NT-pro-BNP Test
NT-pro-BNP Test
N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide, or NT-pro-BNP, is a type of natriuretic peptide synthesized by the heart. It is generally found only in small amounts in the bloodstream. If the level rises, it is an indication that the heart isn’t pumping enough blood to the body as required. High levels of BNP happen when the heart has to work harder to pump blood. When this occurs, it leads to heart failure.
NT-pro-BNP test measures the level of NT-pro-BNP in the blood. It is useful in diagnosing heart failure in an individual. If you already suffer from heart failure, this test will indicate the severity of your condition. At times, this test may be used to assess how well your heart failure treatment is working. Additionally, since BNP is cleared by the kidneys, a higher level of BNP may suggest that your kidneys are not functioning properly.
NT-pro-BNP test is also known as Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), NT pro-B-type natriuretic peptide test, B-type natriuretic peptide
Symptoms of Heart failure
Dry cough
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Confusion
Dizziness or fainting
Fatigue
Nausea or vomiting
Heart palpitations
Swelling in abdomen, legs, ankles, and feet
What is NT-pro-BNP test used for?
NT-pro-BNP test should be performed in one of the following situations:
1
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 To diagnose and find out the severity of heart failure
2
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 Plan a treatment for heart failure
3
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To determine if the treatment is effective
Test preparation:
During this test, a blood sample is taken by pricking a needle in a vein in your arm and collected in a vial or test tube. The entire procedure takes less than five minutes.
Interpretation of results
Normal range: 100-300pg/ml (picograms/milliliter) for both males and females
A higher range of the NT-pro-BNP test indicates that the person suffers from heart failure. The higher the value, the more serious the condition. When your test results are normal, it probably means that the symptoms are not due to heart failure. In such cases, your healthcare provider may call for more tests to make the appropriate diagnosis
FAQs
Does the NT-pro-BNP test pose any risks?
This test involves negligible risks as it only involves drawing a sample of blood from a vein in the arm. As a result of the needle prick, there may be a slight stinging sensation at the site of injection. However, this disappears within a few minutes
What are the benefits of undergoing the NT-pro-BNP test?
This test yields important information about your heart health in a hassle-free manner, as it is a simple blood test. This test enables your healthcare provider to chart out a treatment plan for the same condition or even rule out any other health problems that show similar symptoms
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for this test?
The results of this test are usually available within 15 minutes after the test is conducted. This is because it is important to start a treatment plan immediately if the values are higher than normal
What conditions can cause NT-pro-BNP levels to rise?
The levels of NT-pro BNP can rise in conditions like asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction, arterial and pulmonary hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, valvular heart disease, arrhythmia, and acute coronary syndrome. Additionally, acute and chronic renal failure, liver cirrhosis, hyperaldosteronism, and Cushing's syndrome can also result in elevated NT-pro BNP levels
Does this test require any prior preparations, such as fasting?
No, a person undergoing this test is not required to be fasting (no food or drink) prior to taking the test
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