CARDIOPULMONARY EXERCISE TESTING RESPONSES AND PRO-BNP VALUES IN ADULTS WITH MILD DEGREES OF DIASTOLIC DYSFUNCTION

Diastolic dysfunction (DD) can range from a process of normal aging to overt heart failure (HF). Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) variables (VO2max and VE/VCO2 slope), and pro-BNP values are abnormal in diastolic HF patients. These CPET parameters have not previously been investigated in adults with varying degrees of DD without clinical HF. Ten subjects with grade 1, and twelve with grade 2 DD had pro-BNP values measured, and subseqeuntly underwent CPET assessment. No subjects with grade 3 or 4 DD were eligible for enrollment based on pre-existing HF or co-morbidities. CPET responses were normal for all individuals and without significant differences between grade I and II DD. Pro-BNP values were significantly higher in those with grade II dysfunction but still under a threshold consistent with HF. We conclude that adults with grade 1 or 2 DD have normal and prognostically favorable CPET responses and pro-BNP values.