Enzymes are crucial proteins required for optimal bodily function. One such enzyme, creatine phosphokinase (CPK), is also known as creatine kinase (CK) and is vital for muscles to work efficiently. CPK can be found in the brain, stomach, heart, bladder, colon, and skeletal muscles. When muscles sustain damage, CPK is released into the bloodstream, and the levels are elevated.
Different forms of CPK exist that can be specific to certain organs, and identifying the particular form that is elevated can indicate which tissue has been damaged.
CPK is a significant biochemical marker, and high levels are found during muscle damage. The CPK test measures the levels of the creatinine kinase enzyme and is performed to evaluate muscle tissue health.
What is the CPK test used for?
A CPK test determines the level of total CPK enzymes in a patient's serum.
- Detects any cardiac muscle damage for the diagnosis of a heart attack.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of therapy in terms of muscle damage.
- Identify the source of chest pain.
- Diagnose muscular dystrophy.
- Diagnose various muscle diseases such as malignant hyperthermia, dermatomyositis, and polymyositis.
What is included in the CPK test?
During the CPK test, the total level of the creatine phosphokinase (CPK) enzyme in the blood serum is measured. When a muscle is injured, CPK is released, and its levels become elevated in the blood.
There are three primary isoenzymes of CPK, including CPK-BB, found in the lungs and brain; CPK-MB, a more accurate indicator of damage to myocardial muscle; and CPK-MM, which is a marker of skeletal muscle. Identifying the specific form of CPK that is elevated can help determine which tissue has been damaged. The test is carried out by a certified laboratory technician.
Procedure for CPK test
- The CPK test requires a blood sample taken from a vein.
- A topical antiseptic is applied to a small skin area inside the elbow to clean the area before the sample is taken.
- An elastic band is then wrapped around the upper arm to apply pressure and locate a vein.
- A sterile needle is inserted to draw blood into a small tube once a vein is located, which may cause a brief stinging sensation but dissipates quickly.
- After removing the needle, a small bandage is applied to the site.
- The sample is labelled and sent to the lab.
- The lab technician uses state-of-the-art technology to analyze the blood sample.
- The blood test results are typically available within 24-48 hours after the analysis.
How do I prepare for the CPK test?
The CPK blood test is a basic blood test that does not require any extra preparation or fasting before the test. Samples can be taken at the patient's convenience. Inform the physician about any prescription medications or special medications you are taking. Some medications, for example, can cause CPK testing to fail.
- Statins
- Amphotericin B
- Steroids
- Cocaine
- Anesthetics
Other factors that can cause an increase in CPK levels include:
- Intramuscular injections
- Vigorous exercise
- Recently performed surgery
- Cardiac Catheterisation
- Immunizations
Additional information
After the CPK test is completed, the test results will be reviewed by a qualified physician. They will discuss the diagnosis with you and provide recommendations for treatment and any necessary follow-up if the CPK levels are high. If you are in the hospital, the test may be repeated within the next two or three days. It is important to avoid self-diagnosing the medical condition and rely on the advice and expertise of trained medical professionals.
