Ear Crease: A Sneaky Heart Health Warning?

A diagonal crease on the earlobe, known as Frank's sign, is increasingly recognized as a stealthy indicator of cardiovascular disease. This subtle marker, observed by Dr. Sanders T. Frank in patients under 60 with chest pain, is strongly linked to heart health issues. Larger studies have associated it with coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, and cerebrovascular disease.

Individuals with Frank's sign have demonstrated a higher risk of death from heart complications, even when accounting for factors like age and smoking. The connection is particularly significant when the crease is deep, complete, and present on both ears. Some medical professionals theorize that a loss of elastin, similar to arterial damage in heart disease, causes the crease.

Other theories point to genetic factors. Research also suggests a link between low levels of proteins adropin and irisin in individuals with Frank's sign and coronary artery disease. While not a sole diagnostic tool, the presence of Frank's sign warrants discussion with a healthcare provider, especially for those with other cardiovascular risk factors.