NT-proBNP Values Research Articles

Abstract 13038: Predictive Value of Cardiac Function Parameters and NT-proBNP in Patients With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) Treated With Sotatercept in the STELLAR Trial

Background: Sotatercept is an activin signaling inhibitor under investigation for PAH. Goal: Evaluate the prognostic utility of hemodynamic and cardiac function parameters in PAH patients receiving sotatercept vs placebo. Methods: Participants in STELLAR, a phase 3 trial (NCT04576988), were randomized 1:1 to sotatercept (0.3 up to 0.7 mg/kg once every 3 weeks) or placebo added to background therapies. Eligible participants had WHO functional class II-III, pulmonary vascular resistance ≥400 dyn·s·cm -5 , and 6-minute walk distance 150-550 m. This post-hoc analysis assessed clinical worsening events at last measurement by baseline echocardiography (ECHO), right heart catheterization (RHC), and NT-proBNP parameters. Clinical worsening events were assessed up to week 60. Uni-/multivariate-adjusted Cox models identified baseline parameters significantly (p<0.05) associated with events. Parameters with p-values <0.10 were carried forward to multivariate model. Receiver operating characteristic curves assessed discriminatory utility of cutoff values. Results: Of the significant univariate predictors, only study treatment and log2 NT-proBNP were significant independent predictors of clinical worsening in multivariate model (Table). Each unit increase in log2 NT-proBNP at baseline was associated with a 61% increase in risk (HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.39, 1.88; p<0.001). The AUC for log2 NT-proBNP (0.76 [95% CI 0.67, 0.85]) showed good performance. The optimal NT-proBNP cutoff value was 322 pg/mL. Sotatercept treatment was associated with an 81% reduction in risk vs placebo (HR 0.19, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.38; p<0.001), even after adjusting for NT-proBNP. Conclusions: This post-hoc analysis demonstrated that NT-proBNP is a strong predictor of clinical worsening events in PAH patients. Sotatercept treatment offered protection beyond that achieved with standard therapies alone, even after adjusting for the impact of NT-proBNP.

Abstract 12519: Biomarker Characterisation of Heart Failure Subtypes: A Population-Based Bioresource Linked Study

Background: Deep learning (DL)-based interpretation of echocardiographic images can help create pragmatic cohort studies to validate novel biomarkers. In this study, we have characterised biomarkers implicated in heart failure (HF) pathophysiology across the ejection fraction (EF) range in a DL-supported pragmatic cohort study. Methods: We used electronic health record data from Tayside, representing 20% of the Scottish population, between 1993 and 2021. Utilising record linkage to DL automated reading of echocardiographic DICOM images, we identified patients with HFrEF or HFpEF and patients without HF. We then linked identified patients to available plasma samples from the Go-SHARE BioBank. We analysed multi-panel biomarkers, such as NT-proBNP, high-sensitivity cardiac troponin-T (hs-cTnT), growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15), insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-7 (IGFBP-7), bone morphogenetic protein-10 (BMP-10), Dickkopf WNT Signaling Pathway Inhibitor-3 (DKK-3), fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23), angiopoietin-2 (Ang2), and fatty acid-binding protein-3 (FABP-3), all with electrochemiluminescence immunoassays (Roche Diagnostics, Germany). Results: We identified 236 patients with HFpEF, 156 with HFrEF, and 185 patients without HF with available plasma samples from 3680 patient records linked to echocardiographic DICOMs and blood samples. Patients with HFrEF and HFpEF had significantly higher median values of hs-cTnT, GDF-15, NT-proBNP, IGFBP-7, DKK-3, and FGF-23 than controls. The diagnostic accuracy (AUC) of NT-proBNP, hs-cTnT, GDF-15, IGFBP-7, and FABP-3 was >0.8 for identifying patients with HFrEF or HFpEF from controls. DL-algorithm-based interpretation of DICOM images provided further coverage of echocardiographic parameters relevant for diagnosis of HF subtypes. All biomarkers were associated with all-cause mortality and HF-related hospitalisation during a median follow-up of 1089 days. Conclusions: In this population-based study, we demonstrated a novel approach utilising a bioresource linked to a DL-supported pragmatic study to explore biomarkers in HF and demonstrated that multiple biomarkers to have diagnostic and prognostic significance for patients with HFrEF and HFpEF.

Abstract 18673: Lack of Influence of Comorbidities on NT Pro-BNP/BNP Ratio in ATTR-CA: A Prospective, Single Sample, Paired Data Analysis

Introduction: Scores to stage amyloidosis include laboratory values of NT pro-BNP and BNP. However, no prior data on the correlation between the two markers is available for the same sample in ATTR patients with a spectrum of co-morbidities. While established staging systems for cardiac amyloidosis use NT-pro BNP, many centers routinely measure BNP. To facilitate universal staging, we explored the relationship between NT-pro BNP and BNP measured from a single blood sample in ATTR patients with a spectrum of co-morbidities. Hypothesis: The ratio of NT pro-BNP to BNP is influenced by atrial fibrillation, BMI, left ventricular and renal function. Methods: ATTR-CA patients had serial NT pro-BNP and BNP measured from a SINGLE blood sample. Ratios were compared in patients stratified by co-morbidities. A regression equation to derive BNP from NT pro- BNP was created. Results: Among 101 patients, (85% men, 84% Caucasian), co-morbidities were prevalent (atrial fibrillation: 56%, LVEF < 50%: 46%, GFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 : 51%, BMI ≥ 27: 51%); 4% were on ARNI. A strong correlation (r = 0.83) and a ratio of the log transformed data of 1.32 (95% CI: 1.29 - 1.34) was found between NT-pro BNP and BNP levels, which was not different among patients stratified according to co-morbidities. The relationship between NT pro-BNP and BNP was defined by ln(BNP) = 0.59 + 0.69 ln(NT pro-BNP). Conclusions: Our study suggests a robust correlation between NT-pro BNP and BNP in ATTR-CA patients and a constant ratio among patients with different co-morbidities. A regression equation may facilitate deriving BNP levels from NT- pro BNP and must be validated independently.

Abstract 13706: Determinants of Right Ventricular Dysfunction in Patients With Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: The PARAGON-HF Trial Experience

Introduction: Right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) is a major prognostic factor in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), however determinants of RVD in HFpEF are not well described. Although sex-specific mechanisms have been incriminated in the development of HFpEF, it is unclear whether this is also true for RVD. Goals: (1) Assess the prevalence of RVD (defined as a tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion [TAPSE] <1.7 cm, a fractional area change [FAC] <35% or a RV free wall longitudinal strain [RVFWLS] <20%, absolute value) in patients with HFpEF; (2) identify determinants of RVD, overall and according to sex, in patients with HFpEF. Methods: We used data from patients enrolled in the echocardiographic sub-study of the PARAGON-HF trial with adequate image quality (N=809, 53% women, mean age 74±8 years). Determinants of RVD, in the whole study population and according to sex, were identified using a multivariable logistic regression model. Results: There were 461 patients (57%) with RVD. After multivariable adjustment, RVD was cross-sectionally associated with a history of atrial fibrillation of flutter (AFF), older age, higher heart rate, greater LV mean wall thickness and higher NT-proBNP values. Systolic blood pressure and LV global longitudinal strain (absolute value) showed an inverse association ( Figure ). These results were consistent between men and women, except for AFF and LV mean wall thickness, which were associated with a greater likelihood of RVD in men (OR 2.46, 95%CI 1.33-4.56, OR 1.61, 95%CI 1.18-2.21 respectively) but not in women (OR 0.99, 95%CI 0.58-1.68, OR 0.90 95%CI 0.69-1.17 respectively, p-values for interaction=0.028 and 0.006). Conclusions: RVD was highly prevalent in our study population. Determinants of RVD included AFF, LV remodeling and systolic impairment, and increased NT-proBNP levels. Differences between men and women suggest gender-specific mechanisms in the development of RVD in HFpEF.

Blood biomarkers to detect functional impairment in adult patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot

BackgroundThe relationship between plasma brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and soluble suppression of tumorigenicity-2 (sST2) with structural adaptions and exercise capacity remains incompletely described in patients with repaired Tetralogy of Fallot (rTOF). MethodsPeripheral venous blood samples were drawn for 99 patients with repaired TOF, 59 patients with severe pulmonary regurgitation (PR) and 40 patients with no or mild PR. NT-proBNP was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (Roche Diagnostics, Indianapolis, IN). Soluble ST2 levels were assessed on Aspect-plus ST2 quantitative rapid test. ResultsThe mean value of NT-proBNP was 160 ± 137 pg/ml, and sST2 was 29 ± 13, ng/ml in the entire population. 58 % had an elevated NT-proBNP, while sST2 was abnormal in 40 %. Mean NT-proBNP was significantly higher in patients with severe PR (169 ± 150 vs145 ± 118, pg/ml, p < 0.001), while similar sST2 levels were observed in both groups (29 ± 14 vs30 ± 12, ng/ml, p > 0.05). NT-proBNP and sST2 levels were higher in patients with transannular patch when compared to other RVOT intervention (174 ± 145 vs 107 ± 100, pg/ml, p < 0.001); (31 ± 13 vs 29 ± 15, ng/ml, p < 0.05). Both biomarkers were significantly associated with exercise capacity, but NT-proBNP (r = −0.60, p < 0.001) was stronger. The optimal cut-off of 90 pg/ml for NT-proBNP had a sensitivity of 74 % and specificity of 63 % for detection of impaired exercise capacity. ConclusionsSerum levels of sST2 and NT-proBNP are elevated in patients with repaired TOF, with higher values observed in those with severe PR, but also in patients undergoing transannular patch repair. Incorporating both markers in these patients increased the ability to detect impairment in exercise capacity.

Prognostic and diagnostic significance of the cardiac biomarker NT-proBNP in the perioperative period of vascular surgery procedures

The objective was to study the dynamics of NT-proBNP blood level during the perioperative period of vascular surgery and to study the association of this biomarker level at the stages of treatment with developed cardiovascular complications (CVC).Materials and Methods. The study involved 129 patients aged 66 [61–70] years who underwent elective vascular surgery. NT-proBNP blood level was determined at stages: I – before surgery, II – 24 hours after surgery, III – before discharge from the hospital. Correlation analysis, logistic regression and ROC-analysis were used for data processing.Results. Median NT-proBNP (pg/ml) at stage I was 54[42–215], stage II – 149[63–298] (p1–2 = 0.0001) and stage III – 78[48–288] (p1–3 = 0.037). NT-proBNP blood level at stage I correlated with the biomarker level at stages II (rho = 0.558, p &lt; 0.0001) and III (rho = 0.689, p &lt; 0.0001). The biomarker was associated with CVC at all stages: I – OR 1.0048, 95% CI 1.0021–1.0074, p &lt; 0.0001, AUC 0.825; II – OR 1.0040, 95% CI 1.0020–1.0060, p &lt; 0.0001, AUC 0.820; III – OR 1.0026, 95% CI 1.006–1.0046, p = 0.015, AUC 0.687. At stage I, NT-proBNP &gt; 218 pg/ml was a CVC predictor (sensitivity 82%, specificity 85%), this biomarker level was registered in 30 (23.2%) patients; at stage II, NT-proBNP &gt; 281 pg/ml was associated with CVR (sensitivity 81%, specificity 80%), at stage III NT-proBNP &gt; 158 pg/ml was associated with CCC (sensitivity 79%, specificity 65%).Conclusions. After vascular surgery, the median NT-proBNP value increases significantly, remaining within the reference limits, and does not de[1]crease until the patients discharge from the hospital. The perioperative NT-proBNP dynamics may differ in patients with different initial biomarker levels. In 23.2% of vascular surgical patients, the preoperative NT-proBNP blood level increased to a level of more than 218 pg/ml, indicating CVC risk (very good quality predictor model). After surgery, the level of NT-proBNP associated with CVC (very good quality model) exceeds 281 pg/ml. Prior to discharge of patients from the hospital, the association of NT-proBNP with CVC is characterized by a moderate quality model (AUC 0.687). The prognostic significance of the biomarker at this stage of surgical treatment needs further research.

Dynamics of global longitudinal strain of the left ventricular myocardium and blood biomarker levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs or Janus kinase inhibitors

Objective: to study the dynamics of global longitudinal myocardial strain (GLS) using echocardiography (speckle tracking method) and blood biomarker levels (NT -proBNP, soluble ST2, sST2) in RA patients against a background of 12 months of therapy with biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) or Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi). Material and methods. The study included 50 patients with RA (ACR/EULAR criteria, 2010): 84 % were women, median age 51.0 [40.0; 59.0] years, median duration of RA was 4.5 [3.0; 14.0] years, median DAS28 5.7 [5.2; 6.4] points. 78 % of patients were positive for IgM rheumatoid factor, 66 % for antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptide. At the time of inclusion in the study, 38% of patients were receiving methotrexate, 38 % – leflunomide, 10 % – sulfasalazine, 12 % – hydroxychloroquine, 70 % – glucocorticoids, 82 % – nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. 60 % of patients with RA had a history of inadequate efficacy of two or more DMARDs. After examination, all patients were prescribed bDMARDs or JAKi. TNF-α inhibitors were given to 38% of patients, anti-B-cell therapy – to 50% of patients, IL-6 inhibitors – to 4%, T-lymphocyte costimulation blockers – to 2 %, JAKi – to 6 % of RA patients. All patients with RA were examined before administration of bDMARDs and in dynamics after 12 months of treatment. Echocardiography was performed – tissue Dopplerography and evaluation by speckle tracking method of left ventricular myocardium GLS (GLD LVM); in blood serum the levels of NT-proBNP, sST2 were determined. The normal range for NT-proBNP was less than 125 pg/ml, and for sST2 less than 17.65 ng/ml. The control group consisted of 20 healthy subjects who were comparable in sex and age. RA patients and subjects in the control group had no cardiovascular disease. Results and discussion. After 12 months of bDMARDs therapy, GLS LVM increased and the frequency of reduced GLS LVM decreased by 47 % (p &lt; 0.05). The indexed end-systolic volume of the left atrium also decreased. RA patients had higher values of NT-proBNP and sST2 compared to the control group (p &lt; 0.05). The variations of NT-proBNP level in blood serum of RA patients after 12 months of therapy were statistically insignificant (p = 0.5). The level of sST2 in the serum of patients with RA decreased significantly after 12 months of therapy compared to baseline (p &lt; 0.01). Direct correlations were found between the delta (Δ) of the level of sST2 and ΔDAS28, the level of ΔsST2 and ΔCRP, and ΔACCP. After 12 months of therapy, RA patients with persistent moderate/high disease activity had higher levels of systolic blood pressure and serum levels of NT-proBNP, lower left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (LVEF) and GLS LVM than patients who had remission/low RA activity. There were no differences between groups in LVEF, LV size, LV myocardial mass index, and NT-proBNP levels. Negative correlations were observed between ΔGLD LVM and ΔESR and ΔsST2. Conclusion. In patients with RA, a decrease in disease activity on a background of therapy with bDMARDs and JAKi leads to an improvement in GLS LVM. Administration of bDMARDs in patients with active RA and established LV subclinical myocardial dysfunction may slow the progression of myocardial dysfunction. Serum sST2 and NT-proBNP levels were increased in patients with RA compared with the control group. After 12 months of therapy with bDMARDs, the level of sST2 in the serum of RA patients decreased significantly, and the level of NT-proBNP did not change in dynamics.

Prognostic Value of Mitral Regurgitation in Patients with Primary Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.

Background and Objectives: Mitral valve pathology and mitral regurgitation (MR) are very common in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and the evaluation of mitral valve anatomy and degree of MR is important in patients with HCM. The aim of our study was to examine the potential influence of moderate or moderately severe MR on the prognosis, clinical presentation, and structural characteristics of HCM patients. Materials and Methods: A prospective study examined 176 patients diagnosed with primary asymmetric HCM. According to the severity of the MR, the patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n = 116) with no/trace or mild MR and Group 2 (n = 60) with moderate or moderately severe MR. All patients had clinical and echocardiographic examinations, as well as a 24 h Holter ECG. Results: Group 2 had significantly more often the presence of the obstructive type of HCM (p < 0.001), syncope (p = 0.030), NYHA II class (p < 0.001), and atrial fibrillation (p = 0.023). Also, Group 2 had an enlarged left atrial dimension (p < 0.001), left atrial volume index (p < 0.001), and indirectly measured systolic pressure in the right ventricle (p < 0.001). Patients with a higher grade of MR had a significantly higher E/e' (p < 0.001) and, as a result, higher values of Nt pro BNP values (p < 0.001) compared to Group 1. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated that the event-free survival rate during a median follow-up of 88 (IQR 40-112) months was significantly higher in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (84% vs. 45% at 8 years; log-rank 20.4, p < 0.001). After adjustment for relevant confounders, the presence of moderate or moderately severe MR remained as an independent predictor of adverse outcomes (HR 2.788; 95% CI 1.221-6.364, p = 0.015). Conclusions: The presence of moderate or moderately severe MR was associated with unfavorable long-term outcomes in HCM patients.

The Long-Term Benefit of Sacubitril/Valsartan in Patients with HFrEF: A 5-Year Follow-Up Study in a Real World Population.

to evaluate the effect of S/V in a follow-up period of 5 years from the beginning of the therapy. We compared the one-year outcomes of S/V use with those obtained after 5 years of therapy, monitoring the long-term effects in a real-world population with HFrEF. Seventy consecutive patients with HFrEF and eligible for ARNI, according to PARADIGM-HF criteria, were enrolled. All patients had an overall follow-up of 60 months, during which time they underwent standard transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) with Global Longitudinal Strain (GLS) evaluation, the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ), the Six Minutes Walking Test (6MWT), and blood tests (NT-pro-BNP and BNP, renal function tests). NTproBNP values were reduced significantly among the three time-points (p < 0.001). Among echocardiographic parameters, left ventricle end-diastolic volume (LV EDV) and E/e' significantly were reduced at the first evaluation (12 months), while left ventricle end-systolic volume (LV ESV) decreased during all follow-ups (p < 0.001). LV EF (p < 0.001) and GLS (p < 0.001) significantly increased at both evaluations. The 6MWT (p < 0.001) and KCCQ scores (p < 0.001) increased significantly in the first 12 months and remained stable along the other time-points. NYHA class showed an increase in class 1 subjects and a decrease in class 3 subjects during follow-up. NTproBNP, BNP, 6MWT, and KCCQ scores showed a significant change in the first 12 months, while LVEF, GLS, and ESV changed during all evaluations. We verified that the improvements obtained after one year of therapy had not reached a plateau phase but continued to improve and were statistically significant at 5 years. Although our data should be confirmed in larger and multicentre studies, we can state that the utilization of Sacubitril/Valsartan has catalysed substantial transformations in the prognostic landscape of chronic HFrEF, yielding profound clinical implications.

Nt-Probnp in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction Without Heart Failure

Abstract NT-proBNP is marker of acute heart failure. Recent investigation implicate its role in different cardiac and non-cardiac diseases and different mechanism of release in patients with STEMI and NSTEMI. Our study included 66 patients with diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, hospitalized in Clinical Centre Kragujevac. We evaluated standard biochemical analysis including NTproBNP, electrocardiography, transthoracic echocardiography and coronary angiography. The most common cardiovascular risk factors were emotional stress (93,94%), and physical inactivity( 81,82%). NT-proBNP values were higher in patients with AMI vs health volunteers (943 vs. 162,5 pg/ml, p = 0,0001), NSTEMI vs STEMI patients (1427 pg/ml vs. 592 pg/m, p = 0,005), patients with culprit lesion on left vs right coronary artery (1421 vs. 548, p =0.02), and anterior vs inferior location AMI (1714vs. 625, p =0.022). We found positive correlation NT-proBNP values with CRP, urea, creatinine, and negative correlation with triglicerides, hemoglobin, left ventricular ejection fraction. Higher values of NT-proBNP values are recorded in patients with AMI, NSTEMI, anterior location AMI and with culprit lesion on left coronary artery.

Prognostic Value of Myocardial Function Imaging Markers in Elderly Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement.

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) became the leading therapeutic strategy for aortic valve replacement in older patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis. Echocardiographic parameters that mark the left ventricle and right ventricle reverse remodeling after the TAVR are not well established. The aim of the current study is to describe the dynamics of both left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) strain derived from speckle tracking echocardiography in elderly patients at 3-months after the TAVR procedure. We enrolled 52 consecutive patients (77 ± 4.9 years old, median STS score of 3.1) who underwent transfemoral TAVR at our tertiary care center. All patients were evaluated at baseline and 3 months following TAVR. The LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) 3-month following TAVR was significantly improved compared with baseline values (-16 ±4.2% vs -16 ±4.2%; p < 0.001) but no significant changes in the RV GLS 3 and 6 segments model following TAVR were registered. The LV ejection fraction was significantly improved 3-months after the TAVR procedure. LV-GLS at baseline demonstrated a strong positive correlation with LV-GLS at 3 months (r = 0.69) and a moderate correlation with RV strain parameters (r = 0.38 and r = 0.56), but also a negative correlation with LVEF at follow-up (r=-0.61). Interestingly, in contrast to LVEF, none of the strain parameters correlated with age. NT-proBNP values were correlated with both LV-GLS (r = 0.37) and LVEF (r=-0.5) at baseline. However, at follow-up, baseline NT-proBNP values remained correlated only to LV-GLS at 3-months (r = 0.24), but the correlation was weak.

СРАВНЕНИЕ ИНФОРМАТИВНОСТИ ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ NT-PROBNP ПОЛУКОЛИЧЕСТВЕННЫМ И КОЛИЧЕСТВЕННЫМ МЕТОДАМИ ДЛЯ РАННЕЙ ДИАГНОСТИКИ ХРОНИЧЕСКОЙ СЕРДЕЧНОЙ НЕДОСТАТОЧНОСТИ

Вackground. Heart failure (HF) is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Since it is important to diagnose CH early and quickly, at the outpatient appointment, there is a need to create and introduce into practice a portable highly sensitive method for the determination of BNP, NT-proBNP. Purpose of the study. To determine the possibility of using reagents for semi-quantitative determination of N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide antigen for early detection of heart failure. Methods of statistical analysis. Microsoft Office Excel 2019 program was used. Patient Characterization and Research Methods. An open cross-sectional non-randomized cohort study included 50 patients (mean age 63.5 years) who applied on an outpatient basis for consultation to a cardiologist. In addition to standard clinical, biochemical and instrumental examinations, the concentration of N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) was determined by quantitative and semi-quantitative immunochromatographic method (LLC NPO "BioTest", Novosibirsk). The diagnosis of chronic heart failure (CHF) was established in accordance with national and European recommendations. Methods of statistical analysis. Microsoft Office Excel 2019 program was used. Results and conclusion. In the course of the study, it was found that semi-quantitative method is highly sensitive for detection of small NT-proBNP elevations, which is important for early diagnosis of heart failure, including subclinical forms. Semi-quantitative method also allows to distinguish a group of patients with high NT-proBNP values. The relationship of NT-proBNP level with the course and prognosis of CHF requires further study.

Effect of body mass index on N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide values in patients with heart failure

BackgroundN-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a biomarker used for the diagnosis of heart failure. There is a relationship between NT-proBNP levels and body mass index (BMI). The study aimed to explore the impact of BMI on NT-proBNP concentrations and to examine whether other factors independent of or combined with BMI affect NT-proBNP values in patients with heart failure.ResultsA total of 293 participants were recruited. The mean age was 68.9 ± 13.2 years, males accounted for 46.4% of the total cohort, the mean BMI was 23.1 ± 4.0 kg/m2, and the median NT-proBNP level was 3776 (1672–8806) pg/ml. There was an inverse relationship between BMI and log NT-proBNP (r = − 0.29; p < 0.001, Spearman correlation). Each standard deviation increase in BMI (4 kg/m2) was associated with a 7% decrease in NT-proBNP values in the total cohort. The independent inverse determinants of NT-proBNP other than BMI were male gender and eGFR, while the variables directly correlated to NT-proBNP were LVEF ≤ 40% and NYHA class III–IV heart failure.ConclusionsThere is an inverse association between BMI and NT-proBNP levels. However, the correlation is weak, and there are other variables that have a significant impact on the NT-proBNP values as well. The NT-proBNP levels are still valuable in the diagnosis of heart failure regardless of BMI status.

The Potential Role of Salivary NT-proBNP in Heart Failure.

Serum natriuretic peptides (NPs) have an established role in heart failure (HF) diagnosis. Saliva NT-proBNP that may be easily acquired has been studied little. Ninety-nine subjects were enrolled; thirty-six obese or hypertensive with dyspnoea but no echocardiographic HF findings or raised NPs served as controls, thirteen chronic HF (CHF) patients and fifty patients with acute decompensated HF (ADHF) requiring hospital admission. Electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, 6 min walking distance (6MWD), blood and saliva samples, were acquired in all participants. Serum NT-proBNP ranged from 60-9000 pg/mL and saliva NT-proBNP from 0.64-93.32 pg/mL. Serum NT-proBNP was significantly higher in ADHF compared to CHF (p = 0.007) and in CHF compared to controls (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in saliva values between ADHF and CHF, or between CHF and controls. Saliva and serum levels were positively associated only in ADHF patients (R = 0.352, p = 0.012). Serum NT-proBNP was positively associated with NYHA class (R = 0.506, p < 0.001) and inversely with 6MWD (R = -0.401, p = 0.004) in ADHF. Saliva NT-proBNP only correlated with age in ADHF patients. In the current study, saliva NT-proBNP correlated with serum values in ADHF patients, but could not discriminate between HF and other causes of dyspnoea. Further research is needed to explore the value of saliva NT-proBNP.

Age-Related Differences in the Contribution of Systolic Blood Pressure and Biomarkers to Cardiovascular Disease Risk Prediction: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study

We sought to determine how biomarkers known to be associated with hypertension-induced end-organ injury complement the use of systolic blood pressure (SBP) for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk prediction at different ages. Using data from visits 2 (1990 to 1992) and 5 (2011 to 2013) of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, 3 models were used to predict CVD (composite of coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure). Model A included traditional risk factors (TRFs) except SBP, model B-TRF plus SBP, and model C-TRF plus biomarkers (high-sensitivity troponin T [hsTnT] and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide [NT-proBNP]). Harrel's C-statistics were used to assess risk discrimination for CVD comparing models B and A and C and B. At visit 2, the addition of SBP to TRF (model B vs model A) significantly improved the C-statistic (∆C-statistic, 95% confidence interval 0.010, 0.007 to 0.013) whereas the addition of hsTnT to TRF (model C vs model B) decreased the C-statistic (∆C-statistic -0.0038, -0.0075 to -0.0001) compared with SBP. At visit 5, the addition of SBP to TRF did not significantly improve the C-statistic (∆C-statistic 0.001, -0.002 to 0.005) whereas the addition of both hsTnT and NT-proBNP to TRF significantly improved the C-statistic compared with SBP (∆C-statistic 0.028, 0.015 to 0.041 and 0.055, 0.036 to 0.074, respectively). In summary, the incremental value of SBP for CVD risk prediction diminishes with age whereas the incremental value of hsTnT and NT-proBNP increases with age.

Functional capacity and quality of life in advanced heart failure patients assessment

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Heart failure (HF) is characterized by functional limitation and consequent loss of quality of life. These parameters can be measured through self-evaluated instruments, namely Duke activity status index (DASI) and Minnesota living with heart failure questionnaire (MLHFQ). In parallel, HF is also characterized by objective parameters measured by complementary diagnostic tests, namely NT-proBNP and left ventricular ejection fraction by echocardiogram. Patients with higher NT-proBNP value and worse ejection fraction may present with more symptoms and consequently functional impairment and worse quality of life. Aim To analyze if self-reported parameters present significant correlation with objective measured parameters and to understand if there are differences between gender in out-patients followed in advanced heart failure assessment. Methods During the year of 2022, a cohort of out-patients was analyzed. Data was collected regarding DASI, MLHFQ and disease stratification based on NT-proBNP and left ventricular ejection fraction by echocardiogram. Pearson's correlation was made between these parameters, trying to understand whether they were related to them and whether this relationship is in line with the patient's clinical presentation. An independent sample T-test was performed in order to understand any differences regarding the gender. Results A sample of 122 patients were evaluated; 97 (80%) were male, with a mean age of 63 years. New York Heart association functional class was between II and III and all patients had reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, with an average of 35% (min: 10% and max: 48%). NT-proBNP scores are quite high, presenting an average score of 1349.7±1482.5. Average score of MLHFQ was 13±15, meaning that patients present a good quality of life and DASI average score was 33.9±16.1, meaning a very acceptable functional capacity level. The DASI score correlates negatively with MLHFQ (r = -0.566, p = 0.003) and with NT-proBNP value (r = -0.783, p = 0.000); MLHFQ score is positively correlated with NT-proBNP value (r = 0.018, p = 0.000). A high DASI score corresponds to good functional capacity and, as such, better quality of life and lower physiological impact of the disease. Surprisingly, despite the lower MLHFQ and high DASI, patients present a quite increase level of NT-proBNP. There were no gender differences in relation to the DASI score (p = 0.077) and MLHFQ (p = 0.422). Conclusion The self-evaluated parameters correlate with the physiological parameters objectively measured. The perception of patients regarding their quality of life and functional capacity may not allow to infer about their physiological parameters, since a high NT-proBNP a low left ventricular ejection fraction normally indicates a worse functional level, which is not observed in this cohort of patients. Gender seems to have no impact on the level of quality of life or self-reported functional capacity.

The value of plasma NGAL and NT-proBNP in the diagnosis of type 1 cardiorenal syndrome

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background The presence of acute kidney injury in the setting of acute heart failure (AHF) is common occurrence and was termed type 1 cardiorenal syndrome (CRS1). Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is one of the earliest biomarkers of acute kidney injury due to ischemia or renal toxicity. NT-proBNP has a role in the diagnosis of acute heart failure. Does the combination of NGAL and NT-proBNP increase diagnostic value of CRS1? This study was aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of plasma NGAL and NT-proBNP in diagnosis of CRS1. Methods there were 139 patients with AHF in the department of Cardiovascular resuscitation and Interventional cardiology Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam 115 People Hospital from September 2018 to March 2019. This was a prospective cohort study. Results the optimal cut-off plasma NGAL to diagnosing CRS1 was 353.23 ng/ml, Area Under Curve (AUC) 0.732 (95% CI 0.65-0.80, p &amp;lt; 0.001), sensitivity 74.47%, specificity 68.48%, positive predictive value 54.7%, negative predictive value 84%. The optimal cut-off NT-proBNP to diagnosing CRS1 was 17681 pg/ml, AUC 0.710 (95% CI 0.627-0.784, p &amp;lt; 0.001), sensitivity 54.2%, specificity 80.2%, positive predictive value 59.1%, negative predictive value 76.8%. Combination of plasma NGAL and NT-proBNP in diagnosing CRS1 with AUC 0.756 (95% CI 0.676-0.825, p &amp;lt; 0.001), sensitivity 77.1%, specificity 69.2%, positive predictive value 56.9%, negative predictive value 85.1%. Conclusions Combination of plasma NGAL and NT-proBNP in the diagnosis of type 1 cardiorenal syndrome with higher sensivity than each biomarker.

The value of Cystatin C and NT-proBNP in the diagnosis of type 1 cardiorenal syndrome

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background The presence of acute kidney injury in the setting of acute heart failure (AHF) is common occurrence and was termed type 1 cardiorenal syndrome (CRS1). Cystatin C has a role in the diagnosis renal dysfunction. NT-proBNP has a role in the diagnosis of acute heart failure. Whether the combination of Cystatin C and NT-proBNP increase diagnostic value of CRS1? This study was aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of Cystatin C and NT-ProBNP in diagnosis of CRS1. Methods there were 139 patients with AHF in the department of Cardiovascular resuscitation and Interventional cardiology Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam 115 People Hospital from September 2018 to March 2019. This was a prospective cohort study. Results the optimal cut-off Cystatin C to diagnosing CRS1 was 1.81 mg/l, AUC 0.787 (95% CI 0.71-0.852, p &amp;lt; 0.001), sensitivity 75%, specificity 83.5%, positive predictive value 70.6%, negative predictive value 86.4%. The optimal cut-off NT-proBNP to diagnosing CRS1 was 17681 pg/ml, AUC 0.710 (95% CI 0.627-0.784, p &amp;lt; 0.001), sensitivity 54.2%, specificity 80.2%, positive predictive value 59.1%, negative predictive value 76.8%. Combination of Cystatin C and NT-proBNP in diagnosing CRS1 with AUC 0.788 (95% CI 0.71-0.852, p &amp;lt; 0.001), sensitivity 70.8%, specificity 85.7%, positive predictive value 72.3%, negative predictive value 84.9%. Conclusions Combination of Cystatin C and NT-proBNP in the diagnosis of type 1 cardiorenal syndrome with higher specificity than each biomarker.

Different kinetics of NT-proBNP and sST2 highlight different therapeutic pathways of sacubitril/valsartan

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and soluble interleukin 1 receptor-like 1 ST2 (sST2) are biomarkers used to grade heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) severity. Both are potential targets of HFrEF treatment, but the first is associated with the patient’s hemodynamic status, while the second is more indicative of the inflammatory status and of myocardial fibrosis. Purpose The aim of this study was to assess the kinetics of these biomarkers after treatment with sacubitril/valsartan in HFrEF. Methods We analyzed blood samples of HFrEF patients at baseline (before sacubitril/valsartan treatment), after 1, 2, 3 months (respectively after a month taking the 24/26 – 49/51 – 97/103mg b.i.d. doses), and 6 months after the maximum tolerated dose was reached (end-study). Results We obtained samples from 72 HFrEF patients (age 64.0±10.5, 83% males) (Table 1). NT-proBNP and sST2 values progressively and significantly reduced up to 37% and 16%, respectively, with a greater reduction for NT-proBNP (p&amp;lt;0.001). Specifically, NT-proBNP reduced from 1144 [593-2586] to 743 [358-1524] pg/mL and sST2 from 27.3 [20.5-35.0] to 23.1 [15.9-30.7] ng/mL, p for trend &amp;lt;0.001 in both cases). The reduction of the two biomarkers over time occurred with statistically significant different kinetics: deferred for sST2 and faster for NT-proBNP (Figure 1). No significant changes in renal function and potassium levels were recorded. Conclusions These findings suggest that, in HF patients, sacubitril/valsartan effects on the cardiovascular system share a double pathway: a first, hemodynamic, faster pathway and a second, non-hemodynamic anti-inflammatory, delayed one. Both likely contribute to the sacubitril/valsartan benefits in HFrEF.Table 1Figure 1

Body Composition Measures and N-terminal pro-B-type Natriuretic Peptide (NT-pro-BNP) in US Adults.

The associations of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) with dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA)-derived measures of body mass and composition are largely unknown. We included participants aged ≥20 years from the 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey with NT-pro-BNP and DEXA-derived body composition (fat and lean mass) measures. We used linear and logistic regression to characterize the associations of measures of body mass and composition (body mass index [BMI], waist circumference [WC], fat mass, and lean mass) with NT-pro-BNP, adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors. We conducted sex-specific analyses among 9134 adults without cardiovascular disease (mean age 44.4 years, 50.8% women, and 72% White adults). The adjusted mean NT-proBNP values were lowest in the highest quartiles of BMI, WC, fat mass, and lean mass. There were large adjusted absolute differences in NT-pro-BNP between the highest and lowest quartiles of DEXA-derived lean mass, -6.26 pg/mL (95% confidence interval [CI], -8.99 to -3.52) among men and -22.96 pg/mL (95% CI, -26.83 to -19.09) among women. Lean mass exhibited a strong inverse association with elevated NT-pro-BNP ≥ 81.4 pg/mL (highest quartile) - odds ratio (OR) 0.58 (95% CI, 0.39-0.86) in men and OR 0.59 (95% CI, 0.47-0.73) in women for highest lean mass quartile vs. lowest quartile. Further adjustment for fat mass, BMI, or WC did not appreciably alter the inverse association of lean mass with NT-pro-BNP. In a national sample of US adults, lean mass was inversely associated with NT-pro-BNP.