Which biomarker is commonly used to support the diagnosis of heart failure?

Which biomarker is commonly used to support the diagnosis of heart failure?

• A. Troponin I
• B. BNP or NT-proBNP
• C. HbA1c
• D. ALT

Answer: (B)

BNP and NT-proBNP are hormones released by the heart’s ventricles in response to increased wall stress from fluid overload or pressure buildup. When someone presents with symptoms like shortness of breath or leg swelling, measuring these natriuretic peptides helps distinguish heart failure from other causes of dyspnea, such as a primary lung problem. A high level supports the diagnosis of heart failure and the amount often correlates with how severe the failure is and can guide prognosis and management. These tests are especially useful because they can be used at the bedside to quickly steer care and determine whether imaging or diuretic therapy is appropriate. Troponin I is a marker of myocardial injury, such as during a heart attack, and while it can be elevated in acute heart failure, it does not diagnose heart failure itself. HbA1c reflects long-term blood glucose control and is not a marker of heart function. ALT is a liver enzyme and is not involved in diagnosing heart failure.

BNP and NT-proBNP are hormones released by the heart’s ventricles in response to increased wall stress from fluid overload or pressure buildup. When someone presents with symptoms like shortness of breath or leg swelling, measuring these natriuretic peptides helps distinguish heart failure from other causes of dyspnea, such as a primary lung problem. A high level supports the diagnosis of heart failure and the amount often correlates with how severe the failure is and can guide prognosis and management. These tests are especially useful because they can be used at the bedside to quickly steer care and determine whether imaging or diuretic therapy is appropriate.

Troponin I is a marker of myocardial injury, such as during a heart attack, and while it can be elevated in acute heart failure, it does not diagnose heart failure itself. HbA1c reflects long-term blood glucose control and is not a marker of heart function. ALT is a liver enzyme and is not involved in diagnosing heart failure.