Influence of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Genotype on Lung Diffusion in Heart Failure

Influence of ACE Genotype on Lung Diffusion at Rest and After Fluid Overload in Heart Failure Patients Treated With ACE-inhibitors

In patients with chronic heart failure ACE-inhibitor treatment improves lung diffusion and prevents pulmonary edema after fluid overload. In the western country, 3 population types of ACE genotypes exist (DD, ID, II). It is unknown whether the ACE genotype influences the response to fluid overload in ACE-inhibitor treated chronic heart failure patients.

Patients with chronic heart failure in stable clinical condition treated with ACE-inhibitors, but not aspirin, will be evaluated by means of maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test and lung function including lung diffusion measurements. These tests will be done before and after rapid 500 ml isotonic saline infusion. Patients will be grouped according to their ACE genotype.

Inclusion Criteria:

• New York Heart Association (NYHA) class I and II heart failure
• Chronic ACE-inhibitor treatment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Aspirin treatment in the previous 2 months