Chlamydia pneumoniae and coronary artery disease: legitimized linkages?
Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cp) infection in early life may accelerate atherosclerosis over ensuing decades, leading to cardiovascular complications. Cp promotes endothelial dysfunction and may modulate inflammation underlying atherosclerosis. It represents a biologically plausible candidate for the causation of atherosclerosis. Other infections simultaneously occurring with Cp may result in a synergistic effect to promote atherosclerosis. Studies on the treatment of Cp with antibiotics indicates decreased rates of infection, modulation of inflammation and in some settings, fewer cardiovascular complications.
Higgins
John P
JP
Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Cardiology Section, 4C108, VA Boston Healthcare System, 1400 VFW Parkway, Boston, MA 02132, USA. John.Higgins@med.va.gov
Higgins
Johanna A
JA
Higgins
Patricia M
PM
Ahuja
Samir
S
Higgins
Daniel L
DL
D015984:Causality; D023521:Chlamydophila Infections / Q000150:complications*; D016993:Chlamydophila pneumoniae; D003324:Coronary Artery Disease / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D012107:Research Design