Creatine Kinase

Creatine kinase, also known as CK or CPK, is an enzyme found in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle. This enzyme plays a critical role in producing energy for these tissues, making it an important marker of muscle and heart health.

What is it used for:

The Creatine Kinase test is used to measure the levels of this enzyme in the blood. Elevated levels of CK in the blood can be an indicator of muscle damage, injury, or disease. This test is commonly used to diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions, such as heart attacks, muscle disorders, and autoimmune diseases.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of high CK levels may include muscle weakness, pain, and swelling. Some people may also experience fatigue, fever, or joint pain. High levels of CK may indicate that the muscles are being damaged or destroyed, which could be caused by several factors such as an injury, overuse, or muscle disease.

Risk factors:

Risk factors for high CK levels include strenuous exercise, trauma, or infections. Certain medications, such as statins used to lower cholesterol, can also increase CK levels. People with a history of heart disease, autoimmune disorders, or muscle diseases are also at an increased risk of elevated CK levels.

Who needs it:

Individuals who are experiencing symptoms of muscle or heart-related issues, or those who are at risk for such conditions, may need to undergo a CK test. This may include athletes who participate in strenuous activities, people who have a family history of heart disease or muscle disorders, or those who are taking certain medications.

The normal ranges: Male 46 - 171u.l ; Female 34 - 145 u/l
*Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different labs. Some labs use different measurements or may test different specimens. Talk to your provider about your test results.


In summary, Creatine Kinase is an important enzyme used to diagnose and monitor a variety of muscle and heart-related conditions. Individuals who are experiencing symptoms or who are at risk of these conditions may need to undergo a CK test to check their levels. A healthcare provider can provide more information on whether a CK test is necessary and interpret the results.