NT-proBNP, (Brain Natriuretic Peptide)

Test Code

BNP

Preferred Specimen

Serum, 0.5 mL minimum, can also be done on EDTA plasma or LiHep plasma

Instructions

Separate serum from cells as soon as possible, within 2 hours of collection.

Transport Container

Serum Separator Tube

Transport Temperature

Specimen stable for 24 hours if refrigerated and up to 9 months if frozen.

Methodology

This analyte (NT-proBNP) differs from the point-of-care BNP test,
with a different range. Interpretation of results, especially
single values, must be guided by the clinical setting.

Reference Range

See report for normal ranges.

In normals, NT-proBNP blood levels increase with age and run
higher in females. The stratified, gender-independent reference
ranges are:
                            Age <50 years:            <450 pg/mL
                            Age 50-75 years:          <900 pg/mL
                            Age >75 years:            <1800 pg/mL

In patients with dyspnea, NT-proBNP is highly sensitive
for the detection of acute CHF. In addition, an NT-proBNP level
of <300 pg/mL effectively rules out acute CHF, with a 98% negative predictive value.

Knowledge of each individual patient's NT-proBNP 'baseline' level
may be more useful than trying to apply similar cut-offs for
every patient.

Clinical Significance

BNP may be used to help diagnose heart failure.

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.