Relationship of Serum Chemerin Concentrations with Coronary Slow Flow: A Pathophysiological and Clinical Analysis

AIM: Coronary slow flow (CSF) is a condition characterized by below normal blood flow in coronary arteries without significant coronary stenosis. Its pathophysiology is unclear but may involve inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and microvascular impairment. Chemerin, an inflammation-related adipokine, has been proposed as a potential biomarker in CSF. This study examines the relationship between serum chemerin concentrations and CSF. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 100 patients who underwent coronary angiography were classified into CSF (n=50) and normal coronary flow (NCF, n=50) groups. Coronary flow rates were assessed using the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction Frame Count (TFC) method. Serum chemerin concentrations were measured by ELISA. Logistic regression, correlation, and ROC analyses were performed to identify predictors of CSF and to evaluate diagnostic performance. RESULTS: Chemerin concentrations were significantly higher in the CSF group (p<0.001). Logistic regression identified chemerin as an independent CSF predictor (OR=1.097; 95 % CI: 1.022-1.177; p=0.005). Chemerin concentrations correlated positively with TFC (r=0.713, p<0.001). A chemerin cutoff value of 124.5 ng / ml provided 88 % sensitivity and 80 % specificity for CSF diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Elevated serum chemerin is associated with CSF, suggesting its role in the pathogenesis of CSF and its potential as a diagnostic biomarker. Further research is needed to explore chemerin-targeted therapies in patients with CSF.