Management of Dyslipemia in Heart Transplant Patients. Findings on New Risk Factors

pp 205-207

Abstract

Coronary vascular disease is a frequent complication in heart transplant patients, and dyslipemia is one of its main predictors. Immunosuppressive drugs predispose to dyslipemia, complicating the use of hypolipidemic agents. In this particular group of patients therapeutic goals in secondary prevention should be achieved. Statins are the hypolipidemic agent of first choice. Still there are no clear recommendations on new risk factors such as homocysteine and Lp (a). The aim of this study was to assess the lipid profile, the prevalence of high levels of homocysteine and Lp (a), the achievement of the therapeutic goals and the tolerance to the medication. Twenty-three heart transplantation patients were included. The results showed an acceptable achievement of the lipid objectives; 65% of patients were on hypolipidemic treatment. Statins were safe. A great prevalence of high levels of homocysteine and Lp (a) were reported. The consequences of these findings on a change of therapy are still unknown.