Diagnostic, Prognostic and Therapeutic Role of B-type Natriuretic Peptide in Heart Failure

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a cadiac neurohormone specifically synthesised in and secreted from the ventricles in response to elevations of end-diastolic pressure and volume. It represents a favorable side of neurohormonal activation with its diuretic, natriuretic and vasodilator properties. Concentrations of BNP are increased in chronic heart failure and correlate with the severity and functional capacity of the patient. Measurement of BNP may be useful in distinguishing between cardiac and noncardiac causes of acute dyspnea. It is also suggested as a screening method for left ventricular systolic dysfunction in groups at high risk such as those with coronary heart disease, hypertension, diabetes or other vascular diseases. In patients with congestive heart failure, BNP is an independent predictor of long-term morbidity and mortality. On the other hand, repeated measurements of BNP might be used to evaluate the efficacy of therapy for heart failure. Nesiritide, a recombinant human BNP, may have an important role in the management of heart failure, especially in patients with acute decompensated heart failure. In this article, we reviewed the studies evaluating the diagnostic, prognostic and thearapeutic role of BNP in patients with heart failure.