Biomarkers in Advanced Heart Failure: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Insights

Abstract

Publications regarding the potential clinical utility of biomarker testing in the management of heart failure have been exponentially increasing over the last decade. The majority of non‐cardiac biomarkers are commonly used to identify end‐organ dysfunction or comorbidities. The diagnostic utility of natriuretic peptide testing has been well‐established. Despite consistently demonstrating their prognostic values and some promising initial results, treatment guided by natriuretic peptide testing is still debated. Although cardiac troponins have been extensively used in diagnosis of myocardial injury, their primary use of biomarkers in advanced heart failure is prognostication and risk stratification. Congest Heart Fail. Congest Heart Fail. 2011;17:169–174. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.