Work

Comparative Assessment of High-sensitive CRP and Carotid Stiffness between Patients with and without Coronary Slow Flow

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background and Aim: Coronary slow flow (CSF) phenomenon represents a distinct clinical entity characterized by delayed coronary opacification despite absence of significant epicardial stenosis.The pathophysiology involves microvascular dysfunction, endothelial impairment, and systemic inflammation.This study evaluated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels and carotid stiffness parameters in cases with CSF and in controls with normal coronary flow (CF). Materials and Methods:This case-control study included 60 participants who underwent coronary angiography for chest pain evaluation.Participants (n=30) were divided into two groups: the CSF group, defined by corrected thrombolysis in myocardial infarction frame count >27, and the control group, with normal CF.Bilateral carotid artery ultrasonography and hs-CRP measurement were performed.Carotid stiffness parameters included β-stiffness index, Peterson's elastic modulus, distensibility coefficient, compliance coefficient, and arterial strain.Results: CSF cases demonstrated significantly higher hs-CRP levels than controls (3.35±1.48 vs. 1.18±0.62mg/L; P < 0.001).Carotid assessment revealed increased carotid intima-media thickness (0.82±0.24 vs. 0.68±0.19mm, P = 0.012), elevated β-stiffness index (7.68±2.71 vs. 6.04±1.62,P = 0.006), and Peterson's elastic modulus (637.33±279.7 vs. 379.67±249.81kPa, P < 0.001).Decreased distensibility and compliance coefficients indicated reduced arterial compliance.Conclusion: CSF is associated with higher hs-CRP and adverse carotid stiffness profiles.These findings support an inflammatory-vascular dysfunction axis in the CSF and justify further studies assessing their prognostic utility.

Source: International Journal of the Cardiovascular Academy

DOI: 10.4274/ijca.2026.13008

Authors: Remon Saleh Adly, Sally Magdy Teima, Shereen Philip Aziz, Ahmed Ibrahim Bedier

Institutions: Sohag University, Mansoura University

Language: English

Topic: Cardiovascular Health and Disease Prevention

Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7131239738