Endotelna funkcija - funkcionalni pokazatelj

Endothelium is a dynamic organ which lines the entire vascular system. Endothelial cells control vascular function by responding to various hormones, neurotransmitters and vasoactive factors which affect vasomotion, thrombosis, platelet aggregation and inflammation. These functions are compromised in endothelial dysfunction, a systemic disorder that is characterized by a proinflammatory, proliferative, procoagulatory and vasoconstrictive milieu that favors all stages of atherogenesis. The pathophysiological factors leading to endothelial dysfunction are key risk factors for development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. Endothelium dysfunction is reversible so it seems attractive to consider integrating endothelial function testing as a universal tool for cardiovascular risk stratification in primary and secondary prevention.