Nutrition Information

Chlamydia and Atherosclerosis

by Hratch L Karamanoukian, MD and Pierre Aoukar, MD
Posted: February 20, 2003

Chlamydia (C pneumoniae) is a bacteria that infects the genitourinary system of both men and women. Chlamydia infections are so common that most people can expect to have one infection with this bacteria during their lifetime.

Scientific evidence has suggested a relationship between these infections and the development of heart disease. Serologic studies have associated C pneumoniae antibody with coronary artery disease, heart attacks, atherosclerotic disease of the carotid (neck) arteries and cerebrovascular disease. The association of C pneumoniae with atherosclerosis is corroborated by the presence of the organism in atherosclerotic plaque throughout the arterial tree and absence of the organism in healthy arterial tissue.

Reference:
Excerpt from the book: Everything Is Bad For Your Heart: The A to Z Guide, Hratch L Karamanoukian, MD and Pierre Aoukar, MD. Magalhaes Scientific Press

Date of Article Publication:
in press

Web Site: http://www.diagnosisheart.com