Brain Natriuretic Peptide: It's Not About the Brain or Just Another Smart Polypeptide--It's About the Heart.

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a cardiac hormone with diuretic, natriuretic, and vasodilator properties. Measurement of plasma B-type natriuretic peptide concentrations is increasingly used to aid diagnosis, assess prognosis, and tailor treatment in adults with congestive heart failure. Recent studies suggest that the peptide is also useful in pediatric patients. The diagnostic role of plasma BNP in neonates admitted to the NICU has shown promise as an aid in diagnosis in neonates with signs of congenital heart disease; as a biomarker of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, patent ductus arteriosus, and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn; a predictive biomarker of the response to indomethacin in preterm infants; and, more significantly, in acute heart failure.