Natriuretic Peptide, Serum (B-type, measured by mass concentration)
This test measures a protein released by your heart in response to stress or pressure, helping assess heart strain or fluid overload.
["BNP helps diagnose heart conditions and monitor fluid balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 83107-3
- Short code
- NT-proBNP SerPl IA-mCnc
- Synonyms
- NT-proBNP SerPl IA-mCnc
- 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
- Method
- ia
- 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
What Is B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) Used For?
BNP is primarily used to evaluate symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling, or chest discomfort that may indicate heart failure or fluid retention. It can also help determine whether these symptoms are due to heart issues or other causes, such as lung problems or kidney disease.
How Is the BNP Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure the BNP protein concentration. This test is typically done after you have rested for a few minutes to ensure accurate results.
When Might You Need a BNP Test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend a BNP test if you have symptoms like persistent coughing, rapid or irregular heartbeat, swelling in your legs or abdomen, or unexplained shortness of breath. It’s also used to monitor people with known heart conditions or those recovering from heart-related issues.
What Do BNP Results Mean?
Results are interpreted based on your symptoms and medical history. High BNP levels often suggest heart failure or fluid overload, while lower levels may indicate less heart stress. Your doctor will discuss the results in the context of your overall health.
Reference range
Normal: <100 pg/mLN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated BNP levels are strongly associated with heart strain, such as heart failure, where the heart cannot pump blood effectively. BNP can also help rule out other conditions causing similar symptoms, like pulmonary embolism or severe pneumonia. Lower BNP levels may indicate better heart function but should always be evaluated with clinical context.
Short name
B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) Serum
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order a BNP test?
What are the typical reference ranges for BNP?
How soon after my symptoms do I need the test?
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