Possible vascular role of increased plasma arginine vasopressin in congestive heart failure

Abstract Background The present study was undertaken to determine the relation of cardiac dysfunction with hormonal release in patients with congestive heart failure. Methods Seventy-two patients with congestive heart failure were examined, who were divided into four subgroups classified by the criteria of the New York Heart Association (NYHA). Also, 10 age-matched subjects were served as a control. Plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP), norepinephrine, atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) were determined. Cardiac index and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) were measured in 51 of 72 patients. Results Plasma AVP levels were significantly increased according to the severity of NYHA classes; control: 1.7±0.2; NYHA I: 4.9±0.8, NYHA II: 5.5±0.9, NYHA III: 13.4±2.6 ( p p r =−0.36, p r =0.44, p Conclusion The present study indicates that increased AVP may deteriorate cardiac function through V 1a as well as V 2 action, and that plasma AVP level is also a proper marker for the presence and severity of congestive heart failure.