Effusion-Serum Chloride Gradient in Heart Failure-Associated Pleural Effusion - Pathophysiologic Implications.

There is scant clinical data of electrolyte analyses in the pleural fluid under heart failure (HF) pathophysiology. This study retrospectively analyzed data from 17 consecutive patients who presented with pleural effusion and underwent thoracentesis. A diagnosis of worsening HF was established by clinical criteria (presentation, echocardiography, serum B-type natriuretic peptide, and response to therapy).

Dynamic changes in serum chloride concentrations during worsening of heart failure and its recovery following conventional diuretic therapy: A single-center study.

Background And Aims: Few data are available regarding the dynamic changes in the serum chloride concentrations in heart failure (HF) pathophysiology. The aim of the present study was to investigate changes in the serum chloride concentration under worsening HF and its recovery following conventional diuretic therapy.

Methods: Blood test data, including measurements of serum albumin/solutes and b-type natriuretic peptide, at both worsening and recovery of HF status, were obtained from 47 patients with definite HF.