BNP
Understanding BNP
What is BNP?
Natriuretic peptide test (NT-Pro BNP) is to measure the amount of BNP (B -Type Natriuretic peptide) and NT-Pro BNP (N-Terminal) in the blood. These molecules are released into the blood stream in response to the stress encountered by heart. Elevated level of these molecules is an indicator of excessive pressure on heart, heart faliure or other acute heart conditions. This test is recommended generally after a heart attack or a patient undergoing any heart disease treatment. The normal value of NT-Pro-BNP is below 100pg/mL . Any value higher than that is considered fatal. Immediate medical invention is mandatory in case of abnormal test values.
What is BNP used for?
The B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test is performed:
· To help in the detection, diagnosis, and evaluation of the severity of congestive heart failure (CHF)
What does BNP measure?
The B-Type Natriuretic Peptide is a substance secreted by the left ventricle of the heart due to the stretching of the heart chamber during pumping of blood. It helps in the relaxation of blood vessels for smooth blood flow. The heart continuously secretes a precursor substance called pro-BNP which is converted to BNP to maintain a low constant level in blood. In case of a congestive heart failure, the heart works harder to pump blood causing extra pressure in the heart muscles. This leads to an increase in the production of BNP to help stimulate the blood vessels to relax and reduce the pressure on the heart. It may also occur in other conditions affecting the circulatory system like blockages in blood vessels.
The B-Type Natriuretic Peptide was initially named the Brain Type Natriuretic Peptide since it was first detected in the brain tissues. Later, it was renamed to B-Type to distinguish it from Atrial or A-Type Natriuretic Peptide (ANP), which is another substance with similar function also produced in the heart.
Interpreting BNP results
Interpretations
Normal range (Approx.): Below 29.40 pg/mL
Higher than normal levels of BNP indicates heart conditions including CHF. Levels are directly proportional to the severity of the condition.
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about BNP
Frequently Asked Questions about BNP
Q. What are the common symptoms of heart failure?
Q. What is congestive heart failure?
Q. Is there any risk associated with this test?
Q. Is there any preparation required before the BNP test?
Q. What other tests can be prescribed by your doctor in case the results of BNP Test are not normal?
Q. In what conditions can levels of BNP increase?
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