Left ventricular remodeling in the first year after acute myocardial infarction and the predictive value of N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide

Background Left ventricular (LV) remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI) has received much attention because of its severe impact on morbidity and mortality rates. However, the incidence and extent of LV remodeling in a modern infarct population who were offered antiremodeling treatment in compliance with daily clinical practice is unknown. The purpose of this study was to clarify this issue and to evaluate the predictive value of N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). Methods Forty-two patients with a first transmural MI were examined after I week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year with blood samples and magnetic resonance imaging. Results In 12 patients (29%), LV end-diastolic volume index (LVEDVI) and LV end-systolic volume index (LVESVI) increased by 24% and 22% (P <.0001; P = .01). In 12 patients (29%), LVEDVI and LVESVI decreased by 19% and 23% (P <.0001; P = .0005), whereas the remaining 18 patients (43%) had stable conditions regarding these LV measures. LV ejection fraction at baseline was significantly reduced in all patient categories but was unchanged over time. Elevated NT-proBNP level at baseline was identified as an independent predictor of increase in LVEDVI during follow-up examination (P = .007). A baseline level of NT-proBNP > 115 pmol/L identified patients who later had LV dilatation develop with a sensitivity and specificity of 89% and 68% (area under curve = 0.77). Conclusion In this 1-year follow-up study of patients with a first transmural MI, approximately 30% had significant increments develop in LVEDVI and LVESVI, and LV ejection fraction remained unchanged. Patients in whom LV dilatation developed could be identified early after the MI with elevated plasma levels of NT-proBNP.