Biomarkers and Cardiovascular Risk Prediction

Once again, the addition of biomarker measures to traditional risk models was of greatest benefit to those at intermediate risk.

Several biomarkers, including C-reactive protein and N-terminal proB-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), have proven to be strongly linked to cardiovascular disease, but controversy surrounds their role in clinical risk prediction. Several recent studies have addressed the use of CRP levels, in particular (JW Cardiol Nov 26 2008 and JW Cardiol Nov 10 2008). Now, a new study adds to the debate.

In a large, population-based cohort study involving >5000 individuals, researchers explored the incremental value of various biomarkers — CRP, NT-proBNP, cystatin C, lipoprotein-associated phospholipase 2, midregional proadrenomedullin, and midregional pro-atrial natriuretic peptide — beyond that of traditional risk factors in predicting 10-year inci…

Reviewing Author

JoAnne M. Foody, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardAegerion; Amarin; Bristol-Myers Squibb; Janssen; Merck; Pfizer; Sanofi-Aventis; Boehringer Ingelheim

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Cardiology, Cardiosmart (Co-chair)

JoAnne M. Foody, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardAegerion; Amarin; Bristol-Myers Squibb; Janssen; Merck; Pfizer; Sanofi-Aventis; Boehringer Ingelheim

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Cardiology, Cardiosmart (Co-chair)