Factors Leading to Elevated Cardiac Biomarkers in Severe Community-Acquired Pneumonia

Objective: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a significant public health issue with high morbidity and mortality rates. This study aims to evaluate the risk factors contributing to the increase in cardiac biomarkers in patients with severe CAP. Materials and Methods: The study has a retrospective and cross-sectional design. A total of 70 patients diagnosed with CAP and followed in the Pulmonology Department and Intensive Care Unit of Aydın Adnan Menderes University between September 2015 and February 2020 were included in the study. Demographic data, comorbidities, vital signs, laboratory results, and cardiac biomarker levels (troponin, Pro-BNP, CK-MB) were recorded in detail, and comparisons were made between subgroups. Results: Of the patients, 68.6% were male, with a mean age of 73.05 ± 13.77 years. At least one comorbidity was present in 92.8% of the patients, with hypertension, COPD, and diabetes mellitus being the most frequently observed. CK-MB levels showed significant positive correlations with CURB-65 and Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI) scores. Troponin levels were significantly elevated in patients with impaired consciousness, Pro-BNP levels in those who developed arrhythmias, and CK-MB levels in patients with COPD. Additionally, LDH levels correlated positively with both troponin and Pro-BNP levels. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of evaluating cardiac biomarkers in patients with severe CAP. Elevated levels of troponin, Pro-BNP, and CK-MB are reflective of increased cardiovascular risk and infection severity. These findings underscore the need for early and thorough monitoring of these biomarkers to identify and manage potential complications effectively, thereby improving patient outcomes.