Reduction in plasma concentrations of N terminal pro B type natriuretic peptide following percutaneous coronary intervention

METHODS The study population was recruited from a larger prospective study of risk factors for coronary in-stent restenosis. 2 To define an elevated baseline value, NTproBNP was measured in a group of 30 healthy volunteers of similar age and sex distribution (mean age 50 years, 83% male) to the patient group who had no history or clinical signs of cardiovascular disease, and underwent comprehensive non-invasive testing to exclude cardiac pathology. Raised plasma BNP and NTproBNP predict adverse prognosis in a number of clinical states, and it has been suggested that the assessment of BNP may identify high risk patients with acute coronary syndromes who could benefit from early aggressive intervention. 5 In heart failure, treatment titrated to reduce plasma NTproBNP improves clinical outcome compared to standard clinical practice. 6 We have demonstrated a significant and sustained reduction in NTproBNP in patients undergoing PCI who had raised concentrations before the intervention.