Major complications of angiography are rare (about 0.1%) but can occur. They include stroke, heart attacks, and kidney damage. The more experienced the medical center in this procedure, the lower the risk.
 | Click the icon to see an image of cardiac catheterization. |
Tests for Markers
Researchers are looking for biologic factors (called biomarkers) that will confirm a diagnosis or suggest a better or worse prognosis. Many are under investigation.
Tumor Necrosis Factor. Elevated levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) may be a very strong and accurate predictor of a poor outlook. This immune substance is known to be a potent substance in the inflammatory process.
Natriuretic Peptides. Natriuretic peptides are substances that help regulate salt and water balance in the body. Levels of these peptides increase as heart failure symptoms worsen. Blood tests for brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) are now used to help diagnose heart failure. BNP testing is very helpful in correctly diagnosing heart failure in patients who come to the emergency room complaining of shortness of breath (dyspnea). A 2006 study indicated that this test can also help predict which patients with dyspnea are at greatest risk of dying within a year from heart failure.
Brain Metabolites. High levels of a compound called N-acetylaspartate, generated as a byproduct of chemical processes in the brain, may indicate a poor outlook.
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