A brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) test is a blood test that measures the amount of the BNP hormone in your child’s blood.

BNP is made by the pumping chambers of the heart when it is working hard. In normal circumstances, low levels of BNP are found in the blood. Increased levels of BNP indicate that your child’s heart is working harder than usual.

A BNP test is one of the best tests that we have to monitor the interaction between your child’s heart and lungs.