What laboratory values are recommended for the initial evaluation of a patient with dyspnea to determine the possibility of heart failure?

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro-BNP (NT-pro-BNP) are recommended laboratory values for the initial evaluation of a patient with dyspnea to determine the possibility of heart failure.

In the initial evaluation of a patient presenting with dyspnea, measuring B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro-BNP (NT-pro-BNP) is recommended to assess the possibility of heart failure. These biomarkers are useful in determining the presence and severity of heart failure, especially in acute settings. Elevated levels of these peptides can indicate myocardial strain and are helpful in differentiating heart failure from other causes of dyspnea.