brain type ( B type BNP ) natriuretic peptide in the detection of acute heart failure

Last reviewed 01/2018

  • if suspected acute heart failure, use a single measurement of serum natriuretic peptides (B-type natriuretic peptide [BNP] or N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide [NT-proBNP]) and the following thresholds to rule out the diagnosis of heart failure:
    • BNP less than 100 ng/litre
    • NT-proBNP less than 300 ng/litre

  • if presenting with new suspected acute heart failure with raised natriuretic peptide levels, perform transthoracic Doppler 2D echocardiography to establish the presence or absence of cardiac abnormalities
    • consider performing transthoracic Doppler 2D echocardiography within 48 hours of admission to guide early specialist management

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