natriuretic-peptide--brain and Critical-Illness

Cardiovascular dysfunction has been reported as an important mechanism of weaning failure, and recent data suggest that elevated brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels is associated with an increased risk of weaning failure. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis to evaluate the correlation between elevated BNP levels and weaning failure in critically ill patients subject to mechanical ventilation.. A systematic search in Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed and Web of Science was performed up to September 25, 2019. Standard mean differences (SMD) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the BNP levels were calculated for each study.. Nine studies with a total number of 589 were included in the final meta-analysis. The results showed that elevated BNP levels were significantly associated with the risk of weaning failure (SMD: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.47 to 1.05, P < .00001). The finding was consistent with the BNP measured before (SMD: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.26 to 1.11, P = .002) or at the end of spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) (SMD: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.52 to 1.18, P < .00001).. This meta-analysis showed that increased plasma BNP concentration was associated with weaning failure in ICU patients.

Topics: Critical Illness; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Respiration, Artificial; Ventilator Weaning

Multiple Biomarkers have recently been shown to be elevated in COVID-19, a respiratory infection with multi-organ dysfunction; however, information regarding the prognostic value of cardiac biomarkers as it relates to disease severity and cardiac injury are inconsistent. The goal of this meta-analysis was to summarize the evidence regarding the prognostic relevance of cardiac biomarkers from data available in published reports. PubMed, Embase and Web of Science were searched from inception through April 2020 for studies comparing median values of cardiac biomarkers in critically ill versus non-critically ill COVID-19 patients, or patients who died versus those who survived. The weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) between the groups were calculated for each study and combined using a random effects meta-analysis model. The odds ratio (OR) for mortality based on cardiac injury was combined from studies reporting it. Troponin levels were significantly higher in COVID-19 patients who died or were critically ill versus those who were alive or not critically ill (WMD 0.57, 95% CI 0.43-0.70, p < 0.001). Additionally, BNP levels were also significantly higher in patients who died or were critically ill (WMD 0.45, 95% CI - 0.21-0.69, p < 0.001). Cardiac injury was independently associated with significantly increased odds of mortality (OR 6.641, 95% CI 1.26-35.1, p = 0.03). A significant difference in levels of D-dimer was seen in those who died or were critically ill. CK levels were only significantly higher in those who died versus those who were alive (WMD 0.79, 95% CI 0.25-1.33, p = 0.004). Cardiac biomarkers add prognostic value to the determination of the severity of COVID-19 and can predict mortality.

Topics: Biomarkers; Cardiology; Cardiovascular Diseases; COVID-19; Creatine Kinase; Critical Illness; Fibrin Fibrinogen Degradation Products; Humans; L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; Myocardium; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis; Prospective Studies; Retrospective Studies

Predicting successful liberation from mechanical ventilation (MV) in critically ill patients is challenging. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) has been proposed to help guide decision-making for readiness to liberate from MV following a spontaneous breathing trial (SBT).. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized and prospective observational studies that measured BNP levels at the time of SBT in patients receiving MV. The primary endpoint was successful liberation from MV (absence of reintubation or non-invasive ventilation at 48 h). Statistical analyses included bi-variate and Moses-Littenberg models and DerSimonian-Laird pooling of areas under ROC curve (AUROC).. A total of 731 articles were screened. Eighteen adult and 2 pediatric studies were fulfilled pre-specified eligibility. The measure of the relative variation of BNP during SBT (ΔBNP%) after exclusion of SBT failure by clinical criteria in adults yielded a sensitivity and specificity of 0.889 [0.831-0.929] and 0.828 [0.730-0.896] for successful liberation from MV, respectively, with a pooled AUROC of 0.92 [0.88-0.97]. The pooled AUROC for any method of analysis for absolute variation of BNP (ΔBNP), pre-SBT BNP, and post-SBT BNP were 0.89 [0.83-0.95], 0.77 [0.63-0.91], and 0.85 [0.80-0.90], respectively.. The relative change in BNP during a SBT has potential value as an incremental tool after successful SBT to predict successful liberation from MV in adults. There is insufficient data to support the use of BNP in children or as an alternate test to clinical indices of SBT, or the use of ΔBNP, BNP-pre, and BNP-post as an alternate or incremental test.. PROSPERO CRD42018087474 (6 February 2018).

Topics: Adult; Child; Critical Illness; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prospective Studies; Respiration, Artificial; Ventilator Weaning

Emergency physicians must be prepared to rapidly diagnose and resuscitate patients with pulmonary embolism (PE). Certain aspects of PE resuscitation run counter to typical approaches. A specific understanding of the pathophysiology of PE is required to avoid cardiovascular collapse potentially associated with excessive intravenous fluids and positive pressure ventilation. Once PE is diagnosed, rapid risk stratification should be performed and treatment guided by patient risk class. Although anticoagulation remains the mainstay of PE treatment, emergency physicians also must understand the indications and contraindications for thrombolysis and should be aware of new therapies and models of care that may improve outcomes.

Topics: Anticoagulants; Biomarkers; Computed Tomography Angiography; Critical Illness; Echocardiography; Electrocardiography; Emergency Service, Hospital; Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation; Fluid Therapy; Humans; Intubation, Intratracheal; Lactic Acid; Mechanical Thrombolysis; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Nitric Oxide; Oxygen Inhalation Therapy; Peptide Fragments; Point-of-Care Systems; Positive-Pressure Respiration; Pulmonary Embolism; Resuscitation; Risk Assessment; Severity of Illness Index; Thrombolytic Therapy; Troponin; Vasoconstrictor Agents

Transfusion-associated circulatory overload (TACO) is the leading cause of transfusion-related major morbidity and mortality. Diagnosing TACO is difficult because there are no pathognomonic signs and symptoms. TACO biomarkers may aid in diagnosis, decrease time to treatment, and differentiate from other causes of posttransfusion dyspnea such a transfusion-related acute lung injury.. A systematic review of literature was performed in EMBASE, PubMed, the TRIP Database, and the Cochrane Library, from inception to June 2018. All articles discussing diagnostic markers for TACO were included. Non-English articles or conference abstracts were excluded.. Twenty articles discussing biomarkers for TACO were included. The majority investigated B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and the N-terminal prohormone cleavage fragment of BNP (NT-proBNP), markers of hydrostatic pressure that can be determined within 1 hour. The data indicate that a post/pretransfusion NT-proBNP ratio > 1.5 can aid in the diagnosis of TACO. Posttransfusion levels of BNP less than 300 or NT-proBNP less than 2000 pg/mL, drawn within 24 hours of the reaction, make TACO unlikely. Cut-off levels that exclude TACO are currently unclear. In critically ill patients, the specificity of natriuretic peptides for circulatory overload is poor. Other biomarkers, such as cytokine profiles, cannot discriminate between TACO and transfusion-related acute lung injury.. Currently, BNP and NT-proBNP are the primary diagnostic biomarkers researched for TACO. An NT-proBNP ratio greater than 1.5 is supportive of TACO, and low levels of BNP or NT-proBNP can exclude TACO. However, they are unreliable in critically ill patients. Other biomarkers, including cytokines and pulmonary edema fluid-to-serum protein ratio have not yet been sufficiently investigated for clinical use.

Topics: Blood Transfusion; Critical Illness; Dyspnea; Female; Humans; Male; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Pulmonary Edema; Transfusion Reaction

Topics: Biomarkers; Child; Child, Preschool; Critical Illness; Early Diagnosis; Heart Failure; Humans; Infant; Intensive Care Units; Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Predictive Value of Tests; Prognosis; Pulmonary Heart Disease; Risk Assessment; Sepsis; Ventricular Dysfunction, Left

Acute kidney injury (AKI) remains a challenge in terms of diagnosis and classification, its morbidity and mortality remaining high in the face of improving clinical protocols. Current clinical criteria use serum creatinine (sCr) and urine output to classify patients. Ongoing research has identified novel biomarkers that may improve the speed and accuracy of patient evaluation and prognostication, yet the route from basic science to clinical practice remains poorly paved. International evidence supporting the use of plasma neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) as a valuable biomarker of AKI and chronic kidney disease (CKD) for a number of clinical scenarios was presented at the 31st International Vicenza Course on Critical Care Nephrology, and these data are detailed in this review. NGAL was shown to be highly useful alongside sCr, urinary output, and other biomarkers in assessing kidney injury; in patient stratification and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) selection in paediatric AKI; in assessing kidney injury in conjunction with sCr in sepsis; in guiding resuscitation protocols in conjunction with brain natriuretic peptide in burn patients; as an early biomarker of delayed graft function and calcineurin inhibitor nephrotoxicity in kidney transplantation from extended criteria donors; as a biomarker of cardiovascular disease and heart failure, and in guiding CRRT selection in the intensive care unit and emergency department. While some applications require further clarification by way of larger randomised controlled trials, NGAL nevertheless demonstrates promise as an independent biological marker with the potential to improve earlier diagnosis and better assessment of risk groups in AKI and CKD. This is a critical element in formulating quick and accurate decisions for individual patients, both in acute scenarios and in long-term care, in order to improve patient prognostics and outcomes.

Topics: Acute Kidney Injury; Acute-Phase Proteins; Age Factors; Biomarkers; Burns; Cardiopulmonary Bypass; Cardiovascular Diseases; Clinical Trials as Topic; Critical Illness; Graft Survival; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Lipocalin-2; Lipocalins; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Proto-Oncogene Proteins; Renal Replacement Therapy; Resuscitation; Sepsis; Treatment Outcome

Cardiac biomarkers in intensive care medicine are an excellent complement to existing clinical and diagnostic information in specific diseases. Due to their lack of specificity, the diagnostic properties of common cardiac biomarkers, such as natriuretic peptides and cardiac troponins, remain ambiguous, while their prognostic value has already been proven. In addition, there are several promising new biomarkers that might contribute to a "multimarker strategy" in the critically ill patient in the future, but further evaluation is still required.

Topics: Biomarkers; Creatine Kinase, MB Form; Critical Illness; Heart Failure; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Myocardial Ischemia; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Natriuretic Peptides; Predictive Value of Tests; Prognosis; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive; Pulmonary Edema; Pulmonary Embolism; Sensitivity and Specificity; Shock, Cardiogenic; Troponin; Troponin C

Cardiac biomarkers have well-established roles in acute coronary syndrome and congestive heart failure. In many instances, the detection of cardiac biomarkers may aid in the diagnosis and risk assessment of critically ill patients. Despite increasing interest in the use of cardiac biomarkers in noncardiac critical illness, no clear consensus exists on how and in which settings markers should be measured. This article briefly describes what constitutes an ideal biomarker and focuses on those that have been most well studied in critical illness, specifically troponin, the natriuretic peptides, and heart-type fatty acid-binding protein.

Topics: Animals; Atrial Natriuretic Factor; Biomarkers; Critical Care; Critical Illness; Fatty Acid Binding Protein 3; Fatty Acid-Binding Proteins; Heart Diseases; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Natriuretic Peptides; Peptide Fragments; Troponin

Measurement of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide has been shown a good rule-out test for cardiac dysfunction in patients in the intensive care unit. The peptide measurement should not be used as a replacement for other forms of monitoring, and performs best as a diagnostic test when interpreted together with other clinical findings and investigations. At a cutoff value similar to that found in other clinical studies in acute decompensated heart failure, measurement of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide offers an additional tool for diagnostic assessment of patients presenting to the intensive care physician.

Topics: Animals; Critical Illness; Diagnostic Tests, Routine; Heart Diseases; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Reference Values

Natriuretic peptides are markers of heart failure and/or cardiac dysfunction that provide useful diagnostic and prognostic information in patients with dyspnea and/or respiratory failure in the emergency department. Cardiac troponins (cTn) have markedly simplified the diagnosis of myocardial infarction. In critically ill patients, conditions like coexisting organ dysfunction multiorgan involvement or altered synthesis/clearance may confound interpretation of designated biomarkers, including natriuretic peptides and cTn. This review focuses on recently published articles relating to the use of natriuretic peptides and cTn in critically ill patients.. One new study addresses diagnostic utility of B-type natriuretic peptide to distinguish low-pressure pulmonary edema (acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome) from high-pressure (cardiogenic) pulmonary edema. Other studies highlight the prognostic value of natriuretic peptides either in unselected and general noncardiac ICU patients and reveal an important reason for elevated B-type natriuretic peptide levels in septic shock.Interesting data focusing on diagnostic and prognostic ability of systematic cTn screening measurements in ICU patients became available.. Recent studies confirm the excellent prognostic value of natriuretic peptide measurements in ICU patients. Diagnostic properties of natriuretic peptide in ICU patients still remain ambiguous and require further evaluation. Systematic screening with cTn reveals more myocardial infarctions and provides important prognostic information.

Topics: Biomarkers; Cardiovascular Diseases; Critical Illness; Diagnosis, Differential; Emergency Service, Hospital; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Myocardial Infarction; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Natriuretic Peptides; Prognosis; Pulmonary Edema; Shock, Septic; Troponin T

We review key research papers in cardiology and intensive care published during 2008 in Critical Care. We quote studies on the same subject published in other journals if appropriate. Papers have been grouped into three categories: (a) cardiovascular biomarkers in critical illness, (b) haemodynamic management of septic shock, and (c) haemodynamic monitoring.

Topics: Biomarkers; Cardiology; Cardiovascular Physiological Phenomena; Catheterization, Central Venous; Critical Care; Critical Illness; Hemodynamics; Humans; Lactates; Monitoring, Physiologic; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Oximetry; Shock, Septic

B-natriuretic peptide (BNP) and aminoterminal proBNP (NT-proBNP) are clinically useful for the diagnosis of decompensated heart failure and for prognosis in heart failure and acute coronary syndromes. Clinical use of these biomarkers in critically ill patients being treated in intensive care is not well established.. This is a narrative review of evidence identified searching MEDLINE with the strategy [(BNP OR NT-proBNP) AND (critical illness AND intensive care)]. Seven primary reports and two narrative reviews were retrieved. For completeness, literature from each of the following searches was reviewed: [(BNP OR NT-proBNP) AND (critical illness)] and [(BNP OR NT-proBNP) AND (intensive care)].. Primary literature used BNP and NT-proBNP for diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring. For diagnosis of acute lung injury in unselected intensive care patients and for diagnosis of heart failure in trauma patients, the biomarkers had low sensitivity and are of modest use. BNP and NT-proBNP were found to have a significant ability to prognosticate adverse outcomes in critically ill patients. A single paper examined the use of BNP as a non-invasive replacement for pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, finding little value. The impact of renal insufficiency on the markers was noted as a confounder in most studies. In the secondary searches, some preliminary data suggested a possible role for the natriuretic peptides in exclusion of a cardiac cause for certain conditions among intensive care unit (ICU) patients. However, the general findings were that the performance of BNP and NT-proBNP is unimpressive among ICU patients.. Currently, utilization of BNP and NT-proBNP does not appear to provide much useful information or have a substantial role in the care of critically ill patients in intensive care.

Topics: Acute Lung Injury; Adult; Critical Care; Critical Illness; Heart Failure; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prognosis; Renal Insufficiency; Wounds and Injuries

Topics: Acute Disease; Critical Care; Critical Illness; Diagnosis, Differential; Heart Failure; Humans; Monitoring, Physiologic; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis; Respiratory Distress Syndrome; Ventilator Weaning

B-Type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is elevated in states of increased ventricular wall stress. BNP is most commonly used to rule out congestive heart failure (CHF) in dyspneic patients. BNP levels are influenced by age, gender and, to a surprisingly large extent, by body mass index (BMI). In addition, it can be elevated in a wide variety of clinical settings with or without CHF. BNP is elevated in other cardiac disease states such as the acute coronary syndromes, diastolic dysfunction, atrial fibrillation (AF), amyloidosis, restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM), and valvular heart disease. BNP is elevated in non-cardiac diseases such as pulmonary hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary embolism, and renal failure. BNP is also elevated in the setting of critical illness such as in acute decompensated CHF (ADHF) and sepsis. This variation across clinical settings has significant implications given the increasing frequency with which BNP testing is being performed. It is important for clinicians to understand how to appropriately interpret BNP in light of the comorbidities of individual patients to maximize its clinical utility. We will review the molecular biology and physiology of natriuretic peptides as well as the relevant literature on the utilization of BNP in CHF as well as in other important clinical situations, conditions that are commonly associated with CHF and or dyspnea.

Topics: Animals; Biomarkers; Comorbidity; Critical Illness; Dyspnea; Heart Diseases; Heart Failure; Humans; Lung Diseases; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Predictive Value of Tests; Renal Insufficiency; Sensitivity and Specificity

One of the holy grails of modern medicine, across a range of clinical sub-specialties, is establishing highly sensitive and specific biomarkers for various diseases. Significant success has been achieved in some of these clinical areas, most notably identifying high-sensitivity C-reactive peptide, troponin I/T and brain natriuretic peptide as significant prognosticators for both the acute outcome and the development of cardiovascular pathology. However, it is highly debatable whether this translates to complex, multi-system pathophysiological insults. Is critical care immune from the application of these novel biomarkers, given the numerous confounding factors interfering with their interpretation?

Topics: Biomarkers; C-Reactive Protein; Critical Care; Critical Illness; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain

Simple, sensitive and specific predictors of mortality in the critically ill remain elusive goals, and brain natriuretic peptide and venous lactate are the subjects of recent studies. The role of vasopressin in sepsis continues to be the focus of much research interest. Dose ranging studies, potential adverse effects, and selective V1 agonists are discussed below in recent trials. Finally the use of erythropoietin in the critically ill continues to be studied but many continue to urge caution for widespread use outside of clinical trials.

Topics: Animals; Critical Illness; Erythropoietin; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Predictive Value of Tests; Vasoconstrictor Agents; Vasopressins

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is the first biomarker of proven value in screening for left ventricular dysfunction. The availability of point-of-care testing has escalated clinical interest and the resultant research is defining a role for BNP in the investigation and treatment of critically ill patients. This review was undertaken with the aim of collecting and assimilating current evidence regarding the use of BNP assay in the evaluation of myocardial dysfunction in critically ill humans. The information is presented in a format based upon organ system and disease category. BNP assay has been studied in a spectrum of clinical conditions ranging from acute dyspnoea to subarachnoid haemorrhage. Its role in diagnosis, assessment of disease severity, risk stratification and prognostic evaluation of cardiac dysfunction appears promising, but requires further elaboration. The heterogeneity of the critically ill population appears to warrant a range of cut-off values. Research addressing progressive changes in BNP concentration is hindered by infrequent assay and appears unlikely to reflect the critically ill patient's rapidly changing haemodynamics. Multi-marker strategies may prove valuable in prognostication and evaluation of therapy in a greater variety of illnesses. Scant data exist regarding the use of BNP assay to alter therapy or outcome. It appears that BNP assay offers complementary information to conventional approaches for the evaluation of cardiac dysfunction. Continued research should augment the validity of BNP assay in the evaluation of myocardial function in patients with life-threatening illness.

Topics: Biomarkers; Cardiovascular Diseases; Critical Illness; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain

Plasma B-type natriuretic peptide levels are used to screen for cardiac dysfunction in the emergency department and outpatient population. However, in the critically ill patient elevated plasma B-type natriuretic peptide levels do not necessarily reflect just ventricular dysfunction, as there are important confounding factors to consider. This review summarizes the recent advances in the application of B-type natriuretic peptide measurement in the intensive care unit.. B-Type natriuretic peptide levels are very useful in identifying cardiac dysfunction but not the specific pathology, whether it is right or left ventricular failure, diastolic or systolic dysfunction. Elevated serum B-type natriuretic peptide levels also occur in severe sepsis or septic shock. It also predicts cardiac dysfunction in sepsis. The lack of correlation of B-type natriuretic peptide concentrations with filling pressures in the intensive care unit precludes its use for monitoring cardiac therapy. Some studies involving patients with sepsis or septic shock demonstrate a positive correlation with mortality, while others failed to establish such a relation. The prognostic value of B-type natriuretic peptide in predicting mortality and morbidity remains controversial, partly due to different study designs.. B-Type natriuretic peptide is potentially a very useful diagnostic tool in the intensive care unit. To date there have been few studies and the results are often contradictory, mainly due to the special setting of the intensive care unit, which is constantly exposed to hemodynamically unstable patients, different case mixes as well as vigorous treatments. All of these are potential confounders to B-type natriuretic peptide levels and make interpretations of B-type natriuretic peptide difficult. We need more research on these confounding factors to accentuate the positive value of B-type natriuretic peptide in the intensive care unit.

Topics: Biomarkers; Cardiovascular Diseases; Critical Care; Critical Illness; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), also called B-type natriuretic peptide, is a member of a family of structurally related hormones, the natriuretic peptides. Current data suggest that measurement of BNP plasma concentrations is a useful tool in the diagnosis of acute heart failure in patients presenting to an emergency department with acute dyspnea. Furthermore, BNP constitutes a promising new marker of prognosis after an acute coronary syndrome episode and in patients with chronic heart failure. Nesiritide, the human recombinant form of BNP, is a new vasodilator used in the treatment of acute heart failure that has several potential advantages over current drug therapy.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Emergency Treatment; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Heart Failure; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Risk Assessment; Sensitivity and Specificity; Severity of Illness Index; Treatment Outcome; Ventricular Remodeling

This paper critically reviews the major drug types that are currently used in the management of acute cardiogenic pulmonary oedema. As decompensated heart failure becomes an increasingly common problem in emergency departments in the developed world, optimization of emergency drug therapy for these critically ill patients is essential. The evidence base for 'routine therapy' in the ED is considered. The review also briefly considers emerging pharmacological therapies that may have an impact on future management of cardiogenic pulmonary oedema.

Topics: Acute Disease; Analgesics, Opioid; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; Cardiotonic Agents; Critical Illness; Developed Countries; Diuretics; Emergency Service, Hospital; Emergency Treatment; Evidence-Based Medicine; Furosemide; Heart Failure; Humans; Hydrazones; Natriuretic Agents; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Nitroprusside; Oxygen Inhalation Therapy; Patient Selection; Pulmonary Edema; Pyridazines; Pyridines; Simendan; Tetrazoles; Treatment Outcome; Vasodilator Agents

The present review will cover the mechanisms of release and the potential pathophysiological role of different natriuretic peptides in critically ill patients. By focusing on the cardiovascular system, possible implications of natriuretic peptides for diagnosis and treatment will be presented. In critical illness such as sepsis, trauma or major surgery, systemic hypotension and an intrinsic myocardial dysfunction occur. Impairment of the cardiovascular system contributes to poor prognosis in severe human sepsis. Natriuretic peptides have emerged as valuable marker substances to detect left ventricular dysfunction in congestive heart failure of different origins. Increased plasma levels of circulating natriuretic peptides, atrial natriuretic peptide, N-terminal pro-atrial natriuretic peptide, brain natriuretic peptide and its N-terminal moiety N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide have also been found in critically ill patients. All of these peptides have been reported to reflect left ventricular dysfunction in these patients. The increased wall stress of the cardiac atria and ventricles is followed by the release of these natriuretic peptides. Furthermore, the release of atrial natriuretic peptide and brain natriuretic peptide might be triggered by members of the IL-6-related family and endotoxin in the critically ill. Apart from the vasoactive actions of circulating natriuretic peptides and their broad effects on the renal system, anti-ischemic properties and immunological functions have been reported for atrial natriuretic peptide. The early onset and rapid reversibility of left ventricular impairment in patients with good prognosis associated with a remarkably augmented plasma concentration of circulating natriuretic peptides suggest a possible role of these hormones in the monitoring of therapy success and the estimation of prognosis in the critically ill.

Topics: Atrial Natriuretic Factor; Critical Illness; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prognosis; Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome; Ventricular Dysfunction, Left; Wounds and Injuries

Serum levels of N-terminal proB-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) are elevated in patients acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Recent studies showed a lower incidence of acute cor pulmonale in ARDS patients ventilated with lower tidal volumes. Consequently, serum levels of NT-proBNP may be lower in these patients. We investigated the relation between serum levels of NT-proBNP and tidal volumes in critically ill patients without ARDS at the onset of mechanical ventilation.. Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial of lower versus conventional tidal volumes in patients without ARDS. NT-pro BNP were measured in stored serum samples. Serial serum levels of NT-pro BNP were analyzed controlling for acute kidney injury, cumulative fluid balance and presence of brain injury. The primary outcome was the effect of tidal volume size on serum levels of NT-proBNP. Secondary outcome was the association with development of ARDS.. Samples from 150 patients were analyzed. No relation was found between serum levels of NT-pro BNP and tidal volume size. However, NT-proBNP levels were increasing in patients who developed ARDS. In addition, higher levels were observed in patients with acute kidney injury, and in patients with a more positive cumulative fluid balance.. Serum levels of NT-proBNP are independent of tidal volume size, but are increasing in patients who develop ARDS.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Multivariate Analysis; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Respiration, Artificial; Respiratory Distress Syndrome; Risk Factors; Severity of Illness Index; Tidal Volume; Water-Electrolyte Balance

Surrogate indicators have often been used to estimate intravascular volume to guide fluid management. Brain-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) has been used as a noninvasive adjunct in the diagnosis of fluid overload and as a marker of response to therapy, especially in individuals with congestive heart failure. Similarly, right ventricular end-diastolic volume index (RVEDVI) measurements represent another parameter used to guide fluid resuscitation. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether BNP and RVEDVI are clinically valuable parameters that can distinguish among hypovolemia, euvolemia, and hypervolemia, as measured by blood volume (BV) analysis in critically ill surgical subjects.. This observational study was part of a prospective, randomized controlled trial. Subjects with pulmonary artery catheters for the treatment of traumatic injuries, severe sepsis/septic shock, cardiovascular collapse, adult respiratory distress syndrome, and postsurgical care were studied. Circulating BV was measured by a radioisotope dilution technique using the BVA-100 Analyzer (Daxor Corporation, New York, NY) within the first 24 hours of acute resuscitation. BV results were reported as percent deviation from the patient's ideal BV based on height and percent deviation from optimum weight. Hypovolemia was defined as less than 0%, euvolemia was defined as 0% to +16%, and hypervolemia was defined as greater than +16% deviation from ideal BV. RVEDVI was measured by continuous cardiac output pulmonary artery catheters (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, CA). BNP and RVEDVI measurements obtained with BV analysis were evaluated with Fisher's exact test and regression analysis.. In 81 subjects, there was no difference in BV status between those with BNP of 500 pg/mL or greater and BNP of less than 500 pg/mL (p = 0.82) or in those with RVEDVI of 140 mL/m or greater and RVEDVI of less than 140 mL/m (p = 0.43). No linear relationship existed between BV and these parameters.. In critically ill surgical patients, BNP and RVEDVI were not associated with intravascular volume status, although they may be useful as indices that reflect increased cardiac preload.. Diagnostic study, level III.

Topics: Blood Volume; Cardiac Output; Critical Illness; Diastole; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Myocardial Contraction; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prospective Studies; Resuscitation; Treatment Outcome; Ventricular Function, Right

Percutaneous edge-to-edge mitral valve repair using the MitraClip device has evolved as a new tool for the treatment of severe mitral valve regurgitation. This technique has been evaluated in surgical low- and high-risk patients. Patients with advanced age, multiple morbidities, and heart failure will be the first to be considered for a nonsurgical approach. Thus safety and feasibility data in very high-risk patients are crucial for clinical decision making. The aim of this study was to assess short-term safety and clinical efficacy in high-risk patients with a Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) score >15% after MitraClip implantation (mean STS score 24 ± 4%). All relevant complications, mortality, echocardiographic improvement, and changes in brain natriuretic peptide, high-sensitive troponin T, 6-minute walk distance test, and New York Heart Association functional class were collected in patients within 30 days after MitraClip implantation. Mitral regurgitation had significantly decreased after 30 days from grade 2.9 ± 0.2 to 1.7 ± 0.7 (p < 0.0001). Accordingly, New York Heart Association functional class had significantly improved from 3.38 ± 0.59 to 2.2 ± 0.4 (p <0.001). Objective parameters of clinical improvement showed a significant increase in 6-minute walk distance test (from 194 ± 44 to 300 ± 70 m, p <0.01) and insignificant trends in brain natriuretic peptide (10,376 ± 1,996 vs 4,385 ± 1,266 ng/L, p = 0.06) and high-sensitive troponin T (43 ± 8.9 vs 36 ± 7.7 pg/L, p = 0.27) improvement. Thirty-day mortality was 0. Two patients developed a left atrial thrombus, 1 patient was on a ventilator for >12 hours, and 1 patient had significant access site bleeding. In conclusion, this study shows that percutaneous edge-to-edge mitral valve repair can be safely performed even in surgical high-risk patients with an STS score >15. At 1-month follow-up most patients showed persistent improvement in mitral regurgitation and a clinical benefit.

Topics: Aged; Cardiac Catheterization; Critical Illness; Echocardiography, Transesophageal; Exercise Test; Feasibility Studies; Female; Heart Valve Prosthesis; Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation; Humans; Male; Mitral Valve Insufficiency; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prospective Studies; Severity of Illness Index; Troponin T

The behavior of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is assessed during mechanical ventilation (MV) and spontaneous breathing after extubation in critical patients.. Thirty patients admitted in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) were enrolled. BNP, fluid balance (FB), airway pressure (AP) and dobutamine infusion needing (DP) were registered in three stages: T0, admission to ICU; T1, before extubation; T2, 24 h after extubation.. Patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) had BNP values higher than other patients. The value of BNP during MV was greater than normal in all patients. The cut-off to discriminate patients with heart failure during MV was 286 pgxmL(-1)(sensitivity: 86%; specificity: 90%). The increase of BNP during MV directly correlated with FB and inversely correlated with AP and DP. The plasmatic level of BNP remained higher than normal values 24 h after extubation.. The underlying disease of an ICU patient seems to play a relevant role for BNP production and is probably linked to different aspects of therapeutic approach required by the patient. Our data suggest a cut-off value of BNP higher than the usual is necessary to discriminate mechanically-ventilated patients without CHF. This study should be repeated with an enlarged population.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Biomarkers; Cell Size; Critical Illness; Dobutamine; Dyspnea; Female; Heart Failure; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Myocytes, Cardiac; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prospective Studies; Respiration, Artificial; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ventilator Weaning; Ventricular Dysfunction, Left; Water-Electrolyte Balance

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) are cardiac hormones with natriuretic, vasorelaxant, and aldosterone-inhibiting properties. We analyzed the plasma of 178 critically ill patients for ANP, BNP, aldosterone, and serum sodium concentration, as well as serum and urine osmolality and sodium filtration fraction. Mean plasma concentrations of ANP and BNP were increased in critically ill patients compared with healthy controls (ANP, 14.3 +/- 5.8 pmol/L versus 8.8 +/- 3.2 pmol/L, P < 0.05; BNP, 26.2 +/- 10.7 pmol/L versus 4.6 +/- 2.8 pmol/L, P < 0.0001). The relative increases in ANP concentrations were comparable in all diseases. BNP concentrations, by contrast, showed a wider variation. The largest BNP concentrations were observed in patients who underwent cardiac surgical procedures and in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. ANP, but not BNP, was correlated with aldosterone levels (r = 0.4, P < 0.001), serum sodium (r = 0.42, P < 0.001), sodium filtration fraction (r = 0.3, P < 0.001), serum osmolality (r = 0.25, P < 0.01), urinary osmolality (r = -0.24, P < 0.01), and central venous pressure (r = 0.22, P < 0.01). ANP and BNP concentrations were increased in critically ill patients; however, this did not correlate with the severity of illness or mortality. Our data support a regulatory role for ANP in the maintenance of water and electrolyte balance. The physiologic role of BNP, by contrast, is less clear. ANP and BNP are not predictors for the severity of illness and mortality in critically ill patients.

Topics: Aldosterone; APACHE; Atrial Natriuretic Factor; Creatinine; Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Hydrocortisone; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Sodium; Water-Electrolyte Balance

Serum N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and cystatin C (sCysC) are available clinically and beneficial in diagnosing acute kidney injury (AKI). Our purpose is to identify the performance of their combined diagnosis for AKI in critically ill patients.. A prospectively recruited, observational study was performed.. Adults admitted to the intensive care unit of a tertiary hospital in China.. A total of 1222 critically ill patients were enrolled in the study.. To identify the performance of the combined diagnosis of serum NT-proBNP and sCysC for AKI in critically ill patients. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC), category-free net reclassification index (NRI) and incremental discrimination improvement (IDI) were utilised for comparing the discriminative powers of a combined and single biomarker adjusted model of clinical variables enriched with NT-proBNP and sCysC for AKI.. AKI was detected in 256 out of 1222 included patients (20.9%). AUC-ROC for NT-proBNP and sCysC to detect AKI had a significantly higher accuracy than any individual biomarker (p<0.05). After multivariate adjustment, a level of serum NT-proBNP ≥204 pg/mL was associated with 3.5-fold higher odds for AKI compared with those below the cut-off value. Similar results were obtained for sCysC levels (p<0.001). To detect AKI, adding NT-proBNP and sCysC to a clinical model further increased the AUC-ROC to 0.859 beyond that of the clinical model with or without sCysC (p<0.05). Moreover, the addition of these two to the clinical model significantly improved risk reclassification of AKI beyond that of the clinical model alone or with single biomarker (p<0.05), as measured by NRI and IDI.. In critically ill individuals, serum NT-proBNP, sCysC and clinical risk factors combination improve the discriminative power for diagnosing AKI.

Topics: Acute Kidney Injury; Adult; Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Cystatin C; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis; Prospective Studies

To test the effectiveness of mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin (MR-proADM) in comparison to C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in predicting mortality in COVID-19-ICU-patients.. All consecutive COVID-19 adult patients admitted between March and June 2020 to the ICU of a referral, university hospital in Northern-Italy were enrolled. MR-proADM and routine laboratory test were measured within 48 hours from ICU admission, on day 3, 7 and 14. Survival curves difference with MR-proADM cut-off set to 1.8 nmol/L were tested using log-rank test. Predictive ability was compared using area under the curve and 95% confidence interval of different receiver-operating characteristics curves.. 57 patients were enrolled. ICU and overall mortality were 54.4%. At admission, lymphocytopenia was present in 86% of patients; increased D-dimer and CRP levels were found in 84.2% and 87.7% of patients respectively, while PCT values > 0.5 μg/L were observed in 47.4% of patients. MR-proADM, CRP and LDH were significantly different between surviving and non-surviving patients and over time, while PCT, D-dimer and NT-pro-BNP did not show any difference between the groups and over time; lymphocytes were different between surviving and non-surviving patients only. MR-proADM was higher in dying patients (2.65±2.33vs1.18±0.47, p<0.001) and a higher mortality characterized patients with MR-proADM >1.8 nmol/L (p = 0.016). The logistic regression model adjusted for age, gender, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus and PCT values confirmed an odds ratio = 10.3 [95%CI:1.9-53.6] (p = 0.006) for MR-proADM >1.8 nmol/L and = 22.2 [95%CI:1.6-316.9] (p = 0.022) for cardiovascular disease. Overall, MR-proADM had the best predictive ability (AUC = 0.85 [95%CI:0.78-0.90]).. In COVID-19 ICU-patients, MR-proADM seems to have constantly higher values in non-survivor patients and predict mortality more precisely than other biomarkers. Repeated MR-proADM measurement may support a rapid and effective decision-making. Further studies are needed to better explain the mechanisms responsible of the increase in MR-proADM in COVID-19 patients.

Topics: Adrenomedullin; Adult; Aged; Biomarkers; C-Reactive Protein; Calcitonin; COVID-19; Critical Illness; Female; Fibrin Fibrinogen Degradation Products; Humans; Kaplan-Meier Estimate; Logistic Models; Male; Middle Aged; Multivariate Analysis; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Patient Admission; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis; Prospective Studies; ROC Curve; SARS-CoV-2; Treatment Outcome

To describe the clinical profiles and risk factors for critical illness in hospitalized children and adolescents with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).. Children 1 month to 21 years of age with COVID-19 from a single tertiary care children's hospital between March 15 and April 13, 2020 were included. Demographic and clinical data were collected.. In total, 67 children tested positive for COVID-19; 21 (31.3%) were managed as outpatients. Of 46 admitted patients, 33 (72%) were admitted to the general pediatric medical unit and 13 (28%) to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Obesity and asthma were highly prevalent but not significantly associated with PICU admission (P = .99). Admission to the PICU was significantly associated with higher C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, and pro-B type natriuretic peptide levels and platelet counts (P < .05 for all). Patients in the PICU were more likely to require high-flow nasal cannula (P = .0001) and were more likely to have received Remdesivir through compassionate release (P < .05). Severe sepsis and septic shock syndromes were observed in 7 (53.8%) patients in the PICU. Acute respiratory distress syndrome was observed in 10 (77%) PICU patients, 6 of whom (46.2%) required invasive mechanical ventilation for a median of 9 days. Of the 13 patients in the PICU, 8 (61.5%) were discharged home, and 4 (30.7%) patients remain hospitalized on ventilatory support at day 14. One patient died after withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy because of metastatic cancer.. We describe a higher than previously recognized rate of severe disease requiring PICU admission in pediatric patients admitted to the hospital with COVID-19.

Topics: Adenosine Monophosphate; Adolescent; Alanine; Antiviral Agents; Asthma; Betacoronavirus; Blood Urea Nitrogen; C-Reactive Protein; Child; Child, Preschool; Coronavirus Infections; COVID-19; Creatinine; Critical Illness; Dyspnea; Female; Hospitalization; Hospitals, Pediatric; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Intensive Care Units, Pediatric; Male; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; New York City; Pandemics; Pediatric Obesity; Platelet Count; Pneumonia, Viral; Procalcitonin; Respiration, Artificial; Retrospective Studies; SARS-CoV-2; Sepsis; Shock, Septic; Tertiary Care Centers; Young Adult

Topics: Critical Illness; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Respiration, Artificial; Ventilator Weaning

Topics: Aged; Betacoronavirus; C-Reactive Protein; Coronavirus Infections; COVID-19; Critical Illness; Echocardiography; Female; Ferritins; Heart; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Myocardial Contraction; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Pandemics; Peptide Fragments; Pericardial Effusion; Pneumonia, Viral; Respiratory Distress Syndrome; SARS-CoV-2; Stroke Volume; Troponin T; Ventricular Dysfunction, Left

Patients treated at medical intensive care units suffer from various pathologies and often present with elevated troponin T (TnT) and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels. Both markers may reflect different forms of cardiac involvement in critical illness. Therefore, the aim of our study was to examine the synergistic prognostic potential of NT-proBNP and high-sensitivity TnT (hs)TnT in unselected critically ill patients.. We included all consecutive patients admitted to our intensive care unit within one year, excluding those suffering from acute myocardial infarction or undergoing cardiac surgery and measured NT-proBNP and TnT plasma levels on the day of admission and 72 hours thereafter.. Of the included 148 patients, 52% were male, mean age was of 64.2 ± 16.8 years and 30-day mortality was 33.2%. Non-survivors showed significantly higher NT-proBNP and TnT plasma levels as compared with survivors (. Our findings regarding the individual predictive properties of NT-proBNP and TnT are in line with literature. However, we were able to highlight that they exhibit additive prognostic potential which exceeds their individual value. This might be attributed to a difference in underlying pathomechanisms and an assessment of synergistic risk factors.

Topics: Aged; Austria; Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Incidence; Male; Middle Aged; Myocardial Infarction; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis; Prospective Studies; Protein Precursors; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Survival Rate; Troponin T

Mid-regional pro atrial natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP) is an established biomarker for heart failure, based on its key role in regulating homeostasis of water balance and blood pressure. The aim of the study was to determine the value of MR-proANP as a clinical biomarker in critical illness and/or sepsis. Upon admission to the medical intensive care unit (ICU), we investigated MR-proANP plasma concentrations in 217 critically ill patients (144 with sepsis, 73 without sepsis). Results were compared with 65 healthy controls.. MR-proANP plasma levels were significantly elevated in critically ill patients, when compared to healthy controls. Notably, MR-proANP levels were significantly higher in ICU patients with sepsis. MR-proANP levels were not associated with metabolic comorbidities like diabetes or obesity. In critically ill patients, MR-proANP plasma concentrations correlated with inflammatory cytokines, markers of organ dysfunction and several adipocytokines, such as resistin, retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) and adiponectin. Importantly, high MR-proANP plasma levels were associated with mortality, as MR-proANP levels above 227.0 pmol/l indicated a particularly increased mortality risk in ICU patients. The association between MR-proANP and mortality was independent of single organ failure and inflammation markers.. Our study emphasizes the role of circulating MR-proANP as a biomarker in critically ill patients, in which high MR-proANP indicates organ dysfunction, sepsis and mortality risk. The association between high MR-proANP and inflammatory as well as adipose tissue-derived endocrine mediators warrants further pathophysiological investigations.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Biomarkers; Case-Control Studies; Comorbidity; Critical Illness; Diabetes Mellitus; Female; Humans; Inflammation; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Obesity; ROC Curve; Sepsis; Young Adult

The clinical utility of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) as a prognostic marker in pediatric patients with heart failure is controversial. The maximum vasoactive inotropic score at 24 h after cardiac surgery in pediatric patients is an important predictor of morbidity and postoperative mortality.. To determine if there is a correlation between the serum levels of NT-proBNP and the maximum vasoactive inotropic score at 24 hours after cardiac surgery in pediatric patients seen in the Intensive Care Unit.. An analytical cross-sectional study. A Spearman correlation analysis (r. 40 patients were included, 52.5% to the male sex, 72.5% were older than 1 year of age at the time of surgery. A low correlation (r. To our understanding, the present study is the first to investigate whether there is a correlation between these markers, so our results could set an important precedent that marks the beginning of multiple investigations in our critically ill patients in order to establish new diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic approaches.. La utilidad clínica del péptido natriurético cerebral (NT-proBNP) como marcador pronóstico en pacientes pediátricos con falla cardíaca es controversial. El puntaje inotrópico vasoactivo 24 horas después de la operación cardíaca en pacientes pediátricos es un importante predictor de morbilidad y mortalidad posoperatoria.. Determinar si existe correlación entre los valores séricos de NT-proBNP y el puntaje inotrópico vasoactivo a las 24 horas posteriores a la intervención cardíaca en pacientes pediátricos atendidos en una unidad de terapia intensiva.. Estudio transversal analítico. Se realizó un análisis de correlación de Spearman (r. Se incluyó a 40 pacientes, 52.5% del sexo masculino, 72.5% era mayor de un año de edad al momento de la operación. Se encontró una baja correlación (r. Este estudio es el primero en investigar la correlación entre estos marcadores y los resultados podrían sentar un antecedente que marque el inicio de múltiples investigaciones, con la finalidad de establecer nuevas herramientas diagnósticas, pronósticas y terapéuticas.

Topics: Adolescent; Biomarkers; Cardiac Surgical Procedures; Child; Child, Preschool; Critical Illness; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Heart Failure; Humans; Infant; Male; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Postoperative Period; Prognosis; Retrospective Studies

Topics: Acute Kidney Injury; Adult; Atrial Natriuretic Factor; Critical Illness; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prospective Studies

Predicting successful liberation from mechanical ventilation (MV) among critically ill patients receiving MV can be challenging. The current parameters used to predict successful extubation have shown variable predictive value. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) has been proposed as a novel biomarker to help guide decision-making in readiness for liberation of MV following a spontaneous breathing trial (SBT). Current evidence on the predictive ability of BNP has been uncertain, and BNP has not been integrated into clinical practice guidelines.. We will perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the value of BNP during SBT to predict success of liberation from MV. A search strategy will be developed in collaboration with a research librarian, and electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science) and additional sources will be searched. Search themes will include: (1) BNP and (2) weaning, extubation and/or liberation from MV. Citation screening, selection, quality assessment and data abstraction will be performed in duplicate. The primary outcome will be liberation from MV; secondary outcomes will include time to reintubation, mortality, MV duration, total and postextubation intensive care unit (ICU) stay, hospitalisation duration, tracheostomy rate, ICU-acquired weakness rate and ventilator-free days. Primary statistical analysis will include predictive value of BNP by receiver operating characteristic curve, sensitivity/specificity and likelihood ratios for combination of BNP and SBT parameters for failure of liberation from MV. Secondary statistical analysis will be performed on individual and combinations of extracted metrics.. Our review will add knowledge by mapping the current body of evidence on the value of BNP testing for prediction of successful liberation from MV, and describe knowledge gaps and research priorities. Our findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication, presentation at a scientific congress, through regional/national organisations and social media. Research ethics approval is not required.. CRD42018087474.

Topics: Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Humans; Meta-Analysis as Topic; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Predictive Value of Tests; Systematic Reviews as Topic; Ventilator Weaning

Obtaining suitable results unaffected by pre- or postanalytical phases is pivotal for clinical chemistry service. We aimed comparison and stability of nine biochemical analytes after centrifugation using Barricor™ plasma tubes with mechanical separator. We collected samples on six healthy volunteers and nine patients from intensive care units into 6 mL plastic Vacutainer® lithium heparin tubes and 5.5 mL plastic Barricor™ plasma tubes. All tubes were centrifuged within 30 minutes after venipuncture. First, we compared results of nine biochemical analytes from lithium heparin tubes with Barricor™ tubes for each analyte using Passing-Bablok and Bland-Altman analyses. Second, we calculated the difference of analyte concentrations between baseline and time intervals in tubes stored at + 4 °C. Based on the total change limit we calculated the maximum allowable concentrations percentage change from baseline.. The majority of correlation coefficients were close to 0.99 indicating good correlation in the working range. Bland-Altman analyses showed an acceptable concordance for all analytes. In consequence, the Barricor™ tube might be an alternative to regular lithium heparin tube. Stability with this new generation tube is improved for eight analytes (except for aspartate aminotransferase) in comparison with regular lithium heparin tubes.. By using Barricor™ tubes and prompt centrifugation, supplemental analysis or re-analysis for eight analytes including alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, C-reactive protein, high sensitivity troponin T, lactate dehydrogenase, NT-pro BNP, potassium and sodium could be performed within 72 h of specimen collection.

Topics: Alanine Transaminase; Alkaline Phosphatase; Anticoagulants; Biomarkers; Blood Specimen Collection; C-Reactive Protein; Case-Control Studies; Cations, Monovalent; Centrifugation; Critical Illness; Heparin; Humans; Intensive Care Units; L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; Lithium; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Potassium; Sodium; Troponin T

New onset atrial fibrillation (AF) in critically ill surgical patients is associated with significant morbidity and increased mortality. N-terminal pro-B type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is released by cardiomyocytes in response to stress and may predict AF development after surgery. We hypothesized that elevated NT-proBNP level at surgical intensive care unit (ICU) admission predicts AF development in a general surgical and trauma population.. From July to October 2015, NT-proBNP concentrations were measured at ICU admission. Abnormal NT-proBNP concentrations were defined by age-adjusted cut-offs. We examined the relationship between the development of AF and demographics, clinical variables, and NT-proBNP level using univariate analysis and a multivariable logistic regression model.. Three hundred eighty-seven subjects were included in the cohort, none of whom were in AF at ICU admission. The median age was 63 years (52-73 years), and 40.3% were women. The risk of developing AF was higher for abnormal versus normal NT-proBNP (22% vs. 4%; p < 0.0001). Using optimal derived cutoffs (regardless of age), the risk of developing AF was 2% for NT-proBNP less than 600 ng/L, 15% for NT-proBNP of 600 ng/L to 1,999 ng/L, and 27% for NT-proBNP of 2,000 ng/L or greater. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified three independent predictors for new-onset AF: age, older than 70 years (odds ratio [OR], 3.7, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.5-9.3), history of AF (OR, 25.3; 95% CI, 9.6-67.0), and NT-proBNP of 600 or greater (OR, 4.3; 95% CI, 1.3-14.2). When none or only one predictor was present, AF incidence was less than 1%. When all three predictors were present, AF incidence was 66%. For subjects 70 years or older but no history of AF, AF incidence was 12.8% when NT-proBNP was 600 or greater compared with 0% when NT-proBNP was less than 600. For subjects younger than 70 years with a history of AF, AF incidence was 44.4% when NT-proBNP was 600 or higher compared to 0% when NT-proBNP was less than 600.. Elevated NT-proBNP at ICU admission in general surgical and trauma patients is predictive of AF development in the first 3 ICU days. Addition of NT-proBNP measurement to known risk factors can improve predictive power and identify patients who might potentially benefit from evidence-based prophylactic treatment for AF.

Topics: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Atrial Fibrillation; Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Female; General Surgery; Humans; Incidence; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Predictive Value of Tests; Risk Factors

We evaluated the use of nesiritide in children with critical CHD, pulmonary congestion, and inadequate urine output despite undergoing conventional diuretic therapy.. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 11 patients with critical CHD, comprising 18 infusions, each of which occurred during separate hospitalisations. Haemodynamic parameters were assessed, and the stage of acute kidney injury was determined before and throughout the duration of therapy using a standardised definition of acute kidney injury - The Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes criteria. Patients Children with critical CHD, pulmonary congestion, and inadequate urinary output despite undergoing diuretic therapy were included. Measurements and main results The use of nesiritide was associated with a significant decrease in the maximum and minimum heart rate values and with a trend towards a significant decrease in maximum systolic blood pressure and maximum and minimum central venous pressures. Urine output increased but was not significant. Serum creatinine levels decreased significantly during the course of therapy (-0.26 mg/dl [-0.50, 0.0], p=0.02), and the number of patients who experienced a decrease in the stage of acute kidney injury of 2 or more - where a change in the stage of acute kidney disease of 2 or more was possible, that is, baseline stage >1 - was highly significant (five of 12 patients, 42%, p<0.001).. Nesiritide had a favourable impact on haemodynamics, and its use was not associated with deterioration of renal function in patients with critical CHD.

Topics: Acute Kidney Injury; Creatinine; Critical Illness; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Heart Defects, Congenital; Humans; Infant; Infusions, Intravenous; Male; Natriuretic Agents; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Retrospective Studies; Treatment Outcome

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is responsible for changes in the heart organogenesis and is associated with transition to extrauterine life. In the first week of life, BNP levels are high and return to normal with the physiological loss in weight. High BNP levels are associated with different conditions.. To establish the relationship between BNP levels and criticality and the short-term clinical course among patients hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit.. Observational and analytical study conducted in a prospective cohort. Criticality was defined as a requirement for assisted mechanical ventilation with a fraction of inspired oxygen of more than 50% and/or inotropes. Two blood samples were collected 72 hours apart.. Seventy-three patients were included in the study. Depending on their clinical course on day 7, they were divided into 2 groups: patients with a good clinical course or a persistent, severe clinical course. The median baseline BNP level was similar in both groups (p: 0.15). The median BNP level at 72 hours was higher among patients with a persistent, severe clinical course (p: 0.005). The difference between both BNP values was calculated (ΔBNP: BNP level at 72 hours - BNP level at 0 hours). The ΔBNP was positive among patients with a persistent, severe clinical course (X= 1260 pg/mL; range: 426-2094) and negative in the group with a good clinical course (X= -967 pg/mL; range: -1656/-278) (p: 0.0002); sensitivity: 87%; specificity: 86%; positive predictive value: 74%; and negative predictive value: 93%.. In this group of patients, the delta-BNP value reflected the short-term clinical course.. El péptido natriurético B (PNB) es un péptido responsable de los cambios durante la organogénesis del corazón y en la transición a la vida extrauterina. En la primera semana de vida, los niveles de PNB son altos y se normalizan con el descenso fisiológico del peso. Valores elevados de PNB se han asociado a diferentes patologías.. Establecer la relación entre los niveles de PNB y la criticidad y evolución a corto plazo en pacientes internados en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatales.. Estudio observacional analítico de una cohorte prospectiva. Se definió criticidad como requerimientos de asistencia respiratoria con fracción inspirada de oxígeno mayor del 50% y/o inotrópicos. Se extrajeron 2 muestras de sangre con 72 h de diferencia.. Ingresaron 73 pacientes. Según la evolución al séptimo día del ingreso, se los dividió en 2 grupos: pacientes con buena evolución o con evolución grave persistente. La mediana del PNB inicial fue similar en ambos grupos (p: 0,15). La mediana de PNB a las 72 h fue mayor en los pacientes con evolución grave persistente (p: 0,005). Se calculó la diferencia entre ambos valores de PNB (ΔPNB: valor de PNB a las 72 h - valor de PNB a la hora cero). El ΔPNB presentó valores positivos en los pacientes con evolución grave persistente (X= 1260 pg/ml; rango: 4262094) y valores negativos en el grupo con buena evolución (X= -967 pg/ml; rango: -1656/-278) (p: 0,0002); sensibilidad: 87%; especificidad: 86%; valor predictivo positivo: 74%; y valor predictivo negativo: 93%.. En este grupo de pacientes, el delta de PNB reflejó la evolución a corto plazo.

Topics: Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Intensive Care Units, Neonatal; Male; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain

Troponin release is common during critical illness. We hypothesized that there was an association between cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and biomarkers of systemic inflammation and ventricular dilatation.. In an observational prospective cohort study, we enrolled consecutive adult patients admitted for noncardiac reasons to the intensive care unit (ICU) in two tertiary care centers. We measured cTnT, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), procalcitonin (PCT), and N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) daily in the first week, and on alternate days in the second week. Using a peak cTnT cutoff ≥15 ng/L and concomitant changes on electrocardiogram, patients were categorized as "definite myocardial infarction (MI)," "possible MI," "cTnT rise only," or "no cTnT rise." Within each group, associations between CRP, IL-6, PCT, NT-proBNP, and cTnT were investigated using mixed effect models.. One hundred seventy-two patients were included in the analysis of whom 84% had a cTnT rise ≥15 ng/L. Twenty-one patients (12%) had a definite MI, 51 (30%) had a possible MI, and 73 (42%) had a cTnT rise only. At the time of peak cTnT, 71% of patients were septic and 67% were on vasopressors.Multivariable analysis showed a significant association between cTnT and IL-6 in all patients with a cTnT rise independent of age, gender, renal function, and cardiovascular risk factors. In patients without a definite MI, cTnT levels were significantly associated with PCT and NT-proBNP values. In patients without elevated cTnT levels, there was no associated NT-proBNP rise.. In ICU patients admitted for non-cardiac reasons, serial cTnT levels were independently associated with markers of systemic inflammation and NT-proBNP.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Biomarkers; C-Reactive Protein; Calcitonin; Critical Illness; Electrocardiography; Female; Humans; Inflammation; Interleukin-6; Male; Middle Aged; Multivariate Analysis; Myocardial Infarction; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prospective Studies; Risk Factors

Rapid and accurate prediction for sepsis remains a challenge in surgical intensive care units. Detection of individual biomarkers is often of marginal usefulness, and several biomarkers are difficult to measure in the clinical setting. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic performance of three routine biomarkers, procalcitonin (PCT), B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), and lymphocyte percentage, as individual or in combination for sepsis in surgical critically ill patients.. Circulating PCT, BNP, and lymphocyte percentage were measured in surgical patients on admission to the intensive care unit. A bioscore system combining these biomarkers was constructed. All studied variables were analyzed according to the diagnosis and clinical outcomes of sepsis.. A total of 320 consecutive patients were included in the analysis. One hundred fifty-six patients presented with sepsis. In the patients with sepsis, levels of PCT and BNP increased and lymphocyte percentage decreased. For individual biomarkers, PCT achieved the best area under the curve for the diagnosis of sepsis, whereas the diagnostic performance of the bioscore was better than that of each individual biomarker (area under the curve, 0.914 [95% confidence interval, 0.862-0.951]). Levels of BNP and bioscore increased in nonsurvivors in the entire cohort, but the accuracy of these two variables for mortality prediction was lower than that shown by Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score. Furthermore, bioscore failed to predict outcomes in septic patients.. A simple bioscore combining PCT together with BNP and lymphocyte percentage improves the diagnostic accuracy for sepsis in surgical critically ill patients but fails to predict outcomes in surgical patients with sepsis.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Biomarkers; Calcitonin; Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide; Critical Illness; Decision Support Techniques; Female; Humans; Lymphocyte Count; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Postoperative Complications; Prognosis; Prospective Studies; Protein Precursors; Sepsis

Although nesiritide has been used in adults with left heart failure, the experience in the paediatric population is limited. We reviewed and analysed our experience with continuous nesiritide infusion as adjunct therapy in children with biventricular dysfunction due to diverse aetiologies and suffering from oliguria despite intravenous diuretics and inotropic therapies for heart-failure management.

Topics: Adolescent; Child; Critical Illness; Heart Failure; Humans; Infant; Male; Natriuretic Agents; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Oliguria; Ventricular Dysfunction

To investigate the clinical value of lung ultrasound in the late goal -directed fluid removal in critically ill patients underwent fluid resuscitation.. A prospective study was conducted. Forty patients underwent fluid resuscitation were enrolled in the Department of Surgical Intensive Care Unit of The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from Jan 2015 to June 2015. Lung and heart ultrasound were conducted for lung B-lines and left ventricular ejection fraction (EF). Serum amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), central venous pressure (CVP) and serum creatinine were also measured and fluid balance was recorded in all patients enrolled.. Among the 40 patients enrolled, 35 patients survived and 5 died. In patients survived, B-lines reached its peak at 12(30)h after admitted to ICU. It started to decrease instantly after the peak and reached zero at (39±34) h. A higher peak was followed with more fluids to be removed later and longer ICU stay (P<0.01). Moreover, when compared with the survivors, B-lines in death reached a higher peak[7(8) vs 3(4), P<0.01]and without the tendency to drop down. EF was lower in death than in survivor (44.5%±3.5% vs 69.2%±11.0%, P<0.05). A lower EF was found to be followed with a higher peak of B-lines. The peak time of NT-proBNP and clinical dehydration treatment were later than the peak time of B-lines in survivors.. Fluid overloading occurs in late stage after resuscitation in critically ill patients. Lung ultrasound B-lines, which is more sensitive than the NT-proBNP and CVP, could help to monitor the patient's fluid status and guide the late goal-directed fluid removal.

Topics: Central Venous Pressure; Critical Illness; Echocardiography; Fluid Therapy; Goals; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Length of Stay; Lung; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prospective Studies; Resuscitation; Ultrasonics; Water-Electrolyte Balance

Secretoneurin is produced in neuroendocrine cells, and the myocardium and circulating secretoneurin levels provide incremental prognostic information to established risk indices in cardiovascular disease. As myocardial dysfunction contributes to poor outcome in critically ill patients, we wanted to assess the prognostic value of secretoneurin in two cohorts of critically ill patients with infections.. Two prospective, observational studies.. Twenty-four and twenty-five ICUs in Finland.. A total of 232 patients with severe sepsis (cohort #1) and 94 patients with infections and respiratory failure (cohort #2).. None.. We measured secretoneurin levels by radioimmunoassay in samples obtained early after ICU admission and compared secretoneurin with other risk indices. In patients with severe sepsis, admission secretoneurin levels (logarithmically transformed) were associated with hospital mortality (odds ratio, 3.17 [95% CI, 1.12-9.00]; p = 0.030) and shock during the hospitalization (odds ratio, 2.17 [1.06-4.46]; p = 0.034) in analyses that adjusted for other risk factors available on ICU admission. Adding secretoneurin levels to age, which was also associated with hospital mortality in the multivariate model, improved the risk prediction as assessed by the category-free net reclassification index: 0.35 (95% CI, 0.06-0.64) (p = 0.02). In contrast, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels were not associated with mortality in the multivariate model that included secretoneurin measurements, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide did not improve patient classification on top of age. Secretoneurin levels were also associated with hospital mortality after adjusting for other risk factors and improved patient classification in cohort #2. In both cohorts, the optimal cutoff for secretoneurin levels at ICU admission to predict hospital mortality was ≈ 175 pmol/L, and higher levels were associated with mortality also when adjusting for Simplified Acute Physiology Score II and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores.. Secretoneurin levels provide incremental information to established risk indices for the prediction of mortality and shock in critically ill patients with severe infections.

Topics: Age Factors; Aged; Body Mass Index; Comorbidity; Critical Illness; Female; Finland; Hospital Mortality; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Neuropeptides; Organ Dysfunction Scores; Pneumonia; Prognosis; Prospective Studies; Risk Factors; Secretogranin II; Sepsis; Sex Factors

It is unclear whether the fluid status, as determined by bioimpedance vector analysis (BIVA) combined with serum N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptides (NT-pro-BNP) measurement, is associated with treatment outcome among patients receiving continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Our objective was to answer this question.. Patients who were in the intensive care units of a university teaching hospital and who required CRRT were screened for enrollment. For the enrolled patients, BIVA and serum NT-pro BNP measurement were performed just before the start of CRRT and 3 days afterward. According to the BIVA and NT-pro BNP measurement results, the patients were divided into four groups according to fluid status type: type 1, both normal; type 2, normal BIVA results and abnormal NT-pro BNP levels; type 3, abnormal BIVA results and normal NT-pro BNP levels; and type 4, both abnormal. The associations between fluid status and outcome were analyzed.. Eighty-nine patients were enrolled, 58 were males, and the mean age was 49.0 ± 17.2 years. The mean score of Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) was 18.8 ± 8.6. The fluid status before CRRT start was as follows: type 1, 21.3% (19 out of 89); type 2, 16.9% (15 out of 89); type 3, 11.2% (10 out of 89); and type 4, 50.6% (45 out of 89). There were significant differences between fluid status types before starting CRRT on baseline values for APACHE II scores, serum creatinine, hemoglobin, platelet count, urine volume, and incidences of oliguria and acute kidney injury (P <0.05). There were significant differences between patients with different fluid status before CRRT start on hospital mortality--type 1, 26.3% (5 out of 19); type 2, 33.3% (5 out of 15); type 3, 40% (4 out of 10); and type 4, 64.4% (29 out of 45) (P = 0.019)--as well as renal function recovery rates: type 1, 57.1% (4 out of 7); type 2, 67.7% (6 out of 9); type 3, 50% (3 out of 6); and type 4, 23.7% (9 out of 38) (P = 0.051).. Fluid status abnormalities were common among patients receiving CRRT. Different types of fluid status distinguished by BIVA combined with serum NT-pro BNP measurements corresponded to different clinical conditions and treatment outcomes, which implies a value of this method for evaluation of fluid status among patients receiving CRRT.

Topics: Acute Kidney Injury; Adult; Body Water; Critical Illness; Female; Hemoglobins; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Monitoring, Physiologic; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Predictive Value of Tests; Prognosis; Prospective Studies; Renal Replacement Therapy

Fluid overload is associated with acute kidney injury (AKI) and mortality. There is no convenient precise method to guide fluid therapy in critically ill patients. We aimed to investigate whether brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) can predict the renal outcome and mortality of critically ill patients and be used to guide fluid management.. This prospective observational study included patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Patients with underlying heart disease and heart dysfunction were excluded. Plasma BNP levels were obtained on admission (D0), at 24 hours (D1), and at 48 hours (D2). The primary outcome was AKI development during the ICU stay and recovery of AKI at ICU discharge. The secondary outcome was in-ICU mortality.. One hundred and sixty-three patients were enrolled for analysis. The delta-BNP level within the initial 24 hours after ICU admission rather than fluid accumulation was significantly correlated with delta-central venous pressure levels (r = 0.219, p = 0.010). Delta-Brain natriuretic peptide levels of < 81.8% within the initial 24 hours was an independent predictor of better renal outcome (i.e., no AKI or AKI with recovery). The increment in the BNP level from D0 to D1 was also a significant risk factor of mortality. In the a priori subgroup analysis for patients with sepsis, delta-BNP levels from D0 to D1 remained a significant predictor of renal outcome and mortality.. Our study showed that delta-BNP levels within 24 hours of admission to the ICU are better than fluid accumulation as a predictor of AKI, recovery, and mortality.

Topics: Acute Kidney Injury; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Female; Fluid Therapy; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Logistic Models; Male; Middle Aged; Multivariate Analysis; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prognosis; Prospective Studies; Sepsis; Taiwan; Treatment Outcome

This observational study was designed to evaluate and compare the usefulness of BNP and NT-proBNP concentrations to detect the existence and severity of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) in critically ill patients.. A prospective, observational study in a university hospital. The sample included 86 consecutive adult patients. Based on echocardiography data, LVDD were classified into normal, impaired relaxation, pseudonormal or restrictive patterns. Patients were classified according to whether filling pressures were elevated or non-elevated in the echocardiography. Sampling for natriuretic peptides was performed immediately before echocardiography.. Fifty patients showed LVDD. The most frequently observed pattern was impaired relaxation (N.=35), followed by the restrictive (N.=9) and the pseudonormal (N.=6) patterns. BNP concentrations in restrictive and pseudonormal patterns were higher than in normal and impaired relaxation patterns, while NT-proBNP only showed differences between normal and pseudonormal or restrictive patterns. Cut-off values using ROC curve analyses to detect LVDD were 125 ng/L for BNP and 390 ng/L NT-proBNP. BNP and NT-proBNP concentrations were higher in the 15 patients with restrictive and pseudonormal patterns, suggesting elevated filling pressures. Cut-off values using ROC curve analyses to detect echocardiography signs of elevated filling pressures were 254 ng/L for BNP and 968 for NT-proBNP. Both natriopeptides performed in a similar way to detect LVDD and elevated filling pressures.. Both BNP and NT-proBNP are useful screening tools to detect the presence of advanced degrees of LVDD, and especially to rule out elevated filling pressures.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Critical Illness; Female; Heart Failure, Diastolic; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Pilot Projects; Prospective Studies; Ultrasonography; Ventricular Dysfunction, Left

Atherosclerotic peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is one of the most prevalent, morbid, and mortal diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate mortality rates of patients with atherosclerotic PAD stratified according to age and diabetes and to determine predictors of death.. We studied 487 patients with symptomatic PAD consecutively admitted to the hospital. This cohort included the following four patient subgroups: (1) 216 patients with PAD <75 years of age without diabetes mellitus; (2) 115 patients with PAD < 75 years of age with diabetes mellitus; (3) 102 patients with PAD ≥ 75 years of age without diabetes mellitus; and (4) 54 patients with PAD ≥ 75 years of age with diabetes mellitus. Control subjects without atherosclerotic disease were matched to the patients with PAD in a 1:1 design by sex, age (± 2 years), and diabetes mellitus status. Outcome measure was all-cause mortality at 5 years.. Mortality rates at 5 years were 10% in nondiabetic patients with PAD < 75 years of age (vs 5% in control subjects; risk ratio [RR], 2.15; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.60-4.34); 23% in diabetic patients with PAD < 75 years of age (vs 7% in control subjects; RR, 3.53; 95% CI, 1.80-6.91); 38% in nondiabetic patients with PAD ≥ 75 years of age (vs 22% in control subjects; RR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.26-3.44); and 52% in diabetic patients with PAD ≥ 75 years of age. Applying multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analyses (with cardiovascular risk factors, coexisting atherosclerotic disease, clinical stage of PAD, and several biochemical markers as predictor variables), we found the following independent predictors of outcome: in the 216 nondiabetic patients with PAD < 75 years of age, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (RR, 3.04; 95% CI, 1.48-6.26); in the 115 diabetic patients with PAD < 75 years of age, amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) (RR, 2.63; 95% CI, 1.65-4.19); in the 102 nondiabetic patients with PAD ≥ 75 years of age, critical limb ischemia (RR, 3.70; 95% CI, 1.82-7.52) and NT-proBNP (RR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.32-2.82); and in the 54 diabetic patients with PAD ≥ 75 years of age, hs-CRP (RR, 2.61; 95% CI, 1.45-4.67) and NT-proBNP (RR, 3.31; 95% CI, 1.96-5.60).. Mortality rates at 5 years varied considerably among patients with PAD stratified according to age and diabetes. Predictors of death differed among the four patient subgroups in this study and included critical limb ischemia, hs-CRP, and NT-proBNP. Our results might help to develop future strategies for optimized treatment of hospitalized patients with symptomatic PAD.

Topics: Age Factors; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Austria; Biomarkers; C-Reactive Protein; Case-Control Studies; Comorbidity; Critical Illness; Diabetes Mellitus; Female; Humans; Ischemia; Kaplan-Meier Estimate; Male; Middle Aged; Mortality; Multivariate Analysis; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Odds Ratio; Patient Admission; Peptide Fragments; Peripheral Arterial Disease; Proportional Hazards Models; Prospective Studies; Risk Factors; Time Factors

We assessed the prognostic implications of low triiodothyronine (T3) and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels in critically ill patients with acute heart failure. We acquired data for 144 critical care patients with acute decompensated heart failure, of which 106 were included in this study. Plasma thyroid hormones and NT-proBNP levels were determined within 48 hours of admission. We assessed these measures for predicting all-cause and cardiac mortalities. At a mean follow-up period of 25 ± 31 months, the all-cause mortality rate was 51% (54 of 106) and the cardiac mortality rate was 70% (38 of 54). A multivariate Cox regression model showed that log-transformed NT-proBNP levels (log NT-proBNP; hazard ratio [HR] 2.90, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.38 to 6.08, p = 0.005) and T3 levels (HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96 to 0.99, p = 0.008) were associated with all-cause mortality, and log NT-proBNP (HR 3.70, 95% CI 1.28 to 10.71, p = 0.02) and T3 (HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96 to 0.99, p = 0.01) were associated with cardiac mortality. Based on cut-off values for NT-proBNP (10,685 pg/ml) and T3 (52.3 ng/dl), Kaplan-Meier analyses provided significant prognostic information with the highest risk for all-cause mortality in the low T3 (≤52.3 ng/dl)/high NT-proBNP (>10,685 pg/ml) group (HR 8.54, 95% CI 4.19 to 17.40, p <0.0001). In conclusion, T3 levels appear to be independent predictors for both all-cause and cardiac mortalities among critical ill patients with heart failure, and high NT-proBNP and low T3 levels predict a worse long-term outcome.

Topics: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Comorbidity; Coronary Artery Disease; Critical Illness; Diabetic Angiopathies; Euthyroid Sick Syndromes; Female; Heart Failure; Humans; Hypertension; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis; Regression Analysis; ROC Curve; Survivors; Triiodothyronine

The role of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) as a prognostic factor in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) is not yet fully established. We aimed to determine whether NT-pro-BNP is predictive of ICU mortality in a multicenter cohort of critically ill patients.. A total of 1440 patients admitted to 22 ICUs (medical, 14; surgical, six; multidisciplinary, two) in 15 tertiary or university-affiliated hospitals between July 2010 and January 2011 were assessed. Patient data, including NT-pro-BNP levels and Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS) 3 scores, were recorded prospectively in a web-based database.. The median age was 64 years (range, 53-73 years), and 906 (62.9%) patients were male. The median NT-pro-BNP level was 341 pg/mL (104-1,637 pg/mL), and the median SAPS 3 score was 57 (range, 47-69). The ICU mortality rate was 18.9%, and hospital mortality was 24.5%. Hospital survivors showed significantly lower NT-pro-BNP values than nonsurvivors (245 pg/mL [range, 82-1,053 pg/mL] vs. 875 pg/mL [241-5,000 pg/mL], respectively; p < 0.001). In prediction of hospital mortality, the area under the curve (AUC) for NT-pro-BNP was 0.67 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.64-0.70) and SAPS 3 score was 0.83 (95% CI, 0.81-0.85). AUC increment by adding NT-pro-BNP is minimal and likely no different to SAPS 3 alone.. The NT-pro-BNP level was more elevated in nonsurvivors in a multicenter cohort of critically ill patients. However, there was little additional prognostic power when adding NT-pro-BNP to SAPS 3 score.

Topics: Aged; Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Female; Hospital Mortality; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Patient Admission; Peptide Fragments; Prospective Studies

We investigated the diagnostic and prognostic utilities of procalcitonin (PCT), B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in critically ill patients with suspected sepsis, for whom sepsis was diagnosed clinically or based on PCT concentrations.. PCT, BNP, and NGAL concentrations were measured in 340 patients and were followed up in 109 patients. All studied biomarkers were analyzed according to the diagnosis, severity, and clinical outcomes of sepsis.. Clinical sepsis and PCT-based sepsis showed poor agreement (kappa = 0.2475). BNP and NGAL showed significant differences between the two groups of PCT-based sepsis (P = 0.0001 and P < 0.0001), although there was no difference between the two groups of clinical sepsis. BNP and NGAL were significantly different according to the PCT staging and sepsis-related organ failure assessment subscores (P < 0.0001, all). BNP and PCT concentrations were significantly higher in the non-survivors than in the survivors (P = 0.0002) and showed an equal ability to predict in-hospital mortality (P = 0.0001). In the survivors, the follow-up NGAL and PCT concentrations were significantly lower than the initial values (148.7 ng/mL vs. 214.5 ng/mL, P < 0.0001; 0.61 ng/mL vs. 5.56 ng/mL, P = 0.0012).. PCT-based sepsis diagnosis seems to be more reliable and discriminating than clinical sepsis diagnosis. Multimarker approach using PCT, BNP, and NGAL would be useful for the diagnosis, staging, and prognosis prediction in the critically ill patients with suspected sepsis.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Biomarkers; Calcitonin; Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide; Child; Child, Preschool; Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Lipocalins; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Predictive Value of Tests; Prognosis; Protein Precursors; Sepsis

Accurate diagnosis of sepsis is difficult in patients post burn due to the large inflammatory response produced by the major insult. We aimed to estimate the values of serum N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide and procalcitonin and the changes in hemodynamic variables as markers of sepsis in critically ill burn patients.. Prospective, observational study.. A quaternary-level university-affiliated ICU.. Fifty-four patients with burns to total body surface area of greater than or equal to 15%, intubated with no previous cardiovascular comorbidities, were enrolled.. At admission, a FloTrac/Vigileo system was attached and daily blood samples taken from the arterial catheter. Infection surveillance was carried out daily with patients classified as septic/nonseptic according to American Burns Consensus criteria.. N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, procalcitonin, and waveform analysis of changes in stroke volume index and systemic vascular resistance index were measured within the first 24 hours after burn and daily thereafter for the length of the ICU stay or until their first episode of sepsis. Prevalences of stroke volume variation less than 12% (normovolemia) with hypotension (systolic blood pressure < 90 mm Hg) were recorded. Patients with sepsis differed significantly from "no sepsis" for N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, systemic vascular resistance index, and stroke volume index on days 3-7. Procalcitonin did not differ between sepsis and "no sepsis" except for day 3. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curves showed excellent discriminative power for B-type natriuretic peptide (p = 0.001; 95% CI, 0.99-1.00), systemic vascular resistance index (p < 0.001; 95% CI, 0.97-0.99), and stroke volume index (p < 0.01; 95% CI, 0.96-0.99) in predicting sepsis but not for procalcitonin (not significant; 95% CI, 0.29-0.46). A chi-square crosstab found that there was no relationship between hypotension with normovolemia (stroke volume variation < 12%) and sepsis.. Serum N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels and certain hemodynamic changes can be used as an early indicator of sepsis in patients with burn injury. Procalcitonin did not assist in the early diagnosis of sepsis.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Biomarkers; Burns; Calcitonin; Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide; Critical Illness; Female; Hemodynamics; Hospital Mortality; Hospitals, University; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis; Prospective Studies; Protein Precursors; Sepsis; Young Adult

To investigate N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) cutoff value for the mortality in different age groups in critically ill patients.. A retrospective study was conducted. 295 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of 401st Hospital of PLA from January 2011 to October 2012 were divided into two groups according to age [group with age<65 years old (n=105) and group with age≥ 65 years old (n=190)]. The concentrations of serum NT-proBNP, hematocrit (HCT), procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein(CRP), serum creatinine(SCr), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), acute physiology and chronic health evaluationII (APACHEII) score and probability of survival (PS) were recorded within 24 hours. The primary outcome was ICU mortality. Receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC curve) was used to evaluate the value of NT-proBNP for predicting the mortality.. (1) There were no significant differences in the length of stay in ICU, mechanical ventilation rate, the mortality, the incidence of cardiovascular disease, digestive disease, neurologic disease, and the number of patients having received operation, HCT, PCT and CRP between the two groups (all P>0.05). The percentage of the male, the APACHEII score, the percentage of respiratory disease, and NT-proBNP in group with age≥65 years old were higher than those of the group with age<65 years old [the percentage of the male: 51.6% vs. 33.0%, χ (2)=9.093, P=0.003; APACHEII score: 22.94±8.10 vs. 19.44±8.51, Z=-3.259, P=0.001; the percentage of respiratory disease: 29.47% vs. 17.14%, χ(2)=5.472, P=0.024; NT-proBNP: 5 859.00 (2 050.75, 23 802.75) ng/L vs. 2 882.00 (275.15, 6 236.00) ng/L, Z=-5.514, P=0.000]; PS, the percentage of patients having multiple injuries and other diseases and eGFR in group with age≥65 years old were lower than those of the group with age <65 years old [PS: 59.0 (31.5,79.0)% vs. 70.0 (40.0, 84.0)%, Z=-3.431, P=0.001; the percentage of multiple injuries: 0.53% vs. 17.14%, χ(2)=30.987, P=0.000; the percentage of other disease: 5.79% vs. 13.33%, χ(2)=4.962, P=0.030; eGFR (ml×min(-1)×1.73 m(-2)): 81.07 (45.77, 131.80) vs. 95.54 (33.64, 165.55), Z=-2.214, P=0.027]. (2) The area under the ROC curve (AUC) [95% confidence interval (95%CI)] of NT-proBNP in patients with age<65 years old was significantly higher than that of group with age≥65 years old and the entire group [0.825 (0.738-0.892) vs. 0.664 (0.592-0.731) and 0.725 (0.670-0.775), Z1=-2.835, P1=0.005; Z2=-1.995, P2=0.046]. (3) The sensitivity (76.10% vs. 64.10%), specificity (82.35% vs. 67.12%), positive predictive value (90.0% vs. 75.8%), and negative predictive value (62.2% vs. 53.8%) with cutoff value of NT-proBNP (2 882 ng/L) in group with age<65 years old were significantly higher than those with NT-proBNP cutoff value (6 062 ng/L) in group with age≥65 years old.. NT-proBNP cutoff value in different age groups for the prediction of mortality in the critically ill patients maybe more objective and accurate.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis; Retrospective Studies

Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Cohort Studies; Critical Illness; Echocardiography; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Sepsis; Ventricular Function, Left; Young Adult

Several studies on diagnostic accuracy of pleural N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) for effusions from congestive heart failure (CHF) conclude that pleural NT-pro-BNP is a useful biomarker with high diagnostic accuracy for distinguishing CHF effusions. However, its applicability in critical care settings remains uncertain and requires further investigations.. NT-proBNP was measured in pleural fluid samples of a prospective cohort of intensive care unit patients with pleural effusions. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to determine diagnostic accuracy of pleural NT-proBNP for prediction of CHF effusions.. One hundred forty-seven critically ill patients were evaluated, 38 (26%) with CHF effusions and 109 (74%) with non-CHF effusions of various causes. Pleural NT-proBNP levels were significantly elevated in patients with CHF effusions. Pleural NT-pro-BNP demonstrated the area under the curve of 0.87 for diagnosing effusions due to CHF. With a cutoff of 2200 pg/mL, pleural NT-proBNP displayed high sensitivity (89%) but moderate specificity (73%). Notably, 29 (27%) of 109 patients with non-CHF effusions had pleural NT-proBNP levels >2200 pg/mL and these patients were more likely to experience septic shock (18/29 vs. 10/80, P<0.001) or acute kidney injury (19/29 vs. 9/80, P<0.001).. Among critically ill patients, pleural NT-proBNP measurements remain a useful diagnostic aid in evaluation of pleural effusions. However, patients with non-CHF effusions may exhibit high pleural NT-proBNP concentrations if they suffer from septic shock or acute kidney injury. Accordingly, it is suggested that clinical context should be taken into account when interpreting pleural NT-proBNP values in critical care settings.

Topics: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Biomarkers; Cohort Studies; Critical Illness; Female; Heart Failure; Humans; Male; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Pleural Effusion; Prospective Studies; Taiwan

Infants with congenital heart disease having obstruction to the left ventricular outflow and ductal-dependent systemic circulation can present critically ill with shock. Prompt disease recognition and initiation of prostaglandins are necessary to prevent excess morbidity and mortality. We assessed a large cohort of newborn infants with ductal-dependent systemic circulation to determine if B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is consistently elevated at presentation, potentially aiding in diagnosis and treatment.. The clinical records of infants with left-sided obstructive lesions admitted from January 2005 to June 2009 were reviewed. Infants were divided into 2 groups: group 1 was diagnosed with cardiogenic/circulatory shock at presentation, and group 2 consisted of infants with ductal-dependent systemic circulation without evidence of shock. B-type natriuretic peptide levels and other variables between the groups were compared.. All patients with critical congenital heart disease presenting with shock had elevated BNP levels, ranging from 553 to greater than 5000 pg/mL. Infants in group 1 (shock, n = 36) had significantly higher median BNP levels of 4100 pg/mL at presentation compared with group 2 patients (no shock, n = 86), who had a median BNP of 656 pg/mL (range, 30-3930 pg/mL; P < 0.001). Every 100 U of increase in BNP at presentation increased the likelihood of shock (odds ratio, 100; P < 0.001).. B-type natriuretic peptide is markedly elevated in neonates presenting in shock secondary to left-sided obstructive heart disease and is an important diagnostic tool to aid in the rapid identification and treatment of these patients.

Topics: Biomarkers; Cohort Studies; Critical Illness; Female; Heart Defects, Congenital; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Male; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Pregnancy; Prenatal Diagnosis; Retrospective Studies; ROC Curve; Shock, Cardiogenic; Ventricular Outflow Obstruction

The prognostic role of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) in septic patients is controversial. The study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of BNP in critically ill septic patients. Furthermore, because BNP is primarily released from ventricles in response to myocardial stretch, the second aim of the study was to test whether the change in BNP was correlated to the amount of fluid balance.. This was a prospective observational study conducted in a tertiary 18-bed ICU. Patients fulfilled criteria of sepsis were enrolled. Exclusion criteria included renal dysfunction on ICU entry, age < 18 or >80 years old. BNP was measured on entry (BNP0) and day 3 (BNP1) and daily fluid balance over the three days were recorded. Diagnostic performances of BNP0 and ΔBNP (BNP1-BNP0) were analyzed. The correlation between fluid balance and ΔBNP were tested using Spearman's correlation test.. A total of 67 subjects were eligible for the study during study period. BNP0 was significantly higher in non-survivors than in survivors (738 vs 550 pg/ml, p < 0.01). The area under curves (AUCs) of BNP0 in predicting mortality, duration of mechanical ventilation (MV) > 7 d, length of stay in ICU (LOS(ICU)) > 7 d and hospital (LOS(hospital)) > 12 d were 0.71, 0.79, 0.66 and 0.71, respectively. The AUCs of ΔBNP in predicting duration of MV > 7 d, LOS(ICU) > 7 d and LOS(hospital) > 12 d were 0.80, 0.84 and 0.85, respectively. The amount of fluid balance was correlated to ΔBNP (Spearman's rho = 0.63, p < 0.01), and the correlation remained statistically significant in multivariate model.. BNP measured on ICU entry is associated with mortality, duration of MV, LOS(ICU) and LOS(hospital). ΔBNP is able to predict the LOS(ICU) and LOS(hospital) with satisfactory sensitivity and specificity. ΔBNP is closely correlated to the amount of fluid balance during resuscitation period. However, this could only be considered as a hypothesis-generating pilot study due to its small sample size and the observational nature.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Critical Illness; Female; Fluid Therapy; Hospital Mortality; Humans; Length of Stay; Logistic Models; Male; Middle Aged; Multivariate Analysis; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Predictive Value of Tests; Sepsis; Statistics, Nonparametric

It is still unclear whether circulating levels of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) reflect cardiac filling and function in the critically ill patient, particularly during sepsis and a proinflammatory response that may induce NT-proBNP release from the heart.. We prospectively evaluated the value of NT-proBNP as a marker of cardiac loading, function, and response to fluid loading in 18 septic and 68 nonseptic, critically ill patients in the intensive care unit of a university medical center. Transpulmonary thermal dilution and pressure measurements were done, and plasma NT-proBNP was determined before and after colloid fluid loading.. Compared with nonseptic patients, NT-proBNP plasma levels were higher and systolic cardiac function indices were lower in patients with sepsis than those without sepsis. N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide best related, from all hemodynamic parameters before and after fluid loading, to systolic cardiac function (rather than diastolic filling) variables, independently of confounders such as renal dysfunction (judged from serum creatinine). In addition, a high NT-proBNP (>3467 pg/mL) predicted absence of fluid responsiveness in sepsis only.. Our data suggest that an increased circulating NT-proBNP plasma level is an independent marker of greater systolic cardiac dysfunction, irrespective of filling status, and is a better predictor of fluid nonresponsiveness in septic vs nonseptic, critically ill patients.

Topics: Academic Medical Centers; Adult; Aged; Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Female; Fluid Therapy; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prospective Studies; Sepsis; Systole; Treatment Outcome; Ventricular Dysfunction; Young Adult

To investigate whether plasma N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) as measured at admission to intensive care unit (ICU) is an independent predictor of mortality in critically ill patients.. A prospective observational study of patients in ICU was conducted . One hundred and twenty patients aged>18 years were included during a 6 month period. Among them 88 patients were enrolled for the study. Plasma NT-pro-BNP samples were obtained at admission to ICU. The acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II(APACHEII) score was calculated within 24 hours after admission based on the worst values up to that point. The final evaluation was 28 day mortality.. Thirty five patients died within 28 days of ICU admission, the mortality was 39.8%. In 88 patients , the mean plasma NT-pro-BNP levels (ng/L) were 1 221.7 (78.75 500.0), and that in survivor group was significantly lower than non survivor group [781.8 (78.75 066.6) vs. 2 774.5 ( 166.85 500.0 ), P <0.01]. The mean NT-pro-BNP level (ng/L) in male patients was higher than that in females [1 585.5 (103.75 100.0) vs. 794.5 (78.75 500.0), P <0.05]. There was correlation between gender and NT-pro-BNP levels ( r =-0.224, P <0.05). Patients admitted to the ICU because of a severe infection had higher levels of NT-pro-BNP (ng/L) compared with the rest of the cohorts [3 416.1 (103.7 5 100.0) vs. 883.4 (78.75 500.0), P <0.01]. There was correlation between severe infection at admission to ICU and NT-pro-BNP levels ( r =0.285, P <0.01). Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC curves) of NT-pro-BNP and APACHEII score were 0.734[95% confidence interval (95% CI ) 0.6280.840] and 0.747 (95% CI 0.6370.858), respectively. Logistic regression analysis showed that the NT-pro-BNP level> 1 418 ng/L and the APACHEII score were independently associated with 28 day mortality [odds ratio ( OR ) 5.235, 95% CI 1.81915.071; OR 1.105, 95% CI 1.81915.071]. With 1 418 ng/L of NT-pro-BNP as the cutoff value, survival rate was significantly lower in the patients with higher NT-pro-BNP level as compared with those with lower values at admission (χ²=16.9, P <0.01).. The ICU NT-pro-BNP level higher than 1 418 ng/L and APACHEII score at admission are independent prognosis markers of early mortality. NT-pro-BNP might serve as a potent early diagnostic and prognostic marker in critically ill patients.

Topics: Adult; Aged; APACHE; Critical Illness; Female; Hospital Mortality; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis; Prospective Studies; Survival Rate

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of plasma N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) in unselected critically ill patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF).. Prospective, observational cohort study in 25 intensive care units in Finland. This study included a total of 602 patients with laboratory samples from 958 consecutive patients with ARF treated either with invasive or with non-invasive ventilatory support (the FINNALI study). Plasma NT-pro-BNP samples were drawn after the onset of ventilatory support (day 0) and on the morning of the second day.. The median [interquartile ranges (IQR)] NT-pro-BNP-values were significantly higher at baseline in 90-day non-survivors than the survivors, 4378 pg/ml (1400-13,943 pg/ml) vs. 1052 pg/ml (232-4076 pg/ml), respectively. The median (IQR) NT-pro-BNP values were significantly higher in patients with chronic cardiac disease or cardiac surgery than in non-cardiac patients, 1947 pg/ml (801-4687 pg/ml) vs. 417 pg/ml (153-1735 pg/ml), respectively, if renal function was normal. With deteriorating renal function, the NT-pro-BNP values showed a significant increase. The area under curve for baseline NT-pro-BNP predicting 90-day mortality was moderate: 0.718 (95% confidence interval 0.674-0.761). Baseline NT-pro-BNP over 1765 pg/ml was independently associated with 90-day mortality by logistic regression analysis (P<0.001).. NT-pro-BNP on admission is commonly elevated and independently associated with 90-day mortality in critically ill ARF patients. However, the routine use of NT-pro-BNP for prognostic purpose does not seem to add value to clinical data in ARF patients.

Topics: Acute Disease; Adult; Aged; Cohort Studies; Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Logistic Models; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prospective Studies; Respiratory Insufficiency

Discriminating acute lung injury (ALI) or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) from cardiogenic pulmonary edema (CPE) using the plasma level of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) alone remains controversial. The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic utility of combination measurements of BNP and C-reactive protein (CRP) in critically ill patients with pulmonary edema.. This was a cross-sectional study. BNP and CRP data from 147 patients who presented to the emergency department due to acute respiratory failure with bilateral pulmonary infiltrates were analyzed.. There were 53 patients with ALI/ARDS, 71 with CPE, and 23 with mixed edema. Median BNP and CRP levels were 202 (interquartile range 95-439) pg/mL and 119 (62-165) mg/L in ALI/ARDS, and 691 (416-1,194) pg/mL (p < 0.001) and 8 (2-42) mg/L (p < 0.001) in CPE. BNP or CRP alone offered good discriminatory performance (C-statistics 0.831 and 0.887), but the combination offered greater one [C-statistics 0.931 (p < 0.001 versus BNP) (p = 0.030 versus CRP)]. In multiple logistic-regression, BNP and CRP were independent predictors for the diagnosis after adjusting for other variables.. Measurement of CRP is useful as well as that of BNP for distinguishing ALI/ARDS from CPE. Furthermore, a combination of BNP and CRP can provide higher accuracy for the diagnosis.

Topics: Acute Disease; Acute Lung Injury; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Biomarkers; C-Reactive Protein; Chi-Square Distribution; Critical Illness; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diagnosis, Differential; Female; Humans; Japan; Logistic Models; Male; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Predictive Value of Tests; Pulmonary Edema; Respiratory Distress Syndrome; Respiratory Insufficiency; ROC Curve; Sensitivity and Specificity

Prospective outcome prediction and volume status assessment are difficult tasks in the acute care environment. Rapidly available, non-invasive, bioimpedance vector analysis (BIVA) may offer objective measures to improve clinical decision-making and predict outcomes. Performed by the placement of bipolar electrodes at the wrist and ankle, data is graphically displayed such that short-term morality risk and volume status can be accurately quantified. BIVA is able to provide indices of general cellular health, which has significant prognostic implications, as well as total body volume. Knowledge of these parameters can provide insight as to the short-term prognosis, as well as the presenting volume status.

Topics: Body Fluids; Cardiac Output; Cardiography, Impedance; Critical Care; Critical Illness; Heart Diseases; Hemodynamics; Humans; Kidney Diseases; Length of Stay; Liver Diseases; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prognosis; Radiography, Thoracic; Stroke Volume; Ultrafiltration

The measurement of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is recommended for the diagnosis of decompensated heart failure, the prognosis of chronic heart failure is worse if BNP is increased and studies suggest that BNP is useful to guide therapy. A study by Di Somma and colleagues adds to the body of evidence showing that patients with a marked decrease in BNP concentrations during their hospital admission are less likely to be readmitted with a further adverse cardiac event than patients in whom BNP fails to decrease. However, the wider interpretation of BNP concentrations in critically ill patients with other conditions remains uncertain.

Topics: Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Heart Failure; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain

The present study aimed to determine whether amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) predicts intensive care unit (ICU) mortality in a cohort of general, noncardiac, critically ill patients. To this end, a total of 233 consecutive mechanically ventilated patients (109 men) having a median age of 60 years and a wide range in admitting diagnoses, including medical (n = 118), surgical (n = 83), and multiple trauma (n = 32) cases were prospectively studied. Median Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores on ICU admission were 16 and 9, respectively. The study end point was ICU outcome. Blood samples were drawn on admission in the ICU and on postadmission days 1 and 2 to determine NT-pro-BNP levels. In a subgroup (n = 77), admission proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine levels, including TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-10, were also measured. Nonsurvivors (n = 98) had significantly higher NT-pro-BNP levels than survivors (n = 135) on admission in the ICU (2,074 vs. 283 pg/mL; P < 0.001), on day 1 (2,197 vs. 221 pg/mL; P < 0.001), and on day 2 (2,726 vs. 139 pg/mL; P < 0.001). Median values for TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-10 were 3.70, 131.57, and 111.88 pg/mL, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve in predicting ICU mortality was 0.70 for APACHE II and 0.77 for admission NT-pro-BNP (P = 0.08). The cutoff in admission NT-pro-BNP that best predicted outcome was 941 pg/mL. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that APACHE II score (odds ratio, 1.06; P = 0.007) and the best cutoff point in admission NT-pro-BNP (odds ratio, 7.74; P < 0.001) independently predicted ICU mortality, even if cytokines were entered in the analysis. In conclusion, plasma NT-pro-BNP is frequently raised in noncardiac, mixed, critically ill patients, and nonsurvivors have consistently higher levels than survivors. Elevated admission NT-pro-BNP represents an independent predictor for poor ICU outcome in the presence of clinical severity scores.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; APACHE; Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis; Prospective Studies; Regression Analysis; Young Adult

The diagnostic workup of transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) requires an exclusion of transfusion-associated circulatory overload (TACO). Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic (NT-pro-BNP) accurately diagnosed TACO in preliminary studies that did not include patients with TRALI.. In this prospective cohort study, two critical care experts blinded to serum levels of BNP and NT-pro-BNP determined the diagnosis of TRALI, TACO, and possible TRALI based on the consensus conference definitions. The accuracy of BNP and NT-pro-BNP was assessed based on the area under the receiver operating curve (AUC).. Of 115 patients who developed acute pulmonary edema after transfusion, 34 were identified with TRALI, 31 with possible TRALI, and 50 with TACO. Median BNP was 375 pg per mL (interquartile range [IQR], 123 to 781 pg/mL) in TRALI, 446 pg per mL (IQR, 128 to 743 pg/mL) in possible TRALI, and 559 pg per mL (IQR, 288 to 1348 pg/mL) in TACO patients (p = 0.038). The NT-pro-BNP levels among patients with TRALI, possible TRALI, and TACO differed significantly with a median value of 1559 pg per mL (IQR, 629 to 5114 pg/mL), 2349 pg/mL (IQR, 919 to 4610 pg/mL), and 5197 pg/mL (IQR, 1695 to 15,714 pg/mL; p = 0.004), respectively. The accuracy of BNP and NT-pro-BNP to diagnose TACO was moderate with an AUC of 0.63 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.51-0.74) and 0.70 (95% CI, 0.59 to 0.80).. Natriuretic peptides are of limited diagnostic value in a differential diagnosis of pulmonary edema after transfusion in the critically ill patients.

Topics: Acute Lung Injury; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Blood Transfusion; Critical Illness; Diagnosis, Differential; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Predictive Value of Tests; Prospective Studies; Pulmonary Edema

Topics: Age Factors; Biomarkers; Critical Care; Critical Illness; Heart Failure; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Respiration, Artificial; Ventricular Dysfunction, Left; Water-Electrolyte Balance

Although B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) has been used for the diagnosis of congestive heart failure in many clinical settings, its diagnostic role in critically ill patients remains uncertain. The body of literature suggests that BNP and N-terminal pro-BNP levels are not useful for the diagnosis of systolic or diastolic heart failure in the critically ill, including in patients with brain hemorrhage, due to poor specificity. However, these cardiac peptides may have a more promising prognostic role in this patient population.

Topics: Critical Illness; Diagnostic Errors; Heart Failure, Diastolic; Heart Failure, Systolic; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Reproducibility of Results

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)have been used widely in the diagnosis and prognosis of cardiogenic diseases, but the association between BNP concentrations and non-cardiogenic critical illness is unknown. Our study aims at investigating the role of natriuretic peptide testing for predicting 28-day mortality of non-cardiogenic critically ill patients in emergency department (ED).. A total of 255 non-cardiogenic critically ill patients treated in the emergency department were prospectively enrolled and a sample of blood was obtained for BNP measurement from each patient. A variety of clinical and laboratory variables were recorded. After 28 days, the vital status of each patient was ascertained and the association between BNP values at presentation and mortality was assessed.. 71 patients died during the 28-day observation period. Median BNP concentrations at presentation among decedents were significantly higher than those of survivors (326.0 ng/L versus 50.9 ng/L, P < 0.001). The optimal BNP cut point for predicting 28-day mortality was 114.0 ng/L. In a multivariate analysis (Cox-regression), a BNP concentration greater than 114.0 ng/L (RR 7.268, 95% CI 3.864-13. 672) and an Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores greater than 20 (RR 3.330, 95% CI 1.815-6.109) were the independent predictors of the 28-day mortality. BNP concentration alone had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.825 for predicting mortality.. BNP concentrations at presentation are strong predictor of 28-day mortality in patients with non-cardiogenic critically ill patients in ED, which is better than Rapid Acute Physiology Score (RAPS) , Rapid Emergency Medicine Score (REMS) and APACHE II score.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; APACHE; Area Under Curve; Critical Illness; Heart Rate; Humans; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prognosis; ROC Curve; Severity of Illness Index; Treatment Outcome; Young Adult

Recent papers discussed include two large, multicentre, high-positive end-expiratory pressure trials in acute lung injury and reflects upon the usefulness of such trial designs. Further papers considered include the emerging story of beta2-agonists for pulmonary oedema, highlights the newly described, iatrogenic demon, of ventilator-induced diaphragm injury, promotes the addition of B-type natriuretic peptide testing to the prediction of extubation success, and muses again over the oxygen debate.

Topics: Adrenergic beta-Agonists; Animals; Critical Illness; Diaphragm; Humans; Hyperoxia; Muscular Atrophy; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Oxygen Inhalation Therapy; Positive-Pressure Respiration; Pulmonary Edema; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Respiration, Artificial; Respiratory Distress Syndrome; Sepsis; Ventilator Weaning

The initial presentation of congenital and acquired heart disease in children can present a diagnostic challenge. We sought to evaluate B-type natriuretic peptide as a marker of critical heart disease in children at presentation in the acute care setting.. A cohort of 33 pediatric patients with newly diagnosed congenital or acquired heart disease had B-type natriuretic peptide levels obtained on hospital admission after evaluation in an acute care setting. Patients were admitted from March 2005 through February 2007. A noncardiac cohort of 70 pediatric patients who presented with respiratory or infectious complaints had B-type natriuretic peptide levels obtained during emergency department evaluation. A comparison of B-type natriuretic peptide results was performed.. Cardiac diagnoses included cardiomyopathy (14), left-sided obstructive lesions (12), anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (4), total anomalous pulmonary venous return (2), and patent ductus arteriosus (1). Cardiac cohort mean age at presentation was 33.6 months. The 33 patients with new cardiac diagnoses had a mean B-type natriuretic peptide level of 3290 pg/mL (SD: +/-1609; range: 521 to >5000 pg/mL). The 70 noncardiac patients' mean age at presentation was 23.1 month, and mean B-type natriuretic peptide level was 17.4 pg/mL (SD: +/-20; range: <5 to 174 pg/mL).. B-type natriuretic peptide levels were markedly elevated at presentation in the acute care setting for all patients in this cohort of children with newly diagnosed congenital or acquired heart disease. B-type natriuretic peptide levels from noncardiac patients were significantly lower, with no overlap to the cardiac disease group. B-type natriuretic peptide level can be useful as a diagnostic marker to aid in the recognition of pediatric critical heart disease in the acute care setting.

Topics: Adolescent; Biomarkers; Child; Child, Preschool; Critical Illness; Emergencies; Heart Diseases; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain

Amino-terminal fragments of type-A and type-B natriuretic peptide prohormones (NT-proBNP, NT-proANP) are powerful prognostic markers in patients with cardiac disease, and NT-proBNP has been demonstrated to predict outcome in severe sepsis and septic shock. We assessed the prognostic value of NT-proBNP and NT-proANP in a consecutive series of mechanically ventilated intensive care patients and compared their prognostic merit.. Seventy unselected patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) were included in the study 48 h after start of controlled mechanical ventilation. Venous blood was obtained on inclusion and assayed for NT-proBNP and NT-pro ANP. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association of NT-proBNP and NT-proANP levels with 30-day mortality. Established risk factors and possible confounders were used as covariates. Discrimination of different prognostic models was assessed calculating the area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve (ROC-AUC).. NT-proBNP and NT-proANP levels were higher in non-survivors (n=25) than in 30-day survivors (n=45). Log NT-proBNP [odds ratio (OR) 2.34, 95% CI 1.17-4.66], and log NT-proANP (OR 2.44, 95% CI 1.12-5.30) were independently predictive of increased mortality. A prior diagnosis of chronic obstructive lung disease was predictive of decreased mortality (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.08-1.00). The relative prognostic values, evaluated by the ROC-AUCs of NT-proBNP (AUC 0.74, 95% CI 0.61-0.86) and NT-proANP (AUC 0.73, 95% CI 0.61-0.86), were nearly identical.. High NT-proANP and NT-proBNP levels associated with decreased short-term survival in unselected, mechanically ventilated ICU patients. NT-proANP performed equally well as a prognostic indicator as NT-proBNP, and may represent a clinically useful alternative to NT-proBNP.

Topics: Atrial Natriuretic Factor; Biomarkers; Calibration; Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis

Topics: Biomarkers; Case-Control Studies; Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Male; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Predictive Value of Tests; Prognosis; Reference Values; Risk Assessment; Sensitivity and Specificity; Sepsis; Severity of Illness Index; Shock, Septic; Survival Analysis

The purpose of this study was to assess the accuracy of N-terminal-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) as a diagnostic tool to recognize acute respiratory failure of cardiac origin in an unselected cohort of critically ill patients.. We conducted a prospective observational study of medical ICU patients. NT-proBNP was measured at ICU admission, and diagnosis of cardiac dysfunction relied on the patient's clinical presentation and echocardiography.. Of the 198 patients included in this study, 102 (51.5%) had evidence of cardiac dysfunction. Median NT-proBNP concentrations were 5,720 ng/L (1,430 to 15,698) and 854 ng/L (190 to 3,560) in patients with and without cardiac dysfunction, respectively (P < 0.0001). In addition, NT-proBNP concentrations were correlated with age (rho = 0.43, P < 0.0001) and inversely correlated with creatinine clearance (rho = -0.58, P < 0.0001). When evaluating the performance of NT-proBNP concentrations to detect cardiac dysfunction, the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was 0.76 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.69 to 0.83). In addition, a stepwise logistic regression model revealed that NT-proBNP (odds ratio (OR) = 1.01 per 100 ng/L, 95% CI 1.002 to 1.02), electrocardiogram modifications (OR = 11.03, 95% CI 5.19 to 23.41), and severity assessed by organ system failure score (OR = 1.63 per point, 95% CI 1.17 to 2.41) adequately predicted cardiac dysfunction. The area under the ROC curve of this model was 0.83 (95% CI 0.77 to 0.90).. NT-proBNP measured at ICU admission might represent a useful marker to exclude cardiac dysfunction in critically ill patients.

Topics: Aged; Biomarkers; Cardiac Output, Low; Cohort Studies; Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prospective Studies; Protein Precursors; Respiratory Insufficiency

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and its N-terminal portion (NT-pro-BNP) are used for the assessment of cardiac dysfunction in patients with heart failure. However, it remains controversial whether or not this option is still valid in critically ill patients because of a possible interaction between the systemic inflammatory response and the natriuretic peptide levels. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between natriuretic peptic levels, laboratory parameters of systemic inflammation, and pulmonary artery occlusion pressure (PAOP) in critically patients.. Twelve haemodyamic unstable patients, all monitored with a pulmonary artery catheter, were included in this study. Subgroups were compared using measurement values on ICU admission. Within patient associations between different variables were evaluated by a repeated measurement ancova.. Acute heart failure and septic shock were diagnosed in 6 patients each. Despite significant differences in cardiac index and troponin T plasma level, BNP and NT-pro-BNP levels did not differ significantly between the two groups. Within patient, changes in BNP and NT-pro-BNP levels correlated significantly (p<0.01) with those in C-reactive protein values and those in leukocyte counts, but did not follow changes in PAOP.. Our results add further evidence to the hypothesis that there is an interaction between the systemic inflammatory response and the natriuretic peptides. Thus, BNP and NT-pro-BNP levels should only be used cautiously as surrogates of cardiac filling and function in haemodynamic unstable critically ill patients.

Topics: Aged; Biomarkers; C-Reactive Protein; Critical Illness; Female; Heart Failure; Humans; Leukocyte Count; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Shock, Septic

Topics: Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Predictive Value of Tests; Prognosis; Reproducibility of Results; Research Design; Survival Analysis

Natriuretic peptides emerged during recent years as potent prognostic markers in patients with heart failure and acute myocardial infarction. In addition, natriuretic peptides show strong predictive value in patients with pulmonary embolism, sepsis, renal failure, and shock. The present study tests the prognostic information of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) in an unselected cohort of critically ill patients.. Prospective, observational study.. A tertiary intensive care unit in a university hospital.. A total of 289 consecutive patients admitted to the intensive care unit during a 16-month period with the following data: age 64 +/- 14 yrs, male n = 191, Simplified Acute Physiology Score II of 52 +/- 24, mechanical ventilation n = 180 (62%), vasopressors n = 179 (62%), renal failure n = 24 (8%).. None.. Plasma NT-pro-BNP samples (Roche Diagnostics) were obtained on intensive care unit admission. Data are given as median [range]. Intensive care unit survivors had significantly lower NT-pro-BNP values compared with intensive care unit nonsurvivors (3394 [24-35,000] vs. 6776 [303-35,000] pg/mL, survivors vs. nonsurvivors, respectively, p = .001). Hospital survivors were characterized by significantly lower NT-pro-BNP values (2656 [24-35,000] vs. 8390 [303-35,000] pg/mL, survivors vs. nonsurvivors, respectively, p = .001). NT-pro-BNP levels were not significantly different in patients with primary cardiac diagnosis compared with those with a noncardiac admission diagnosis (4794 [26-35,000], n = 202 vs. 3349 [24-35,000], n = 87, cardiac vs. noncardiac, respectively, p = .28). In a logistic regression model, Simplified Acute Physiology Score II and NT-pro-BNP were independently associated with hospital survival (chi = 35.6, p = .0001 and chi = 11.3, p = .0008, Simplified Acute Physiology Score II and NT-pro-BNP, respectively). Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves of NT-pro-BNP and Simplified Acute Physiology Score II were not statistically significant different regarding the prediction of outcome.. NT-pro-BNP on admission is an independent prognostic marker of outcome in an unselected cohort of critically ill patients. A single measurement of NT-pro-BNP might facilitate triage of emergency and intensive care unit patients.

Topics: Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Predictive Value of Tests; Prognosis; Prospective Studies; Survival Rate

Topics: Critical Care; Critical Illness; Heart Diseases; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prognosis

Topics: Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Humans; Intraoperative Complications; Kidney Failure, Chronic; Myocardial Ischemia; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Pulmonary Embolism; Surgical Procedures, Operative; Troponin

There are limited data for prognostic and diagnostic use of natriuretic peptides in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. We evaluate amino-terminal brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in the medical ICU, specifically its correlation with noncardiac admission diagnosis and prognosis of critically ill patients.. NT-proBNP (pg/mL) was measured in 179 ICU patients without acute decompensated heart failure or acute coronary syndrome. Death during hospitalization (mortality), APACHE II score, laboratory data, echocardiograms, medical history, and demographics were assessed. NT-proBNP concentrations were compared with established cutoffs for congestive heart failure (>450 pg/mL for patients <50 years of age, >900 pg/mL for patients 50-70 years of age, and >1800 pg/mL for patients >70 years of age). Predictors of mortality and of NT-proBNP were analyzed by regression analysis. Tertiles were compared by analysis of variance and chi-squared test.. NT-proBNP was elevated in these ICU patients (median 2139 pg/mL, 25th percentile 540 pg/mL, 75% percentile 7389 pg/mL). Severity of illness and renal dysfunction (APACHE II score and serum creatinine) increased with rising NT-proBNP. The incidence of acute respiratory distress syndrome, sepsis, death, history of coronary artery disease (CAD) or congestive heart failure (all P <.05) increased with each tertile. Independent predictors of increased NT-proBNP were creatinine (P <.001), CAD (P <.001), APACHE II score (P <.05), and sepsis (P < or =.001). Overall hospital mortality was 26%, and log NT-proBNP (P <.05), APACHE II (P < or =.001), and CAD (P <.05) were independent predictors of mortality.. For patients admitted to the ICU without decompensated heart failure or acute coronary syndrome, NT-proBNP concentrations are markedly elevated, especially in patients with sepsis. NT-proBNP strongly and independently predicts mortality. However, NT-proBNP should not be used to direct volume management in critically ill patients.

Topics: Adult; Aged; APACHE; Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Male; Maryland; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis; Prospective Studies

Rapid diagnosis of congestive heart failure (CHF) is essential to treatment. B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a neurohormone secreted by the heart in response to fluid overload and has been shown to be elevated in medical patients with left ventricular dysfunction. However, BNP has not been evaluated in the critically ill patient with trauma.. Trauma patients of at least 18 years of age with an expected intensive care unit stay of at least 24 hours were studied. Patients had BNP measurements at admission and at 24 hours and 48 hours. Echocardiography was performed within 48 hours of admission. CHF was determined by echocardiographic findings of systolic or diastolic dysfunction. Elevated BNP levels were defined as those greater than 100 pg/mL. A Fisher's exact test was performed to determine whether a relationship between BNP levels and echocardiographic findings existed. Linear correlation was used to determine whether BNP correlated with echocardiographic findings and initial Glasgow Coma Scores.. Fifty patients were included in the analysis. There was no relationship between elevated BNP levels and echocardiographic evidence of CHF (p = 0.149). There was no threshold value above which CHF was present. There were 28 patients with head injuries, and no relationship between BNP levels and CHF could be found (p = 0.432) in this group.. Our data show no association between BNP and CHF in the critically ill patient with trauma. BNP levels may be elevated in patients with head injuries without echocardiographic evidence of CHF.

Topics: Adult; Critical Illness; Female; Heart Failure; Humans; Injury Severity Score; Intracranial Hemorrhage, Traumatic; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prospective Studies; Reference Values; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography; Wounds and Injuries

Topics: Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Diagnosis, Differential; Heart Failure; Humans; Multiple Organ Failure; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Protein Precursors; Severity of Illness Index

Amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is useful in evaluating heart failure, but its role in evaluating patients with shock in the intensive care unit (ICU) is not clear.. Forty-nine consecutive patients in four different ICUs with shock of various types and with an indication for pulmonary artery catheter placement were evaluated. Analyses for NT-proBNP were performed on blood obtained at the time of catheter placement and results were correlated with pulmonary artery catheter findings. Logistic regression identified independent predictors of mortality.. A wide range of NT-proBNP levels were observed (106 to >35,000 pg/ml). There was no difference in median NT-proBNP levels between patients with a cardiac and those with a noncardiac origin to their shock (3,046 pg/ml versus 2,959 pg/ml; P = 0.80), but an NT-proBNP value below 1,200 pg/ml had a negative predictive value of 92% for cardiogenic shock. NT-proBNP levels did not correlate with filling pressures or hemodynamics (findings not significant). NT-proBNP concentrations were higher in patients who died in the ICU (11,859 versus 2,534 pg/ml; P = 0.03), and the mortality rate of patients in the highest log-quartile of NT-proBNP (66.7%) was significantly higher than those in other log-quartiles (P < 0.001); NT-proBNP independently predicted ICU mortality (odds ratio 14.8, 95% confidence interval 1.8-125.2; P = 0.013), and was superior to Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score and brain natriuretic peptide in this regard.. Elevated levels of NT-proBNP do not necessarily correlate with high filling pressures among patients with ICU shock, but marked elevation in NT-proBNP is strongly associated with ICU death. Low NT-proBNP values in patients with ICU shock identifed those at lower risk for death, and may be useful in excluding the need for pulmonary artery catheter placement in such patients.

Topics: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Biomarkers; Cohort Studies; Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Intensive Care Units; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Natriuretic Peptides; Peptide Fragments; Prospective Studies; Shock

The role of plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) in critically ill patients with acute pulmonary edema is controversial. We postulated that a low BNP level would exclude cardiac dysfunction as the principal cause of pulmonary edema and therefore help in the diagnosis of acute lung injury.. A retrospective derivation cohort was followed by a prospective validation cohort of consecutive patients with acute pulmonary edema admitted to three intensive care units. BNP was measured within 24 hrs from onset. Critical care experts blinded to BNP results integrated clinical data with the course of disease and response to therapy and served as the reference standard.. Three intensive care units at the tertiary center.. Consecutive critically ill patients with acute pulmonary edema.. None.. In a derivation cohort of 84 patients, a BNP threshold of

Topics: Acute Disease; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Diagnosis, Differential; Female; Heart Diseases; Humans; Lung Diseases; Male; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Prospective Studies; Pulmonary Edema; Retrospective Studies; Sensitivity and Specificity

We studied whether N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP) measured at intensive care unit admission is an independent predictor of mortality in critically ill patients. We conducted a prospective observational cohort study enrolling 78 patients with APACHE II scores more than 12. Serum NT-pro BNP and cardiac troponin T were measured at admission, and echocardiography was performed within 24 h. The primary end-point was 30-day mortality. The median NT-pro BNP levels of the 22 (28.2%) patients who died were significantly more frequent than that of those who survived (8328 versus 1016 pg/mL; P = 0.001). Patients with NT-pro BNP levels more than 1900 pg/mL had significantly more frequent mortality (47.2% versus 11.9%; P = 0.03). This group also had more frequent moderate to severe left ventricular dysfunction (30.6% versus 9.5%; P = 0.02) and abnormal cardiac troponin T levels (33.3% versus 14.3%; P = 0.05). Multivariate analyses adjusted for APACHE-II revealed that a NT-pro BNP level more than 1900 pg/mL is an independent predictor of mortality.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; APACHE; Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Prognosis; Protein Precursors; Survival Analysis

Topics: Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Humans; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Pulmonary Edema

N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide has been shown to be a marker for cardiac dysfunction. The peptide level is also elevated in patients with sepsis. The purpose of this study was to assess whether N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels can differentiate pediatric patients with sepsis from patients with acute left ventricular dysfunction.. Pediatric patients admitted to an ICU with sepsis or acute left ventricular dysfunction were evaluated clinically, and the grade of systemic inflammatory-response syndrome was determined. Echocardiography was performed, and their levels of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide were measured. The N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide level was also measured in patients with simple febrile illness.. There were 10 patients with sepsis and 10 with acute left ventricular dysfunction. The age of the patients was similar, and systemic inflammatory-response syndrome grading was not different (sepsis: 2.8 +/- 0.4; acute left ventricular dysfunction: 2.6 +/- 0.7). N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels were elevated in patients with sepsis (median: 6064 pg/mL; range: 495-60,417 pg/mL) but were significantly higher in patients with acute left ventricular dysfunction (median: 65,630 pg/mL; range: 15,125-288,000). The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve for the diagnosis of acute left ventricular dysfunction was 0.9. N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels of patients with sepsis and impaired systolic function were not different from those of patients with sepsis and normal systolic function. The N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels of 20 patients with simple febrile illness were significantly lower.. N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels are elevated in pediatric patients with sepsis but are higher in some, but not all, patients with acute left ventricular dysfunction. The overlap between N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels in sepsis and acute left ventricular dysfunction precludes the use of the peptide's level as a sole means to differentiate between these conditions. Excessive elevation in N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels, however, suggests cardiac etiology for acute hemodynamic deterioration in infants and children.

Topics: Acute Disease; Child; Child, Preschool; Critical Illness; Diagnosis, Differential; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Male; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Peptide Fragments; Reference Values; Sensitivity and Specificity; Sepsis; Ventricular Dysfunction, Left

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro BNP (NTproBNP) have been shown to correlate with pulmonary arterial wedge pressure (PAWP) in patients with heart failure. We studied whether BNP and/or NTproBNP can differentiate high- vs low-PAWP respiratory failure in ICU patients. We also evaluated if BNP and NTproBNP will reflect accurately cardiac dysfunction and predict 30-day survival.. Prospective observational study of ICU patients in an urban teaching hospital.. Forty-one consecutive patients with hypoxic respiratory failure undergoing pulmonary artery catheterization were enrolled between January and December, 2003.. BNP and NTproBNP were assayed from a venous blood sample. Hemodynamic variables were obtained at the time blood was drawn. Survival was documented at day 30.. BNP and NTproBNP correlated significantly with each other (r = 0.656, p < 0.001) and inversely with hemodynamic markers of contractility: BNP with cardiac index (CI) [r = - 0.481, p < 0.02], and left ventricular stroke work index (LVSWI) [r = - 0.384, p < 0.02]; NTproBNP with CI (r = - 0.441, p < 0.02) and LVSWI (r = - 0.623, p < 0.001). BNP and NTproBNP did not correlate with PAWP. We created receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for detection of contractile dysfunction using different LVSWI cutoffs. Area under the ROC (AUROC) values were larger and more consistent for NTproBNP than for BNP. For LVSWI < 35 g.m/m(2): BNP AUROC = 0.643, NTproBNP AUROC = 0.885 (p < 0.02); for LVSWI < 30 g.m/m(2): BNP AUROC = 0.754 (p < 0.02) and NTproBNP AUROC = 0.884 (p < 0.001). Mean (+/- SE) concentrations did not differ between the survivors and non-survivors: BNP, 909.3 +/- 264.2 pg/mL vs 840.9 +/- 171.2 pg/mL; NTproBNP, 11,630.6 +/- 3,181.8 pg/mL vs 11,777.6 +/- 2,989.9 pg/mL, respectively.. NTproBNP and BNP failed to differentiate high- vs low-PAWP respiratory failure but were inversely correlated with indexes of cardiac contractility. With higher accuracy, NTproBNP may be a more discerning marker than BNP in patients with milder cardiac dysfunction. Neither peptide predicted short-term mortality.

Topics: Aged; Biomarkers; Critical Illness; Female; Hemodynamics; Humans; Male; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Nerve Tissue Proteins; Peptide Fragments; Predictive Value of Tests; Prospective Studies; Pulmonary Wedge Pressure; Respiratory Insufficiency; Survival Analysis