Which diagnostic test is essential to confirm heart failure?

Confirming heart failure involves several key diagnostic tests, and the combination of pro-BNP testing, assessment of heart ejection fraction (specifically for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, or HFrEF), and ECG is particularly crucial.

Pro-BNP, or N-terminal pro b-type Natriuretic Peptide, is a biomarker that is released in response to ventricular stretch and volume overload, which are common in heart failure. Elevated levels of pro-BNP can indicate heart failure, making it an essential component of the diagnostic approach.

The measurement of heart ejection fraction is vital as it helps classify the type of heart failure present. In cases of HFrEF, the ejection fraction is typically less than 40%, which indicates significant myocardial dysfunction. This information aids in guiding treatment options and managing heart failure effectively.

An ECG (electrocardiogram) complements this assessment by providing information about the heart’s electrical activity, identifying any arrhythmias or ischemic changes that may be occurring due to the underlying heart condition.

Together, these three tests provide a comprehensive approach to diagnosing heart failure, establishing not just the presence of the condition but also its type and severity, allowing for a more targeted treatment strategy.