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Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) Test

The Test Sample

What is being tested?

This test measures the concentration of BNP or NTproBNP in the blood. NTproBNP is an inactive fragment produced at the same time as BNP. BNP is a hormone that helps to regulate blood volume and therefore the work that the heart must do to pump blood around the body. 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 NTproBNP 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 NTproBNP levels 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.

NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.

Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.