NT-ProBNP Test

NT-Pro BNP test helps the doctor assess the levels of NT-Pro BNP/ N-terminal pro-b-type natriuretic peptides present in the blood.

NT-Pro BNP is a protein produced by the heart. Normally, low levels of NT-proBNP are present in the bloodstream. Higher levels are suggestive of heart failure.

Heart failure is a condition wherein the heart is unable to pump the required amount of blood.

The blood which the heart cannot pump flows back to the lungs, causing swelling and difficulty breathing.

The doctor advises the NT-Pro BNP test to diagnose heart failure when there are symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, swelling in the abdomen, legs, etc. The doctor may also suggest this test to rule out heart failure. If NT-Pro BNP levels are normal, it indicates that other underlying conditions may be responsible for the symptoms. This test is also useful in determining severity and monitoring Heart failure. Levels of NT-pro BNP rise when heart failure worsens and decreases when heart failure is stable.

Certain conditions, such as diabetes (high blood sugar levels), high blood pressure and heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease, increase the risk of heart failure.

NT-Pro BNP test can aid in the timely diagnosis and treatment of heart failure.

Congestive heart failure (heart doesn't pump efficiently), Left ventricular dysfunction

NT-Pro BNP (N-terminal pro-b-type natriuretic peptide) test detects the level of N-terminal pro-b-type natriuretic peptide (protein) in blood to diagnose heart failure.

The physician may advise the NT-Pro BNP test:

•  If the patient exhibits symptoms of heart failure, such as shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, wheezing, coughing, weakness, nausea, etc.

• To rule out heart failure. If N-terminal pro-b-type natriuretic peptide levels in the blood do not suggest heart failure, it means that the symptoms are due to some other health condition.

• To assess health conditions, if heart failure was diagnosed in the past or if the patient has a history of heart failure. If the N-terminal pro-b-type natriuretic peptide in blood has reduced, it means there is an improvement in the condition.

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment plan and develop one best suited for the patient.
• to those who are at risk of having heart failure eg. after a heart attack, those having underlying heart disease or undergoing heart disease treatment etc.

NT-Pro BNP test is suitable for all genders and all ages.

NT-Pro BNP test is not a routine test. The frequency of the NT-Pro BNP test is decided by the doctor based on the condition of the patient.

This test is advised by a consulting doctor to rule out or diagnose heart failure. If the condition has been diagnosed as heart failure, the doctor might advise NT-Pro BNP test at some intervals to assess the effectiveness of treatment, improvement in the condition and to plan future treatment.

What to Expect When You Take the Test

Before the Test

Usually, an NT-Pro BNP  test doesn't need any special prep. If you're taking this test with another one, your doctor might tell you to avoid eating certain foods. It's always a good idea to talk to your doctor before the test to get the best results.

During the Test

The phlebotomist will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm. Here's what you can expect:

• The spot where they're going to insert the needle is cleaned with an antiseptic.
• A band/tourniquet will be wrapped around your arm to make your veins stand out more.
• A needle will be guided into the vein to draw the blood sample. This might take a couple of seconds, and you might feel quick pinch.
• The sample blood will be collected in a vial/small tube with your details on it.

After the Test

After the Blood is Collected:

• A bandage will be applied over the puncture spot to stop the bleeding.
• You might develop a bruise, but feeling dizzy is rare. You might be asked to sit down for a bit.
• If you notice any bleeding, pain, or a rash at the puncture site, let your doctor know.

Parameters of the NT-Pro BNP test include:

• Levels of N-terminal pro-b-type natriuretic peptide in your blood

In patients with whom heart failure is previously diagnosed

The normal values and reference range of tests may vary from lab to lab. Please consult your doctor to understand the interpretation of your lab reports.

NT-Pro BNP test reports are not for self-interpretation. The normal range of N-terminal pro-b-type natriuretic peptides may vary based on age and other health conditions like kidney disease, anaemia, etc.

Higher levels of NT-Pro BNP (N-terminal pro-b-type natriuretic peptide) in the blood suggest heart failure. The doctor might advise some other tests to confirm the diagnosis.

If your NT-Pro BNP levels are normal, it suggests symptoms, such as breathlessness, dizziness, swelling, etc., are not due to heart failure. Some other underlying condition is causing the symptoms.

After diagnosing heart failure, in the follow-up tests:

• Higher levels of NT-Pro BNP means the condition (heart failure) is getting worse or heart failure is severe. The higher the levels of N-terminal pro-b-type natriuretic peptide in your blood, the worse the condition is.
• In the follow-up tests, lower levels of NT-Pro BNP mean the condition is improving and the treatment is in the right direction.

Follow-up NT-Pro BNP tests help your physician develop the right treatment plan for the condition. NT-Pro BNP test also helps the doctor assess the approximate lifespan.

The pricing for an NT-ProBNP test fluctuates based on the location and the laboratory. Typically, the cost of an NT-ProBNP test falls within the range of INR 1425 to INR 2089. Here's a detailed breakdown of the average charges for an NT-ProBNP test in various major cities across India: