Predictor Possible Score
Age > 75 y 1
Orthopnea present 2
Lack of cough 1
Current loop diuretic use (before presentation) 1
Rales on lung exam 1
Lack of fever 2
Elevated NT-proBNP* 4
Interstitial edema on chest x-ray 2
Total = 14
Likelihood of heart failure Your patient's score
Low 0-5
Intermediate 6-8
High 9-14

AHF, acute heart failure; NT-proBNP, N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide.

*Elevated NT-proBNP was defined as > 450 pg/mL if age < 50 years and > 900 pg/mL if age > 50 years.