Copeptin Levels Predict Mortality in Patients with Heart Failure Symptoms

Independently and combined with N-terminal proBNP, a new biomarker was significantly associated with mortality risk in a primary-care cohort.

Biomarkers such as N-terminal proB-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) can refine the diagnosis of — and risk prediction for — heart failure (HF). Preliminary studies suggest that copeptin, the C-terminal fragment of vasopressin, provides a relatively stable estimate of vasopressin levels and might also be useful as a prognostic marker in patients with HF or other cardiovascular diseases. These investigators assessed the incremental value of copeptin as a predictor of death and cardiovascular mortality in 470 adults with HF symptoms (mean age, 73; 73% with a normal left ventricular ejection fraction) seen at a primary-care clinic in Sweden.

During a median follow-up of 13 years, compared with patients in the lowest quartile of copeptin leve…

Reviewing Author

Frederick A. Masoudi, MD, MSPH, FACC, FAHA

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardBristol Myers Squibb; CPC Clinical Research

Grant/Research SupportNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Editorial BoardsUpToDate; American College of Cardiology Self-Assessment Program (SAP)

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican College of Cardiology (Chair, Innovations Committee)