- For dogs with suspected heart disease (murmur or breed at risk)
NTproBNP <900 pmol/L
The concentration of NTproBNP is not compatible with increased stretch and stress on the myocardium. clinically significant heart disease is unlikely at this time.
For Doberman pinschers with NTproBNP ≥735 pmol/L, the patient is at increased risk of occult dilation cardiomyopathy. Echocardiography and Holter or electrocardiogram (ECG) are recommended at this time.
NTproBNP ≥900 pmol/L
In dogs with a murmur, the canine NT-proBNP concentration is consistent with increased stretch and stress in the myocardium Clinically significant cardiac disease is likely present at this time. Additional diagnostics are recommended to diagnose and assess the severity of the disease.
For dogs <20 kg with mitral valve disease (MVD) and NTproBNP >1500 pmol/L, the patient has an increased risk of heart failure in the next 12 months. Chest radiographs and vertebral heart scoring (VHS), in a
minimum is required.
2. For dogs with murmur and clinical signs compatible with heart disease
NTproBNP <900 pmol/L
The likelihood that the clinical signs (ie, respiratory and/or exercise intolerance) are due to heart failure is low. Consider other differentials to determine the cause of clinical signs.
NTproBNP 900–1800 pmol/L
There is greater stretch and stress on the myocardium at this time. However, results in this range are not they do not allow reliable differentiation between clinical signs due to heart failure versus those of other causes. Additional diagnostics are recommended.
NTproBNP >1800 pmol/L
There is evidence of increased stretch and stress on the myocardium. The probability that the clinical signs (ie, respiratory and/or exercise intolerance) are due to heart failure. Additional diagnoses are recommended to diagnose and assess the severity of the disease.
For dogs with NTproBNP results of 900 pmol/L or greater, additional diagnostics to assess cardiac health include chest x-rays, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram. Echocardiography usually provides the most accurate information on cardiac structure and function.