What is BNP・NT-proBNP?
Also written as：Brain natriuretic peptide ／ Natriuretic peptide
BNP (and NT-proBNP) are hormones secreted in greater amounts when the heart is under stress, and are measured via a blood test. They are useful for assessing the degree of cardiac strain and the presence of heart failure, and can also be measured as an optional test in comprehensive health screenings (ningen dock). They are referenced in the Japanese Circulation Society's guidelines for heart failure management as benchmarks for diagnosis and referral to a specialist.
Reference range guideline
As a general outpatient guideline for suspecting heart failure, a BNP of 35–40 pg/mL or above, or an NT-proBNP of 125 pg/mL or above, suggests increased cardiac burden and warrants consideration of referral to a cardiologist. Higher thresholds (BNP 100 / NT-proBNP 300) are used as reference points in more severe or acute settings. Note that reference ranges may vary depending on the assay and measurement system used.
* Reference ranges vary by testing facility, measurement method, age, sex, and other factors. Please check the reference range printed on your result sheet.
How to interpret an out-of-range result
An elevated result may indicate increased cardiac burden or heart failure, and further workup such as echocardiography or consultation with a cardiologist (cardiovascular internal medicine) should be considered.
Related tests and conditions
Related terms
Sources & references
This page provides general information only and is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult the physician at your chosen facility regarding the interpretation of your health checkup results.