Biomarkers for diagnosis in thoracic aortic disease: CON.

The fundamental requirements for a meaningful biomarker have not been met in the prediction of the aneurysm trait, the progression of the aneurysm disease state, or the prevention of catastrophic aortic complications. Aortic aneurysm is a worthy opponent on all fronts, and clinicians should continue actively to evaluate all potential diagnostic and therapeutic adjuncts with high levels of scientific scrutiny and rigor, so that the understanding and management of this disease process evolves in a complementary, rather than duplicative, manner. In the meantime, proteomics, genomics, and metabolomics continue to represent a muse of sorts in scientific circles, but clinicians are responsible for verifying the relevance and meaningful application of its postulates as they apply to individual patients within the context of efficient and effective global health care delivery.