Diagonal folds in the skin of the ear lobe have been correlated with which health issue?

Diagonal folds in the skin of the ear lobe, commonly referred to as Frank's sign, have been associated with heart disease. This correlation suggests that the presence of these folds may indicate a higher risk for cardiovascular issues. The phenomenon has been the subject of various studies that indicate patients with such ear lobe creases often have underlying conditions related to arterial stiffening or atherosclerosis, both of which can contribute to heart disease.

While the other health issues listed may also have their own signs or symptoms, they are not directly tied to the presence of diagonal ear lobe folds. Thus, recognizing these physical traits can be a valuable diagnostic tool in assessing heart health and guiding further investigation or intervention.