Pro-BNP is released by heart stress (high blood pressure, enlargement of the heart, fluid pressure etc.) from the cells of the heart muscle. It divides itself into BNP (an active hormone) and the inactive by-product NT-pro BNP. BNP as a hormone affects renal electrolyte and water excretion and with that reduces the volume of pressure in the heart. Various clinical studies have shown a good correlation between the concentration of BNP in the circulation and the extent of heart failure. Low BNP values (<100 pg/ml) exclude heart failure with considerable certainty. Only a slight rise in the BNP concentration in a normally asymptomatic patient can be the first indication of a ventricular dysfunction. High values have to be differentially diagnosed to be figured out. Reasons for it can be acute or chronic heart failure, atrial palpitaions, or pulmonary hypertension. Successful therapy lowers BNP values. On the other hand, if they do not drop this indicates a negative prognosis.

Suchen

Medizinisches Versorgungszentrum
Großmoorbogen 25
21079 Hamburg - Deutschland
Tel: +49 (40) 766 96-0
Fax: +49 (40) 766 96-118