Predictive value of fasting blood glucose for serious coronary atherosclerosis in non-diabetic patients

OBJECTIVE: To determine if high fasting blood glucose (FBG) level is an independent predictor of serious coronary lesions in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). METHODS: We enrolled 64 patients who had symptoms of chest discomfort and who underwent coronary angiography. FBG was determined from blood samples and the extent of coronary artery lesions was analyzed according to Gensini score. We examined the relationships among diabetes, FBG, and coronary artery severity. RESULTS: Diabetes and FBG were significantly and positively related to Gensini score. Diabetes, but not FBG, was independently correlated with the occurrence of a Gensini score >41. However, FBG was significantly associated with Gensini score >41 in non-diabetic patients. CONCLUSION: Hyperglycemia is an independent predictor of severe CAD in non-diabetic patients. Clinicians should be aware of this and should carry out appropriate early interventions.