Clinical cardiology
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Clinical cardiology · May 2007
Comparative StudyTroponin, B-type natriuretic peptides and outcomes in severe heart failure: differences between ischemic and dilated cardiomyopathies.
Ischemic (ISCM) and idiopathic dilated (IDCM) cardiomyopathies have different responses to therapy and outcomes. Both may demonstrate elevations in troponin and B-type natriuretic peptides, but biomarker levels have not been reported to differ as a function of the etiology of heart failure (HF). Accordingly, we compared these biomarkers in patients with chronic HF. ⋯ Patients with acutely decompensated chronic HF have elevations in troponin and BNP. These elevations, as well as mortality are significantly higher in patients with ISCM compared to IDCM. The differential levels in biomarkers may be due to differences in disease pathogenesis, and fit with the adverse prognosis in these patients.
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Clinical cardiology · May 2007
Clinical TrialPortable enhanced external counterpulsation for acute coronary syndrome and cardiogenic shock: a pilot study.
Enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) currently is used as an outpatient therapy for patients with refractory chronic angina. ⋯ EECP is safe and feasible for acute bedside therapy of critically ill patients with acute coronary syndrome and/or cardiogenic shock who are not candidates for IABP.