Panoramic imaged carotid atheromas are associated with increased neutrophil count: both validated, independent predictors of near-term myocardial infarction

Abstract

Objectives: Panoramic images (PXs) demonstrating calcified carotid artery atheromas (CCAAs) are associated with heightened risk of near-term myocardial infarction (MI). Elevated neutrophil counts (NC) within normal range 2,500–6,000 per mm3 are likewise associated with future MI signaling the role neutrophils play in the chronic inflammation process underlying coronary artery atherogenesis. We determined if CCAAs on PXs are associated with increased NC. Methods: Investigators implemented a retrospective study of PXs and accompanying medical records of white males ≥ 65 years treated by a VA dental service. Two groups (N = 60 each) were constituted, one with atheromas (CCAA+) and one without (CCAA-). Predictor variable was CCAA + and outcome variable was NC. Bootstrapping analysis determined the difference in mean NCs between two groups, significance set at ≤0.05. Results: The study group of (CCAA+) (mean age 75.9; range 69–91 years) demonstrated a mean NC of 4,843 per mm3 and control group (CCAA-) (mean age 75.3; range; 66–94) a mean NC of 4,108 per mm3. The difference between the groups was significant (p = 0.0008) (95% CI of difference of mean: −432, 431; observed effect size 736). Conclusions: CCAAs on PXs of elderly white males are associated with elevated NC; amplifying need for medical consultation prior to invasive dental procedures.