Inflammatory biomarkers in heart failure revisited: much more than innocent bystanders.
Chronic heart failure is viewed as a state of chronic inflammation. Many inflammatory markers have been shown to be up-regulated in patients who have this condition, but the markers' roles in clinical decision making have not yet been fully elucidated. A panel of biomarkers is likely to have a strong impact on patient management. Inflammatory biomarkers are interesting candidates that could answer specific clinical questions on their own or complement a multi-marker approach. This article provides a broad overview of several inflammatory biomarkers, including the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1, IL-18, and the soluble receptors TNFR-1, TNFR-2, IL-6R, and gp130. In addition to these acute phase reactants, several adhesion molecules, and lipopolysaccharide-signaling pathways are discussed.
von Haehling
Stephan
S
Department of Cardiology, Applied Cachexia Research, Charité Medical School, Berlin, Germany. stephan.von.haehling@web.de
Schefold
Joerg C
JC
Lainscak
Mitja
M
Doehner
Wolfram
W
Anker
Stefan D
SD
D000209:Acute-Phase Proteins / Q000032:analysis*; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000097:blood; D015815:Cell Adhesion Molecules / Q000097:blood*; D016207:Cytokines / Q000097:blood*; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000097:blood* / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000097:blood / Q000276:immunology
D000209:Acute-Phase Proteins; D015415:Biomarkers; D015815:Cell Adhesion Molecules; D016207:Cytokines