Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) Test

Beta-Natriuretic Peptide, BNP (Brain Natriuretic Peptide) Test

Why It Is Done

The brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) test is used to:

• Check for heart failure. A doctor may think you have heart failure if you are having problems such as difficulty breathing and swelling (edema) in the arms or legs.
• Find out how severe heart failure is.
• Check the response to treatment for heart failure.

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Author:	Robin Parks, MS	Last Updated: May 21, 2009
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine John A. McPherson, MD, FACC, FSCAI - Cardiology
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