The difference in core-surface temperature indicates the prognosis of heart failure patients

Aim: To evaluate the difference between core temperature and surface temperature (Delta T) as an index for the prognosis of heart failure (HF). Patients & methods: Core temperature and surface temperature were measured in 253 patients with HF. The association of Delta T with prognostic indicators of HF was analyzed. Results: Patients with Delta T >= 2 degrees C were more likely to have lower left ventricular ejection fraction and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate, higher levels of troponin T, brain natriuretic peptide and procalcitonin, and high blood urea nitrogen/creatinine ratio. The risk of death increased by 32% for a 1 degrees C increase in Delta T and was 4.36-times higher in the Delta T >= 2 degrees C group than in the Delta T <2 degrees C group. Conclusion: Delta T may be used to predict the prognosis of patients with HF.