Evaluation of plasma brain natriuretic peptide levels in children with congenital heart diseases

Background and aim The prevalence of congenital heart disease (CHD) is 3.5–17.5 per 1000 live births. Natriuretic peptides are biologically active molecules secreted by the ventricular musculature in response to volume or pressure overload, causing vasodilation, natriuresis, and diuresis, which leads to improved myocardial relaxation. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value and possible correlation of plasma brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels with CHD and each of the hemodynamic, ECG, and echocardiographic data in pediatric CHD. Patients and methods This is an observational prospective study carried out on 60 children (40 cases with CHD and 20 controls) with ages between 2 months to 10 years, admitted at Pediatrics Department Al-Azhar University hospital (Assiut) from November 1, 2021 to November 30, 2023. Demographic data, anthropometric measurements, vital signs, and systemic examination were performed on all participants, as well as chest radiograph, ECG, echocardiography, laboratory investigation, and assay of plasma level of BNP. Results Anthropometric measurements were significantly lower in cases of CHD compared to controls ( P 7690 pg/ml) showed a sensitivity of 93.3% and specificity of 76%. Conclusion Elevated plasma BNP levels should be considered a significant diagnostic marker in children with CHD, particularly those who developed congestive heart failure; however, BNP proved to be a nonsignificant prognostic factor.