OBJECTIVE

To investigate the structural and functional characteristics of the carotid and vertebral arteries and their relationship with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels in patients with chronic non-infectious diseases (CNIDs), considering sex differences.

Material and Methods. A retrospective analysis of clinical and laboratory data of 760 patients with chronic non-communicable diseases (average age 52.0±14.3 years), was performed. All patients underwent a general clinical examination, measurement of serum TNF-α concentration, and ultrasound examination of the carotid and vertebral arteries. Patients were divided into subgroups of men (n=382) and women (n=378) of comparable age.

RESULTS

Women with CNIDs had lower average levels of hemoglobin and red blood cells but higher levels of platelets, total cholesterol, and creatinine compared to men. Serum TNF-α levels did not significantly differ between men and women. The intima-media thickness (IMT) of the common carotid artery (CCA) and vertebral arteries (VA) was significantly higher in men with CNIDs compared to women. For both sexes, CCA IMT positively correlated with age, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration, and negatively correlated with glomerular filtration rate (GFR). The IMT of the internal carotid artery in both men and women was closely associated with serum TNF-α levels. In men, VA diameter correlated with age, triglyceride levels, and TNF-α, and negatively with GFR. In women, VA diameter was positively correlated age, systolic blood pressure, CRP, and fibrinogen levels, and negatively correlated with GFR.

CONCLUSION

Structural changes in the arteries supplying the brain are more pronounced in men with CNCIDs. Serum TNF-α levels should be considered in the secondary prevention of cerebrovascular complications in patients with CNIDs.