What is the NT-proBNP Test?

NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide) is a hormone fragment released into the blood when the heart muscle is stretched or under increased pressure. It is produced primarily by the ventricles in response to volume overload or reduced cardiac function.

The NT-proBNP blood test measures the concentration of this peptide to assess how hard the heart is working. Elevated levels are strongly associated with heart failure but may also be seen in other cardiac and systemic conditions affecting heart function.

This test is widely used in cardiology to support diagnosis, assess severity and monitor progression of heart failure.

Why do I need a test for NT-proBNP?

You may need this test if you have symptoms suggestive of heart failure or reduced cardiac function. NT-proBNP helps differentiate cardiac causes of breathlessness from lung or non-cardiac causes.

It is also used to monitor known heart failure, assess treatment response and support risk stratification in people with cardiovascular disease. Early detection allows timely intervention and improved outcomes.

Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:

• Shortness of breath
• Swelling of ankles, legs or abdomen
• Fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance
• Rapid weight gain from fluid retention
• Persistent cough or wheezing
• Known heart failure monitoring
• Unexplained breathlessness
• Cardiovascular risk assessment

Benefits of the NT-proBNP Test

·      Key marker of heart strain and dysfunction
Reflects pressure and volume overload of the heart.

·      Supports heart failure diagnosis
Helps confirm or exclude heart failure in symptomatic patients.

·      Differentiates cardiac from non-cardiac breathlessness
Improves diagnostic accuracy.

·      Assesses severity of heart failure
Higher levels often correlate with worse cardiac function.

·      Monitors treatment response
Falling levels may indicate improvement.

·      Supports early intervention
Enables timely referral and management.

·      Useful for long-term monitoring
Tracks disease progression over time.

·      Simple and widely validated blood test
Requires only a standard blood sample.

Step-by-Step: How Testing Works

Choose your preferred testing method

You can attend one of our UK partner clinics or arrange a home or hotel visit with a mobile phlebotomist.

Option 1 – In-Clinic Blood Draw

1. Select your nearest UK clinic and book an appointment.
2. A clinician or phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.
3. The sample is analysed for NT-proBNP levels.
4. Results are delivered securely online.

Option 2 – Home or Hotel Phlebotomy (+£60)

1. Book a UK-wide home or hotel visit at a convenient time.
2. A trained phlebotomist collects your blood sample on-site.
3. The sample is packaged and transported to the laboratory.
4. Results are uploaded digitally without the need to travel.

Access your report

You can download and share your results with your GP or cardiologist.

Your Results Explained

Low Levels

Low NT-proBNP levels make heart failure unlikely.
This suggests symptoms are less likely to be caused by cardiac dysfunction.
Typical UK reference:

• <125 pg/mL (under 75 years)
• <450 pg/mL (75 years and over)

Normal Levels

Normal results indicate no significant cardiac strain at the time of testing.
Heart failure is unlikely but clinical correlation remains important.

High Levels

Elevated NT-proBNP levels indicate increased cardiac stress or dysfunction.
High levels are commonly associated with heart failure but may also rise in atrial fibrillation, kidney disease or acute cardiac events.
Results must be interpreted alongside symptoms, imaging and clinical assessment.