Plasma asymmetric dimethyl-L-arginine levels are elevated in RA patients free of cardiovascular disease or risk factors. Asymmetric dimethyl-L-arginine accumulation may contribute to endothelial progenitor cell depletion via depressed NO-dependent endothelial progenitor cell mobilization and/or survival, with consequent impairment of endothelial progenitor cell-mediated endothelial repair, which can promote atherogenesis in RA.

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Oral communication abstracts possible benefit we evaluated the value of different indications, the complication rate and the time span of drains in situ. Methods: We made a survey of all level III ultrasound centres of German-speaking countries from 1993 to 2001. Six level III centres returned the questionnaire: forty-seven feto-amniotic shuntings were performed in 30 fetuses [megacystis in 18 fetuses (three of these with urinary ascites), Hydrothorax in eight fetuses, hydronephrosis in two fetuses, cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung in one fetus, ovarian cyst in one fetus]. Results: The median gestational age at time of shunting was 23.5 (range 16-33) weeks, at time of delivery 35 (range 23-41) weeks. The median time span of drains in situ was 19 (range 0-170) days. Altogether 18 of 30 fetuses (60%) had a benefit of feto-amniotic shunting. Conclusions: The best possible selection of pregnancies who might profit of feto-amniotic shunting is required. The deciding criteria are the underlying defect, the severity and progression of the disorder.