[Indications and Clinical Implications of the Use of the Cardiac Markers BNP and NT-proBNP]

Abstract

B-type natriuretic peptides are markers of myocardial wall stress. BNP or NT-proBNP are used for the differential diagnosis of acute dyspnoe where normal serum concentrations make a cardiac cause unlikely. New data show their importance for risk prediction in different stages of heart failure and in primary prevention. Natriuretic peptide guided therapy improves titration of heart failure medications. Compared to BNP, NT-proBNP is better suited during therapy with the new angiotensin-rezeptor-neprilysin-inhibitor Sacubitril/Valsartan. This review article summarizes current data on the importance of B-type natriuretic peptides for the interface of ambulatory and hospital care and presents recommendations for their practical use in patient care.