What is the normal range for N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide? How well does this normal range screen for cardiovascular disease?

Abstract

Aims To define the N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NTpBNP) normal range, assessing its cardiovascular screening characteristics in general population and higher risk subjects. Methods and results A total of 2320 subjects (1392 general population and 928 high-risk) ≥45 years old, selected randomly from seven community practices, were invited to undergo clinical assessment and echocardiography and to assess NTpBNP serum levels. Of these, 1205 attended. The NTpBNP normal range was calculated and its cardiovascular screening characteristics were assessed. Age (PPConclusion Normal NTpBNP levels should be stratified by age and gender. Normal NTpBNP levels give high NPV in excluding significant cardiovascular disease. Most subjects with raised NTpBNP levels and almost all subjects with NTpBNP levels over four times the normal have significant cardiovascular disease.