Cardionerds: A Cardiology Podcast cover image

Cardionerds: A Cardiology Podcast

403. Cardio-Rheumatology: Treating Inflammation and Real-World Implementation of Therapies with Dr. Brittany Weber and Dr. Michael Garshick

Nov 14, 2024
Dr. Brittany Weber, a leading figure in cardio-rheumatology at Harvard, and Dr. Michael Garshick, an expert on immune-mediated inflammatory diseases at NYU, share fascinating insights on the connection between inflammation and cardiovascular disease. They discuss the inflammatory hypothesis of atherosclerosis and explore the implications of managing inflammation in patients with rheumatic conditions. Key topics include the role of advanced imaging, the significance of biomarkers like high sensitivity CRP, and practical strategies for using colchicine to enhance patient care.
36:39

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Inflammation significantly impacts atherosclerosis, shifting focus from the lipid hypothesis to the immune system's role in cardiovascular risk.
  • Current therapeutic strategies targeting inflammation, like canakinumab and low-dose colchicine, show promise in reducing cardiovascular events and improving patient outcomes.

Deep dives

The Role of Inflammation in Atherosclerosis

Inflammation plays a significant role in the development of atherosclerosis, challenging the traditional lipid hypothesis. Historical hypotheses, dating back to the 19th century, suggested various mechanisms including fibrin deposition and lipid accumulation, but the immune system's involvement has emerged as critical in atherosclerosis progression. Immune cell activation and inflammation significantly influence both the early and advanced stages of plaque formation. This understanding has evolved, revealing that atherosclerosis may result from failed resolution of inflammation rather than being solely due to lipid accumulation.

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