Comparison of Carotid Intima-media Thickness in Hypertensive Patients and Control Group

BACKGROUND: Hypertension (HTN), probably, is the most common public health problem among developed countries. Rapid diagnosis and effective treatment of HTN have not truly stopped the rapid rate of mortality and morbidity caused by HTN. Vascular wall changes are one of the most important and mortal complications of HTN. Ultrasonography was used for the evaluation of this vessel wall disorder by assessing the thickness of the intima and media layer. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to compare the Carotid intima Media Thickness (CIMT) in hypertensive patients and the control group. METHODS: In a case–control study, 43 patients with documented primary HTN and 43 healthy subjects were assessed as control. Their HTN was controlled by the administration of drugs. The mean age was 53.9 years. The intima-media thickness (IMT) of internal and common carotid and outer vessel diameter were assessed by one radiologist. RESULTS: CAIMT in all carotid arteries in the case group was more than that of the controls (P < 0.05). It was found that there was no difference between the length of having HTN and mean CAIMT in the hypertensive, except the right internal carotid (P = 0.024). CONCLUSION: The present study found that the mean CAIMT of all carotid arteries in HTN was more than that of the controls. Moreover, the duration of the HTN can accelerate the atherosclerosis process in hypertensive patients.