Level of advanced oxidation protein products is associated with subclinical atherosclerosis.

Background: Oxidative stress is an important factor in the pathomechanism of atherosclerosis. Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) are considered markers of oxidative stress. Thickening of the carotid intima-media layers indicates subclinical atherosclerosis and can be detected by carotid ultrasound.

Objective: Our aim was to examine the association between carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and the level of AOPPs.

Methods: Carotid duplex scans and measurements of AOPPs were performed on 476 participants of a cardiovascular population study. The presence of conventional cardiovascular risk factors was investigated with a questionnaire, physical examination, and laboratory tests.

Results: There was a positive correlation between maximum CIMT and the level of AOPPs only in the male population (r = 0.219, p = 0.033). Multivariate analysis has revealed that the association between AOPPs and mean or maximum CIMT was independent of cardiovascular risk factors (OR = 1.458, p = 0.004, and OR = 2.038, p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Among males, the elevated level of AOPPs as a marker of oxidative stress may signal the existence of early atherosclerotic alterations.