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B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) in Serum or Plasma

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the levels of B-type natriuretic peptide, a hormone produced by the heart’s ventricles in response to increased pressure or volume. It helps assess heart strain or heart failure.

Quick summary

["BNP helps doctors evaluate heart function and guide treatment for conditions like heart failure."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108862-4
Short code
BNP Msmt SerPl
Synonyms
BNP Msmt SerPl
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
100
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83880
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order a BNP test if you have symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling, or fatigue that could indicate heart problems. It may also be used to monitor heart function in people with known heart conditions or those at risk for heart disease.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re on a blood thinner, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Test Results Mean

BNP levels can vary based on age, health conditions, and medications. High levels may suggest heart strain or heart failure, while low levels might indicate normal heart function or other conditions. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose

BNP is often used to diagnose or monitor heart failure, rule out conditions like pulmonary edema, or assess symptoms in people with suspected cardiac issues. It can also help guide treatment decisions.

Reference range

Normal: <100 pg/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

BNP Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes BNP levels to be high?
High BNP levels are most commonly linked to heart conditions such as heart failure, where the heart struggles to pump blood effectively. Other factors, like severe pulmonary conditions (e.g., pneumonia), kidney disease, or certain medications, may also raise BNP levels. Stress or rapid heart rhythms can sometimes cause temporary spikes.
What if my BNP level is normal but I still have heart symptoms?
Even with a normal BNP level, some heart-related symptoms may not be caused by BNP-sensitive conditions. Your doctor may recommend additional tests, like an echocardiogram or stress test, to investigate other possible causes of your symptoms. Follow-up visits to discuss further testing or treatment plans are important.
Can BNP levels change over time, and how often should I get retested?
Yes, BNP levels can fluctuate based on your health status, medications, or underlying conditions. If you’re being monitored for heart failure or another condition linked to BNP, your doctor may recommend retesting at intervals based on your treatment plan or symptoms. Always ask your doctor about the best timing for follow-up tests.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy