B-type (brain) natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a hormone produced by cardiac myocytes in response to stretch of the cardiac wall. BNP acts on the kidneys to promote salt wasting (natriuresis) and and renal water loss (diuresis) with a subsequent decrease in the circulating plasma volume. BNP also promotes vasodilation, decreasing peripheral vascular resistance and lowering blood pressure.
Plasma BNP is most commonly used as a screening test for heart failure in a patient with dyspnoea. More specialised uses of BNP include prognostication in patients with established heart failure, and in making clinical management decisions regarding heart failure therapy.
Core Biochemistry
BNP
B type natriuretic peptide
3 hours
7299