Randomised controlled trial of continuous positive airway pressure and standard oxygen therapy in acute pulmonary oedema. Effects on plasma brain natriuretic peptide concentrations

Aims The study aim was to compare the effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on clinical outcomes and plasma neurohormonal concentrations in patients with acute pulmonary oedema. Methods and Results In addition to standard therapy, 58 consecutive patients were randomized to receive 60% inhaled oxygen with or without CPAP at 7·5cmH2O pressure. Clinical variables, symptoms and oxygenation were monitored and plasma epinephrine, norepinephrine and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) concentrations estimated at 0, 1, 6 and 24h. CPAP was associated with less breathlessness at 1h (P