Intra-plaque vascularization assessed in contrast-enhanced ultrasound predicts cardiovascular events in type 2 diabetes with no significant carotid atherosclerotic stenosis: a prospective study with therapeutic implications for SGLT2 inhibitor use.

ABSTRACT:

Aims

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and no significant carotid stenosis are often considered at moderate cardiovascular risk. However, some may harbour biologically active plaques. Intra-plaque vascularization (IPV), detectable in contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), reflects plaque vulnerability and may enhance risk stratification. We assessed the prognostic value of CEUS-derived IPV and the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on cardiovascular outcomes and inflammatory markers.

Methods and results

In this 6-year prospective cohort study, 251 asymptomatic T2DM patients with carotid atherosclerosis <50% stenosis were enrolled. IPV was quantified by CEUS and stratified by tertiles. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE: CV death, n

SUBMITTER: Marfella R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12628795 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature