IMT and cardiovascular risk

Abstract

Early signs of target organ damage are one of the main topics of recent research in hypertension. These include endothelial dysfunction, microalbuminuria, increased renal resistance index and increased thickness of intima-media complex (IMT). Results of IMT measurements performed with Doppler ultrasonography correlates very well with those from necropsy studies. Moreover, IMT assessment is relatively easy, noninvasive, does not require very sophisticated equipment and correlates with cardiovascular risk factors and clinical outcome. Therefore it is feasible to use IMT as an endpoint in large scale population based studies as well as a tool in potential screening projects. The aim of our review is to discuss the methodology, results of clinical trials and the role of IMT measurements in current clinical practice.