Cystatin C and other cardiovascular markers in hypertension

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to assess the relationship of cystatine C to other cardiovascular risk factors in hypertension. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Cross-sectional study in hypertensive outpatients with normal creatinine values (< 1.6 mg/dl for males and < 1.4 mg/dl for women). Cystatin C was analyzed by immunonephelometry. RESULTS: 283 patients (47% male) were evaluated. Cystatin C values were 0.65 (0.27) mg/l (median, intercuartile range, percentile 70 = 0.76 mg/l), and were correlated to the estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) (ml/min/1.73 m(2)), C reactive protein, and urinary albumin excretion (UAE). In multiple regression analysis the GFR was the most significant factor and explained 38% of cystatine C variability. GFR, (odds ratio [OR] = 5.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.27-15.03; p < 0.001), age (OR = 1.05; 95% CI, 1.02-1.08; p < 0.001), and CRP (OR = 2.03; 95% CI, 1.07-3.84; p = 0.03), but not UAE >= 30 mg/24 h, were independent factors related to the presence of high levels (> 0.76 mg/l) of cystatine C in a logistic regression analysis. 58% of patients with UAE >= 30 mg/24h had cystatin C values < 0,76 mg/l. CONCLUSIONS: In hypertensive patients, the GFR is the most important factor related to cystatine C values. Increased levels of cystatine C do not correspond to UAE augmentation.