Fetuin-A and cardiovascular morbidity in hemodialysis patients

ABSTRACT

Serum fetuin-A is levels are reduced in patients with end-stage renal disease [ESRD] and this predisposes to increased vascular and valvular calcification. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the role of fetuin-A deficiency in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease in hemodialysis patients. Our study included 50 patients on regular hemodialysis; they were divided in to two groups. Group A, included 25 patients who had angina or myocardial infarction. Group B, included 25 patients with no significant cardiovascular disease. They were compared with 20 age and sex matched controls. Serum fetuin-A was significantly lower in group A than group B and was significantly lower in group B than controls, Its level was significantly lower in patients with mitral annular calcification and it showed significant negative correlation with left ventricular mass index. Fetuin-A deficiency in ESRD patients on regular hemodialysis can be regarded as an important cardiovascular risk factor