History

Objective and aim: A positive association between serum podocalyxin (PCX) levels and peripheral artery disease has been reported. The aim of this study is to measure the level of serum PCX in patients with T2DM as well as looking for its relation to major PAD risk factors. Methods: Observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and a control group of 100 apparently healthy subjects (ages 30-65 years). All the participants were investigated for the major risk factors of peripheral artery disease (PAD) which included (cigarette smoking, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, and physical activity). Serum PCX, blood sugar, HbA1c, Lipid profile, C-reactive protein, body weight, and height, were measured in patients and healthy subjects. Results: Significantly higher PCX level (p=0.01) was found in patients compared to controls. Significant differences were found for PCX with body mass index and C – reactive protein (p=0.001 and <0.01 respectively). In the patient group, positive correlations of PCX were observed with BMI, HbA1c, and C-RP (p=0.00, p=0.01, and p=0.001 respectively). BMI was the best predictor of PCX level in both groups. Conclusion: Elevated S.PCX levels in conjunction with increased body weight may be strongly associated with peripheral artery disease in diabetic patients.