Background: The exact time-course of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and the prognostic importance in the immediate phase of ischemic stroke have not been established.
Methods: NT-proBNP was measured daily from admission to day 5 and again at 6-month follow-up in 250 consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke.
Results: NT-proBNP peaked the day after onset of symptoms (p = 0.007) followed by a decrease until day 5 (p = 0.001, ANOVA). At 6-month follow-up the difference in the level of NT-proBNP was unchanged compared to day 5 (p = 0.42). NT-proBNP levels > or =615 pg/ml at day 2 after onset of symptoms was associated with 6-month mortality.
Conclusion: NT-proBNP peaks the day after onset of symptoms in patients with acute ischemic stroke. A single measurement of NT-proBNP appears to be an indicator of 6-month mortality.
Copyright (c) 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel.