BNP or NTproBNP? A clinician's perspective

Int J Cardiol. 2008 Sep 16;129(1):5-14. doi: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2007.12.093. Epub 2008 Apr 18.

Abstract

Existing literature on two natriuretic peptides--B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and amino terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP)--is overwhelming. Both peptides are acknowledged markers for cardiac dysfunction. Most of the sources present data on either BNP or NTproBNP making the comparison difficult. This paper focuses on reviewing studies directly comparing two peptides in the setting of chronic and acute heart failure (HF) and coronary artery disease. Many concomitant diseases influence these two peptides to varying extent. These characteristics should be taken into consideration when interpreting results. For most practical purposes, BNP and NTproBNP are interchangeable, and can be used based on local preferences and availability. NTproBNP seems to be more advantageous for diagnosing mild HF or asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Biomarkers / blood
  • Chronic Disease
  • Heart Failure / blood
  • Heart Failure / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Natriuretic Peptide, Brain / blood*
  • Natriuretic Peptide, Brain / physiology
  • Peptide Fragments / blood*
  • Peptide Fragments / physiology
  • Protein Precursors / blood*
  • Protein Precursors / physiology
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Left / blood
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Left / diagnosis

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Peptide Fragments
  • Protein Precursors
  • pro-brain natriuretic peptide (1-76)
  • Natriuretic Peptide, Brain