Biomarkers in paediatric heart failure: is there value?

A biomarker is any measurable, surrogate characteristic, which reflects either the presence or the absence of a disease state. This can be a blood test, an imaging characteristic, an exercise parameter, and even a genetic profile. Serum biomarkers are particularly attractive in that their cost to the patient is relatively low in terms of money, time, risk, and ease of obtaining a sample. The potential benefits of a good biomarker are manifold. This manuscript will review serum biomarkers of proposed utility in paediatric heart failure, especially with respect to their ability to aid clinical decision making, diagnosis, and prognosis.