Increased B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level has been suggested to improve clinical predictions of coronary events and all-cause mortality. We aimed to analyze the relationship between BNP levels and coronary plaque subtypes as detected by coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). 402 subjects undergoing CCTA were enrolled. The relationship between increased levels of BNP and plaque subtypes was tested using multivariable linear and logistic regression analysis. Plaques were categorized into subtypes of calcified, mixed and non-calcified. Coronary plaque was observed in 93 of 402 individuals. The participants were divided into three groups according to their serum BNP levels. Compared to those with low BNP level, subgroup with high BNP level had increased prevalence of all plaque types and mixed calcified arterial plaque (MCAP). Multivariable logistic regression analysis suggested increased BNP level predicted the MCAP. Multivariable logistic regression analysis between the presence of ≥2 plaques and BNP indicated that, subgroup with high BNP level was more likely to have MCAP than low BNP level. Our study suggests that increased BNP level is associated with MCAP detected by CCTA. Increased BNP level provides additional information about coronary artery disease in patients with stable chest pain detected by CCTA.
Keywords: B-type natriuretic peptide; Coronary computed tomography angiography; Coronary plaque; Mixed calcified arterial plaque.