Howard's Law - Interpretation

Interpretation

Once a result is obtained, it is said to be either Howard Positive or Howard Negative. A positive Howard value is when > 1 and a negative Howard value is denoted by a < 1. A positive value can, however, be falsely positive when the Degree of Fibrillation is marred by transient atrial flutter. Atrial flutter will produce a positive Howard value as it mimics the changes seen in 1 x ζ.

Positive Howard Value diagnosis shows marked vascular deterioration, the course of treatment will need to be altered to drugs which will pose no risk or further damage to vessel walls (e.g.: drugs which produce hypertension, endothelial damage and muscle wasting as side effects).

Negative Howard Value diagnosis shows no vascular deterioration, the course of treatment can continue with special monitoring and further assessment of the Howard Value at a later stage, this is a clinical decision and is left to the treating physician.