Contents:
Medical Video: Heart failure: BNP
Definition
What is BNP (brain natriuretic peptide)?
Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a test that measures the amount of BNP hormone in the blood. BNP is produced by the heart and shows how well your heart is working. Generally, only a small amount of BNP can be found in your blood. However, if your heart works harder than usual for a long time, for example in cases of heart failure, the heart will release more BNPs, and increase BNP levels in the blood. BNP levels can be reduced when treatment for heart failure works.
When do I have to undergo brain natriuretic peptide?
BNP or NT-proBNP test can be done in situations:
- in the doctor's office, when someone has symptoms caused by heart failure
- in the emergency room, when someone is in critical condition or has symptoms that may be caused by heart failure and the doctor needs to decide quickly whether the person has heart failure or other medical problems
- to monitor the effect of treatment for heart failure
Prevention & warning
What should I know before undergoing BNP (brain natriuretic peptide)?
BNP levels can decrease if treatment for heart failure works. But BNP levels will probably remain above the normal limit even when treatment for heart failure works well. Your doctor will do a physical examination and other tests, along with your BNP levels, to ensure your treatment is working.
Process
What should I do before undergoing BNP (brain natriuretic peptide)?
You may be asked not to eat or drink anything except mineral water for 8 to 12 hours before performing the BNP test. Your doctor will tell you to stop taking certain heart medications before this test. Follow your doctor's instructions. Talk to your doctor about the concerns you have regarding the importance of this test, the risks, the testing process, or the benefits of the results of this test.
What is the process of BNP (brain natriuretic peptide)?
During the BNP blood test, a little blood will be taken and placed on a machine that will detect BNP and NT-pro-BNP levels. This test takes about 15 minutes. In some places, blood samples need to be sent to the laboratory for examination.
What should I do after undergoing BNP (brain natriuretic peptide)?
You can return to normal activities right after the procedure is complete. Your doctor will check your test results based on health conditions and other factors.
If you have questions relating to the process of this test, consult your doctor for a better understanding.
Explanation of Test Results
What do the test results mean?
The normal value listed here — called the reference level — is only a guide. This level is different in each laboratory, and your laboratory may use a different normal level. The results of your laboratory report should also contain what normal levels your laboratory uses.
- BNP levels below 100 pg / mL indicate no condition for heart failure
- BNP levels of 100-300 pg / mL indicate a condition of heart failure
- 300 pg / mL BNP levels indicate mild heart failure
- BNP levels above 600 pg / mL indicate moderate-level heart failure
- BNP levels above 900 pg / mL indicate a condition of severe heart failure
High value
High BNP values in blood:
- indicates an increase in the amount of fluid or high pressure inside the heart
- can be used to help determine how severe the condition of heart failure is
- can indicate a high risk of death for patients with heart failure
- can show early heart failure in someone with kidney dialysis.
Depending on the laboratory of your choice, the BNP's normal range can vary. Discuss the questions you have about the results of your health test with your doctor.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
