residual inflammatory risk
Persistent cardiovascular risk despite optimal lipid control, attributed to ongoing inflammation. Target for anti-inflammatory therapies in high-risk patients.
Full Definition
Residual inflammatory risk represents the cardiovascular event risk that persists in patients despite achievement of optimal LDL-C targets through lipid-lowering therapy. This concept recognizes inflammation as an independent pathway contributing to atherothrombosis beyond cholesterol. Patients with elevated inflammatory biomarkers (such as hs-CRP >2 mg/L) while on statin therapy may benefit from anti-inflammatory interventions. The CANTOS trial demonstrated that targeting inflammation with canakinumab reduced cardiovascular events, validating the inflammatory hypothesis and establishing residual inflammatory risk as a therapeutic target.
Usage
Usage note: Emphasizes inflammation as distinct from cholesterol-mediated risk.
In Context
- "Patients with residual inflammatory risk may benefit from anti-inflammatory therapy despite optimal LDL-C control." — Cardiology practice guideline
- "The concept of residual inflammatory risk has led to investigation of targeted anti-inflammatory cardiovascular therapies." — Pharmaceutical research publication