[Genetic variation of the cholesterol ester transfer protein gene and the prevalence of coronary artery disease. The AtheroGene case control study].

Background: Various functional polymorphisms of the cholesteryl ester transfer protein ( CETP) gene influence CETP activity and the concentration of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Beside other functional variants mainly the promoter polymorphism CETP/C-629A is currently discussed as a risk factor of coronary artery disease (CAD). We evaluated in a large case-control study the impact of various CETP genotypes and haplotypes on HDL concentration and the prevalence of CAD.

[Acute coronary syndrome (without ST-elevation)].

Antithrombotic therapy in acute coronary syndrome without ST-segment elevation should be initiated with aspirin 100 mg/day (loading dose 250-500 mg) and Clopidogrel 75 mg/day (loading dose 300 mg). In addition, anticoagulation with unfractionated heparin or low molecular weight heparin should be started. A GP IIb/IIIa receptor blocker can be given either upfront (Eptifibatide/Tirofiban) or directly in the cathlab preceding PCI (Abciximab).

[Differential diagnosis and therapy of bradycardic arrhythmias].

The most important symptoms in bradycardia are vertigo, dizziness and syncopy due to diminished cerebral blood sypply. Cardial symptoms are cardiac insufficiency and angina pectoris. By means of ECG, especially Holter-ECG, carotid sinus massage, atropin test and invasive methods (atrial stimulation, His-bundle ECG) sinu-nodal dysfunction, carotid sinus syndrome, bradyarrhythmia absoluta and AV-block can be diagnosed.