Aim: Although statins have been well documented to induce the regression of thoracic aortic plaques, a similar effect of statins on abdominal aortic plaques has not been observed.We aimed to explore whether a statin in combination with a bisphosphonate was effective in the regression of abdominal aortic plaques, which are more likely to be calcified.
Methods: Eighty-seven patients with hypercholesterolemia were assigned to the atorvastatin (ATR)+etidronate (ETD) group (n = 45) or ATR group (n = 42). A total of 98 thoracic and 107 abdominal aortic plaques were detected in the ATR+ETD group, and 86 thoracic and 102 abdominal plaques in the ATR group at baseline, as measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The primary endpoint was the change of maximal vessel wall thickness (Max-VWT) in atherosclerotic lesions after 1 year, as assessed by MRI.
Results: ATR+ETD and ATR groups reduced the low density lipoprotein cholesterol level (−42% and −43%, p < 0.001 vs. baseline for both groups), and Max-VWT in thoracic lesions (−15% and −14%, p < 0.001 vs. baseline for both groups). ATR+ETD group reduced Max-VWT in abdominal lesions (−14%, p < 0.001 vs. baseline), whereas ATR group did not (−1%, p =0.958 vs. baseline).
Conclusion: The results suggest that ATR+ETD treatment for 12 months significantly reduces both thoracic and abdominal aortic plaques, while ATR treatment reduces only thoracic aortic plaques.(Clinical trial registry no. UMIN 000003756)