Brain natriuretic peptide reflects individual variation in hydration status in hemodialysis patients.

BNP correlates positively to overhydration, malnutrition, and inflammation. In a subgroup of patients with elevated BNP, who are mainly elderly and frail, BNP reflects individual variation in hydration status, and hence seems to be a modifiable marker of overhydration. These data suggest that BNP is best applied for measuring changes in hydration status within an individual over time.