Comparative Value of Simple Inflammatory Markers in the Prediction of Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction in Postacute Coronary Syndrome Patients

Objectives . We sought to assess the comparative value of inflammatory markers on the occurrence of left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) after an acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods . During 2006–2008, 760 patients with an ACS were enrolled. C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cell (WBC) count were measured during the first 12 hours of hospital admission. Results . CRP levels and WBC count were significantly higher in those who developed LVSD compared to those who did not. The analysis revealed that a 10 mg/dL increase of CRP levels and a 1000/ μ L increase in WBC are associated with a 6% and a 7% increase in the likelihood of developing LVSD, respectively. Furthermore, WBC count at entry and CRP have almost the same predictive value for development of LVSD after an ACS ( R 2 = 0.109 versus R 2 = 0.093). Conclusions . Serum CRP levels and WBC count at entry are almost equally powerful independent predictors of LVSD, after an ACS.