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Figure 1 Evaluation of Heart Failure During COPD Exacerbation
Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) serum levels and detection of chronic heart failure (CHF) in patients with exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). CHF is unlikely when BNP levels are <100 pg/ml. A BNP level of >500 pg/ml indicates overt left-sided (L) CHF and the need for treatment. BNP levels ranging from 100 to 500 pg/ml indicate right-sided (R) heart failure, moderate left-sided heart failure, or both and the need for treatment. Once patients have returned to baseline status, cardiac imaging needs to be performed and therapy adjusted. 2D = 2-dimensional; ACE = angiotensin-converting enzyme; RNV = radionuclide ventriculography.
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