8 months ago
Blood Test Predicts HCM Complications
Scientists have found a way to use a simple blood test to predict how serious heart disease might be for people with a condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).
HCM makes the heart muscle thicker, which can cause problems like heart failure or sudden death.
The test measures a special protein called NT-proBNP in the blood, which goes up when the heart is working too hard.
High levels of this protein can show that a person might need more serious treatment, while low levels might mean they can just be monitored.
This test could help doctors make better decisions about who needs what kind of care, making treatment more personal and effective.
More research is needed, but this could be a big step forward for people living with HCM.
Researchers developed a blood test to predict complications in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients.
The test measures NT-proBNP levels, which indicate heart strain and treatment effectiveness.
High NT-proBNP levels correlate with severe HCM symptoms and reduced exercise capacity.
The test could help personalize treatment, distinguishing between patients needing aggressive intervention and those who can be monitored.
More studies are needed to establish thresholds and refine treatment protocols.
- Who
- Researchers from Harvard Medical School and the University of Oxford
- What
- Developed a blood test to predict heart disease complications in HCM patients
- Where
- Research conducted at Harvard Medical School and the University of Oxford
- When
- Study results published in 2024
- Why
- To predict which HCM patients are at risk of life-threatening complications
Key facts
- Condition
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- Protein Marker
- NT-proBNP
- Study Participants
- 700 patients with HCM
- NT-proBNP Level Change
- Higher levels indicate heart strain
- Test Method
- Standard blood draw
- Research Institutions
- Harvard Medical School, University of Oxford
- Publication
- European Heart Journal
Quotes
Professor Carolyn Ho
Professor at Harvard Medical School
“Continued studies on blood biomarkers will lead to better understanding of HCM so that, in future, we can offer our patients a blood test to identify who is at high versus low risk of experiencing serious consequences of the disease.”
NDTV
“People with the highest risk could be targeted for potentially life-saving treatments as they stand to receive the greatest benefit, while those at lowest risk could avoid unnecessary treatment.”
NDTV
Lara Johnson
HCM patient from Southampton
“Living with HCM brings constant uncertainty, and a simple blood test to assess future risks could reduce anxiety and help patients plan their lives better.”
NDTV
