Elevated Creatine Kinase MB Isoenzyme What Does It Mean

The creatine kinase MB isoenzyme is one of the key markers for myocardial injury or necrosis. An increase in this enzyme often indicates damage to the heart muscle. The measurement of creatine kinase MB can be performed in two ways: activity testing and mass testing. In clinical practice, the activity of the enzyme is commonly assessed through biochemical or cardiac enzyme panel tests. However, due to various interfering factors, activity testing is considered less accurate compared to mass testing.

Therefore, if a patient is found to have elevated creatine kinase MB activity, it is recommended to visit a hospital for a more reliable creatine kinase MB mass test. If both the mass and activity levels of the enzyme are elevated, it strongly suggests the presence of actual myocardial damage.

Importance Of Comprehensive Evaluation

When a patient presents with elevated creatine kinase MB levels, it is crucial to determine whether the elevation is in enzyme activity, mass, or both. Additionally, this finding should not be viewed in isolation. Healthcare providers should consider other important markers of cardiac injury, such as troponin levels, along with diagnostic tools like electrocardiograms (ECG) and echocardiography. A comprehensive approach ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of potential heart-related conditions.