Carotid intima-media thickness and arterial stiffness in type 1 diabetic patients are dependent on age and mean blood pressure.

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the factors that influence carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and arterial stiffness in type 1 diabetic patients.

Material And Methods: We included 87 type 1 diabetic patients (44 women, 43 men), median age 34 years, disease duration 10 years, HbA1c 8.2%. CIMT was measured using high resolution ultrasonography. Arterial stiffness was assessed with the use of digital volume pulse analysis and tonometric measurement of wave reflection and central haemodynamics. Serum C-reactive protein (hsCRP), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), soluble intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) concentrations were also measured.

Results: CIMT and arterial stiffness correlated with age, duration of diabetes, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, GFR-glomerular filtration rate and sICAM-1. Multiple regression analysis identified only age as significant determinant of CIMT. Age, mean blood pressure and GFR, but not duration of diabetes were significant determinants of arterial stiffness.

Conclusions: In type 1 diabetic patients both CIMT and arterial stiffness were related to age, blood pressure, kidney function and sICAM-1 serum concentration.