NT-Pro BNP

Also known as Brain natriuretic peptide, N terminal pro B type natriuretic peptide, Natriuretic peptides

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

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.

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:

To diagnose congestive heart failure (CHF) and assess its severity.
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.
To monitor the response to heart failure treatment.
To differentiate heart failure from other conditions with similar symptoms.
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.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about NT-Pro BNP

Frequently Asked Questions about NT-Pro BNP

Q. In what conditions can levels of NT-Pro BNP increase?

The levels of NT-Pro BNP can increase in conditions such as heart failure, asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction, arterial and pulmonary hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, valvular heart disease, arrhythmia, and acute coronary syndrome. Along with that, an increased amount of NT-Pro BNP is seen in individuals with acute and chronic kidney failure, liver cirrhosis, hyperaldosteronism, diabetes mellitus, and Cushing’s syndrome.

Q. Can exercise affect the NT-Pro BNP levels?

Research and studies show that vigorous exercise can temporarily increase your NT-Pro BNP levels. Tell your doctor if you have done intense physical activity before your test.

Q. How frequently should you take this test?

An NT-Pro BNP test is not a routine test. The frequency of this test is decided by the doctor or healthcare professional based on an individual's condition. This test is advised to rule out or diagnose congestive heart failure (CHF) and to assess the effectiveness of treatment in patients with CHF.

Q. How is the NT-Pro BNP test performed?

A phlebotomist (a trained professional to perform blood draws) will clean your skin using an antiseptic alcohol cotton swab or wipe and take a blood sample from your vein using a needle. The blood sample will be stored safely and transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Q. What other tests can be prescribed by your doctor if the results of the NT-Pro BNP test are abnormal?

The doctor may suggest other tests if the results of the (test_name} test are abnormal. These tests include an ANP test, chest X-ray, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram.

Q. What are the common symptoms of heart failure?

Heart failure can be indicated by symptoms such as difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, feeling tired, and swelling (edema) in the feet, ankles, legs, and abdomen.

Q. What is congestive heart failure, and what are its possible causes?

Congestive heart failure is a progressive or long-term condition in which the heart is not able to pump blood well enough to give your body a regular blood supply. Blood and fluids collect in your lungs and legs over time. Congestive heart failure can be caused by several factors, such as high blood pressure (hypertension) and coronary artery diseases, where cholesterol deposition occurs on the inner wall of the blood vessels, causing a blockage in the blood supply.

Q. Can heart failure be cured?

There is no cure for heart failure. However, treatment can help you live a longer, more active life with fewer symptoms. Treatment depends on the type of heart failure you have and how severe it is. Consult a doctor to get the best possible advice, depending on your condition.

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