The Effect of plasma endocan and asymmetric dimethyl arginine levels on
endothelial and cardiac functions in children with beta thalassemia
major
Abstract
Background: Beta-thalassemia major (BTM) is an autosomal recessive
disease characterized by hemolytic anemia. Increased iron load
accumulated in the body as a result of frequent erythrocyte transfusions
leads to endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular complications. High
asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels disrupts endothelial function.
Endocan is a soluble proteoglycan synthesized in vascular endothelial
cells in many organs. High levels of endocan indicate endothelial
dysfunction. We aimed to determine whether there is a correlation with
cardiac evaluation instruments by evaluating circulating ADMA and
endocan levels in BTM patient group and healthy control group and
whether they can be a prognostic marker in terms of endothelial
dysfunction and cardiovascular risk stratification. Methods: A total of
39 patients with BTM and 39 age and gender matched healthy children were
enrolled in the study. Medical histories of all patients were recorded
and physical examinations were performed. Complete blood count,
reticulocytic count, serum ferritin and iron level, liver, renal
function tests, plasma ADMA and endocan and proBNP. Cardiac examination
results by a pediatric cardiologist were tested on all children in both
patient and control groups. Results: Mean ADMA in the BTM group is
higher than in the control group. Endocan levels in patients with BTM
were not found to be statistical difference (337,5±344,0 pg/mL vs
218,14±171,1 pg/mL) (p=0,057). Serum endocan and ADMA levels were not
associated with cardiovascular functions. Conclusions: Although serum
levels of endocan were found to be significantly higher in BTM patients,
high serum endocan and ADMA levels were not associated with
cardiovascular functions.