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B-type natriuretic peptide: issues for the intensivist and pulmonologist
Jason Phua1, Phua Jason, Tow Keang Lim
1Division of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore.
Objective:
B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro-BNP (NT-proBNP), although promising as biomarkers for heart failure, are affected by multiple confounders. The purpose of this article is to review the literature on the utility of BNP and NT-proBNP as biomarkers, with a focus on their role in critical illness and pulmonary diseases.
Data Source:
Published articles on BNP and NT-proBNP.
Data Analysis:
Multiple disorders in the intensive care unit cause elevated BNP and NT-proBNP levels, including cardiac diseases, shock, pulmonary hypertension, acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute pulmonary embolism, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, renal failure, and other conditions.
Conclusions:
Intensivists and pulmonologists should understand that BNP and NT-proBNP levels might be raised to different degrees not only in heart failure but also in critical illness and various pulmonary diseases; in these situations, BNP and NT-proBNP may also serve as markers of severity and prognosis.
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