What is B-type natriuretic peptide?

a hormone produced mainly by the left ventricular myocardium in response to strain

What can cause raised B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)?

• heart failure is the most obvious cause
• any cause of left ventricular dysfunction such as myocardial ischaemia or valvular disease
• reduced excretion in patients with chronic kidney disease

What can reduce B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)?

• ACE inhibitors
• angiotensin-2 receptor blockers
• diuretics

What are the effects of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)?

• vasodilator
• diuretic and natriuretic
• suppresses both sympathetic tone and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system

Whats the clinical use of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)?

• Diagnosing patients with acute dyspnoea. Low BNP rules out heart failure.
• Prognosis in patients with chronic heart failure
• Guiding treatment in patients with chronic heart failure (effective treatment lower BNP)