The regression between multiple inflammatory markers and C-IMT in normocholesterolemic stable IHD. The effect of moderate dose of atorvastatina (MIAMI study)

Introduction: Plasma levels of Hs-CRP may be useful to select subjects at high risk of cardiovascular events. This inflammatory marker also helps identify patients most likely to respond to statins. Aim: A prospective clinical study was designed to investigate in a population of stable IHD patients treated with Atorvastatin: a) the regression of CRP levels and other soluble inflammatory" markers; b) the correlations between levels of Carotid Intima Media Thickness (C-IMT) and a series of soluble markers at different times; c) the influence of Hs-CRP levels on C-IMT regression; d) the utility of C-IMT as an additional marker to identify patients likely to respond to statins. Materials and Methods: MIAMI is an open, multicenter, independent study. In 100 patients with previous MI (> two months), in stable clinical conditions, with normal cholesterol and blood glucose, receiving atorvastatin (20 mg/daily) for 24 months, the following variables were measured at 0, 12 and 24 month: VCAM, ICAM, E-selectins, IL-6, -8, -10, -18, TNF-alpha, hs-CRP, MMP-9, TF, TFPI, Fg, TC, HDL, LDL, TG, urinary isoprostanes. C-IMT was measured blindly by computerised determination of images recorded in three examinations. The study started in January 2003 and is scheduled to end in December 2005. Topic Preferences: 1) New Markers for Cardiovascular Risk (18.) 2) Inflammation and Atherosclerosis (21.) 3) Pleiotropic effects of Lipid Lowering Drugs (41.)