Cardiac resynchronization induces favorable neurohumoral changes

Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 2005 Apr;28(4):304-10. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2005.09508.x.

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this article is to examine whether cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) induces improvements in the neurohumoral system.

Methods and results: Thirteen patients with HF (left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction <35%) were included. Before and after 6 months of CRT, myocardial (123)I-metaiodobenzylguanidine ((123)I-MIBG) uptake indices, used as an index of neural norepinephrine reuptake and retention, and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels, used as an index of LV end-diastolic pressure, NYHA classification and echocardiographic indices were assessed. Six months of CRT resulted in significant improvement in (1) NYHA classification and reduction in QRS width (P < 0.001), (2) decrease of LV end-diastolic diameter (P = 0.005), LV end-systolic diameter (P = 0.005), septal to lateral delay (P = 0.01) and mitral regurgitation (MR, P = 0.04), (3) delayed (123)I-MIBG heart/mediastinum ratios improved (P = 0.03) and (123)I-MIBG washout decreased (P = 0.001), and (4) BNP levels decreased (P = 0.001).

Conclusions: Parallel to significant functional improvement and echocardiographic reverse remodeling and resynchronization, our data indicate that CRT induces favorable changes in the neurohumoral system.

MeSH terms

  • 3-Iodobenzylguanidine
  • Cardiac Pacing, Artificial*
  • Echocardiography, Doppler
  • Female
  • Heart Failure / blood*
  • Heart Failure / diagnostic imaging
  • Heart Failure / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Natriuretic Peptide, Brain / blood*
  • Radionuclide Imaging
  • Radiopharmaceuticals

Substances

  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Natriuretic Peptide, Brain
  • 3-Iodobenzylguanidine