PERICARDIAL ADIPOSE TISSUE

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart failure accounting for the majority of these deaths. Recent research has focused on identifying new risk factors for early-stage CAD, with a growing interest in pericardial adipose tissue (PAT). This thesis provides a comprehensive review of the anatomical and physiological features of PAT, its determinants, and measurement techniques. It further explores the clinical significance of PAT in the development and progression of atrial fibrillation, CAD, and heart failure, highlighting its role as an independent risk marker for CVDs.

PAT, including epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT), is metabolically active and can exert both protective and detrimental effects depending on the presence of cardiovascular risk factors. The thesis discusses how PAT contributes to the pathophysiology of CVDs through local inflammatory mechanisms, vascular dysfunction, and metabolic disturbances. It also examines the potential of various therapeutic interventions, including lifestyle changes, bariatric surgery, pharmacotherapy with statins, antidiabetic drugs, and anti-inflammatory treatments, to modulate PAT volume and its associated risks.

The findings emphasize the need for further research into targeted therapies aimed specifically at PAT to improve the prognosis of patients with CVDs. By understanding the complex role of PAT in cardiovascular health and disease, this thesis offers valuable insights for developing innovative strategies to prevent and treat CVDs, potentially transforming clinical practice in cardiovascular medicine.