Introducing the N-terminal proBrain Natriuremic Peptide (NT-proBNP) test into routine cardiological clinical practice

Abstract:

Cardiac failure requires fast and reliable diagnostic algorithm for prompt diagnosis and onset of the treatment. It is an advantage to use a diagnostic factor that can also track the success of a patient’s treatment. Following the results of the PARADIGM-HF study, the sacubitril/valsartan combination therapy received the 1A recommendation by the European Cardiac Society, introducing the monitoring of NT-proBNP as a gold diagnostic standard in these patients. The NT-proBNP biomarker has been recommended by the European and American guidelines for rapid and correct diagnosis of cardiac failure, as well as tracking the success of treatment, especially with the novel sacubitril/valsartan combination therapeutic options. Since 2016, in some Croatian hospitals and emergency wards the NT-proBNP has been used to exclude the diagnosis and to monitor the treatment. However, there is still room for improvement, as the NT-proBNP testing is still not availale on a regular, routine basis in a number of the Croatian hospitals. Based on our experience, we would strongy recommend the use of the NT-proBNP test. 

Key words:
Cardiac Failure; Clinical Hospital “Merkur”; NT-proBNP; Sacubitril/Valsartan; Standards of Care