The relationship between galectin-3 and SYNTAX Score I in patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

The expression of galectin-3 has been found to be increased in human atherosclerotic lesions, suggesting a role in atherogenesis. However, there is a lack of data regarding an association between galectin-3 and the extent, severity, and complexity of coronary artery disease (CAD). The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between galectin-3 and SYNTAX Score I in patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). This study included a total of 95 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with NSTEMI and underwent coronary angiography. The baseline galectin-3 level of each patient was measured. The SYNTAX Score I of each patient was calculated using the online calculator (www.syntaxscore.com). The study population was divided into 2 groups: SYNTAX Score I ≤22 group (n=55) and SYNTAX Score I >22 group (n=40). The galectin-3 level was significantly higher in the SYNTAX Score I >22 group than in the SYNTAX Score I ≤22 group (22.1±8.3 ng/mL vs. 13.5±7.7 ng/mL; p