What does a high BNP level indicate?

A high BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide) level is primarily associated with heart failure. BNP is a hormone produced by the heart in response to excessive stretching of heart muscle cells, which often occurs when the heart is working harder to pump blood due to heart failure. Elevated levels of BNP can indicate that the heart is not functioning properly and that fluid is building up, which is characteristic of this condition.

In clinical practice, measuring BNP levels can be a valuable diagnostic tool for healthcare providers when they suspect a patient may be experiencing heart failure. It helps differentiate heart failure from other conditions that may present with similar symptoms, such as shortness of breath. While other conditions, like myocardial infarction, septic shock, and liver dysfunction, can also affect overall health and lead to a range of clinical signs and symptoms, they do not specifically cause elevations in BNP levels as heart failure does. Thus, high BNP levels are most closely linked with heart failure.