N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a blood biomarker released by the heart when it is under increased strain or pressure. Elevated levels indicate the presence of heart failure or worsening cardiac function. NT-proBNP is used to diagnose heart failure, guide treatment decisions, and monitor a patient’s response to therapy over time. A normal level makes significant heart failure unlikely, while persistently elevated levels may prompt intensification of treatment.
Levels can be raised following cardiac arrest due to temporary myocardial stunning, or in the context of underlying structural heart disease such as dilated cardiomyopathy or severe valve disease. NT-proBNP is interpreted alongside other investigations including echocardiogram and clinical assessment, rather than in isolation.
Age, kidney function, and body weight all affect NT-proBNP levels, so reference ranges are adjusted accordingly. Your cardiologist or Cardiac Nurse Specialist can explain what your result means in context.
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