Indexing metadata

Aim. To evaluate the prognostic value of GDF-15 in relation the development of bleeding and events in stable CAD patients, receiving combined antithrombotic therapy.

Materials and methods. The data was obtained from the prospective registry REGATA, 343 CAD patients (249 males), median age 68 [IQR 62; 75] years) were enrolled. Patients with sinus rhythm and concomitant PAD received acetylsalicylic acid in combination with rivaroxaban 2.5 mg bid (31.8%) or clopidogrel (24.8%). Other 43.4% with concomitant atrial fibrillation (AF) received direct oral anticoagulants in combination with antiplatelet therapy after elective percutaneous coronary interventions. Median follow-up was 12 months [IQR 9.0; 18.0]. The safety end point was major and clinically relevant bleedings (type 2–5) according to the BARC classification. Plasma samples for GDF-15 identification were taken at the inclusion and analyzed using ELISA assay.

Results. Frequency of BARC 2–5 bleedings was 16% (BARC 2 – 46; BARC 3 – 9; BARC 4–5 – 0), median GDF-15 level was 1185.0 pg/ml [850.0; 1680.0]. In patients with AF and concomitant MFA, the level of GDF-15 was significantly higher than in the subgroups of patients with only AF or MFA (p=0.0022). According to the quintile analysis, GDF-15 values in the top three quintiles of distribution (cut-off value >943 pg/ml) were associated with higher frequency of bleeding events: 23.2% versus 5.1%; p=0.0001. The multivariable logistic regression model demonstrated that bleeding events were independently associated with GDF-15 level>943 pg/ml (OR 2.65, 95% CI 1.11–6.30; p=0.0275), AF (OR 2.61, 95% CI 1.41–4.83; p=0.0023) and chronic kidney disease (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.03–3.60; p=0.0401). Clinical factors determining the risk of bleeding events also determined a GDF-15 elevation.

Conclusion. Assessment of GDF-15 level may improve bleeding risk stratification in CAD patients with concomitant AF and/or PAD receiving combined antithrombotic therapy.