The diagnostic workup always starts with a detailed history and physical examination. Special investigations include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram (to assess the heart chambers and thickness of the heart muscle [myocardium]), colour duplex sonography (to determine cardiac output and evaluate blood flow) and chest X-ray (heart and lungs). Other available techniques are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and, in special cases only, cardiac catheter studies.

NT-proBNP – a specific marker of heart failure
In response to the stretch stimulus induced by increased wall tension, natriuretic peptides are produced in the ventricles of the heart and released into the circulation. In particular, amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a useful diagnostic marker for detecting early heart failure. NT-proBNP measurement is a rapid and reliable diagnostic test for heart failure – whether in the doctor’s office, patient’s home or the emergency room.