Biomarkers in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Abstract

Chronic heart failure is increasing in prevalence throughout the world and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries (Phan et al., Int J Cardiol 158:337-343, 2012). Clinical research has focused primarily on patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), but it is now understood that up to half of all patients with heart failure have preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) (Phan et al., Int J Cardiol 158:337-343, 2012). The patients who suffer from HFpEF are usually older, have worse systemic hypertension, and are more often female compared to patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. Mortality can be high for patients with HFpEF, with 70 % of all-cause mortality attributed to cardiovascular etiologies (Phan et al., Int J Cardiol 158:337-343, 2012). Multiple biomarkers have demonstrated a role in HFpEF and may be used to help aid in clinical decision-making. These include traditional markers such as naturetic peptides and troponin, as well as novel markers such as ST2 and Galectin-3.