C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio and the mortality of patients with heart failure: a meta-analysis.
A simple blood test combination predicts heart failure mortality risk, though clinical studies are needed before it changes how doctors manage heart patients.
A meta-analysis of 12 cohort studies (n=6,377) found that elevated CRP-to-albumin ratio — a simple marker of systemic inflammation and nutritional status — was associated with a 2.34-fold increased mortality risk in heart failure patients. The association was weaker in prospective studies, suggesting retrospective bias may inflate the pooled estimate, and clinical validation is needed before implementing CAR as a standard HF risk stratification tool.
What the study was
- Study design
- Meta-analysis (12 cohort studies)
- Population
- Heart failure patients (ADHF and CHF); n=6,377 total from 12 studies
- Sample size
- 6377
- Category
- Diagnostics
- Maturity
- Exploratory
- Journal
- BMC cardiovascular disorders
Why it surfaced
Meta-analysis of a simple, universally available biomarker (CAR) for HF mortality stratification. Meaningful association but prospective data weaker; near-term implementable IF validated prospectively.
A plain-language summary of published research — not medical advice. Talk to a clinician about your own care.