Screening for left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the community.

Background: Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease and is common among patients with type 2 diabetes. However, no systematic screening for LVH is currently recommended for patients with type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this study was to determine whether NT-proBNP was superior to 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG) for detection of LVH in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Prognostic role of echocardiography and brain natriuretic peptide in symptomatic breathless patients in the community.

Aims: Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), left ventricular (LV) systolic function, and mitral filling pattern (MFP) are prognostic indicators in patients with heart failure (HF). This study evaluated the potential role of E/Ea for predicting cardiovascular (CV) events in patients with suspected HF. This non-invasive measure of LV filling pressure has been shown to predict outcome in more advanced HF, but not in mild HF in the community.

The effect of an integrated care approach for heart failure on general practice.

Background: Recent studies have investigated specific strategies for heart failure management. None has involved collaboration between primary and secondary care. Potential gains for patients may result from collaborative strategies.

Randomised trials in general practice--a New Zealand experience in recruitment.

Aim: To examine general practitioner (GP) and patient recruitment in a randomised clinical trial to determine the usefulness of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) in the diagnosis of heart failure in the community.

Methods: Different techniques were used to maximise GP recruitment including early consultation with GPs, benefits for participating GPs and patients, and a comprehensive suburb-by-suburb approach to GPs using letters and personal visits. GPs then referred patients.

Plasma amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide and accuracy of heart-failure diagnosis in primary care: a randomized, controlled trial.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (N-BNP) on the diagnostic accuracy of heart failure (HF) in primary care.

Background: The accurate diagnosis of patients with suspected HF presenting in primary care is difficult. Amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide is present in high levels in cardiac dysfunction and may improve the diagnostic accuracy of HF in primary care.