Lipids & Cardiovascular
Heart Failure Test
Lipids & Cardiovascular
NT-ProBNP is a hormone released when the heart is under stress. It is one of the most reliable blood tests for early detection of heart failure.
VAT-exempt medical service
Heart failure is a common and serious condition, particularly in older adults. NT-ProBNP (N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide) is a hormone released into the blood when the heart muscle is under increased pressure or strain. This blood test is one of the most valuable tools for detecting heart failure early, assessing unexplained shortness of breath, and monitoring chronic heart conditions. Low values can practically rule out heart failure, while high values strongly suggest it. Wellth provides NT-ProBNP testing through accredited Swedish laboratories.
NT-ProBNP testing is essential for anyone experiencing symptoms that could indicate heart failure, such as unexplained shortness of breath, persistent fatigue, or swelling in the legs. It is also used to monitor treatment for chronic heart failure and to assess the severity of cardiac stress. The test can reduce the need for more invasive diagnostic procedures by quickly identifying or ruling out heart failure as a cause of symptoms.
What a high value can mean
High NT-ProBNP indicates that the heart is under stress or strain, most commonly due to heart failure. Other causes include acute coronary syndrome (heart attack or ischaemia), kidney disease, pulmonary embolism, atrial fibrillation, valvular heart disease, myocarditis, and severe infections such as sepsis. Levels naturally rise with age. When the heart muscle stretches due to excess pressure or fluid, it releases NT-ProBNP to help reduce blood volume and pressure.
What a low value can mean
Low NT-ProBNP is generally a positive sign, suggesting the heart is not under significant stress. It can help rule out heart failure as a cause of symptoms like shortness of breath or fatigue. However, certain factors such as obesity can lower NT-ProBNP levels even when heart failure is present, so results must always be interpreted in clinical context.
No special preparation is needed for this test. Bring valid identification to the lab. If you take a supplement containing biotin (often sold for hair and nails), pause it for two days before the test, as high doses can distort the result.
Order your test
Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.
Give your sample
Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.
The lab analyses it
Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.
Get your results
Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.
A high level indicates that the heart is under stress, most commonly from heart failure. However, it can also be elevated in kidney disease, atrial fibrillation, pulmonary embolism, and other conditions. Your doctor will interpret the result alongside other clinical findings.
Yes. A low NT-ProBNP level has very high negative predictive value, meaning it can effectively rule out heart failure as a cause of symptoms in most patients.
Yes. NT-ProBNP levels naturally increase with age, so age-adjusted reference ranges are used for interpretation. Gender and body weight also play a role.
NT-ProBNP and BNP are related but different markers. Both are released from the heart under stress, but they are measured differently and have different reference ranges. Both are reliable indicators of cardiac function.