BACKGROUND- The chemokines CCL19 and CCL21 are up-regulated in atherosclerotic disease and heart failure, and increased circulating levels are found in unstable versus stable coronary artery disease.

OBJECTIVES- The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of CCL19 and CCL21 in acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

METHODS- CCL19 and CCL21 levels were analyzed in serum obtained from ACS patients (n = 1,146) on the first morning after hospital admission. Adjustments were made for GRACE (Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events) score, left ventricular ejection fraction, pro–B-type natriuretic peptide, troponin I, and C-reactive protein levels.

RESULTS- The major findings were: 1) those having fourth quartile levels of CCL21 on admission of ACS had a significantly higher long-term (median 98 months) risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and myocardial infarction in fully adjusted multivariable models; 2) high CCL21 levels at admission were also independently associated with MACE and cardiovascular mortality during short-time (3 months) follow-up; and 3) high CCL19 levels at admission were associated with the development of heart failure.

CONCLUSIONS- CCL21 levels are independently associated with outcome after ACS and should be further investigated as a promising biomarker in these patients.