Bmc Med
-
Multicenter Study
Implementation of genotype-guided dosing of warfarin with point-of-care genetic testing in three UK clinics: a matched cohort study.
Warfarin is a widely used oral anticoagulant. Determining the correct dose required to maintain the international normalised ratio (INR) within a therapeutic range can be challenging. In a previous trial, we showed that a dosing algorithm incorporating point-of-care genotyping information ('POCT-GGD' approach) led to improved anticoagulation control. To determine whether this approach could translate into clinical practice, we undertook an implementation project using a matched cohort design. ⋯ In the first demonstration of the implementation of genotype-guided dosing, we show that warfarin dosing determined using an algorithm incorporating genetic and clinical factors can be implemented smoothly into clinic, to ensure target INR range is reached sooner and maintained. The findings are like our previous randomised controlled trial, providing an alternative method for improving the risk-benefit of warfarin use in daily practice.
-
Multicenter Study Clinical Trial Observational Study
B-type natriuretic peptide trumps other prognostic markers in patients assessed for coronary disease.
Risk prediction for patients with suspected coronary artery disease is complex due to the common occurrence of prior cardiovascular disease and extensive risk modification in primary care. Numerous markers have the potential to predict prognosis and guide management, but we currently lack robust 'real-world' evidence for their use. ⋯ Conventional risk factors and other markers of arterial compliance, inflammation and autonomic function have limited value for prediction of outcomes in risk-modified patients assessed for coronary disease. BNP can independently identify patients with subtle impairment of cardiac function that might benefit from more intensive management.