Understanding cardiac biomarkers in end-stage kidney disease: Frequently asked questions and the promise of clinical application

Abstract

A novel strategy in the management of cardiovascular disease in patients with end-stage kidney disease is the use of biochemical markers to facilitate the detection of cardiovascular abnormalities in the hope that this will allow effective therapy to be instituted earlier. The cardiac troponins and B-type natriuretic peptide are among the best studied of these biochemical markers of cardiovascular disease. However, controversy remains regarding the interpretation of such results and the subsequent clinical application of these biomarkers, particularly when abnormal in patients with end-stage kidney disease. This review addresses some of the important issues to consider with the interpretation of abnormal cardiac troponin and B-type natriuretic peptide results in patients undergoing dialysis.