Asymmetric Dimethylarginine: a Novel Cardiovascular Risk Factor in End-stage Renal Disease

OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study explored the association between carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and the oxidative stress markers asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and homocysteine in patients with end-stage renal disease who were on haemodialysis. METHODS: A total of 30 patients undergoing chronic haemodialysis treatment were recruited to this study. Homocysteine and ADMA levels were determined using a fluorescence polarization immunoassay and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. CIMT was measured as a marker of atherosclerosis using high-resolution ultrasonography and was performed after haemodialysis. RESULTS: Significant positive correlations were found between CIMT and ADMA, and CIMT and duration of haemodialysis. Linear regression analysis showed that ADMA level and age were significant independent determinants of CIMT, whereas homocysteine was not. CONCLUSIONS: The relationship demonstrated between plasma ADMA and carotid artery thickening suggests that ADMA may be a novel marker of atherosclerosis in patients on haemodialysis.