It is often followed in patients attending cardiology clinics, particularly those with a history of coronary artery bypass surgery. However, the presence of this crease in otherwise healthy individuals also suggests increased risk of vascular disease. Interestingly, the sign does not correlate with body weight because it can appear in both slim and overweight people.
3. Possible mechanisms behind Frank’s Sign
The exact cause remains uncertain. Some studies found that microvascular disease in the ear’s middle lobe – an area supplied by terminal arteries might be responsible. Others have recorded a link between shortened telomeres in Japanese patients with metabolic syndrome and general processes of vascular aging and atherosclerosis.
4. Levels of severity
