N-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide and Its Relationship With Cardiac Function in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease

Objectives The aim of this study was to determine the value of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in adults with congenital heart disease (CHD) and investigate its relationship with ventricular function and exercise capacity. Background NT-proBNP may detect early deterioration in cardiac function. Methods In this cross-sectional study, extensive echocardiography, exercise testing, and NT-proBNP measurements were performed on the same day in consecutive adult patients with CHD. Results In total, 475 patients were included in this study (mean age of 34 +/- 12 years, 57% male, 90% New York Heart Association class I). The median NT-proBNP level was 15.1 pmol/l (interquartile range [IQR]: 7.1 to 31.3 pmol/l), and the NT-proBNP level was >14 pmol/l in 53% of patients. The highest NT-proBNP levels were observed in patients with Fontan circulation (36.1 pmol/l [IQR: 14.4 to 103.8 pmol/l]) and a systemic right ventricle (RV) (31.1 pmol/l [IQR: 21.8 to 56.0 pmol/l]), and the lo Conclusions NT-proBNP levels in adults with CHD clearly differ by diagnosis and are related to echocardiographic parameters and exercise capacity. Disease-specific correlations contribute to the understanding of the main hemodynamic problems per diagnosis. Follow-up data are needed to elucidate the additional prognostic value. (c) 2013 by the American College of Cardiology Foundation