Risk stratification in hypertension: NT-proBNP and R wave in aVL lead combination better than echocardiographic left ventricular mass.

Objectives: Plasma N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and R wave in aVL lead (RaVL) have been associated with mortality in hypertension. The aim of the current study was to compare the prognostic value of their combination to that of the left ventricular mass index (LVMI) assessed by echocardiography.

Methods: A total of 1104 hypertensive patients who had at baseline an assessment of plasma NT-proBNP, a 12-lead ECG, and echocardiography were included.