Cardiac biomarkers in Neonatology

Abstract

In this thesis, the role for cardiac biomarkers in neonatology was investigated. Several clinically relevant results were reported. In term and preterm infants, hypoxia and subsequent adaptation play an important role in cardiac biomarker elevation. The elevated natriuretic peptides are indicative of abnormal function; elevated troponins are suggestive for cardiomyocyte damage. This methodology makes these biomarkers of additional value in the treatment of newborn infants, separate or as a combination. It was concluded that cardiac biomarkers are close to perfection. They are relatively inexpensive to determine, have a high reproducibility and can be measured in most hospitals. As an indicator of a possible rebound of PPHN, BNP has a high sensitivity and specificity. However, the interpretation and implementation need further investigation.