Differential scanning calorimetric evaluation of the human plasma in patients using cilostazol for the treatment of intermittent claudication (a preliminary study)

This preliminary study employs differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to assess alterations in human plasma composition in patients treated with cilostazol for intermittent claudication. Cilostazol, an antiplatelet and vasodilator agent, is commonly prescribed to moderate symptom associated with PAD caused by reduced peripheral blood flow. Patients selected according to study protocol were treated with cilostazol for a duration of three months. At the visits, subjects exercised by a standard walking test controlled by physiotherapist. The blood samples were taken on day 0 (control), day 15, 1, 2 and 3 months. Through DSC analysis, we investigate potential thermodynamic changes in plasma composition induced by cilostazol treatment. As a result of the treatment, the pain-free walking distance improved significantly in the first 3 months. The thermal unfolding of the human plasma showed a correlation with the walking improvement. Our findings provide insights into the systemic effects of cilostazol and its impact on plasma constituents in the context of PAD and intermittent claudication management.