Management of acute decompensated heart failure

Heart failure, a debilitating complex clinical syndrome, affects nearly 5 million people in the United States and presents a heavy socioeconomic burden. Neurohormonal abnormalities contribute to the pathophysiology of heart failure. Acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) has emerged as a major health problem associated with poor prognosis, increased costs related to care, reduced quality of life, and frequent readmissions. Symptoms of ADHF are primarily related to congestion and/or low perfusion states. The use of biomakers such as B-natriuretic peptides is useful in distinguishing between cardiac and noncardiac causes of symptoms. Treatment for ADHF begins with identification and treatment of precipitating factors for acute decompensation. Initial goal of therapy is focused on symptom management followed by interventions that delay disease progression, reduce readmission, and prolong survival.