What is the heart enzyme?
cardiac enzymes are released into the bloodstream when the heart suffers damage. They include enzyme creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and protein troponin. Usually these enzymes occur in very low levels throughout the body, but when the heart muscle is damaged, they leak in larger quantities. The heart enzyme study measures the levels of both substances, allowing doctors to determine whether a heart event such as a heart attack has occurred. The procedure is performed by drawing blood from the patient, usually from a vein in the arm or hand and sending to the laboratory for analysis. While the study requires only one blood run, in fact it consists of two separate tests. In some cases, only one of these two is arranged. The presence of this cardiac enzyme indicates heart damage and levels tend to remain increased for longer than CPK. In normal conditions, troponin levels are so low that they are barely detectable. Slightly elevated levels indicate a certain type of heart damage while significantly increased levelsThey are taught that there has been a heart attack.
CPK test is also used to diagnose heart attack, but it is not so reliable because elevated levels of this heart enzyme may occur when brain or muscle damage. Thyroid disorders can also bring an unusual result. To determine the exact type of CPK present in the blood, which in turn helps to determine where the damage occurred, the CPK isoenzyme test can be used. The test is usually repeated every two to three days, while the patient is in the hospital because the rise and fall of the enzyme can further help diagnose certain conditions.
Several factors may be the results of a heart enzyme study, including other already existing heart conditions, certain drugs reducing cholesterol and severe alcohol use. Patients with muscular dystrophy and some autoimmune diseases may also have elevated levels of these enzymes. Recent surgery or cardiopulmonal resusciteACE can also disrupt the results.
In addition to a heart enzyme study, doctors can also order a test for measuring myglobin levels, another protein found in the heart muscle. Other diagnostic tools such as electrocardiography and physical examination are usually used, along with the study of the heart enzyme. The patient's symptoms 檚 檚 and the past medical history are also considered.