Using NT-proBNP to Detect Chronic Heart Failure in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Using NT-proBNP to Detect Chronic Heart Failure in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate if the analysis of NT-proBNP might be used as an initial step for the diagnosis of chronic heart failure in patients with COPD in primary health care, and to select patients for a further examination by echocardiography.

Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of COPD were examined regarding chronic heart failure.

1. An interview regarding symptoms: breathlessness, orthopnoea, night cough, nocturia, walking distance.
2. Physical examination: weight and height, heart and lung auscultation, blood pressure measurement after 5 minutes' rest in the sitting position and the presence of peripheral oedema.
3. Electrocardiography.
4. Natriuretic peptide- NT-proBNP (Immulite 2500, Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics AB Sweden).
5. Patients with the NT-proBNP level of > 1200 pg/ml were referred for echocardiography to assess left ventricular function.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged 65 years and older with the following diagnosis codes according to International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems - Tenth Revision:J44 (COPD) and J41, J42 (chronic bronchitis) registered during the period 1 January 2008-16 April 2008 according to the electronic patient record.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Impaired cognitive function and/or anticipated difficulties in carrying out spirometry due to immobility,
• psychiatric disorders or terminal illness.