Association of Remnant Lipoprotein Cholesterol with Cardiovascular Risk Markers in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

Background: Metabolic syndrome is a multifactorial condition associated with increased cardiovascular risk due to insulin resistance, central obesity, hypertension, and atherogenic dyslipidemia. Conventional lipid parameters may not fully reflect residual cardiovascular risk. Remnant lipoprotein cholesterol (RLP-C), a component of triglyceride-rich lipoprotein remnants, has emerged as a potential atherogenic biomarker. This study aimed to evaluate the association of RLP-C with established cardiovascular risk markers and its diagnostic utility in patients with metabolic syndrome.

Methods: This case–control pilot study included 100 participants, comprising 50 patients with metabolic syndrome and 50 age and sex-matched healthy controls. Anthropometric measurements (body mass index and waist circumference) and biochemical parameters, including fasting blood glucose and comprehensive lipid profile, were analyzed using standardized laboratory techniques. RLP-C levels were calculated and correlated with conventional cardiovascular risk markers.

Results: RLP-C levels were significantly elevated in patients with metabolic syndrome compared with controls (p<0.05). Significant positive correlations were observed between RLP-C and total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and VLDL cholesterol, indicating its association with atherogenic lipid patterns.

Conclusion: Patients with CAD and metabolic syndrome show significant alterations in anthropometric, hemodynamic, and biochemical parameters, including elevated remnant lipoprotein cholesterol (RLP-C). These findings suggest that RLP-C may serve as a potential biomarker for identifying increased cardiovascular risk in metabolic syndrome.