Low serum adiponectin is independently associated with both the metabolic syndrome and angiographically determined coronary atherosclerosis

Background/Aims: The metabolic syndrome (MetS) and coronary artery disease (CAD) frequently, but not necessarily coincide. We aimed at investigating serum adiponectin in patients with the MetS, in patients with angiographically diagnosed CAD, and in patients who had both, the MetS and CAD. Methods: We enrolled 687 consecutive patients undergoing coronary angiography for the evaluation of CAD. Results: From our patients, 178 had neither the MetS (Adult Treatment Panel III definition) nor significant CAD (MetS-/CAD-), 91 had the MetS, but not significant CAD (MetS+/CAD), 251 did not have the MetS but had significa…