Genetic markers in coronary heart disease.

Coronary heart disease (CHD) was found to aggregate in families. So the present study aimed at studying certain genetic markers (lipoproteins, ABO blood groups and dermatoglyphics), in a group of 60 patients with CHD and a control group to detect any significant association between such genetics markers in this disorder. This can throw light on its genetics. The study revealed significant and marked association of CHD with low alpha-lipoprotein, high pre-beta and beta-lipoproteins. No significant association wa detected with ABO phenotypes. Definite significant association was also detected between CHD and certain dermatoglyphics phenotypes including FTP, T-D count and palm patterns. These significant associations of CHD and these genetic markers "which are genetically determined" denoted strongly genetic etiology or at least genetic predisposition of CHD. Detection of such genetic markers may help in determination of risky individuals in population and families of CHD patients. This can help in prevention by proper genetic counseling.