Natriuretic Peptide, Urinary (e.g., Brain Natriuretic Peptide, BNP)
This test measures a protein released by the heart’s ventricles when they’re overworked or stretched, often due to heart failure or fluid overload. Urine samples are used to detect elevated levels that may signal heart strain.
["Urinary BNP helps assess heart health by detecting early signs of heart stress in urine."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101935-5
- Short code
- Na Urate Cry EngDiff Ur
- Synonyms
- Na Urate Cry EngDiff Ur
- Category
- electrolyte
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3.5
- Ref high
- 7.2
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling, or fatigue that could indicate heart problems. It’s sometimes used alongside blood tests to monitor heart function, especially in patients with chronic conditions like heart failure or kidney disease.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a urine sample, typically collected over a 24-hour period or a single random sample, depending on the clinical context. Avoid excessive fluid intake before testing if instructed, as it may affect results.
What the Results Mean
Elevated levels of this protein in urine may suggest your heart is working harder than usual, possibly due to fluid overload, heart failure, or other cardiac stress. Low or normal levels usually indicate healthy heart function. Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to monitor heart failure, chronic kidney disease, or conditions requiring fluid management. It can also help evaluate patients with suspected cardiac stress or those undergoing treatments for heart-related issues.
Reference range
NCBI: Uric Acid Male 3.5-7.2 mg/dL; Female 2.5-6.8 mg/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Urinary BNP Screening
Frequently asked questions
What does a high urinary BNP level indicate?
Can dietary restrictions affect this test?
Is this test painful or uncomfortable?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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