Biomarkers of Carotid Stenosis

Early recognition of rupture-prone atherosclerotic lesions in patients with high-graded carotid stenosis is an important clinical problem for preventing ischemic stroke. Various pathophysiological mechanisms are responsible the progression and instability plaques, such as changes lipid composition, infiltration by immunoinflammatory cells degradation extracellular matrix vascular wall metalloproteinases, enhanced inflammatory response plaque neovascularization. These features main cause rupture and, a consequence, neurologic symptoms. Therefore, metalloproteinases factors can serve possible markers severe unstable arteries. Due to heterogeneity lesions, only one biomarker not enough reliably predict development The use combination biomarkers better correlated data therefore, exceeds analysis individual factors. To increase overall sensitivity specificity more reliable diagnosis stroke symptomatic asymptomatic stenosis, panel should include independent biomarkers. Further preclinical experiments trials needed assess significance precise definition threshold levels before they be used practice.