Carotid intima media thickness is related positively to plasma pre ß-high density lipoproteins in non-diabetic subjects

► Higher plasma pre ß-HDL levels are found in cardiovascular disease. ► Carotid intima media thickness (IMT) was assessed in 70 healthy subjects. ► Pre ß-HDL was assayed by crossed immuno-electrophoresis. ► IMT was related to higher pre ß-HDL independently of risk factors. ► Subclinical atherosclerosis may be featured by increased plasma pre ß-HDL.