Work

Impact of Image Interpretation of Carotid Ultrasound Findings on Lipid Management in Patients With Elevated ASCVD Risk

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This study aimed to explore the impact of carotid ultrasound finding interpretation by general practitioners (GPs) on patients' lipid management. METHODS: This study is an observational cohort study involving elderly patients aged ≥ 60 years with elevated risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Participants were divided into two groups: image interpretation group and routine care group, and then followed for 3 months. Our primary outcome was to explore the between-group differences in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) changes between the two groups at baseline and after 3 months of follow-up. Secondary outcomes included between-group differences in changes of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The Generalized Estimating Equation model was used to calculate interaction p values, β coefficients, and their 95% CIs. RESULTS: This study enrolled 338 participants, with 169 in the image interpretation group (age 69.6 ± 5.76 years) and 169 in the routine care group (age 71.59 ± 5.26 years). The between-group difference in LDL change from baseline to follow-up was statistically significant (interaction p = 0.028), with a β coefficient of -0.38 (95% CI -0.71, -0.04), indicating that the image interpretation group had a 0.38 mmol/L greater LDL reduction than the routine care group. This remained significant after adjusting for confounders (interaction p = 0.025, β = -0.38, 95% CI -0.70, -0.05). There were no significant between-group differences observed against changes in TC, HDL, and TG. CONCLUSION: This study indicated that adding image interpretation of carotid ultrasound results to routine care by GPs significantly improves lipid management in elderly patients with elevated ASCVD risk.

Source: Brain and Behavior

DOI: 10.1002/brb3.70956

Authors: Xiaochuan Liu, Sichen Yao, Hua Yang, Zhigang Pan

Institutions: Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Fudan University, Zhongshan Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Cerebrovascular and Carotid Artery Diseases

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,630