NT-proBNP test shows over 1800 (2,255) Does it indicate heart failure?

[oscarfox49]

Latest info:

When I saw my doctor, having experienced some worry about this test, he was immediately aware that the high BNP level was directly attributable to my permanent AF. He explained that he had only asked for the test to establish a 'base level' for my proBNP reading and despite the relatively high result, it means that in future he can see if there is any deterioration in my heart problems should it rise still further. For the present, I have almost none of the other heart failure symptoms such as swollen feet and ankles, coughs, breathlessness etc, and only fatigue, which is attributable to both the AF and the stroke I had three years ago. So I was very much reassured.

As a general point for those who may get similar tests of proBNP, suffering AF really does distort the result and the protein is generated by both the atrium struggling as well as the ventricals, so should not be seen as symptomatic of heart failure until you have had other basic tests like and ECG.

I have just had a routine blood test and the doctor had included a NT proBNP test for the first time. The results I have just got say that it should not be more than 450, and above 1800 means real concern; and at 2,255 and over 75 in age (I am 77 just) it indicates 'extreme likelihood of cardiac insufficiency'.

This is of course quite alarming and I really thought I was healthier than I had been and have yet to see the doctor.

Has anybody else had this test and know what a measurement like this indicates. Could it simply be the effect of AF for example or does it indicate another underlying heart problem which may be more serious?

[Territorial]

Have you had an echocardiogram to check your ejection fraction yet?

The BNP markers are high but it may not be that bad i would wait to hear from your cardiologist..

[oscarfox49 in reply to Territorial]

Not yet. I have an appointment with my doctor on Monday so I hope he will refer me to a cardiologist to have an ECG and get more information. I don't feel particularly bad, no symptoms of AF that I really notice, I work hard all day long, and just get very fatigued and a tiny bit breathless. No swollen ankles and feet. I cannot really believe that the indicator is correct, but I will see.

[Territorial in reply to oscarfox49]

When i had heart failure i did not feel any pain just breathing difficulties your GP may be able to order an echocardiogram and it would arm the cardiologist with more info when you see him next..

Anyway best of luck and best of health to you..

[Barb1]

I have been told that I am borderline at measurement around 700. Consultant is keeping an eye on things and I have another test end of August.

[Bagrat]

When my husbands result was high (requested by GP). I asked for interpretation from cardiologist, i.e. did it indicate heart failure? His reply " I wish GPs wouldn't do this test when patient has AF as it muddies the water ". For some reason we both found this reassuring, setting aside his moderate aortic incompetence and previous stents, the consultant was not concerned by this result. A year later and all is about the same with the possibility of TAVI in next 1 or 2 years.