The correlation between brain natriuretic peptide levels and six-minute walk distances in patients with heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction

Abstract

Patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fractions (HFpEF) often have complex presentations and have significant comorbidity. This diagnosis occurs more frequently in older women with hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. Their cardiac disorder and their comorbidity limit their physical activity levels. Management of these patients requires regular follow-up with adjustment of the medication, if needed. Trends in simple laboratory tests, such as a brain natriuretic peptide levels, could help determine responses to treatment and prognosis. This study analyzed the correlation between BNP levels and six-minute walk test distances in patients with established HFpEF. The study included 21 patients with a mean age of 61.1 ± 9.1 years. All patients had hypertension, 11 patients had diabetes, and 10 patients had chronic kidney disease. The mean BNP level was 490.0 ± 653.5 pg/mL. The mean six-minute walk distance was 300.4 meters ± 120.8 meters. There was no significant correlation between the six-minute walk distance and the BNP. Consequently, this study demonstrates that routine measurement of BNP levels does not provide significant information about the patient’s overall physical performance level.

Keywords: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, brain natriuretic peptide, six-minute walk distance