Plasma N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentrations before and after pericardiocentesis in dogs with cardiac tamponade secondary to spontaneous pericardial effusion

An upper reference limit of 900 pmol/L for plasma NT-proBNP is insensitive for the diagnosis of pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade in dogs. Plasma NT-proBNP concentration commonly increases following pericardiocentesis, perhaps related to improved ventricular filling and stretch.