Predicting outcomes in acute coronary syndrome using biochemical markers

To assess risk prediction in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) during the hospital stay, at 6 weeks and at 6 months period using high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), serum creatinine, cardiac troponin I, creatine kinase total, and MB levels.

It was a prospective observational study. The primary outcome was taken as all-cause mortality. Patients with ACS were enrolled and followed up at 6 weeks and 6 months duration from the index event. Mortality and cause of death were recorded. The hs-CRP was estimated on admission, at 6 weeks, and at 6 months. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the abbreviated modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) formula at admission, at 6 weeks, and 6 months.

There were a total of 108 cases of ACS in the duration of 6 months who completed the follow-up. The hs-CRP level of >5mg/dl was highly significant for predicting mortality during hospital stay and at 6 weeks (p<0.001). There was 11% of in-hospital mortality (p<0.001). At 6 months, the overall mortality was 28% (p<0.001). There was a statistical significance with low eGFR (median eGFR 45ml/min/1.73m(2)) levels during the admission.

hs-CRP levels above 5mg/dl and the eGFR levels ≤30ml/min/1.73m(2) were significant in predicting mortality of the patients with ACS. This may provide simple assessment tools for predicting outcome in ACS in resource-poor settings if validated further.