A brain natriuretic peptide test is a test performed to measure the quantity of the brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) protein present in a test subject's blood. BNP is a hormone produced by the heart. An elevated level of this brain natriuretic peptide hormone is an indicator of heart failure. This test may also be referred to as a natriuretic peptide test or a BNP test.
Brain natriuretic peptides are hormones naturally present in the blood of healthy individuals. Produced by the heart and blood vessels, more of this protein is produced when the heart is failing. When symptoms of heart failure such as shortness of breath or swelling of the legs and abdomen are present, the BNP test may be used to rule out other causes such as lung or liver dysfunction. Brain natriuretic peptide testing may also be used to monitor a patient's response to treatment for heart failure.
Synonyms
BNP Test, Natriuretic Peptide Test
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