Could Bacterial Infection of Arteries Link Inflammation to CVD?
While there is little debate about whether or not inflammatory processes are present in atherosclerotic arteries it is not clear whether these changes are simply a consequence of the atherosclerotic process or part of the pathogenesis of the disease.[17] [18] The idea that infections with bacteria and viruses might contribute to the growth of atherosclerotic plaque or their rupture and thrombosis has been around for many years.[19] Certainly bacteria have been found in both early and late stage atherosclerotic lesions. Data from the Helsinki Heart Study suggest that chronic infection with Chlamydia pneumoniae may be a significant risk factor in the development of coronary artery disease.[20] Most people are exposed to C. pneumoniae at some point in their life but it usually does not cause any overt symptoms. A recent study suggested that the treatment of patients with C. pneumoniae infections for 2 years with antibiotics slowed the thickening of carotid arteries as measured by IMT (int
