Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate is a Predictive Factor for High-Sensitivity Cardiac Troponin T in a Community-Based 4.8-year Prospective Study

Objectives: Persistent elevation of cardiac troponin T (cTnT), which is considered as a sensitive and specific biomarker of myocardial injury, is frequently observed in patients with renal insufficiency. Meanwhile, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is an independent risk factor of cardiovascular diseases. With a highly sensitive assay, the prevalence of detectable highly sensitive cTnT (hs-cTnT) is greatly improved even in general population. The aim of this study was to better understand the relationship between renal function (eGFR) and myocardial injury (hs-cTnT) in a community-based population. Methods: We analyzed the relationship between baseline eGFR and follow-up hs-cTnT, and the change of hs-cTnT in 1354 participants after 4.8 years follow-up. Results: In Pearson’s correlation analysis, baseline eGFR showed a negative relationship with follow-up hs-cTnT (r=-0.439; P < 0.001). In multiple linear regression analysis, baseline eGFR was independently and negatively associated with follow-up hs-cTnT (β=-0.310, P = 0.005). Stepwise logistic regression models revealed that baseline eGFR was significantly associated with the change in hs-cTnT after 4.8 years follow-up. However, the change in eGFR was not associated with the change in hs-cTnT. Conclusions: Baseline eGFR levels were independently and negatively associated with follow-up hs-cTnT. Furthermore, baseline eGFR levels were an independent predictor of the change in hs-cTnT 4.8 years follow-up, indicating a relationship between renal function and myocardial injury in a community-based population.