Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide (Pro-BNP), Plasma

Message

Performing Lab: Sarasota Memorial Laboratory Services and North Port Laboratory

Test Code

PBNP

Preferred Specimen

Plasma (Green Top)

Minimum Volume

.5 ml

Other Acceptable Specimens

Serum (Gold Top or Red no Gel or SST), Plasma (Dk Green or Lavendar Top)

Instructions

Complete clot formation should take place before centrifugation. Serum or plasma should be physically separated from cells as soon as possible with a maximum limit of two hours from the time of collection

Transport Temperature

Ambient

Methodology
Chemiluminescence

Setup Schedule

Monday through Sunday

Available STAT

Reference Range

< 50 years: 0-450 pg/mL

50-75 years: 0-900 pg/mL

≥ 75 years: 0-1800 pg/mL

Clinical Significance

In individuals suspected of having congestive heart failure (CHF), measurements of NT proBNP are used as an aid in the diagnosis and assessment of severity. The test is further indicated for the risk stratification of patients with acute coronary syndrome and heart failure. The significance of natriuretic peptides in the control of cardiovascular system function has been established. Initial studies reveal that natriuretic peptides can be used for diagnosing clinical problems associated with left ventricular dysfunction. In subjects with left ventricular dysfunction, serum and plasma concentrations of BNP increase, as do the concentrations of the biologically inactive prohormone, proBNP. ProBNP consists of 108 amino acids. It is secreted mainly by the left ventricle of the heart and, in this process, is cleaved into physiologically active BNP (77 – 108), and the N-terminal fragment NT-proBNP (1 – 76). Studies indicate that NT-proBNP can be used in diagnostic and prognostic applications. The concentration of NT-proBNP in plasma indicates the prognosis for the left ventricular dysfunction. It is also useful in assigning symptoms to cardiac or non-cardiac causes. Changes in NT proBNP concentration can be used to evaluate the success of treatment in patients with left ventricular dysfunction. There are indications that NT-proBNP, due to its functions, is suitable for use in assessing vascular remodeling, and therefore contributes to the establishment of individualized rehabilitation procedures.

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.