Significant elevation of markers of inflammation (CRP, IL-6, TNF-a, ET-1 and adiponectin) and oxidative stress (isoprostane) in patients with Class IV HF as compared to Classes I-III. They were reduced in patients with LVAD and post-HT compared to Class IV HF. Among markers of endotoxemia, LPS was elevated in patients with Class IV HF, LVAD and HT. sCD14 was elevated in patients with Class IV HF and LVAD but not in patients with HT. The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is hydrops fetalis.