Association Between Systemic Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin and Anemia, Relative Hypochromia, and Inflammation in Chronic Systolic Heart Failure

Abstract

Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is upregulated systemically and by renal tubular cells in response to inflammation and ischemia. Recent interests in NGAL have focused on its ability to predict worsening renal function. However, as an iron-regulatory glycoprotein, the relationship between systemic NGAL levels and indices of anemia has not been examined. In 130 patients with chronic systolic heart failure, the authors examined the relationship between plasma NGAL levels and indices of anemia independent of underlying renal function and systemic markers of inflammation and oxidant stress. Plasma NGAL levels were significantly elevated in patients with anemia vs without anemia (121 [interquartile range, 98-197] vs 72 [interquartile range, 57-98]ng/mL, P