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The NT-proBNP blood test is a natriuretic peptide test that measures the level of the N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide pheromone in the blood. The NT-proBNP is released along with the BNP hormone in response to pressure changes in the heart that may be associated with cardiac issues like heart failure.
Overview of the NT-proBNP Test
The brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) are the two main types of natriuretic peptides, which are substances produced by the heart. NT-proBNP is a non-active pheromone, while BNP is a hormone. However, both substances are released by the same molecule and normally, can be found in small amounts in the blood. The heart releases both BNP and NT-proBNP into the bloodstream in response to changes in pressure inside the heart that are generally caused by cardiac problems. If levels of the substance are higher than the normal range of NT-proBNP, they may indicate conditions like heart failure, where the NT-proBNP levels go up as the condition develops or gets worse and go down as the condition stabilises.
When is the NT-pro-BNP Test Prescribed?
For someone who has already been diagnosed with heart failure, the NT-proBNP test is used as a means of assessing how severe the condition is, for planning treatment, and for monitoring the efficacy of a treatment plan. However, the primary use of an NT-proBNP test is to diagnose or rule out cardiac problems like heart failure. A doctor may prescribe the NT-proBNP test for a person who may be displaying symptoms of heart failure, like:
- Difficulties in breathing
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Appetite loss
- Swelling in the legs, feet, abdomen, etc.
Though the causes behind BNP and NT-proBNP being released by the heart are the same and they are both released by the same molecule, an NT-proBNP test and BNP are generally not prescribed together. This is mainly because the NT-proBNP and BNP blood tests both rely on different types of measurements, both of which basically provide similar information.
Time Required for NT-proBNP Test Report + Next Steps
The process for checking out the details and cost of the NT-proBNP test online at Max Lab is very simple. A cost-effectively priced NT-proBNP test can also be booked with an at-home sample collection facility for enhanced convenience. The test is performed on a blood sample. After the sample has been collected, the reports of the NT-proBNP blood test are generated within 24 hours and can be collected from any Max Lab diagnostics centre or downloaded from the Max Lab website.
To understand what the report of the NT-proBNP test means, for a proper diagnosis, as well as treatment planning, if required, one should consult their doctor with their results. The doctor will also be able to suggest any further testing that may be required as a follow-up to the NT-proBNP blood test.
Parameters
NT-proBNP