This assay is intended for the quantitative determination of B-type natriuretic peptide in human plasma. Congestive heart failure (CHF) occurs when the heart cannot deliver a sufficient amount of blood to the body. This condition can occur at any age but is most prevalent in an aged population. Symptoms of CHF include shortness of breath, fluid retention, and respiratory distress. These symptoms are often vague and nonspecific for detecting early stages of CHF. B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a member of a class of hormones that regulate blood pressure. The heart is the main source of circulating BNP in humans. The molecule is released into the blood in response to increased heart pressure. Various studies have demonstrated that increased levels of circulating BNP are found in early stages of CHF. The level of BNP in the blood continues to increase as the CHF disease advances.
