Estimated plasma volume status in heart failure: clinical implications and future directions

Clin Res Cardiol. 2021 Aug;110(8):1159-1172. doi: 10.1007/s00392-020-01794-8. Epub 2021 Jan 6.

Abstract

Congestion is one of the main predictors of poor outcome in patients with heart failure (HF). Assessing and monitoring congestion is essential for optimizing HF therapy. Among the various available methods, serial measurements of estimated plasma volume (ePVS) using routine blood count and/or body weight (e.g., the Strauss, Duarte, Hakim formulas) may be useful in HF management. Further prospective study is warranted to determine whether ePVS can help optimize decongestion therapy (loop diuretics, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, SGLT2i) in various HF settings. This narrative review summarizes the recent evidence supporting the association of ePVS with clinical congestion and outcome(s) and discusses future directions for monitoring ePVS in HF.

Keywords: Congestion; Heart failure; Hematocrit; Hemoglobin; Plasma volume.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers / blood
  • Cardiovascular Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Heart Failure / blood*
  • Heart Failure / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Plasma Volume*
  • Predictive Value of Tests

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Cardiovascular Agents