Risk factors for poor prognosis in heart failure with particular attention to the elderly population

Background: Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of poor outcome. Age is considered one of the most critical risk factors for both the incidence and prognosis of HF. Therefore we aimed to assess the predictors of poor prognosis in HF patients with particular attention to the elderly population. Material and methods: We retrospectively enrolled patients hospitalized due to HF exacerbation during 2016-2017 (203 patients). The end-points were all-cause mortality and emergency rehospitalizations within a two-year follow-up period. A detailed analysis was performed in the subgroups of patients younger and older than 65 years old. Results: 121 (60%) patients experienced the end-points. Age, low systolic blood pressure, NYHA class IV, right ventricle HF symptoms, high C-reactive protein, troponin, NT-proBNP, hyponatremia, catecholamine therapy and mechanical ventilation during hospitalization independently predicted the end-points. The elderly were characterized by a higher incidence of concomitant diseases and HF with moderately reduced or preserved LVEF, worse laboratory parameters and pharmacological treatment, as well as worse prognosis. Conclusion: The prognosis of patients hospitalized due to HF, mainly the elderly, is poor. Simple clinical parameters could be useful in further decision-making regarding the intensification of their treatment.