Serum fibroblast growth factor 21 levels are related to subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes

In this study, we evaluated the association of serum FGF21 with intima-media thickness (IMT) and subclinical atherosclerosis in type 2 diabetic patients. Methods: Serum FGF21 levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 212 newly diagnosed type 2 diabetic patients without clinical symptoms of atherosclerosis or cardiovascular diseases. IMT of the carotid, femoral, and iliac arteries were measured by high-resolution B-mode ultrasound to determine the presence of subclinical atherosclerosis, which was defined as having an IMT > 1.0 mm and/or plaque on one or more of the three arteries without any clinical manifestations. The relationship between serum FGF21 levels and subclinical atherosclerosis was analyzed. Results: Serum FGF21 levels were significantly higher in patients with subclinical atherosclerosis compared to those without [261.3 (135.1–396.4) versus 144.9 (95.9–223.0) ng/L, P 
Source: Cardiovascular Diabetology - Category: Cardiology Authors: Source Type: research