Emergent cardiovascular risk factor: homocysteine.
Homocysteine is an independent, modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It is an intermediate amino acid formed during the metabolism of methionine. Plasma homocysteine is normally < or = 12 micromol/L, but when elevated has many deleterious cardiovascular effects. This review explains homocysteine metabolism, the effects of elevated homocysteine, factors contributing to high homocysteine, and its measurement. Risk factors for elevated homocysteine and intervention with B vitamins are discussed. Cardiovascular nurses are encouraged to facilitate homocysteine awareness through a variety of educational means.
Warren
Cindy J
CJ
College of Nursing, Kent State University, Tuscarawas Campus, New Philadelphia, OH 44663, USA.
D001774:Blood Chemical Analysis / Q000379:methods; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000097:blood* / Q000209:etiology*; D005492:Folic Acid / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006266:Health Education; D006710:Homocysteine / Q000097:blood*; D006801:Humans; D020138:Hyperhomocysteinemia / Q000150:complications* / Q000451:nursing; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012307:Risk Factors; D014805:Vitamin B 12 / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use; D025101:Vitamin B 6 / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use
D006710:Homocysteine; D025101:Vitamin B 6; D005492:Folic Acid; D014805:Vitamin B 12