Recent advances in the diagnosis of heart failure.
Heart failure has reached epidemic proportions and the prevalence is increasing. The accurate and efficient diagnosis of heart failure remains problematic, as signs and symptoms are neither sensitive nor specific. Recent advances in the diagnosis of this condition include a conceptual change in what constitutes heart failure, a greater understanding of heart failure with preserved systolic function, and an abundance of data supporting the use of neurohormonal assays, particularly brain-type natriuretic peptide. These factors will help facilitate earlier diagnosis and targeted treatment of patients with this malady.
O'Neill
James O
JO
Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Desk F25, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
Taylor
David O
DO
D015415:Biomarkers / Q000097:blood; D003935:Diagnostic Techniques, Cardiovascular / Q000639:trends; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D020097:Natriuretic Peptide, Brain / Q000097:blood; D045265:Natriuretic Peptides / Q000097:blood; D012720:Severity of Illness Index
D015415:Biomarkers; D045265:Natriuretic Peptides; D020097:Natriuretic Peptide, Brain