Diagnostic implications of circulating oxidized low density lipoprotein levels as a biochemical risk marker of coronary artery disease

Objectives: To examine the diagnostic performance of circulating oxidized low density lipoprotein levels as a biochemical risk marker of coronary heart disease. Design and methods: 361 patients with coronary artery disease and 710 healthy volunteers as normal controls were examined. Receiver-operating characteristics curve analysis in addition to statistical analysis (univariate, multivariate) were done to determine the usefulness of the assay. Results: Patients with coronary artery disease showed significantly elevated circulating oxidized low density lipoprotein levels. Males less than 70 years of age showed a significant association between oxidized low density lipoprotein levels and coronary artery disease. Receiver-operating characteristics curve analysis showed superior performance (e.g., sensitivity, specificity) of oxidized low density lipoprotein as a diagnostic marker of coronary artery disease as compared against other lipid markers (total cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein, lipoprotein (a), and total cholesterol to high density lipoprotein ratio) with optimal performance in younger males. Conclusions: Oxidized low density lipoprotein levels may be a promising biochemical risk marker of atherosclerotic disease, especially in young males.