Correlations Between BNP & Dry Weight, and Between Troponin & Mortality, in Hemodialysis Patients

Beta Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) is regarded as the most sensitive test for congestive heart failure (CHF). BNP has also been found to be highly predictive of other conditions including pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary embolism and in the general population where mild increases are associated with stroke and heart attack. BNP is also weakly and variably correlated with renal function. We believe that each dialysis patient will have an ideal or "dry" BNP level which will accurately and reproducibly reflect their optimal fluid status. Secondary hypotheses are that baseline BNP and troponin, as well as changes in BNP and troponin during dialysis, will be highly predictive of mortality and adequacy of dialysis.