Serum BNP levels are associated with malignant pericardial effusion

ConclusionsLow serum BNP levels were significantly associated with malignancy in patients undergoing pericardiocentesis for pericardial effusions. Serum BNP levels <250 pg/ml may trigger more extensive diagnostic testing for malignant pericardial effusion in patients with small pericardial effusion who are not considered for pericardiocentesis due to small effusion, in whom the etiology is unclear.
Source: IJC Heart and Vasculature - Category: Cardiology Source Type: research