Natriuretic Peptide, Serum (B-type, measured by immunoassay)
This test measures a protein produced by your heart in response to pressure or volume overload, helping assess heart strain or fluid overload.
["Helps doctors check if your heart is working too hard due to conditions like heart failure or fluid retention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 83108-1
- Short code
- NT-proBNP SerPl IA-sCnc
- Synonyms
- NT-proBNP SerPl IA-sCnc
- 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
Why This Test Matters
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling, or fatigue, or if you have a history of heart problems. It can also help monitor conditions like heart failure or guide treatment decisions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. If you’re on a fluid-restricted diet, follow your doctor’s instructions.
What the Results Mean
Higher-than-normal levels may indicate your heart is working harder than usual, possibly due to fluid buildup or heart failure. Lower-than-normal levels might suggest less stress on your heart. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to diagnose or monitor heart failure, pulmonary edema, or conditions causing fluid retention in the body.
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.
Clinical Significance: Elevated BNP levels often signal heart strain, helping differentiate between heart failure and other causes of symptoms like shortness of breath. It’s particularly useful in emergency settings or for guiding treatment adjustments in chronic heart conditions.
Short name
BNP (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
What triggers this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this 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