NT- proBNP

NT-proBNP is a natriuretic peptide protein produced in the body when the cardiac muscle is under stress. It serves as an indicator of the presence or predisposition to heart failure, with significant diagnostic value, as it enables the early management of heart failure and the prevention of recurrence, which can lead to hospitalization or even death. Additionally, it helps in monitoring the effectiveness of treatment for heart disease. Therefore, it is an integral part of clinical practice for the better care of patients with heart failure.

The NT-proBNP test is a cardio-specific test performed with a simple blood sample and is conducted at Affidea diagnostic centers. It is noteworthy that NT-proBNP tests have been validated in accordance with the new European regulation on in vitro diagnostic products (IVDR) and are available in countries that accept the CE mark.

Natriuretic peptide levels (BNP) are now used extensively in cardiovascular research and modern clinical practice, having been incorporated into recent international guidelines for heart failure. The recent guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology for heart failure recommend the use of natriuretic peptides (Class IA), including NT‑proBNP, as an initial diagnostic test for the investigation and detection of patients with heart failure.

High-risk patients who received intensified cardioprotective therapy following an NT-proBNP test have been found to achieve better outcomes in heart failure compared to patients who were not tested. According to research, high-risk groups for heart disease include the elderly, women, and individuals with a family history.

Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood necessary for proper function. Common causes of heart failure include hypertension, cardiomyopathies, coronary artery disease, and hypertension.

When is NT-proBNP measurement recommended?

The measurement of NT-proBNP is recommended in various clinical situations, such as:

• Diagnosis of heart failure: Detection of elevated NT-proBNP levels can help diagnose heart failure, especially in patients with dyspnea or other non-specific symptoms.

• Monitoring heart failure: Doctors use NT-proBNP to monitor the effectiveness of treatment in patients with known heart failure and to adjust treatment according to the patient’s needs.

• Prognostic indicator: NT-proBNP levels can provide information about the prognosis of patients with heart failure. Higher levels are associated with a greater risk of complications and mortality.

• Assessment of cardiovascular event risk: In patients with other heart conditions or risk factors, NT-proBNP can help assess the risk of cardiovascular events.

The clinical value of NT-proBNP is expanding, as it can be used:

1. In assessing cardiovascular risk in patients with type 2 diabetes

2. In identifying patients at risk for type 2 diabetes without known cardiovascular disease, to optimize cardioprotective therapy.

Moreover, NT-proBNP testing is indicated for:

• Diagnosing individuals suspected of having congestive heart failure and detecting mild forms of cardiac dysfunction

• Monitoring the treatment of patients with left ventricular dysfunction

• Assessing the severity of heart failure in patients with diagnosed congestive heart failure

• Risk stratification in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome and congestive heart failure.

Is NT-proBNP measurement safe and painless?

NT-proBNP measurement is safe and painless, requiring a simple blood draw. The blood sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis, and the results are usually available within a few hours.

Clinical use of NT-proBNP

• Early detection:

In patients at high risk of heart failure, such as those with hypertension, diabetes, or coronary artery disease, NT-proBNP measurement can help in the early detection of the disease before the onset of severe symptoms.

• Therapy guide:

NT-proBNP levels can be used as a guide to tailor treatment, adjusting medication based on the patient’s response as assessed through NT-proBNP level measurement.

• Evaluation of emergency patients:

In patients presenting to the emergency room with dyspnea, NT-proBNP measurement can help quickly diagnose heart failure, allowing for the immediate initiation of appropriate treatment.

How are NT-proBNP levels interpreted?

Changes in NT-proBNP levels during treatment can be used to evaluate the patient’s response to therapy. Elevated NT-proBNP levels indicate a high risk of heart failure and are associated with an increased risk of hospitalization and mortality, while low levels make the disease less likely. In patients with symptoms such as dyspnea, NT-proBNP measurement can help differentiate between cardiac and pulmonary causes of symptoms.

Normal NT-proBNP levels can vary depending on age, gender, and the presence of other conditions. Generally:

• Low levels: May indicate that heart failure is unlikely.

• Moderate levels: May suggest the need for further investigation or the presence of other conditions affecting the heart.

• High levels: Often indicate the presence of heart failure or other serious heart conditions.

Doctors use NT-proBNP levels in combination with clinical data and other diagnostic tests to reach a reliable diagnosis and treatment.

The test is conducted at Affidea diagnostic centers nationwide, and in celebration of Father's Day, it is offered at a special price.