Correlation Between B line in Lung Ultrasound and Plasma NT-proBNP Level in Patients with Acute Heart Failure

Abstract

Background: Acute heart failure (AHF) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although this is a common cause of dyspnoea, its diagnosis still represents a challenge. Lung ultrasound (LUS) is an emerging point-of-care diagnostic tool.

Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the Correlation between B line in lung ultrasound and plasma NT-proBNP level in patients with acute heart failure & thus to assess the predictive value of B line in patients with suspected acute heart failure.

Materials and Method: Crosssectional observational study conducted in cardiology department of BSMMU from October 2020 to September 2021. Study procedure: 36 patients presenting with of shortness of breath or heart failure diagnosis were enrolled meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria. The number of B-lines by Lung Ultrasound was measured. Correlation between number of B-lines on lung ultrasonography and NT-proBNP level were analyzed. Results: There is a positive correlation between the number of B-lines and the NT-proBNP levels (r=0.55, p< 0.01) in acute heart failure patients.

Conclusion: Patients presenting with acute shortness of breath with raised NTproBNP level, B line detection &quantification by lung ultrasound can be used as a tool for a faster diagnosis and decision-making on lung congestion in acute heart failure.

University Heart Journal 2023; 19(1): 15-19