Atrial natriuretic peptide in congestive heart failure

Release of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) appears to be a compensatory response in congestive heart failure (CHF) that may counterbalance the adverse effects of stimulated renin-angiotensin and sympathetic nervous systems. We observed increased plasma ANP concentrations in CHF patients in New York Heart Association functional classes II to IV. The fact that such responses already become evident when a patient is in New York Heart Association class II supports the concept that ANP release may counteract the detrimental effects of stimulation of renin and the sympathetic nervous system even in the early phases of heart failure by promoting diuresis and natriuresis, as well as vasodilatation, thus reducing both pre- and afterload. When CHF is severe, however, the counterbalancing effects of ANP may be offset by vasoconstriction and fluid and sodium retention.