NT-Pro BNP
Understanding NT-Pro BNP
What is NT-Pro BNP?
The NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide) test is used to measure the levels of NT-proBNP in the blood. NT-proBNP is a hormone produced by the heart in response to increased blood pressure or stress on the heart muscle. It helps diagnose and manage heart-related conditions, such as heart failure.
Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in ankles, feet, and legs, and frequent urination. An NT-Pro BNP test helps confirm the diagnosis of heart failure, assesses its severity, monitors its progression, and differentiates it from other conditions with similar symptoms.
An NT-Pro BNP test is often performed alongside other cardiac tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram, to comprehensively evaluate heart health. Your doctor may advise this test if you experience symptoms of heart failure or if you have risk factors for heart failure such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, valve disorder, myocardial damage, diabetes, any previous history or family history of heart disease, etc.
Fasting is not required for an NT-Pro BNP test. You can eat or drink normally, as per your daily routine. This test is generally safe and well-tolerated. Minimal discomfort or bruising may rarely occur at the site where the blood sample is drawn, but serious complications are rare. Inform your doctor about all the medicines, including herbal or over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements you might be taking. Patients taking biotin supplements or receiving high-dose biotin therapy are advised to stop supplements for 72 hours before sample collection due to possible interference with this test.
Test results may vary between laboratories. A higher-than-normal NT-proBNP level may aid in the diagnosis of congestive heart failure and its severity corresponding with the degree of rise in the levels of NT-proBNP. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them assess your cardiac health, monitor disease progression, and determine the most appropriate interventions to manage your heart health better.
What is NT-Pro BNP used for?
An NT-Pro BNP is done:
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To diagnose congestive heart failure (CHF) and assess its severity.
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If an individual experiences signs and symptoms of heart disease such as cough, breathlessness, extreme fatigue, swelling in ankles, feet, legs, and veins in the neck, abdominal pain, or frequent urination.
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To monitor the response to heart failure treatment.
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To differentiate heart failure from other conditions with similar symptoms.
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To assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases in individuals with risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, any previous history or family history of heart disease, etc.
What does NT-Pro BNP measure?
An NT-Pro BNP test measures the concentration of NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide) in the blood. It is a cardiac hormone secreted from the left ventricles (the organ's main pumping chamber) and helps to regulate blood volume. When heart failure develops or worsens, the heart muscle cells produce NT-Pro BNP, which is released into the bloodstream. It helps alleviate the condition by relaxing the blood vessels, reducing fluid volume, and reducing the heart's workload.
NT-Pro BNP concentration in the blood increases in heart failure and other diseases that affect the heart and circulatory system. Measuring the levels of NT-Pro BNP can provide insight into your heart’s current health and functioning.
Interpreting NT-Pro BNP results
Interpretations
AGE IN YEARS |
97.5th PERCENTILE IN pg/mL |
1-3 |
320 |
4-6 |
190 |
7-9 |
145 |
10 |
112 |
11 |
317 |
12 |
186 |
13 |
370 |
14 |
363 |
15 |
217 |
16 |
206 |
17 |
135 |
18-44 |
115 |
45-54 |
172 |
55-64 |
263 |
65-74 |
349 |
>=75 |
738 |
Reference range may vary from lab to lab*
In case of congestive failure in first hour or in case of ventricular inflow obstruction, there is lack of rise of N-terminal pro-BNP levels.