Plasma viscosity in patients with metabolic syndrome

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Plasma viscosity, which is affected by plasma lipid and protein composition, is a hemorheological parameter accepted as an early cardiovascular risk factor. In this study we aimed to investigate the alterations in plasma viscosity in patients with metabolic syndrome since both are early predictors of CVD. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total number of 70 patients aged between 25-55 years with the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome according to IDF 2005 criteria and 32 age and sex matched healthy subjects were allocated consecutively in the study. Body mass index (BMI), arterial blood pressure, blood glucose, total cholesterol, HDL and triglyceride levels were measured and plasma viscosity was measured. The results of patients with MS and healthy subjects were compared. Correlation between components of the Metabolic Syndrome and plasma viscosity was assessed. RESULTS: BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, waist circumference, serum lipid and glucose levels and plasma viscosity levels were higher in patient group (p < 0.001). A positive correlation was determined between plasma viscosity and waist circumference, hypertension and serum lipid levels (r = 0.401, p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: Plasma viscosity is increased in patients with metabolic syndrome and it is associated with waist circumference, hypertension and plasma lipid levels.