Assessment of BNP and NT-proBNP in emergency department patients presenting with suspected acute coronary syndromes

Objectives: The relationship between BNP and NT-proBNP among physiologically and clinically relevant demographic subgroups has never been clarified in the context of the emergency department (ED). Design and methods: A blood sample taken from patients presenting to the E.D. with suspected acute coronary syndromes (ACS) was analyzed for BNP and NT-proBNP, and correlation between them was examined as an entire group then as subgroups according to gender, ethnicity, age, and comorbidity variables. Results: BNP and NT-proBNP correlate well (0.89, P < 0.0001) in a population of 420 patients and in patient subgroups with a history of various etiologies, including vascular disorders. Conclusions: In general, BNP and NT-proBNP correlate very well in patients with suspected ACS and may aid in the risk stratification process in emergency departments. (c) 2005 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. All rights reserved.