Lipoprotein (A) In Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus as A Marker of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease

Abstract

Background: One of the most important complications of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is atherosclerotic cardiovascular disorders (ASCVD), a disease that affects a large percentage of the population and considered a healthcare burden. Objective: Our aim to establish a probable relationship between lipoprotein (a) [Lp (a)] and T2DM and to demonstrate it as a marker of (ASCVD). Patients and Methods: This case-control study included 200 subjects; 150 diabetic patients and 50 age and gender matched healthy subjects. Thorough history taking of T2DM with assessment of vascular diabetic complications was done. The fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, lipid profile, s. creatinine and Lp (a) level were performed to all participants. Results: Lp (a) levels were significantly low in diabetic patients (19.8 ± 13.4 mg/dl) compared to control group (32.6 ± 20.8 mg/dl) (p <0.001). Lp (a) level was significantly higher in diabetics with macro-vascular complications (22.7 ± 14.4 mg/dl) than diabetics with micro-vascular complications (11.7 ± 6.5 mg/dl). Lp (a) level among diabetics with macro-vascular complications was insignificant higher than diabetics without vascular complications (p= 0.08). Conclusion: Lp (a) is strongly associated with T2DM and its vascular complications that needs further research especially genetic study.