressants).