Troponin Test
What is the purpose of this test: | This test is usually ordered in patients with suspected myocardial infarction or other cardiac injury. |
How to prepare: |
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Target values: |
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Associated tests: | Other cardiac biomarkers such as creatine kinase, creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) and myoglobin are often ordered along with troponin testing. |
General Information
Troponins are a group of three proteins that regulate muscular contractions. Troponin C is found in the skeletal muscles, while troponin T and 1 are found in the heart. The troponin test involves measuring levels of troponin l and T since they are released into the bloodstream when the heart muscle is damaged. Under normal circumstances, these troponins are not detected in the blood.
When should the troponin test be requested?
This test is usually performed when a patient is admitted to the emergency and cardiac involvement is suspected (if the patient is experiencing chest pain, for example). If the first test is negative, a second test is performed within a minimum of 6 to 12 hours after admission, then again 24 hours after admission if the results of the second test are negative.
What does an abnormal test result mean?
If results are elevated
Elevated troponin concentrations are almost always indicative of a heart injury. When a patient has a significant elevation, it usually means that he has suffered an acute myocardial infarction. Troponin concentrations increase about 4 to 8 hours after the onset of pain and values may remain high for 10 to 14 days after the heart has been injured. A positive troponin test is not enough to diagnose heart damage. The patient's medical history and an electrocardiogram are just as important when making a diagnosis. Heart inflammation, heart failure, severe infection, kidney failure, and certain chronic inflammatory conditions of the muscles and skin may cause elevated troponin concentrations.
If results are too low
An extremely low or undetectable level (less than 0.1 mcg/L) is ideal.
Factors that can affect the result of this test
The test does not appear to be affected by damage to other muscles - whether an intramuscular injection or injury (such as an accident for example).
What you should know before going for this
Before going for a blood test, examination or other, it is always a good idea for you to have a complete list of all prescription and over the counter medications and/or natural products you may be taking. If you are unsure or have any questions, your pharmacist will be able provide you with additional information.
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The patient information leaflets are provided by Vigilance Santé Inc. This content is for information purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever replace the opinion or advice of your health care professional. Always consult a health care professional before making a decision about your medication or treatment.