Serum γ-glutamyltransferase levels correlate with epicardial adipose tissue thickness in patients with coronary artery disease.
Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is related to the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD). Increased γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity is associated with atherosclerosis. We assessed the relationship between EAT and serum GGT activity in addition to cardiovascular risk factors in patients with stable anginal symptoms. Consecutive patients (n = 120) who underwent coronary angiography were included. Epicardial adipose tissue thickness was measured by echocardiography. Serum GGT activity was measured by enzymatic colorimetric assay. Epicardial adipose tissue thickness and serum GGT activity were higher in patients with CAD (n = 83). Patients with metabolic syndrome (n = 83) were found to have higher EAT thickness. Serum GGT activity was independently associated with EAT values. In conclusion, echocardiographic EAT was significantly higher in patients with CAD and serum GGT activity correlated with EAT thickness.