Marked elevations in N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide levels in septic shock

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Abstract
Introduction: N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a cardiac biomarker that has recently shown to be of diagnostic value in a diagnosis of decompensated heart failure, acute coronary syndromes and other conditions resulting in myocardial stretch. We sought to study whether sepsis-induced myocardial dilation would result in an elevation of NT-proBNP. Method: Serum NT-proBNP measurements were made in six consecutive patients with septic shock within 6 hours of admission to the intensive care unit. Results: Markedly elevated levels of NT-proBNP were found in all six patients. Conclusions: NT-proBNP levels can be markedly elevated in critically ill patients presenting with septic shock. An elevated NT-proBNP level in a critically ill patient is not specific for decompensated heart failure.