BLOOD ENZYMES

WHAT ARE ENZYMES?

• Enzymes are chemicals which help regulate a number of chemical reactions.
• Blood enzyme tests can be used to measure the levels and activities of certain enzymes.
• Creatine Kinase is an enzyme produced by most of the muscles.

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• There are three forms of creatine kinase:
• CK-MB
• CK-BB
• CK-MM

WHY WOULD YOU NEED THE TEST?

• High CK levels may also indicate muscle damage.
• The CK test is usually recommended for people who have had chest pains or muscle weakness.

HOW IS THE TEST PERFORMED?

• It is done by collecting blood from the arm.
• The blood is collected in a syringe.

WHAT DO THE TESTS MEAN?

• Levels of CK are higher if the heart or other muscles have been damaged.
• Levels in the blood start to increase 3-5 hours after a heart attack.

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• You may also be required to take a troponin test.
• The test is taken the same way as the CK test.
• Troponin tests are directed more for the heart.