Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a neurohormone that affects body fluid homeostasis via diuresis and natriuresis. Elevated levels are seen in patients with congestive heart failure and a decreased ejection fraction.1 NT-proBNP is the precursor molecule for BNP.
Elevated levels Identify subjects with left ventricular dysfunction.1
- Every incremental increase in values above normal is associated with an incremental increase in CV risk.
- Levels >450 pg/mL in subjects with stable CAD are associated with a 2- to 6-fold increased risk for cardiac morbidity and/or mortality.
- Normal levels exclude cardiac dysfunction.
- High doses of biotin (> 5 mg/day) may interfere with assay results. The patient is assumed to be refraining from biotin supplementation for at least 3 days prior to the blood draw.
References:
- Savarese G, Trimarco B, Dellegrottaglie S, et al. Natriuretic peptide-guided therapy in chronic heart failure: a meta-analysis of 2,686 patients in 12 randomized trials. PLoS One. 2013;8(3):e58287.
Methodology - Immunoassay
