Progress of Triglyceride Glucose Index in Lesion Severity and Prognosis of Acute Coronary Syndromes

Background: In response to the escalating burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) worldwide, exacerbated by lifestyle changes and socioeconomic shifts, acute coronary syndromes (ACS) stand out as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. The pivotal role of insulin resistance in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, independent of traditional risk factors, has garnered significant interest. Objective: This review aims to synthesize the recent advancements in the utilization of the triglyceride glucose index (TyG index) as a biomarker for assessing the severity and predicting the prognosis of ACS lesions. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases, incorporating keywords such as “triglyceride glucose index”, “TyG index”, “acute coronary syndrome”, “cardiovascular disease”, “insulin resistance”, “coronary artery calcification”, “SYNTAX score”, “Gensini score”, and “major adverse cardiac events”. Studies were included from the inception of each database up to July 2024. Selection criteria encompassed observational studies, case-control studies, and randomized controlled trials, with a particular emphasis on evaluating the diagnostic and prognostic value of the TyG index in patients with acute coronary syndromes. Ultimately, 46 publications met the inclusion criteria. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed in accordance with established guidelines. Results: Evidence suggests that the TyG index, reflecting insulin resistance, blood glucose, and lipid levels, is significantly associated with lesion severity in ACS, including coronary artery calcification, SYNTAX score, and Gensini score. Moreover, it demonstrates predictive power for major adverse cardiovascular events, underscoring its potential as a valuable tool in clinical decision-making. Conclusion: The review highlights the emerging role of the TyG index in the assessment and prognosis of ACS, advocating for its incorporation into clinical practice as a complement to existing diagnostic modalities. However, the establishment of standardized reference ranges and further validation across diverse populations are warranted to refine its applicability in personalized medicine. The interdisciplinary approach is essential to advance our understanding of the complex interplay between insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease, paving the way for the development of more effective prevention and treatment strategies.