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Published on: October 2, 2020
Biomarkers in predicting mortality and treatment in hemodialysis patients
1Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong 102 Pok Fu Lam Road Hong Kong.
Insights
Natriuretic peptides and cardiac troponin T (cTnT) are elevated in hemodialysis patients. This review explores their utility as biomarkers for predicting outcomes and guiding treatment in this population.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Nephrology
- Biomarkers
Background:
- Circulating natriuretic peptides and cardiac troponin T (cTnT) are established biomarkers for cardiovascular conditions.
- Elevated levels of these markers are common in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients.
- This elevation poses a challenge for their diagnostic and prognostic utility in the ESRD population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current role of natriuretic peptides and cTnT.
- To assess their predictive value for outcomes in hemodialysis patients.
- To evaluate their utility in guiding treatment strategies for hemodialysis patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on natriuretic peptides and cTnT in hemodialysis.
- Analysis of data regarding the association of these biomarkers with patient outcomes.
- Synthesis of evidence on treatment implications.
Main Results:
- Natriuretic peptides and cTnT levels are frequently elevated in hemodialysis patients.
- Despite elevations, these biomarkers can retain prognostic value.
- Specific cut-offs and interpretations may be necessary for this population.
Conclusions:
- Natriuretic peptides and cTnT remain important, albeit complex, biomarkers in hemodialysis.
- Further research is needed to refine their use in predicting outcomes and optimizing treatment.
- Careful interpretation is crucial for leveraging their clinical utility in ESRD.
Abstract:
Circulating natriuretic peptides are useful biomarkers of left ventricular dysfunction and heart failure in the general population. Cardiac troponin T (cTnT) is also considered a sensitive marker of myocardial injury. However, the fact that levels of circulating natriuretic peptides and cTnT are almost invariably increased in end-stage renal disease patients has been considered a major limitation for their use as diagnostic or prognostic tools in this population. We provide an updated review on the role of natriuretic peptides and cTnT as biomarkers in predicting outcome and treatment in the hemodialysis population.
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