The relationship between BNP and E/Ea in patients hospitalized with acute heart failure

BNP and echocardiographic E/Ea are variables helpful in the management of patients with heart failure (HF). The response of E/Ea to treatment for acute decompensated HF remains uncertain. This pilot study aimed to explore this relationship. 24 patients (17 male, mean age 69 years, median ejection fraction 26%) hospitalized with HF were enrolled in this study. Paired clinical examination, BNP-32 level, and echocardiogram were performed at admission and discharge. By discharge patient symptoms and BNP-32 had significantly improved, however E/Ea did not change. Our data suggests that BNP-32 and E/Ea may not be interchangeable indices and may respond differently during treatment of acute decompensated HF.