What are the biomarkers for checking heart failure?

Nov 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
The core biomarkers for evaluating heart failure are brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), which are key indicators for diagnosis, assessment of disease severity, and prognosis. They are widely used in clinical practice with high specificity. If symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, or lower limb edema occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo testing for these relevant biomarkers.

  The core biomarkers for evaluating heart failure are brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). These markers are key indicators for diagnosis, assessing disease severity, and predicting prognosis, with broad clinical application and high specificity. If symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, or lower limb edema occur, prompt medical evaluation and testing of these biomarkers are recommended.

  Brain natriuretic peptide is primarily secreted by ventricular myocardial cells. In heart failure, elevated ventricular pressure stimulates substantial release of BNP. The degree of increase in BNP levels correlates positively with the severity of heart failure, making it an effective tool to differentiate heart failure from other causes of dyspnea and a crucial marker for rapid heart failure screening.

  N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is the precursor of BNP. It has a longer half-life and greater stability, allowing for more standardized test results. It is particularly suitable for patients with renal insufficiency and can accurately reflect changes in heart failure status, providing reliable evidence for treatment adjustments.

  Daily management should include maintaining stable blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipid levels; avoiding excessive fatigue and emotional stress; adhering to regular sleep patterns without staying up late; following a low-salt diet to reduce cardiac load; engaging in moderate, gentle exercise; and regularly monitoring heart rate changes to support overall heart health.