Management of cardiovascular complications in Klinefelter syndrome patients

Abstract

Introduction: Klinefelter syndrome (KS), also known as 47, XXY, shows increased mortality when compared with mortality rates among the general population. Cardiovascular, hemostatic, metabolic diseases are implicated. Moreover, cardiac congenital anomalies in KS can contribute to the increase in mortality.

Areas covered: In this study, we have systematically reviewed the relationships between KS and the cardiovascular system and the management of cardiovascular complication. In summary, patients with KS display increased cardiovascular risk profile, characterized by increased prevalence of metabolic alterations including dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus (DM), and abnormalities in biomarkers of cardiovascular disease. KS subjects are characterized by subclinical abnormalities in endothelial function and in left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function, which - when associated with chronotropic incompetence - may negatively influence cardiopulmonary performance. Moreover, KS patients appear to be at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease, due to thromboembolic events with high prevalence of recurrent venous ulcers, venous insufficiency, recurrent venous and arterial thromboembolism leading to deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

Expert opinion: Considering the unequivocal finding of increased mortality of KS patients, we suggest a periodic cardiovascular follow up in specialized centers with multidisciplinary care teams that comprise endocrinologists and cardiologists dedicated to KS syndrome.

Keywords: Klinefelter; cardiovascular disease; intima-media thickness; metabolic syndrome; platelet reactivity; testosterone.