Abstract
Aim: Although statins have been well documented to induce the regression of thoracic aortic plaques, a similar effect of statins on abdominal aortic plaques has not been observed.We aimed to explore whether a statin in combination with a bisphosphonate was effective in the regression of abdominal aortic plaques, which are more likely to be calcified.
Methods: Eighty-seven patients with hypercholesterolemia were assigned to the atorvastatin (ATR)+etidronate (ETD) group (n=45) or ATR group (n=42). A total of 98 thoracic and 107 abdominal aortic plaques were detected in the ATR+ETD group, and 86 thoracic and 102 abdominal plaques in the ATR group at baseline, as measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The primary end-point was the change of maximal vessel wall thickness (Max-VWT) in atherosclerotic lesions after 1 year, as assessed by MRI.
Results: ATR+ETD and ATR groups reduced the low density lipoprotein cholesterol level (−42% and −43%, p< 0.001 vs. baseline for both groups), and Max-VWT in thoracic lesions (−15% and −14%, p< 0.001 vs. baseline for both groups). ATR+ETD group reduced Max-VWT in abdominal lesions (−14%, p< 0.001 vs. baseline), whereas ATR group did not (−1%, p=0.958 vs. baseline).
Conclusion: The results suggest that ATR+ETD treatment for 12 months significantly reduces both thoracic and abdominal aortic plaques, while ATR treatment reduces only thoracic aortic plaques.(Clinical trial registry no. UMIN 000003756)
