Galectin-3 with B-Type Natriuretic Peptide

Item Catalog Number: LC140080

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a small protein secreted by the ventricles of the heart in response to excessive stretching of the heart muscles cells (myocytes). BNP is secreted into the blood when your heart is working hard. The level of BNP is elevated in people with heart failure and left ventricular dysfunction. B-type natriuretic peptide blood levels correlate with both the severity of symptoms and the prognosis in congestive heart failure.

Galectin-3 is a protein which has recently been identified as a mediator of heart failure development and progression.1 It is used in conjunction with clinical evaluation as an aid in assessing the prognosis of people with chronic heart failure.2 Galectin-3 levels > 17.8 ng/mL are associated with a more progressive form of heart failure.

Since Natriuretic Peptides and Galectin-3 measurements reflect separate and distinct biological processes measuring them together may aid in identifying a subgroup of people with heart failure who have a considerably higher risk of mortality.3

This panel does not require fasting. Take all medications as prescribed.

Galectin-3 can also be measured with NT-proBNP. See test code LC142005.