Cardiology Letters 2023, 32(5):328-335

Current view: Arterial calcifications

Mohamad MS, Maďarič J

Klinika angiológie LF UK a NÚSCH, a. s., Bratislava, Slovenská republika

Arterial calcifications are ectopic accumulations of mineral deposits in one or more layers of the vascular wall of arteries in the form of calcium-phosphate complexes. The formation of arterial calcifications is currently considered an actively regulated, progressively degenerative, and systemic process. It is similar to osteogenesis and bone metabolism in the human body. The incidence of arterial calcifications has a long-term increasing trend. Their presence is associated with higher cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Stenosis and occlusions of arteries with severe and extensive calcifications are significant limitations for optimal endovascular and surgical treatment. They are a negative prognostic factor for the short-term and long-term therapeutic effects of revascularization procedures. In this review, we will focus on the current knowledge of arterial calcifications, their different types, etiopathogenesis, risk factors, diagnosis, and new potential pharmacotherapeutic options. We also focus on the new risk factors, such as vitamin K2, vitamin D3 and gut microbiota, and their influence on the formation and development of arterial calcifications. Given the prognostic significance of vascular calcifications, new options for their prevention and treatment represent a current challenge in cardiovascular medicine.

Keywords: arterial calcifications; mediocalcinosis; atherosclerosis; cardiovascular system

Published: May 1, 2023  Show citation