Creatine kinase MB (CK-MB)

Creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) is an enzyme found primarily in heart muscle cells. When the heart is injured, such as during a heart attack, these cells release CK-MB into the bloodstream. Measuring CK-MB levels helps doctors assess if and when heart muscle damage has occurred, providing valuable information for diagnosing and monitoring cardiac events. Elevated CK-MB levels are specific indicators of heart muscle injury, although they can also be present in other conditions affecting the heart. This test is often used alongside other markers to evaluate heart health and emergency situations.