Changes in aortic wall stiffness in men with α₁-antitrypsin deficiency

Objectives:

To examine the diameter and distensibility of the abdominal aorta in patients with severe α₁-antitrypsin deficiency, and to compare the results with those of normal subjects.

Material and methods:

Abdominal aortic diameter and stiffness (β) was measured using echo-tracking sonography in 19 men (mean age 50, range 25–79) and 17 women (mean age 46, range 26–62) with severe α₂-antitrypsin deficiency. The results were compared with those of healthy individuals of corresponding age and gender.

Results:

There was no significant difference in the abdominal aortic diameter between controls and patients with α₁-antitrypsin deficiency when corrected for age, sex and body surface area (men p = 0.20, women p = 0.10). Men with α₁-antitrypsin deficiency showed significantly lower stiffness in the abdominal aorta compared to controls (p = 0.025), whereas women did not (p = 0.17).

Conclusions:

No significant difference in abdominal aortic diameter could be detected in patients with α₁-antitrypsin deficiency compared with controls. However, aortic distensibility in men with α₁-antitrypsin deficiency is altered. This may reflect early vessel wall abnormality.