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Using BNP to diagnose, manage, and treat heart failure

Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine. 2003 April;70(4):333-336
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ABSTRACTA rapid assay for B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) not only can be used to diagnose heart failure, it can help the clinician evaluate effectiveness of therapy, determine when discharge from the hospital is appropriate, and estimate prognosis. A synthetic formulation of BNP (nesiritide) is used to treat decompensated heart failure, resulting in improved hemodynamics and symptoms.