Endothelial Function: A Novel Marker to Evaluate the Prognosis of Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction

Abstract

BackgroundEndothelial function, a key determinant of prognosis in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), is still frequently under-assessed in clinical practice. The present study aimed to assess endothelial function in patients with HFrEF and investigate its association with echography and hemodynamics over a 3-month medical treatment. Additionally, this study aimed to investigate the association between changes in endothelial function and the incidence of cardiovascular rehospitalizations or deaths. MethodsThis prospective longitudinal study included 120 patients with HFrEF. Hemodynamic parameters were assessed using impedance cardiography. Endothelial function was evaluated using digital thermal monitoring to calculate the Endothelial Quality Index (EQI) at baseline and after 3 months. Patients were followed for 12 months. ResultsThe mean age was 61.9 {+/-} 10.2 years, with a sex ratio of 5:1. 42.5% of patients tend to experience endothelial dysfunction at baseline. After 3 months of optimized therapy, EQI improved significantly (p<0.001), correlating with improved echography and hemodynamic parameters. Over 12 months, there were 5 deaths (4.16%) and 44 heart failure rehospitalizations (36.6%), predominantly among those with severe endothelial dysfunction (p=0.008). Improved EQI was associated with reduced mortality (AUC = 0.82) and rehospitalization risk (AUC = 0.837). A {Delta}EQI [≥] 0.2 predicted better prognosis (HR: 0.157, 95% CI: 0.054-0.454, p=0.001). ConclusionPatients with HFrEF exhibited endothelial dysfunction. The improvement in endothelial function after an optimized treatment is associated with an enhancement in echography and hemodynamic parameters. Additionally, endothelial function was a strong prognostic marker.