Initial BNP Level at Time of Referral Predicts Long-Term Mortality: A Retrospective Review of the UT Southwestern Heart Failure Database

Abstract

Background: B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a useful marker for the diagnosis and risk stratification of patients with heart failure (HF). However, data are limited on how BNP might predict long term outcomes in patients referred to a heart failure program. This retrospective study evaluates whether the initial BNP level upon referral for HF management predicts long-term survival. Methods: A review of the UT Southwestern HF Program database identified 405 patients referred for HF management between April 1996 and August 2006.