Homocysteine, a new cardiovascular risk factors

Homocystinuria is a rare inherited metabolic disease transmitted as an autosomal recessive trait. Arterial and venous thromboembolic events are frequent and life-threatening complications in homocystinuric patient. It has been suggested that mild homocysteinemia could be a risk factor for vascular disease. Homocysteine can promote lipid peroxidation and damage vascular endothelial cells. Moreover, homocysteine interferes with natural anticoagulant system and the fibrinolytic system. Homocysteinemia should be known in patients with premature vascular disease, especially in subjects with no risk factors. Folic acid, vitamin B6 can lower homocysteine levels