[Atherosclerosis not caused by overindulgence only. Infection may be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease].

The importance of vascular inflammation in the atherosclerotic process is receiving increasing attention. Several infections have been linked with cardiovascular disease and atherogenesis, and the risk of cardiovascular manifestations has been found to be increased in the presence of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus. Inflammatory cytokines have been shown to induce changes in lipid metabolism and endothelial function, which may result in arterial disease. These recent advances in our knowledge may provide a basis for the development of new strategies for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.