N-Terminal Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide as a Predictor of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction in Hemodialysis Patients without Fluid Overload

Background/Aims: The diagnostic value of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP) for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (EF; HF-PEF) was evaluated in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Method: In total, 83 patients were analyzed. Left-ventricular (LV) function was assessed using trans-thoracic Doppler echocardiography, and indices of hydration status were assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Plasma NT-pro BNP levels were measured simultaneously. Results: A moderate negative correlation was found between NT-pro BNP and LVEF. Subsequently, 77 HD patients who maintained their LVEF (LVEF >50%) were analyzed. Patients with a clinical suspicion of LV diastolic dysfunction (LVDD; E/A <= 0.75) showed higher NT-pro BNP levels (p = 0.021), but no significant differences in hydration status were observed between the two groups. Conclusions: The NT-pro BNP level may be a very helpful biomarker in screening for LVDD and HF-PEF and determining the need for echocardiography or a sophisticated cardiac study, even in HD patients. Copyright (C) 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel