Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 and Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Patients—Cardiologists Be Aware

Abstract

Numerous clinical studies have indicated that elevated FGF23 (fibroblast growth factor 23) levels may be associated with cardiovascular (CV) mortality, especially in patients with chronic kidney disease. The purpose of this study was to examine the hypothesis that FGF23 may be a potent CV risk factor among patients with long-standing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Research was performed utilizing patients with T2DM and regular outpatient follow-up care. Baseline characteristics determined by laboratory tests were recorded. Serum FGF23 levels were detected using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. All patients underwent echocardiograms and 12-lead electrocardiograms. Data records of 102 patients (males: 57%) with a median age of 69 years (interquartile range (IQR) 66.0–74.0) were analyzed. Baseline characteristics indicated that one-third (33%) of patients suffered from ischemic heart disease (IHD), and the median time elapsed since diagnosis with T2DM was 19 years (IQR 14.0–25.0). The hemoglobin A1c, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and FGF23 values were, respectively, as follows: 6.85% (IQR 6.5–7.7), 80 mL/min/1.73 m2 (IQR 70.0–94.0), and 253.0 pg/mL (IQR 218.0–531.0). The study revealed that FGF23 was elevated in all patients, regardless of IHD status. Thus, the role of FGF23 as a CV risk factor should not be overestimated among patients with T2DM and good glycemic control.

Fibroblast Growth Factor 23: Potential Marker of Invisible Heart Damage in Diabetic Population

“…In our previous study, we reported consistent results with recent findings. We did not provide the evidence for any correlation between FGF level and either overt IHD (33% of study population) or LVEF (56%, interquartile range (IQR) 52–60) [ 25 ]. Therefore, in furtherance of our earlier research, we aimed to determine whether FGF23 may be used as a marker of early myocardial damage among patients with long-standing T2DM and no previous history of MI.…”