[Biomarkers in heart failure: BNP and NT-proBNP].

Used as biomarkers of heart failure (HF), BNP and NT-proBNP may be considered as the 'fatal finish line' for all cardiovascular disorders. The incidence of heart failure has increased steadily over the past several decades. High readmission rates for patients with acute decompensated heart failure have led to a search for biomarkers able to predict future clinical outcomes that would facilitate HF patient monitoring and help guide therapy. Molecular biomarkers play an important role in heart failure. From among several promising markers, the family of natriuretic peptides, especially B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and NT-proBNP, have been identified as potentially valuable diagnostic and prognostic tools. Not unexpectedly, BNP/NT-proBNP fails to fulfill all the criteria of an ideal biomarker. The development of additional biomarkers will be an important step toward improving diagnosis and treatment of patients with chronic and acute decompensated heart failure.