PCSK9 and lipoprotein (a) levels are two predictors of coronary artery calcification in asymptomatic patients with familial hypercholesterolemia

Abstract

Background and aims: We aimed to assess whether elevated PCSK9 and lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] levels associate with coronary artery calcification (CAC), a good marker of atherosclerosis burden, in asymptomatic familial hypercholesterolemia.

Methods: We selected 161 molecularly defined FH patients treated with stable doses of statins for more than a year. CAC was measured using the Agatston method and quantified as categorical variable. Fasting plasma samples were collected and analyzed for lipids and lipoproteins. PCSK9 was measured by ELISA, Lp(a) and apolipoprotein (a) concentrations by inmunoturbidimetry and LC-MS/MS, respectively.

Results: Circulating PCSK9 levels were significantly reduced in patients without CAC (n = 63), compared to those with CAC (n = 99). Patients with the highest CAC scores (above 100) had the highest levels of circulating PCSK9 and Lp(a). In multivariable regression analyses, the main predictors for a positive CAC score was age and sex followed by circulating PCSK9 and Lp(a) levels.

Conclusions: In statin treated asymptomatic FH patients, elevated PCSK9 and Lp(a) levels are independently associated with the presence and severity of CAC, a good predictor of coronary artery disease.

Keywords: Coronary artery calcification; Hypercholesterolemia; Lipids and lipoprotein metabolism.