Creatine Kinase (CPK) – Serum

The Creatine Kinase (CPK) test measures the level of creatine kinase, an enzyme found in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscles. Elevated CPK levels indicate muscle damage or stress, which may result from injury, intense exercise, or specific medical conditions.

Purpose of the Test:

•Diagnose muscle disorders: Detects conditions like muscular dystrophy or rhabdomyolysis.

•Assess heart health: Helps identify heart conditions such as myocardial infarction (heart attack).

•Monitor muscle injury or inflammation: Evaluates damage from trauma, infections, or autoimmune diseases.

•Evaluate drug toxicity: Tracks potential side effects of medications that can harm muscles.

Conditions Indicated by Elevated Levels:

•Skeletal Muscle Damage:

•Intense exercise, trauma, or muscle inflammation (myositis).

•Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown).

•Cardiac Muscle Damage:

•Myocardial infarction (heart attack).

•Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle).

•Other Causes:

•Brain injuries or strokes.

•Hypothyroidism or metabolic disorders.

Key Notes:

•Elevated CPK levels require further tests (e.g., CK-MB for heart-specific damage) to pinpoint the source of muscle stress.

•This test is often used alongside troponin and CK-MB tests to evaluate heart-related conditions.

•Temporary elevations can occur after strenuous physical activity or muscle injuries.