residual cardiovascular risk
Persistent elevated risk of cardiovascular events despite optimal management of traditional risk factors.
Full Definition
Residual cardiovascular risk refers to the remaining elevated risk of cardiovascular events in patients who have achieved guideline-recommended targets for LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and other traditional risk factors. This concept recognizes that significant cardiovascular risk persists even with optimal standard therapy, particularly in high-risk populations. Common contributors include elevated triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, inflammation, insulin resistance, and genetic factors. Identification of residual risk has led to development of additional therapeutic strategies including PCSK9 inhibitors, icosapent ethyl, and anti-inflammatory agents. The concept emphasizes the need for comprehensive risk assessment beyond traditional lipid and blood pressure targets.
Usage
Usage note: Implies prior optimization of standard risk factors; distinguish from simply uncontrolled risk factors.
In Context
- "Despite achieving LDL cholesterol targets, significant residual cardiovascular risk remained due to persistent inflammation." — Risk stratification assessment
- "Additional therapy was considered to address residual cardiovascular risk in this high-risk patient." — Treatment planning note