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Cardiovascular

NT-proBNP Test

NT-proBNP is one of the most sensitive markers for heart failure screening. Proactive testing supports early detection and cardiac health management.

Doctor's Assessment Included

When is this value abnormal?

Decision limits per result, in pmol/l
Result Value (pmol/l)
Normal < 15
Elevated ≥ 15

This is a cut-off value, not a reference value: the NHG guideline on heart failure prescribes this limit, even if the laboratory states other reference values. It applies to symptoms that developed gradually (not acutely). Note: in atrial fibrillation, a value below the cut-off does not rule out heart failure. NT-proBNP can be lowered by overweight and by heart-failure medication, and raised by kidney damage, atrial fibrillation, older age and severe infection.

Source: Nederlands Huisartsen Genootschap Reference population: Adults with suspected heart failure (NHG guideline on heart failure)

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

NT-proBNP: what this test measures

This test measures the level of NT-proBNP in your blood. Higher levels indicate greater cardiac stress and may suggest heart failure or other cardiac conditions.

NT-proBNP: why this value matters

NT-proBNP is one of the best biomarkers for detecting heart failure and monitoring its severity. It can also help distinguish cardiac from non-cardiac causes of shortness of breath. Consult your healthcare provider.

NT-proBNP: how the blood test works

Referral
No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
The draw
A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
Which test
on its own €82,-
Where
650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites

NT-proBNP: when is testing worthwhile?

Testing may be recommended if you experience shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs, or other symptoms suggestive of heart failure.

NT-proBNP: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Low NT-proBNP levels generally rule out significant heart failure and indicate normal cardiac wall stress.

High Levels

Elevated NT-proBNP may be associated with heart failure, atrial fibrillation, pulmonary embolism, or other conditions that stress the heart. Symptoms may include breathlessness, fatigue, and fluid retention.

NT-proBNP: lifestyle and this value

Maintain cardiovascular health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, blood pressure management, and stress reduction. If you have heart failure, follow your healthcare provider's treatment plan carefully.

NT-proBNP: frequently asked questions

Can NT-proBNP diagnose heart failure?

NT-proBNP is a powerful tool for detecting heart failure, but diagnosis requires clinical evaluation alongside other tests. Low levels make heart failure unlikely.

Does age affect NT-proBNP?

Yes, NT-proBNP levels naturally increase with age. Your healthcare provider will use age-appropriate reference ranges for interpretation.

Can exercise affect NT-proBNP?

Intense exercise can temporarily elevate NT-proBNP. This is usually not a concern in healthy individuals but should be discussed with your healthcare provider if persistent.

NT-proBNP: sources

  1. NHG-Standaard Hartfalen (M51). Gepubliceerd mei 2021, laatste aanpassing februari 2026. "Bepaal het B-type natriuretisch peptide (BNP) of het N-terminaal proBNP (NT-proBNP) en gebruik daarbij de volgende afkapwaarden, ook als het laboratorium andere referentiewaarden aanhoudt: ... NT-proBNP 125 pg/ml (komt overeen met 15 pmol/l)." Geraadpleegd 14 juli 2026. (retrieved 2026) richtlijnen.nhg.org

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NT-proBNP

€82,-