Inflammatory biomarkers in heart failure revisited: much more than innocent bystanders.

Full Abstract

Chronic heart failure is viewed as a state of chronic inflammation. Many inflammatory markers have been shown to be up-regulated in patients who have this condition, but the markers' roles in clinical decision making have not yet been fully elucidated. A panel of biomarkers is likely to have a strong impact on patient management. Inflammatory biomarkers are interesting candidates that could answer specific clinical questions on their own or complement a multi-marker approach. This article provides a broad overview of several inflammatory biomarkers, including the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1, IL-18, and the soluble receptors TNFR-1, TNFR-2, IL-6R, and gp130. In addition to these acute phase reactants, several adhesion molecules, and lipopolysaccharide-signaling pathways are discussed.

Author information

Author/s: von Haehling, Stephan (S); Schefold, Joerg C (JC); Lainscak, Mitja (M); Doehner, Wolfram (W); Anker, Stefan D (SD);

Affiliation: Department of Cardiology, Applied Cachexia Research, Charité Medical School, Berlin, Germany. stephan.von.haehling(-atsign-)web.de

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Review

Journal: Heart failure clinics (Heart Fail Clin), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Oct; vol 5 (issue 4) : pp 549-60

Dates: Created 2009/07/27; Completed 2009/10/28;

PMID: 19631179, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 10/28/2009, IMS Date: )

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