Assessing the diagnostic test accuracy of natriuretic peptides and ECG in the diagnosis of left ventricular systolic dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

In 2003 the National Institute of Clinical Excellence published guidelines recommending the use of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and the electrocardiogram (ECG) as part of the diagnostic work up of individuals with heart failure. However, the guideline did not address whether one test was superior to the other or whether performing both tests was superior to performing single tests.