NT Pro BNP increase in atrial flutter/fibrillation

[Poluneeru]

Hi

Last week when I was at emergency for tachycardia and atrial flutter, they did a Brain NT Pro BNP test. My value was 540. I didn’t even know about this test after I was discharged. No one discussed about it

I checked online and it said it measures heart failure which made me worry very much

Yesterday they rechecked it and it 420. It is coming down

Can anybody tell me if BNP goes up during atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation or it indicates heart failure. I have an appointment with EP in 2 weeks but any input would be great

Thanks

[BobD Volunteer]

BNP shows distress in the heart so very likely. I have had raised BNP readings on occasions for example after DCCV.

In your case since it is going down it is good news. (or better anyway). Long term poorly controlled AF can result in a measure of heart failure.

[Poluneeru in reply to BobD]

Thanks Bob. May I ask what is DCCV

[Hidden in reply to Poluneeru]

Direct Current (electrical) CardioVersion. Nearly always external.

As opposed to chemical cardioversion with medication, oral or intravenous.