Integrated Assessment of Arterial Stiffness and Right Atrial Function in Type 2 Diabetes With Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy.

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a major complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but the roles of arterial stiffness and right atrial (RA) function in CAN remain unclear.

METHODS AND

RESULTS

In 120 patients with T2DM, we assessed short-term heart rate variability (CVR-R), cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI), and two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2DSTE). CAN was defined as CVR-R <2%. Multivariable analysis showed that higher CAVI and lower RA function composite scores were independently associated with CAN.

CONCLUSIONS

Both increased arterial stiffness and impaired RA function characterized CAN, indicating a key cardiovascular interaction. Combined CAVI and RA strain assessment may aid early detection.