International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases
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Int. J. Infect. Dis. · Sep 2004
ReviewBrain natriuretic peptide: a potential marker for mortality in septic shock.
Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a diagnostic marker for left ventricular dysfunction. Sepsis and septic shock are increasing in incidence and mortality. Myocardial dysfunction frequently accompanies severe sepsis and septic shock. ⋯ At present, a relationship between BNP with myocardial dysfunction in septic shock has not been evaluated. However, growing evidence supports the hypothesis that BNP could be an early predictor of mortality in septic shock. If proven, the hypothesis would have important clinical and public health implications.