In a nutshell
This trial measured the relationship between B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels and mortality after strokes.
Some background
B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a hormone produced by the heart, and is a powerful diuretic (causing urination) and vasodilator (causing dilation of blood vessels). BNP has been found to be released in high levels during strokes. NT-proBNP is a by-product of BNP production and is often used as an indicator of BNP release.
The research into molecules that may act as markers, or indicators, of stroke severity is important for optimizing treatment choices. For this reason, the current study evaluated the relationship between BNP and NT-proBNP levels and stroke outcomes.
Methods & findings
16 studies, including a total of 3,498 stroke patients, were analyzed in this review. BNP and NT-proBNP levels were both found to be very high in stroke patients who did not survive the event. Among patients with very high levels of BNP or NT-proBNP following a stroke, the risk of death was found to be 2.3 times higher compared to patient with low BNP or NT-proBNP levels. In addition, it was found that BNP levels were directly associated with stroke severity; the higher the levels, the more severe the stroke. NT-proBNP was found to be more accurately associated with the risk of death than clinical features such as age, disability level or commonly used stroke scales.
The bottom line
This study reinforced the role of BNP and NT-proBNP as predictors of mortality after strokes.
Published By :
Neurology
Date :
Nov 01, 2013
