However, researchers speculate that a diagnosis of endothelial dysfunction may be a very early warning sign of atherosclerosis (plaque or blockages in the arteries) as well as heart attack or stroke. Without treatment, many people who have endothelial dysfunction go on to develop these conditions.

Is endothelial dysfunction a cardiovascular disease?

The endothelium has increasingly been recognized as a smart barrier and a key regulator of blood flow in micro- and macrovascular beds. Endothelial dysfunction marks a stage of atherosclerosis and is an important prognostic marker for cardiovascular disease.

Is endothelial dysfunction serious?

When the endothelial layer fails to perform all these functions adequately—in other words, when endothelial dysfunction is present—conditions will favor the development of atherosclerosis, hypertension, and other types of cardiovascular disease.