AsseyMethod: Chemiluminescence
Abbrevation: BNP
Sector: Hormone 1
SampleType: -
S.Vol: -
Transport: -
Storage: -
Test Name: Brain Natriuretic Peptid
Normal Range: <75 years:up to 110
To help determine whether symptoms such as breathlessness are due to heart failure
If you have symptoms of heart failure such as breathlessness, fatigue and/or swelling (oedema) of the legs
A blood sample taken from a vein in your arm
None
This test measures the concentration of BNP or NT-proBNP in the blood. BNP is a hormone that helps to regulate blood volume. NT-proBNP is an inactive fragment produced at the same time as BNP. Both BNP and NT-proBNP are mainly produced by the heart's left ventricle (the organ's main pumping chamber). The heart releases more BNP and NT-proBNP when the left ventricle is stretched from having to work harder as can happen in heart failure (when your heart is not strong enough to pump enough oxygen-rich blood and nutrients to meet your body's needs). BNP and NT-proBNP concentrations increase in heart failure as well as in other diseases that affect the heart and circulatory system.
How is the sample collected for testing?
Blood is taken by needle from a vein in your arm.
Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?
No test preparation is needed.