Peptidi natriuretici e broncopneumopatia cronica ostruttiva nel Dipartimento di Emergenza

The findings of the present study indicate that HF is the main cause of dyspnea and hypoxia among patients with COPD who present to the ED with these symptoms. High blood levels of NT-proBNP on ED admission can alert ED physicians to the presence of HF, allowing them to prescribe appropriate treatment and make more informed decisions regarding the need for hospitalization. Low levels of NT-proBNP appear to be associated with simple COPD and low-risk that may be manageable on an outpatient basis. Measurement of NT-proBNP levels in dyspneic patients presenting to the ER is helpful for making a correct diagnosis and identifying appropriate management strategies.