RESUMO
PURPOSE: NT-proBNP and BNP concentrations in CHF correlate with NYHA class and LVEE Little research has been conducted to compare the clinical performance of these two natriuretic peptides in heterogeneous CHF population. Purpose: to evaluate and compare the clinical performance of NT-proBNP and BNP in heterogeneous group of CHF patients on the basis of these peptides' correlation with NYHA class, LVEF and WMI measured by echocardiography. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Consecutive patients admitted for suspected of CHE Blood samples were drawn for NT-proBNP, BNP, creatinine and echocardiography was performed. RESULTS: 71 patients were included. CHF was diagnosed in 53. Sensitivity of NT-proBNP and BNP in diagnosing CHF was 83% and 94% respectively (P = 0.079). Levels of both peptides correlated equally well with NYHA class (R = 0.537, p < 0.001; R = 0.473, P < 0.001), LVEF (R = -0.623, p < 0.001; R = -0.601, P < 0.001) and WMI (R = 0.590, P < 0.001; R = 0.527, P = 0.001). Creatinine correlated with both peptides, age correlated with NT-proBNP. No difference between sexes was found in both peptides' concentrations. In multivariate analysis independent determinants of BNP were LVEF, presence of valvular disease and NYHA class. In case of NT-proBNP age and creatinine also displayed independent influence. CONCLUSIONS: NT-proBNP and BNP show good sensitivity in detecting CHE Levels of both peptides correlate equally well with clinical and echocardiographic parameters of CHF, which makes them equally adequate in biochemical staging of CHF's severity regardless of its underlying cause. Levels of natriutretic peptides reflect contractile dysfunction, valvular disease and clinical condition. Age and creatinine concentration but not patients' sex should additionally be considered when measuring NT-proBNP.