Relationships between NT-proBNP and novel biochemical parameters and increased cardiovascular risk in COVID-19 NT-proBNP levels and novel inflammatory biomarkers in COVID-19

Aim: The ongoing pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection has been declared a global emergency. Although most people have had mad illness due to this infection, some patients are seriously affected with complications particularly involving the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Although respiratory system involvement is in the foreground, cardiovascular complications result in worse clinical outcomes. The aim of this study is to compare the levels of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte, lymphocyte-to-monocyte, and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios, which are accepted as markers of negative outcomes in cases of cardiovascular diseases, of patients with COVID-19 and healthy subjects and reveal the increased risk of cardiovascular disease in patients with COVID-19. Material and Methods: This prospective study was designed In a single center and included 33 patients with COVID-19 (Group 1) and 33 healthy subjects selected from among healthcare professionals (Group 2). The NT-proBNP levels and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte, lymphocyte-to-monocyte, and platelet-tolymphocyte ratios were compared between the groups. Results: NT-proBNP levels, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios, and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios were statistically significantly higher in the patients with COVID-19 (p<0.0001) and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratios were statistically significantly lower in the same group (p<0.0001). Discussion: Cardiovascular manifestations result in worse outcomes in patients with COVID-19 even though the disease primarily affects the respiratory system. Early detection of this clinical situation and the taking of precautions have vital importance in the progress of the disease. The NT-proBNP level and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte, lymphocyte-to-monocyte, and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios are inexpensive, easy, fast, and reproducible parameters that can be used in the determination of probable cardiovascular events that may develop during COVID-19 and enable early optimal treatment strategies for patients.