What is indicated by a BNP level greater than 900?

A B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level greater than 900 pg/mL typically indicates severe heart failure. BNP is a hormone produced by the heart in response to increased pressure that often occurs when heart failure develops or worsens. Elevated levels are associated with the severity of heart dysfunction; particularly, a BNP level above 900 is strongly indicative of significant cardiac stress and impaired cardiac function.

In the context of heart failure, such high levels suggest that the heart is struggling to pump effectively, leading to notable fluid retention and symptoms associated with advanced heart failure. Clinicians use these measurements to assess the severity of the condition and to help guide treatment decisions.

Other levels of BNP (lower than 900) would suggest varying degrees of heart failure, such as mild or moderate, and a level below the thresholds typically indicates a lower likelihood of heart failure, thus reaffirming the value of BNP testing in diagnosing and assessing heart failure severity.