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Rivera FB, Cha SW, Magalong JV, Bantayan NRB, Cruz LLA, Arias-Aguirre E, Aguirre Z, Varona MC, Co EMF, Lumbang GNO, Enkhmaa B. Safety profile of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors alirocumab and evolocumab: an updated meta-analysis and meta-regression. Curr Med Res Opin 2024:1-19. [PMID: 38836510 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2024.2363971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of alirocumab and evolocumab is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, concerns remain about their long-term safety, especially with regard to new-onset or worsening diabetes mellitus (DM). We aim to assess the safety profile of alirocumab and evolocumab compared to comparator. METHODS Studies were retrieved comparing the safety of PCSK9i vs. comparator (placebo or statin with or without ezetimibe). The primary outcome was adverse events leading to death. Secondary outcomes included serious adverse events, new onset diabetes mellitus (DM), worsening of DM, neurocognitive dysfunction, creatine kinase (CK) elevation, elevation of liver enzymes and local injection site reaction. Factors associated with the treatment effect were determined by meta-regression analysis. Subgroup analyses were done to explore potential treatment effect differences based on PCSK9i type and treatment duration. RESULTS We identified 56 studies with 85,123 adults (29.14% females). PCSK9i was not associated with adverse events that lead to death (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.04, p = 0.22). Between the two PCSK9i, alirocumab decreased adverse events leading to death (OR 0.79, 95% CI, 0.67 to 0.94, p = 0.008). PCSK9i was associated with less serious events compared to the comparator (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.89 to 0.98, p < 0.001). This reduction was driven mainly by alirocumab (OR 0.89, 95% CI, 0.85 to 0.93, p < 0.001). Evolocumab worsened DM (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.26 to 4.2, p = 0.041). Subgroup analysis showed worsening of DM in the first 24 weeks of treatment with odds being highest in the first 12 weeks of treatment (<12 weeks: OR 3.82, 95% CI 1.13 to 12.99, p = 0.03; 12-24 weeks OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.20 to 3.73, p = 0.01. On the other hand, therapy >24 weeks reduced the odds of worsening DM (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.99, p = 0.04). PCSK9i did not increase cognitive dysfunction, (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.18, p = 0.76), or cause elevations in liver enzyme (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.03, p = 0.14), or CK (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.65 to 1.04, p = 0.10). However, PCSK9i was associated with local injection site reaction (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.37 to 1.73, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Alirocumab decreased adverse events leading to death. Alirocumab and Evolocumab both decreased serious adverse events. PCSK9i did not increase new onset DM however evolocumab worsened DM in the first 24 weeks of treatment. PCSK9i did not increase neurologic dysfunction, and did not elevate liver enzymes and CK, however it was associated with local injection site reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Byambaa Enkhmaa
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, UC Davis Health, Davis, CA, USA
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Lan NSR, Bajaj A, Watts GF, Cuchel M. Recent advances in the management and implementation of care for familial hypercholesterolaemia. Pharmacol Res 2023; 194:106857. [PMID: 37460004 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is a common autosomal semi-dominant and highly penetrant disorder of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor pathway, characterised by lifelong elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). However, many patients with FH are not diagnosed and do not attain recommended LDL-C goals despite maximally tolerated doses of potent statin and ezetimibe. Over the past decade, several cholesterol-lowering therapies such as those targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) or angiopoietin-like 3 (ANGPTL3) with monoclonal antibody or ribonucleic acid (RNA) approaches have been developed that promise to close the treatment gap. The availability of new therapies with complementary modes of action of lipid metabolism has enabled many patients with FH to attain guideline-recommended LDL-C goals. Emerging therapies for FH include liver-directed gene transfer of the LDLR, vaccines targeting key proteins involved in cholesterol metabolism, and CRISPR-based gene editing of PCSK9 and ANGPTL3, but further clinical trials are required. In this review, current and emerging treatment strategies for lowering LDL-C, and ASCVD risk-stratification, as well as implementation strategies for the care of patients with FH are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick S R Lan
- Departments of Cardiology and Internal Medicine, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia; School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
| | - Archna Bajaj
- Division of Translational Medicine & Human Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Gerald F Watts
- Departments of Cardiology and Internal Medicine, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia; School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Marina Cuchel
- Division of Translational Medicine & Human Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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An Updated Meta-Analysis for Safety Evaluation of Alirocumab and Evolocumab as PCSK9 Inhibitors. Cardiovasc Ther 2023; 2023:7362551. [PMID: 36704607 PMCID: PMC9834631 DOI: 10.1155/2023/7362551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Alirocumab and evolocumab, as protein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors, have been reported to reduce cardiovascular risk. This meta-analysis is aimed at updating the safety data of PCSK9 inhibitors. Methods We assessed the relative risk for all treatment-related adverse events, serious adverse events, diabetes-related adverse events, and neurocognitive and neurologic adverse events with PCSK9 inhibitors compared to controls (placebo or ezetimibe). In addition, we conducted a meta-analysis to quantitatively integrate and estimate the adverse event rates in long-term studies. Results There were no significant differences between PCSK9 inhibitors and controls in the relative risk analysis. In a subgroup analysis of each PCSK9 inhibitor, alirocumab treatment significantly reduced the risk of serious adverse events compared to control treatment (risk ratio (RR) = 0.937; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.896-0.980), but no significant difference was observed with evolocumab treatment (RR = 1.003; 95% CI, 0.963-1.054). Moreover, alirocumab treatment afforded a significant reduction in the risk of diabetes-related adverse events compared to control treatment (RR = 0.9137; 95% CI, 0.845-0.987). The overall incidence (event rate) of long-term adverse events was 75.1% (95% CI, 71.2%-78.7%), and the incidence of serious long-term event rate was 16.2% (95% CI, 11.6%-22.3%). Conclusions We suggest that alirocumab and evolocumab are generally safe and well tolerated and that their addition to background lipid-lowering therapy is not associated with an increased risk of adverse events or toxicity.
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Ouyang M, Li C, Hu D, Peng D, Yu B. Mechanisms of unusual response to lipid-lowering therapy: PCSK9 inhibition. Clin Chim Acta 2023; 538:113-123. [PMID: 36403664 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2022.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The efficacy of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibition has broadened lipid-lowering therapy thus providing decreased risk in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately, the widespread use of PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9i), ie, monoclonal antibodies, has led to the findings of unusual responsiveness, ie, a phenomenon defined as an LDL-C reduction of <30% vs the average LDL-C reduction efficacy of 50-60%. This unusual responsiveness to PCSK9i is attributable to several factors, ie, lack of adherence, impaired absorption, poor distribution or early elimination as well as abnormal effects of PCSK9i in the presence of anti-antibodies or mutations in PCSK9 and LDLR. Unexpectedly increased lipoprotein (Lp)(a) also appear to contribute to the unusual responsiveness scenario. Identification of these responses and mechanisms underlying them are essential for effective management of LDL-C and cardiovascular risk. In this review, we describe plausible reasons underlying this phenomenon supported by findings of clinical trials. We also elaborate on the need for education and regular follow-up to improve adherence. Collectively, the review provides a summary of the past, present, and future of mechanisms and countermeasures revolving around unusual responses to PCSK9i therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingqi Ouyang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Research Institute of Blood Lipid and Atherosclerosis, Central South University, NO.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Chenyu Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Research Institute of Blood Lipid and Atherosclerosis, Central South University, NO.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Die Hu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Research Institute of Blood Lipid and Atherosclerosis, Central South University, NO.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Daoquan Peng
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Research Institute of Blood Lipid and Atherosclerosis, Central South University, NO.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Bilian Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Research Institute of Blood Lipid and Atherosclerosis, Central South University, NO.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China.
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Pirillo A, Catapano AL, Norata GD. Monoclonal Antibodies in the Management of Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Focus on PCSK9 and ANGPTL3 Inhibitors. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2021; 23:79. [PMID: 34698927 PMCID: PMC8549899 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-021-00972-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a monogenic disorder characterized by high plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) since birth and a high risk of premature cardiovascular disease. The genetic defect is carried in only one allele in heterozygous FH (HeFH) or in both in the most severe homozygous FH (HoFH). Current guidelines recommend to reduce substantially LDL-C levels in these high-risk patients, with the need to use association therapy combining agents with different mechanisms of action. As most cases of FH are attributable to mutations in the gene encoding the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), statins, even in combination with ezetimibe, are less effective in reducing LDL-C plasma levels in FH patients, who require a more intensive approach with additional lipid-lowering agents. Additional targets playing key roles in regulating LDL-C levels are represented by PCSK9 and ANGPTL3. Recent Findings Two monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting PCSK9, evolocumab and alirocumab, significantly reduce LDL-C levels in HeFH patients. In patients with HoFH, the efficacy of mAbs to PCSK9 is strictly related to the presence of a residual LDLR activity; thus, patients carrying null mutations do not respond to the therapy with these mAbs, whereas some effects can be appreciated in HoFH bearing defective mutations. Conversely, evinacumab, the mAb targeting ANGPTL3, is highly effective in reducing LDL-C levels even in HoFH patients carrying null LDLR mutations, thanks to its LDLR-independent mechanism of action. Summary Monoclonal antibodies inhibiting PCSK9 have shown a robust effect in FH patients presenting a residual LDLR activity, while ANGPTL3 inhibitors appear to be promising even in patients carrying null LDLR mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Pirillo
- Center for the Study of Atherosclerosis, E. Bassini Hospital, Cinisello Balsamo, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto S. Giovanni, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberico L Catapano
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto S. Giovanni, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe D Norata
- Center for the Study of Atherosclerosis, E. Bassini Hospital, Cinisello Balsamo, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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Practical guidance for combination lipid-modifying therapy in high- and very-high-risk patients: A statement from a European Atherosclerosis Society Task Force. Atherosclerosis 2021; 325:99-109. [PMID: 33892925 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2021.03.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS This European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) Task Force provides practical guidance for combination therapy for elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and/or triglycerides (TG) in high-risk and very-high-risk patients. METHODS Evidence-based review. RESULTS Statin-ezetimibe combination treatment is the first choice for managing elevated LDL-C and should be given upfront in very-high-risk patients with high LDL-C unlikely to reach goal with a statin, and in primary prevention familial hypercholesterolaemia patients. A proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor may be added if LDL-C levels remain high. In high and very-high-risk patients with mild to moderately elevated TG levels (>2.3 and < 5.6 mmol/L [>200 and < 500 mg/dL) on a statin, treatment with either a fibrate or high-dose omega-3 fatty acids (icosapent ethyl) may be considered, weighing the benefit versus risks. Combination with fenofibrate may be considered for both macro- and microvascular benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. CONCLUSIONS This guidance aims to improve real-world use of guideline-recommended combination lipid modifying treatment.
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Tomlinson B, Patil NG, Fok M, Lam CWK. Role of PCSK9 Inhibitors in Patients with Familial Hypercholesterolemia. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2021; 36:279-295. [PMID: 33866776 PMCID: PMC8090480 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2021.964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) are at high or very high risk for cardiovascular disease. Those with heterozygous FH (HeFH) often do not reach low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) targets with statin and ezetimibe therapy, and those with homozygous FH (HoFH) usually require additional lipid-modifying therapies. Drugs that inhibit proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) offer a novel approach to reduce LDL-C. The monoclonal antibodies, alirocumab and evolocumab, given by subcutaneous injection every 2 or 4 weeks produce reductions in LDL-C of 50% to 60% in patients with HeFH, allowing many of them to achieve their LDL-C goals. Patients with HoFH show a reduced and more variable LDL-C response, which appears to depend on residual LDL receptor activity, and those with receptor-negative mutations may show no response. Inclisiran is a long-acting small interfering RNA therapeutic agent that inhibits the synthesis of PCSK9. Subcutaneous doses of 300 mg can reduce LDL-C by more than 50% for at least 6 months and the responses in HeFH and HoFH patients are similar to those achieved with monoclonal antibodies. These PCSK9 inhibitors are generally well tolerated and they provide a new opportunity for effective treatment for the majority of patients with FH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Tomlinson
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
| | | | - Manson Fok
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
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Rosenson RS. Existing and emerging therapies for the treatment of familial hypercholesterolemia. J Lipid Res 2021; 62:100060. [PMID: 33716107 PMCID: PMC8065289 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2021.100060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), an autosomal dominant disorder of LDL metabolism that is characterized by elevated LDL-cholesterol, is commonly encountered in patients with atherosclerotic coronary heart disease. Combinations of cholesterol-lowering therapies are often used to lower LDL-cholesterol in patients with FH; however, current treatment goals for LDL-cholesterol are rarely achieved in patients with homozygous FH (HoFH) and are difficult to achieve in patients with heterozygous FH (HeFH). Therapies that lower LDL-cholesterol through LDL receptor-mediated mechanisms have thus far been largely ineffective in patients with HoFH, particularly in those with negligible (<2%) LDL receptor activity. Among patients with HeFH who were at very high risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease events, combined therapy consisting of a high dose of high-intensity statin, ezetimibe, and proprotein convertase subtilisin Kexin type 9 inhibitor failed to lower LDL-cholesterol to minimal acceptable goals in more than 50%. This article provides a framework for the use of available and emerging treatments that lower LDL-cholesterol in adult patients with HoFH and HeFH. A framework is provided for the use of angiopoietin-like protein 3 inhibitors in the treatment of HoFH and HeFH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert S Rosenson
- Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Marie-Josee and Henry R. Kravis Center for Cardiovascular Health. Mount Sinai Heart, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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Gaudet D, López-Sendón JL, Averna M, Bigot G, Banach M, Letierce A, Loy M, Samuel R, Manvelian G, Batsu I, Henry P. Safety and efficacy of alirocumab in a real-life setting: the ODYSSEY APPRISE study. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2020; 28:1864-1872. [DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwaa097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Aims
To obtain safety and efficacy data of alirocumab, a proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitor, in a real-life setting in high cardiovascular (CV) risk patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (HeFH) or very-high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels despite maximally tolerated dose of statin ± other lipid-lowering therapies (MTD ± LLTs). ODYSSEY APPRISE was a prospective, single-arm, Phase 3b open-label (≥12 weeks to ≤ 30 months) European/Canadian study with alirocumab.
Methods and results
Patients received alirocumab 75 or 150 mg every 2 weeks, with dose adjustment based on physician’s judgment. In total, 994 patients were enrolled and treated. The mean [standard deviation (SD)] duration of alirocumab exposure was 72.4 (42.5) weeks. Patients with HeFH were younger [mean (SD) age of 53.8 (11.6) vs. 61.6 (10.1) years], more likely to be female (41.7% vs. 29.1%) and had higher baseline LDL-C compared with non-familial hypercholesterolaemia (non-FH) patients [mean (SD) of 5.1 (1.7) vs. 4.1 (1.1) mmol/L]. The overall incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) was 71.6%; common TEAEs included nasopharyngitis (7.8%), myalgia (7.1%), and headache (6.2%). At Week 12, mean (SD) LDL-C was reduced by 54.8 (20.1)% from baseline [2.6 (1.2) mmol/L], maintained for the trial duration. LDL-C was reduced below 1.8 mmol/L and/or by ≥50% reduction from baseline in 69.1% of patients overall, and for 64.7 and 77.4% of the HeFH and non-FH subgroups, respectively.
Conclusion
In a real-life setting in patients with hypercholesterolaemia and high CV risk, alirocumab was generally well tolerated and resulted in clinically significant LDL-C reductions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Gaudet
- ECOGENE-21 and Clinical Lipidology Unit, Community Gene Medicine Center, Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Chicoutimi, QC G7H 7K9, Canada
| | | | - Maurizio Averna
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties—PROMISE, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90133, Italy
| | - Grégory Bigot
- IviData Life Sciences, Levallois-Perret 92300, France
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Hypertension, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz 90-419, Poland
| | | | | | - Rita Samuel
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | | | | | - Patrick Henry
- Hôpital Lariboisière, Service de Cardiologie, Paris 75010, France
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A case with familial hypercholesterolemia complicated with severe systemic atherosclerosis intensively treated for more than 30 years. J Cardiol Cases 2020; 22:216-220. [PMID: 33133313 DOI: 10.1016/j.jccase.2020.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a case of a Japanese patient with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) caused by a low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor gene mutation. A 47-year-old female was referred to our hospital due to her systemic xanthomatosis associated with elevated LDL-cholesterolemia (292 mg/dl). She was diagnosed with heterozygous FH, and started to be treated with simvastatin 10 mg. During her clinical course, she underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (at 69 years), coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) twice (at 62 years, and 75 years), femoral popliteal bypass surgery (at 67 years), together with intensification of lipid-lowering therapies, including proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor. She was admitted to our hospital due to dyspnea on effort, caused by severe aortic valve stenosis as well as sick sinus syndrome at the age of 78 years. transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) using balloon expandable valve was successfully performed after DDD pacemaker implantation. She was discharged from our hospital without any symptoms. During more than 30 years of treatment period in our institute, we have introduced the latest therapeutic strategies, and treated her intensively. We are proud that we can save life even in this severe case through multiple strategies developed over the decades; however, this case clearly suggests that lipid-lowering therapies should be started much earlier in patients with FH. <Learning objective: Using a variety of strategies developed over the decades, we can save healthy life in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) complicated with systemic atherosclerosis. However, lipid-lowering therapies in patients with FH should be started much earlier than the point where he or she exhibits systemic xanthomatosis.>.
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The potential value of Copeptin and Pentraxin3 for evaluating the severity of coronary stenosis in patients with coronary artery disease. Clin Biochem 2020; 87:32-38. [PMID: 33080253 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2020.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Coronary artery disease (CAD) is an ischemic heart disease due to the narrowing of the coronary arteries resulting from atherosclerosis. Blood biomarkers have been well utilized for the diagnosis and prognosis of CAD. However, the value of biomarkers for evaluating coronary atherosclerosis remains to be clarified. This clinical investigation aimed to explore the potential value of biomarkers for evaluating the severity of coronary stenosis in CAD patients. METHODS The extent of coronary atherosclerosis was accessed by the angiography-based quantitative measurement Gensini score (GS). Blood levels of Brain natriuretic peptide, Copeptin (CPP), Phosphodiesterase 9A, and Pentraxin3 (PTX3) were measured in 56 patients divided into three levels as low GS (n = 17), intermediate GS (n = 19) and high GS (n = 20) based on GS tertiles. RESULTS We found that plasma concentrations of CPP and PTX3 were significantly elevated in patients with high GS compared with the low GS group. In addition, Pearson correlation analysis showed that CPP and PTX3 were positively correlated with the GS. Furthermore, Receiver operating characteristics analysis demonstrated that both CPP and PTX3 exhibited discriminative capacities for evaluating the extent of coronary stenosis. CONCLUSIONS Laboratory tests of CPP and PTX3 via non-invasive means may provide novel information for risk stratification and disease management in CAD patients before invasive angiographic approaches. This study opens the door for enormous opportunities to explore new biomarkers with better efficiency, sensitivity and specificity as alternative/additional methods for evaluating the severity of coronary atherosclerosis in CAD patients in future research.
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Lui DTW, Lee ACH, Tan KCB. Management of Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Current Status and Future Perspectives. J Endocr Soc 2020; 5:bvaa122. [PMID: 33928199 PMCID: PMC8059332 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvaa122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is the most common monogenic disorder
associated with premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Early
diagnosis and effective treatment can significantly improve prognosis. Recent
advances in the field of lipid metabolism have shed light on the molecular
defects in FH and new therapeutic options have emerged. A search of PubMed
database up to March 2020 was performed for this review using the following
keywords: “familial hypercholesterolemia,” “diagnosis,”
“management,” “guideline,” “consensus,”
“genetics,” “screening,” “lipid lowering
agents.” The prevalence rate of heterozygous FH is approximately 1 in 200
to 250 and FH is underdiagnosed and undertreated in many parts of the world.
Diagnostic criteria have been developed to aid the clinical diagnosis of FH.
Genetic testing is now available but not widely used. Cascade screening is
recommended to identify affected family members, and the benefits of early
interventions are clear. Treatment strategy and target is currently based on
low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels as the prognosis of FH largely
depends on the magnitude of LDL cholesterol-lowering that can be achieved by
lipid-lowering therapies. Statins with or without ezetimibe are the mainstay of
treatment and are cost-effective. Addition of newer medications like PCSK9
inhibitors is able to further lower LDL cholesterol levels substantially, but
the cost is high. Lipoprotein apheresis is indicated in homozygous FH or severe
heterozygous FH patients with inadequate response to cholesterol-lowering
therapies. In conclusion, FH is a common, treatable genetic disorder, and
although our understanding of this disease has improved, many challenges still
remain for its optimal management.
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Affiliation(s)
- David T W Lui
- Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Alan C H Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kathryn C B Tan
- Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
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Mandraffino G, Scicali R, Rodríguez-Carrio J, Savarino F, Mamone F, Scuruchi M, Cinquegrani M, Imbalzano E, Di Pino A, Piro S, Rabuazzo AM, Squadrito G, Purrello F, Saitta A. Arterial stiffness improvement after adding on PCSK9 inhibitors or ezetimibe to high-intensity statins in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia: A Two-Lipid Center Real-World Experience. J Clin Lipidol 2020; 14:231-240. [PMID: 32111581 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacl.2020.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is characterized by increased cardiovascular risk; despite-high intensity statins, only few patients with FH achieve the recommended low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) targets. OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of six-month add-on therapy with proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9-i) or ezetimibe on lipid profile and pulse wave velocity (PWV) in patients with FH. METHODS In this observational study, we evaluated 98 genetically confirmed patients with FH with an LDL-C off-target despite high-intensity statins with or without ezetimibe; of these, 53 patients (statin plus ezetimibe) added PCSK9-i (PCSK9-i group) and 45 (statin only) added ezetimibe (EZE group) per applicable guidelines and reimbursement rules. All patients obtained biochemical analysis and PWV evaluation at baseline and after six months of optimized treatment. RESULTS After 6 months of add-on therapy, most patients achieving LDL-C targets were in the PCSK9-i group (77.3% PCSK9-i group vs 37.8% EZE group, P < .001). The PCSK9-i group achieved both a greater LDL-C and PWV reduction than the EZE group [-51% vs -22.8%, P < .001 and -15% vs -8.5%, P < .01, respectively]. In a linear regression analysis, we showed a coefficient (r) of 0.334 for the relationship between ΔPWV and ΔLDL (P < .05); moreover, in an exploratory analysis, the relationship appeared to be stronger in patients with FH without cardiovascular events (r = 0.422, P < .01). CONCLUSIONS Lipid and PWV profiles in patients with FH significantly improved after addition of PCSK9-i or ezetimibe to high-intensity statin therapy; moreover, ΔPWV was associated with ΔLDL. Our results are consistent with a beneficial role of these novel therapies in FH subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roberto Scicali
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Javier Rodríguez-Carrio
- Department of Functional Biology, Area of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain; Area of Metabolism, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Oviedo, Spain; Bone and Mineral Research Unit, Instituto Reina Sofía de Investigación Nefrológica, RED in REN Del ISCIII, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Francesca Savarino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Federica Mamone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Michele Scuruchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Cinquegrani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Egidio Imbalzano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Antonino Di Pino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Piro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Purrello
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Saitta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
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Polychronopoulos G, Tziomalos K. What special considerations must be made for the pharmacotherapeutic management of heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2019; 20:1175-1180. [DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2019.1598971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Polychronopoulos
- First Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Tziomalos
- First Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
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