Brachial artery ultrasound: A noninvasive tool in the assessment of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins

In recent years, endothelial dysfunction has been identified as an early feature of atherosclerosis. Endothelial function can be measured noninvasively by using brachial artery ultrasound. A variety of factors associated with atherosclerosis also impair endothelial function. Some of these factors are lipoproteins such as various forms of low-density lipoproteins, postprandial chylomicron remnants, fasting triglyceride-rich particles, and free fatty acids. A high-fat diet also has an adverse effect on endothelial function Several interventions can improve endothelial function and, at the same time, reduce cardiovascular events; Measuring endothelial function may eventually serve as a useful index to determine an individual's risk for coronary artery disease.