Understanding Creatine Kinase (MB) CK-MB Test
The Creatine Kinase-MB (CK-MB) test measures the level of the CK-MB isoenzyme in your blood. CK-MB is an enzyme found mainly in heart muscle cells. When the heart muscle is damaged—such as during a heart attack—CK-MB is released into the blood, making this test a key tool for detecting heart muscle injury and differentiating it from damage to other muscles.
Indications of the Test – Main reasons or symptoms for ordering the test
Your doctor may recommend a CK-MB test if you have symptoms that suggest a heart attack or other heart muscle injury, such as:
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Chest pain or discomfort
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Shortness of breath
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Nausea or vomiting
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Sweating
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Pain radiating to the arm, neck, or jaw
The test is also used to:
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Confirm or rule out a heart attack (myocardial infarction)
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Monitor recovery after a heart attack
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Distinguish between heart-related and other muscle injuries
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Assess heart muscle damage after surgery or trauma
Patient Preparation/Instructions – Any preparations needed before the test
No special preparation is needed for the CK-MB test. You can eat and drink normally unless your doctor advises otherwise. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some drugs (like statins) can affect muscle enzymes.
Typical Reference Values – Normal result ranges (note they may vary)
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Normal CK-MB levels: 0–5 ng/mL (nanograms per milliliter) or less than 5% of total CK levels.
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Mildly elevated: 5–10 ng/mL may suggest minor heart stress or early heart muscle injury.
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Significantly elevated: Above 10 ng/mL or more than 6% of total CK often indicates a heart attack or severe cardiac muscle damage.
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Some labs may report CK-MB in units per liter (U/L); normal adult values are typically 2.0–19.5 U/L.
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Reference ranges can vary, so there may be inter-lab variation.
Time it takes to get the Report – How long does it usually take
CK-MB test results are usually available within 6 hours of sample collection. In urgent cases, results may be available sooner.
How to order the test – Step-by-step guide for ordering online via Labtestzote
- Add the test to your cart and complete the online order form with your details.
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Visit our lab in Hurlingham for sample collection, or opt for home/workplace sample collection
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Sample Collection: Attend your chosen lab at your scheduled time for a quick, professional blood draw.
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Receive Results: Access your results securely online through the Labtestzote client portal and share them with your doctor as needed.
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