Relación entre modelado miocárdico y función diastólica en pacientes con hipertensión esencial / Relationship between myocardial modelling and diastolic function in patients with essential hypertension

Fundamento y objetivo: Analizar la relación entre las citoquinas antiapoptóticas, sFas y receptor soluble tipo 1 del factor de necrosis tumoral (sTNF-R1) con el fragmento aminoterminal del propéptido de procolágeno tipo iii (PIIINP) y tipo i (PINP) y la función diastólica en la hipertensión arterial (HTA). Pacientes y método: Se estudió un grupo de 253 pacientes con HTA, con una edad media (DE) de 60 (13) años; 139 eran varones. Se les realizó un examen físico, estudio eco-Doppler y determinación sérica de las moléculas. Resultados: Los valores séricos de PINP y PIIINP estuvieron elevados en pacientes hipertróficos frente a no-hipertróficos (media de 41 [extremos 31-52] frente a 35 [28-47] μg/l, p=0,010; y 4,33 [3,71-5,29] frente a 3,98 [3,49-4,58] μg/l, p=0,005, respectivamente). Además, se encontraron elevadas las concentraciones de sFas y sTNF-R1 (media de 1,47 [extremos 1,2-1,77] frente a 1,37 [1,1-1,59] ng/ml, p=0,012; y 466 [331-657] frente a 317 [260-427] pg/ml, p<0,0001, respectivamente). Por otra parte, los valores de PIIINP se relacionaron con sFas (r=0,386, p<0,0001) y sTNF-R1 (r=0,298, p<0,001); también se asoció PINP con estas citoquinas (r=0,158, p=0,011 y r=0,241, p<0,0001, respectivamente). En el análisis multivariable, sFas (p<0,0001) y sTNF-R1 (p<0,0001) fueron factores independientes de PIIINP. Por último, las concentraciones de los marcadores se relacionaron significativamente con los parámetros de función diastólica del ventrículo izquierdo. Conclusión:Las concentraciones de procolágeno y de citoquinas antiapoptóticas estuvieron elevadas en pacientes con hipertrofia ventricular. Además, sFas y sTNF-R1 son factores independientes de los valores en suero de PIIINP y se relacionan con los parámetros de función diastólica ventricular (AU)

Background and objectives: To analyze the relationship between sFas and soluble TNF receptor 1 (sTNF-R1) with type iii (PIIINP) and i (PINP) amino-terminal propeptide procollagens, and diastole in hypertension (HT). Patients and methods: A group of 253 Caucasian asymptomatic hypertensive patients (age 60±13 years, 139 males) were studied, in whom a physical examination, laboratory analyses (determination of serum PIIINP, PINP, sFas and by radioimmunoassay and ELISA, respectively), and echo-Doppler study were performed. Results: Serum PINP and PIIINP were increased in left ventricular hypertrophy compared to non-hypertrophy [41 (31-52) vs. 35 (28-47) μg/l, P=.010; and 4.33 (3.71-5.29) vs. 3.98 (3.49-4.58) μg/l, P=.005, respectively]. Furthermore, sFas and sTNF-R1 were also elevated [1.47 (1.2-1.77) vs. 1.37 (1.1-1.59), P=.012; and 466 (331-657) vs. 317 (260-427) μg/l, P<.0001, respectively]. Moreover, serum PIIINP was associated with sFas (r=.386, P<.0001) and sTNF-R1 (r=.298, P<.001); PINP was also associated with these cytokines (r=0.158, P=.011 and r=.241, P<.0001, respectively). Multivariable analyses included sFas (P<.0001) and sTNF-R1 (P<.0001) as independent factors related with serum PIIINP. Finally, marker concentrations were significantly related with left ventricular diastolic function parameters. Conclusion: Procollagen and anti-apoptotic cytokine levels were increased in our hypertrophic patients. Furthermore, sFas and sTNF-R1 are independent related factors of serum PIIINP. Diastolic parameters were associated with myocardial fibrosis and anti-apoptotic cytokines (AU)

[Relationship between myocardial modelling and diastolic function in patients with essential hypertension]. / Relación entre modelado miocárdico y función diastólica en pacientes con hipertensión esencial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To analyze the relationship between sFas and soluble TNF receptor 1 (sTNF-R1) with type iii (PIIINP) and i (PINP) amino-terminal propeptide procollagens, and diastole in hypertension (HT). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A group of 253 Caucasian asymptomatic hypertensive patients (age 60±13 years, 139 males) were studied, in whom a physical examination, laboratory analyses (determination of serum PIIINP, PINP, sFas and by radioimmunoassay and ELISA, respectively), and echo-Doppler study were performed. RESULTS: Serum PINP and PIIINP were increased in left ventricular hypertrophy compared to non-hypertrophy [41 (31-52) vs. 35 (28-47) µg/l, P=.010; and 4.33 (3.71-5.29) vs. 3.98 (3.49-4.58) µg/l, P=.005, respectively]. Furthermore, sFas and sTNF-R1 were also elevated [1.47 (1.2-1.77) vs. 1.37 (1.1-1.59), P=.012; and 466 (331-657) vs. 317 (260-427) µg/l, P<.0001, respectively]. Moreover, serum PIIINP was associated with sFas (r=.386, P<.0001) and sTNF-R1 (r=.298, P<.001); PINP was also associated with these cytokines (r=0.158, P=.011 and r=.241, P<.0001, respectively). Multivariable analyses included sFas (P<.0001) and sTNF-R1 (P<.0001) as independent factors related with serum PIIINP. Finally, marker concentrations were significantly related with left ventricular diastolic function parameters. CONCLUSION: Procollagen and anti-apoptotic cytokine levels were increased in our hypertrophic patients. Furthermore, sFas and sTNF-R1 are independent related factors of serum PIIINP. Diastolic parameters were associated with myocardial fibrosis and anti-apoptotic cytokines.

Prediction clinical profile to distinguish between systolic and diastolic heart failure in hospitalized patients.

BACKGROUND: In recent decades, the growing incidence of patients with heart failure who have preserved systolic function, underlines the need to differentiate between heart failure due to diastolic dysfunction and that due to systolic dysfunction. OBJECTIVE: To develop a prediction profile of clinical parameters that enables clinicians to differentiate between patients with systolic and diastolic heart failure. METHODS: 164 patients admitted for congestive heart failure to the cardiology department of an academic tertiary care hospital, whose left ventricular systolic and diastolic function had been evaluated echocardiographically and who satisfied the Framingham criteria for heart failure, were prospectively recruited. All patients answered a questionnaire which included, in addition to other clinical variables, the Framingham criteria. RESULTS: Patients with diastolic heart failure (61.6%) were more likely to be older, female, and to present left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), with a lower proportion of smokers, alcohol drinkers, coronary disease, q wave and left bundle branch block (all p<0.005). The predicting model obtained on the logistic regression analysis was very significant, with three variables and 72.3% of correct predictions (x(2) value=40,457, p<0.001). These three variables, predictors of diastolic as opposed to systolic heart failure, were female sex (OR=3.546), left ventricle hypertrophy (OR=4.011) and absence of coronary disease (OR=3.547). CONCLUSION: Three variables which can be easily evaluated, female sex, left ventricular hypertrophy and presence or absence of coronary disease, may enable clinicians to differentiate between patients with systolic or diastolic heart failure.

Urinary B-type natriuretic peptide levels in the diagnosis and prognosis of heart failure.

BACKGROUND: Plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a useful biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis of heart failure (HF); however, urine BNP has never been calculated. We sought to compare urinary and plasma BNP levels and to investigate the potential diagnostic and prognostic value of this peptide in HF. METHODS AND RESULTS: Urine and plasma BNP levels were measured in 92 HF patients and 30 control subjects. Urinary BNP levels were higher in HF patients than in control subjects (P < .0001), correlating with plasma BNP levels (r = 0.64, P < .0001). Urine BNP was a good tool for the diagnosis of HF, the area under the curve (AUC) being 0.91 +/- 0.06 (P < .0001). Urinary BNP levels had prognostic power for cardiac events (cardiac admissions + mortality) with an odds ratio of 6.6 (P < .05). To determine the prognostic power of urinary BNP in detecting 12-month cardiac mortality, we obtained an AUC of 0.76 +/- 0.6 (P = .014). CONCLUSIONS: The data suggest that urine BNP is a new candidate marker for diagnosis and prognosis of HF mortality and cardiac events. This raises the possibility of using this relatively simple noninvasive test in primary care settings or in specific conditions where the collection of blood samples could be difficult.

[Urinary NT-proBNP level: relationship with ventricular function parameters in heart failure]. / NT-proBNP en orina y su relación con los parámetros de la función ventricular en la insuficiencia cardiaca.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The plasma N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) level is a sensitive marker of ventricular dysfunction. The diagnostic and prognostic value of urinary NT-proBNP measurement has been demonstrated. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between established parameters of ventricular function and the urinary NT-proBNP level. METHODS: The study involved 74 patients with heart failure (54 male, age 66 [12] years). A Doppler echocardiographic study was performed to measure atrioventricular plane displacement (AVPD), ejection fraction, mitral flow propagation velocity, and E/A. Urinary and plasma NT-proBNP levels, and the plasma aldosterone level were measured. RESULTS: In the whole group, the plasma NT-proBNP level was 948 (961) pg/mL, the urinary NT-proBNP level was 88.7 (17.8) pg/mL, and the aldosterone level, 165 (145) pg/mL. There were correlations between urinary NT-proBNP level and AVPD (r=-0.5; P< .0001), ejection fraction (r=-0.3; P< .01), and mitral flow propagation velocity (r=-0.24; P< .05). On dividing AVPD and ejection fraction measurements into quartiles, respectively, the urinary NT-proBNP levels for these quartiles were Q1: 103 (28) pg/mL, Q2: 89 (9) pg/mL, Q3: 86 (9) pg/mL, and Q4: 78 (9) pg/mL (P< .0001) and Q1: 101 (26) pg/mL, Q2: 85 (12) pg/mL, Q3: 83 (10) pg/mL, and Q4: 85 (11) pg/mL (P< .05), respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the plasma NT-proBNP level was an independent predictor of the urinary NT-proBNP level (P< .0001). When the plasma NT-proBNP level was excluded, AVPD and ejection fraction appeared as alternative independent predictors (P< .05). CONCLUSIONS: There is a correlation between the urinary NT-proBNP level and left ventricular function parameters. This study supports the use of the urinary NT-proBNP level as a biochemical marker of ventricular function in heart failure patients.

NT-proBNP en orina y su relación con los parámetros de la función ventricular en la insuficiencia cardiaca / Urinary NT-proBNP level: relationship with ventricular function parameters in heart failure

Introducción y objetivos. La concentración plasmática de N-terminal propéptido natriurético cerebral (NT-proBNP) es un marcador sensible de disfunción ventricular. Se ha demostrado el valor diagnóstico y pronóstico de sus concentraciones urinarias. Nuestro objetivo es determinar la relación entre parámetros consolidados de la función ventricular y concentraciones urinarias de NT-proBNP. Métodos. Hemos estudiado 74 pacientes diagnosticados de insuficiencia cardiaca (54 varones, edad 66 ± 12 años). Se les realizó un estudio eco-Doppler y se determinaron el desplazamiento del plano auriculoventricular (DPAV) (mm), la fracción de eyección (FE), la velocidad de propagación del flujo mitral (Vp) (cm/s) y la relación E/A. Se midieron las concentraciones plasmáticas y urinarias de NT-proBNP y las de aldosterona (pg/ml). Resultados. Para toda la población, los valores plasmáticos de NT-proBNP fueron 948 ± 961 pg/ml, los urinarios 88,7 ± 17,8 pg/ml y los de aldosterona 165 ± 145 pg/ml. Correlacionamos las concentraciones urinarias de NT-proBNP con el DPAV (r = -0,5; p < 0,0001), la FE (r = -0,3; p < 0,01) y con Vp (r = -0,24; p < 0,05). Dividimos los valores de DPAV y FE en cuartiles y en cada uno calculamos el NT-proBNP urinario (C1: 103 ± 28, C2: 89 ± 9, C3: 86 ± 9, C4: 78 ± 9; p < 0,0001 y C1: 101 ± 26, C2: 85 ± 12, C3: 83 ± 10, C4: 85 ± 11; p < 0,05). Al realizar un análisis de regresión lineal múltiple se muestra que NT-proBNP plasmático es un factor pronóstico independiente de NT-proBNP urinario (p < 0,0001). Si excluimos el NT-proBNP plasmático surgen de manera alternativa, como factores pronóstico independientes, el DPAV y la FE (p < 0,05). Conclusiones. El NT-proBNP en la orina se correlaciona con parámetros de función del ventrículo izquierdo. Este estudio da soporte al papel del NT-proBNP urinario como marcador bioquímico de la función ventricular en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca (AU)

Introduction and objectives. The plasma N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) level is a sensitive marker of ventricular dysfunction. The diagnostic and prognostic value of urinary NT-proBNP measurement has been demonstrated. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between established parameters of ventricular function and the urinary NT-proBNP level. Methods. The study involved 74 patients with heart failure (54 male, age 66 [12] years). A Doppler echocardiographic study was performed to measure atrioventricular plane displacement (AVPD), ejection fraction, mitral flow propagation velocity, and E/A. Urinary and plasma NT-proBNP levels, and the plasma aldosterone level were measured. Results. In the whole group, the plasma NT-proBNP level was 948 (961) pg/mL, the urinary NT-proBNP level was 88.7 (17.8) pg/mL, and the aldosterone level, 165 (145) pg/mL. There were correlations between urinary NT-proBNP level and AVPD (r=-0.5; P<.0001), ejection fraction (r=-0.3; P<.01), and mitral flow propagation velocity (r=-0.24; P<.05). On dividing AVPD and ejection fraction measurements into quartiles, respectively, the urinary NT-proBNP levels for these quartiles were Q1: 103 (28) pg/mL, Q2: 89 (9) pg/mL, Q3: 86 (9) pg/mL, and Q4: 78 (9) pg/mL (P<.0001) and Q1: 101 (26) pg/mL, Q2: 85 (12) pg/mL, Q3: 83 (10) pg/mL, and Q4: 85 (11) pg/mL (P<.05), respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the plasma NT-proBNP level was an independent predictor of the urinary NT-proBNP level (P<.0001). When the plasma NT-proBNP level was excluded, AVPD and ejection fraction appeared as alternative independent predictors (P<.05). Conclusions. There is a correlation between the urinary NT-proBNP level and left ventricular function parameters. This study supports the use of the urinary NT-proBNP level as a biochemical marker of ventricular function in heart failure patients (AU)

[8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and lipid peroxidation in patients with heart failure]. / Valores de 8-hidroxi-2'-desoxiguanosina y de peroxidación lipídica en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Heart failure is associated with increased free radical production, which leads to a state of oxidative stress. Known markers of oxidative stress include 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, which reflects oxidative damage to DNA, and lipid peroxidation, which can be used to quantify damage to lipid-rich structures. The aims of this study were to compare 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and lipid peroxidation levels in heart failure patients and healthy subjects and to assess how these levels are influenced by heart failure etiology. METHODS: The study included 78 patients (57 male, age 64 [14] years) with heart failure and 12 control subjects. Patients completed a questionnaire and were graded according to the New York Heart Association classification. Doppler echocardiography was performed and blood samples were obtained. 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and lipid peroxidation levels were determined. RESULTS: Significant differences were observed between patients and control subjects in 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and lipid peroxidation levels, at 0.34 (0.54) ng/mL vs 0.04 (0.07) ng/mL (P<.05), and 18 (10) microM vs 8 (3) microM (P<.01), respectively. Subsequent analysis showed that heart failure etiology had a significant effect on the levels of the two markers (P<.05), which were highest in patients with hypertensive cardiomyopathy. CONCLUSIONS: Levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and lipid peroxidation were higher in heart failure patients than in control subjects. The most significant increases were found in patients with hypertensive cardiomyopathy.

Valores de 8-hidroxi-2'-desoxiguanosina y de peroxidación lipídica en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca / 8-Hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and lipid peroxidation in patients with heart failure

Introducción y objetivos. La insuficiencia cardiaca está asociada con un incremento en la producción de radicales libres, llegándose al estado de estrés oxidativo. Se conocen diversos marcadores de estrés oxidativo, como la 8-hidroxi-2'-desoxiguanosina, marcador del daño oxidativo en el ADN, y la peroxidación lipídica que permite cuantificar el daño en las estructuras ricas en lípidos. El propósito de este estudio es comparar los valores de 8-hidroxi-2'-desoxiguanosina y de peroxidación lipídica en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca y sujetos sanos, y evaluar la influencia de la etiología. Métodos. Estudiamos a 78 pacientes (57 varones, edad 64 ± 14 años) diagnosticados de insuficiencia cardiaca y a 12 controles. Los pacientes completaron un cuestionario y fueron clasificados de acuerdo con la New York Heart Association. Se les realizó un estudio eco-Doppler y extracción de sangre. Medimos las concentraciones de 8-hidroxi-2'-desoxiguanosina y de peroxidación lipídica. Resultados. Al comparar los valores de 8-hidroxi-2'-desoxiguanosina y peroxidación lipídica entre pacientes y controles obtuvimos diferencias significativas (0,34 ± 0,54 frente a 0,04 ± 0,07 ng/ml, p < 0,05 y 18 ± 10 frente a 8 ± 3 μmol/l, p < 0,01, respectivamente). Cuando comparamos las concentraciones de los 2 marcadores según la etiología de la insuficiencia cardiaca encontramos diferencias significativas en ambos (p < 0,05), que fueron mayores en la miocardiopatía hipertensiva. Conclusiones. Los valores de 8-hidroxi-2'-desoxiguanosina y peroxidación lipídica se encuentran aumentados en los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca al compararlos con los controles. El incremento más importante lo encontramos en pacientes con miocardiopatía hipertensiva

Introduction and objectives. Heart failure is associated with increased free radical production, which leads to a state of oxidative stress. Known markers of oxidative stress include 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, which reflects oxidative damage to DNA, and lipid peroxidation, which can be used to quantify damage to lipid-rich structures. The aims of this study were to compare 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and lipid peroxidation levels in heart failure patients and healthy subjects and to assess how these levels are influenced by heart failure etiology. Methods. The study included 78 patients (57 male, age 64 [14] years) with heart failure and 12 control subjects. Patients completed a questionnaire and were graded according to the New York Heart Association classification. Doppler echocardiography was performed and blood samples were obtained. 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and lipid peroxidation levels were determined. Results. Significant differences were observed between patients and control subjects in 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and lipid peroxidation levels, at 0.34 (0.54) ng/mL vs 0.04 (0.07) ng/mL (P<.05), and 18 (10) μM vs 8 (3) μM (P<.01), respectively. Subsequent analysis showed that heart failure etiology had a significant effect on the levels of the two markers (P<.05), which were highest in patients with hypertensive cardiomyopathy. Conclusions. Levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and lipid peroxidation were higher in heart failure patients than in control subjects. The most significant increases were found in patients with hypertensive cardiomyopathy

Diagnostic and prognostic value of urine NT-proBNP levels in heart failure patients.

BACKGROUND: Plasma NT-proBNP levels are sensitive markers of ventricular dysfunction. However, studies of natriuretic peptides in urine are limited. AIMS: To compare urine and plasma NT-proBNP levels and to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of urine levels in heart failure (HF). METHODS: Urinary and plasma NT-proBNP levels were measured in 96 HF patients and 20 control subjects. The patients were functionally classified according to the NYHA criteria. RESULTS: Urine NT-proBNP was higher in HF patients than in control subjects (94+/-31 pg/ml vs. 67+/-6 pg/ml, p<0.0001), correlating with plasma NT-proBNP levels (r=0.78, p<0.0001). Urinary levels were elevated in the more severe functional classes and diminished in obese patients. Urine NT-proBNP was a good tool for diagnosis of HF, the area under the curve (AUC) being 0.96+/-0.02 (p<0.0001), and for predicting 12-month cardiac events (p=0.011). To determine the prognostic power of urinary NT-proBNP in detecting 12-month cardiac mortality, we obtained an AUC of 0.75+/-0.10 (p=0.015). CONCLUSION: Urinary NT-proBNP, a relatively simple non-invasive test, is a new candidate marker for the diagnosis and evaluation of prognosis in HF and for the characterization of functional status in these patients.

Atrial stunning as predictor of early relapse into atrial fibrillation after cardioversion.

Although the high rate of success after cardioversion, less than 50% of patients maintain sinus rhythm for the first year. In view for the high percentage of relapse into atrial fibrillation, it is interesting to analyze the relationship between atrial stunning after cardioversion and relapse into atrial fibrillation. Thus, we evaluated 101 patients with atrial fibrillation and successful cardioversion. Atrial mechanical function was assessed by measures of transmitral peak A wave velocity, determined before and weekly after cardioversion during 1 month. Fifty-five percent of patient relapse into atrial fibrillation during follow-up. No significant differences were found in clinical and echocardiographic variables between the group with and without relapse. However, the group of patients who relapsed into atrial fibrillation showed a lower peak A wave velocity immediately after cardioversion than patients who maintain in sinus rhythm at month (0.44+/-0.27 vs. 0.60+/-0.38 m/s p<0.01). Impaired atrial function improves during the first 14 days after cardioversion.

[Plasma concentration of big endothelin-1 and its relation with plasma NT-proBNP and ventricular function in heart failure patients]. / Relación de los valores plasmáticos de big endotelina-1 con NT-proBNP y la función ventricular de pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Elevated plasma concentrations of big endothelin-1 (big ET-1) are related with severity and prognosis in patients with heart failure, and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a marker of ventricular remodeling. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between plasma levels of big ET-1 and NT-proBNP, and between the former and ventricular function. PATIENTS AND METHOD: We studied 103 patients with heart failure (75 men, mean age 63 [13] years). Each participant completed a questionnaire and underwent Doppler echocardiographic study to measure ejection fraction (EF), mitral flow propagation velocity (Vp) and atrioventricular plane displacement (AVPD). Blood samples were also taken to determine plasma levels of big ET-1, aldosterone and NT-proBNP. RESULTS: For the whole population big ET-1 concentration was 1.03 [0.75] fmol/m, NT-proBNP 619 (307-1328) pg/mL, aldosterone 168 [102] pg/mL, EF 37 [10], Vp 37 [11] cm/s, and AVPD 8.0 [1.7] mm. Plasma big ET-1 correlated positively with plasma NT-proBNP (r=0.50, P<.0001). However, a negative correlation was found between big ET-1 and EF (r=-0.30, P<.01), Vp, (r=-0.30, P<.01) and AVPD (r=-0.21, P<.05). When ET-1 levels were divided into quartiles and the corresponding NT-proBNP, EF, Vp and AVPD values were compared, we found significant differences (ANOVA P<.0001, P<.01, P<.05 and P<.05, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Plasma levels of big ET-1 correlated positively with NT-proBNP levels and inversely with EF, Vp and AVPD. These findings help clarify the relationships between ventricular function and the neurohormonal activation involved in heart failure, and may aid the search for therapeutic interventions.

Relación de los valores plasmáticos de big endotelina-1 con NT-proBNP y la función ventricular de pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca / Plasma concentration of big endothelin-1 and its relation with plasma NT-proBNP and ventricular function in heart failure patients

Introducción y objetivos. Las concentraciones elevadas de big endotelina 1 (big ET-1) se relacionan con la gravedad y el pronóstico de los pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca (IC), mientras que N-terminal proBNP (NTproBNP) es un marcador de remodelado ventricular. El objetivo de nuestro estudio fue relacionar los valores debig ET-1 con NT-proBNP y con la función miocárdica. Pacientes y método. Estudiamos a 103 pacientes (75varones; 63 ± 13 años) diagnosticados de IC. Cada participante completó un cuestionario y fue sometido a un estudio eco-Doppler para la medición de la fracción de eyección (FE), la velocidad de propagación del flujo mitral (Vp) y el desplazamiento del plano auriculo ventricular(DPAV). Se realizó una extracción de sangre para determinarlos valores de big ET-1, aldosterona y NT-proBNP. Resultados. Para toda la población, el valor de big ET-1 fue de 1,03 ± 0,75 fmol/ml, el de NT-proBNP de 619(307-1.328) pg/ml, el de aldosterona de 168 ± 102 pg/ml,la FE de 37 ± 10, la Vp de 37 ± 11 cm/s y el DPAV de 8,0± 1,7 mm. La big ET-1 se correlacionó positivamente con el NT-proBNP (r = 0,50; p < 0,0001) e inversamente conla FE (r = -0,30; p < 0,01), la Vp (r = -0,30; p < 0,01) y elDPAV (r = -0,21; p < 0,05). Al dividir la big ET-1 en cuartiles y comparar los valores de NT-proBNP, FE, Vp y DPAV obtuvimos diferencias estadísticamente significativas(ANOVA p < 0,0001, p < 0,01, p < 0,05 y p < 0,05,respectivamente). Conclusiones. Los valores plasmáticos de big ET-1muestran una correlación positiva con los de NT-pro BNP y una correlación inversa con la FE, la Vp y el DPAV. Estos hallazgos ayudan a esclarecer las relaciones entre la función ventricular y la activación neurohormonal en la insuficiencia cardíaca y facilitan la búsqueda de nuevas intervención es terapéuticas

Introduction and objectives. Elevated plasma concentrations of big endothelin-1 (big ET-1) are related with severity and prognosis in patients with heart failure, and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a marker of ventricular remodeling. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between plasma levels of bigET-1 and NT-proBNP, and between the former and ventricular function. Patients and method. We studied 103 patients with heart failure (75 men, mean age 63 [13] years). Each participant completed a questionnaire and underwent Doppler echocardiographic study to measure ejection fraction(EF), mitral flow propagation velocity (Vp) and atrioventricular plane displacement (AVPD). Blood samples were also taken to determine plasma levels of big ET-1, aldosterone and NT-proBNP. Results. For the whole population big ET-1 concentration was 1.03 [0.75] fmol/m, NT-proBNP 619 (307-1328)pg/mL, aldosterone 168 [102] pg/mL, EF 37 [10], Vp 37[11] cm/s, and AVPD 8.0 [1.7] mm. Plasma big ET-1 correlated positively with plasma NT-proBNP (r=0.50,P<.0001). However, a negative correlation was found between big ET-1 and EF (r=-0.30, P<.01), Vp, (r=-0.30,P<.01) and AVPD (r=-0.21, P<.05). When ET-1 levels were divided into quartiles and the corresponding NT proBNP, EF, Vp and AVPD values were compared, we found significant differences (ANOVA P<.0001, P<.01,P<.05 and P<.05, respectively). Conclusions. Plasma levels of big ET-1 correlated positively with NT-proBNP levels and inversely with EF, Vpand AVPD. These findings help clarify the relationships between ventricular function and the neurohormonal activation involved in heart failure, and may aid the search for therapeutic interventions

Soluble TNF-alpha and interleukin-6 receptors in the urine of heart failure patients. Their clinical value and relationship with plasma levels.

BACKGROUND: Proinflammatory cytokines are important mediators in heart failure (HF). Recently, urinary levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) have been determined. AIMS: The purpose of this study was to measure the urinary levels of TNF-alpha and IL-6 receptors, sTNF-RI, sTNF-RII, sIL-6R, and the relationship with plasma levels and NYHA classes in HF. METHODS: Plasma and urine were collected from 114 HF patients and sTNF-RI, sTNF-RII and sIL-6R (ng/ml) were analyzed. RESULTS: For the whole population, plasma levels of sTNF-RI were 2.1+/-0.1, of sTNF-RII were 5.0+/-0.3 and of sIL-6R were 49.8+/-2.5. Urinary levels were: sTNF-RI, 2.8+/-0.5, r=0.5, p<0.001; sTNF-RII, 12.6+/-2.1, r=0.4, p<0.001; and sIL-6R, 4.2+/-0.4, NS. In NYHA III subjects, we found sTNF-RI, r=0.6, p<0.01, sTNF-RII, r=0.5, p<0.05, and sILR-6, r=0.5, p<0.05. Both plasma TNF receptors and urinary levels of sTNF-RII were higher in patients in a more severe NYHA class (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Urine is a good environment to study sTNF-RI and sTNF-RII, and this fact has diagnostic and prognostic implications. Plasma and urinary levels of TNF receptors showed a fair correlation, which was increased in higher NYHA classes. Plasma and urinary levels of sIL6R showed a good correlation in NYHA III. The TNF receptor levels in urine increased in patients with more severe HF.

[NT-proBNP levels and hypertension. Their importance in the diagnosis of heart failure]. / Hipertensión y valores de NT-proBNP. Su importancia en el diagnóstico de insuficiencia cardíaca.

INTRODUCTION: N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is useful in the diagnosis of heart failure. We compared NT-proBNP levels in patients with and without a diagnosis of arterial hypertension. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Participants were recruited from a random sample of 999 inhabitants from the Community of Valencia (eastern Spain). Of these patients, 432 said they suffered from dyspnea and were referred to their hospital (10 hospitals involved), where blood samples were taken, an echo-Doppler study was performed, and the patients completed a questionnaire. Of the 432 participants with dyspnea, 215 gave informed consent for their inclusion in the study, and 202 completed the study. Hypertension was diagnosed in 72 participants and 130 were normotensive. RESULTS: For the whole population, NT-proBNP, expressed as the median and range, was 88 (0-2586) pg/mL. When we compared hypertensive with normotensive participants, we found higher NT-proBNP levels in the former group: median 123, range 0-2184 pg/mL, versus median 77, range 0-2586 pg/mL (P<.01). When we excluded subjects with systolic left ventricular dysfunction, we found higher levels in participants with hypertension: 119 (0-2184 pg/mL) vs 72 (0-997 pg/mL) (P<.01). When we also excluded subjects with diastolic dysfunction, we found (median 85, range 0-430 pg/mL) and (median 66, range 0-997 pg/mL), respectively (p = NS). CONCLUSION: In a population study of subjects with dyspnea, hypertensive patients have higher NT-proBNP levels than subjects with normal blood pressure. This difference disappeared when patients with diastolic dysfunction were excluded from the analysis. Hypertension can thus be a confounding factor that potentially decreases the specificity of NT-proBNP levels for the diagnosis of heart failure. These findings should be taken into account when conducting clinical and epidemiological studies in which patients with both heart failure and hypertension are included.

Fractional shortening-velocity ratio for assessment of aortic stenosis severity in patients with systolic dysfunction.

BACKGROUND: In the study of severity of aortic stenosis many different methods derived from transthoracic echocardiography are used. Their principal limitations are left ventricular dysfunction and calcified aortic valve. The objective of this study was to assess the utility of a described echocardiographic index: the fractional shortening-velocity ratio (FSVR=FS/4Vmax2) in those patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction. METHODS: We studied 72 patients with aortic stenosis and aortic valvular area (AVA)< or =2 cm2. AVA was assessed by the Gorlin equation. Left ventricular systolic dysfunction was defined by FS< or =29%. Using receiver operating characteristic curves analysis to test the predictive discrimination of patients with and without critical aortic stenosis, we studied the best FSVR value to assess aortic stenosis severity. RESULTS: We found a significant linear correlation between AVA and FSVR (r=0.59; P<0.001). A value of FSVR < or =0.78 allowed the identification of patients with AVA< or =0.8 cm2 with good sensitivity and specificity (sensitivity: 94.5%; specificity: 60%; positive predictive value: 90% and negative predictive value: 75%). In our population, 22 patients (32%) showed a systolic dysfunction. The correlation AVA-FSVR was also significant in this group (r=0.68; P<0.001) and it may be even better than in the total group. However, the FSVR with the best sensitivity-specificity relation was different to the value used in the global group. A FSVR value <0.65 showed the best sensitivity-specificity relation in identifying patients with severe aortic stenosis (sensitivity: 100% and specificity: 56%). CONCLUSION: The FSVR is a very simple and noninvasive index. It allows identification of patients with severe aortic stenosis with excellent sensitivity and good specificity. It may be useful in the evaluation of patients with aortic stenosis and left ventricular dysfunction, although, there is not an accepted FSVR value with the best-combined sensitivity-specificity, to identify a critical aortic stenosis.

[NT-proBNP and atrioventricular plane displacement. Relationship and diagnostic implications]. / NT-proBNP y desplazamiento del plano auriculoventricular. Relación e implicaciones diagnósticas.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: NT-proBNP is useful in the diagnosis of heart failure and ventricular dysfunction. Left atrioventricular plane displacement (AVPD) is a consolidated index of ventricular function. Our objective was to carry out a multicenter population-based study to establish the relationship between plasma NT-proBNP levels with AVPD values. PATIENTS AND METHOD: We studied 215 subjects (age 66 9 years; 57.7% women) chosen from a random sample of 432 people from the Community of Valencia, who previously reported suffering from some degree of dyspnea. Doppler echocardiography was done, AVPD was calculated and plasma NT-proBNP concentrations were determined. All studies were completed in 194 patients. RESULTS: For the whole population NT-proBNP was 88 (0-2,586) pg/ml and AVPD was 11.9 1.6 mm. NT-proBNP concentration correlated well with AVPD (r = 0.44; p < 0.00001), and higher peptide levels were obtained in AVPD quartiles that indicated less displacement (p < 0.05). When NT-proBNP values were grouped according to their association with AVPD lower or higher than the 50th percentile AVPD, the difference was significant at p < 0.01. When AVPD values lower and higher than 10 mm were compared, NT-proBNP values were higher in persons with AVPD lower than 10 mm (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This population study found higher NT-proBNP concentrations in subjects with lower AVPD, and illustrates the potential diagnostic usefulness of NT-proBNP in clinical practice.

NT-proBNP y desplazamiento del plano auriculoventricular. Relación e implicaciones diagnósticas / NT-proBNP and atrioventricular plane displacement. Relationship and diagnostic implications

Introducción y objetivos. El N-terminal propéptido natriurético cerebral (NT-proBNP) es útil en el diagnóstico de la insuficiencia cardíaca y la disfunción ventricular. El desplazamiento del plano auriculoventricular (DPAV) es un índice consolidado de la función ventricular. Nuestro objetivo es relacionar en un estudio multicéntrico poblacional los valores plasmáticos del NT-proBNP y los valores del DPAV. Pacientes y método. Estudiamos a 215 sujetos (edad, 66 ñ 9 años; un 57,7 por ciento, mujeres) obtenidos de una muestra aleatoria de 432 personas de la Comunidad Valenciana que previamente declararon sufrir algún grado de disnea. Se realizó un estudio con eco-Doppler, se midió el DPAV y se determinó el valor plasmático de NTproBNP. El estudio se completó en 194 pacientes. Resultados. Para toda la población, el valor de NTproBNP fue de 88 pg/ml (rango, 0-2.586 pg/ml) y el valor del DPAV fue de 11,9 ñ 1,6 mm. Las concentraciones del péptido natriurético muestran una correlación con los valores del DPAV (r = 0,44; p < 0,00001) y su valores más elevados se observan en los cuartiles del DPAV con menor desplazamiento (p < 0,05). Cuando agrupamos los valores del NT-proBNP en menor o mayor del percentil 50 del DPAV, obtuvimos un valor de p < 0,01. Si dividimos el DPAV en mayor o menor de 10 mm, los valores de NT-proBNP son más elevados en los sujetos con DPAV menor de 10 mm (p < 0,05).Conclusiones. Este estudio poblacional muestra valores más altos de NT-proBNP en sujetos con un desplazamiento menor del plano auriculoventricular, y pone de manifiesto su potencial diagnóstico en la práctica clínica (AU)