EN
Patients with rheumatic diseases have an increased risk of mortality
by cardiovascular events. In fact, several rheumatic diseases such
as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus
and ankylosing spondylitis are associated with a higher prevalence of
cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Although, traditional cardiovascular risk
factors have been involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases
in rheumatic patients, these alterations do not explain completely the
enhanced cardiovascular risk in this population. Obesity and its pathologic alteration of fat mass and dysfunction, due to
an altered pattern of secretion of pro-inflammatory adipokines, could be
one of the links between cardiovascular and rheumatic diseases. Indeed,
the incidence of CVDs is augmented in obese individuals with rheumatic
disorders. Thus, in this review we explore in detail the relationships
among leptin and adiponectin with rheumatic diseases and cardiovascular
complications by giving to the reader a holistic vision and several
suggestions for future perspectives and potential clinical implications.