Do BNP Levels Predict Outcomes from COPD Flares? Don’t Hold Your Breath

BNP level did not predict mortality in the hospital, at 6 months, or at 2 years.

Increased secretion of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) might be associated with pulmonary hypertension, sympathetic stimulation, and hypoxia. These authors hypothesized that BNP is a predictor of acute and long-term (2-year) mortality and intensive care unit (ICU) admission in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In an observational study, the authors assessed BNP levels and outcomes in 208 patients who presented to a single emergency department with acute exacerbation of COPD. The patients were enrolled in a Swiss trial of antibiotic therapy.

BNP levels at ED presentation or hospital admission were significantly higher in patients who required ICU admission than in those who did not (105 vs. 60 …

Reviewing Author

Tiffany M. Osborn, MD