Cardiac Enzymes

Cardiac enzymes are a group of proteins released into the bloodstream when the heart muscle is damaged. Measuring these enzymes helps diagnose and manage conditions like myocardial infarction (heart attack) and other forms of acute coronary syndrome.

At Reagan Medical Center, we utilize cardiac enzyme testing as a crucial part of our diagnostic process to evaluate heart health and determine the appropriate course of treatment.

The primary cardiac enzymes measured are:

1. Troponins (Troponin I and Troponin T): These proteins are highly specific to cardiac muscle and are considered the most reliable markers for diagnosing heart damage. Elevated levels of troponins in the blood indicate that the heart muscle has been injured, often due to a heart attack. Troponin levels typically rise within a few hours of heart damage and can remain elevated for several days, making them valuable for both immediate diagnosis and monitoring over time.
2. Creatine Kinase (CK) and CK-MB: Creatine kinase is an enzyme found in various tissues, including the heart. CK-MB is the cardiac-specific isoenzyme, which is more indicative of heart muscle damage than the total CK level. Elevated CK-MB levels can signal recent myocardial injury, though these levels tend to peak and return to normal more quickly than troponins.
3. Myoglobin: This protein is released into the bloodstream when muscle tissue, including heart muscle, is damaged. While myoglobin levels rise rapidly following cardiac injury, it is less specific than troponin and CK-MB. It is often used in conjunction with other markers to provide a more comprehensive assessment.

Testing for these cardiac enzymes typically involves drawing a blood sample, which is then analyzed in a laboratory. The results are used to assess the extent of heart muscle damage, confirm the presence of a heart attack, and guide treatment decisions, such as the need for medications, interventions, or further diagnostic testing.

At Reagan Medical Center, we ensure that cardiac enzyme testing is conducted with accuracy and promptness. Our healthcare professionals interpret the results in the context of the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and other diagnostic findings to provide a complete picture of heart health. This approach allows us to effectively diagnose and manage cardiac conditions, support timely interventions, and improve patient outcomes through tailored treatment strategies.