The present study aims is to investigate: 1. whether patients suffering from acute resp. chronic ischemic heart disease show higher levels for cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg) than local and international reference levels suggest; 2. the correlation between severity of coronary artery disease and angiogenic and angiostatic factors (endostatin-ES, angiostatin-AS, VEGF-vascular endothelial growth factor, osteopontin-OPN) The patient population consists of about 270 female and male patients suffering either acute or chronic ischemic heart disease (AIHD:ICD-10 I21; CIHD: ICD-10 I25). 3. whether patients suffering CAD and valve calcification (mitral annulus, aortic valve) show higher levels of endostatin, angiostatin, osteopontin and VEGF compared to patients with CAD but without valve (annulus) calcification The measurement of cadmium (urine), lead, mercury, zinc, endostatin, angiostatin, VEGF (serum) and osteopontin (plasma) in patients with angiographically verified coronary artery disease are in the fore. Furthermore, basic laboratory diagnostics as well as data from coronary angiography and echocardiography will be collected. Additionally, the investigators will inquire heavy metal exposition during life by an interview. Recruitment will be done during the in-patient stay at the General Hospital of Vienna, Medical University of Vienna.
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metal levels
Timeframe: 3 years