Creatine Kinase (CK), Serum
Use
Creatine kinase (CK) is used for diagnosing and monitoring muscle disorders such as myopathies, and muscle injuries caused by trauma, toxins, or drugs. It reflects muscle mass, which is generally higher in males than females. Elevated levels indicate muscle damage, and it is used to monitor conditions like rhabdomyolysis, muscular dystrophy, and injuries. For myocardial infarction detection, CK is largely replaced by more cardiac-specific markers like troponin.
Special Instructions
Patient's age and sex are required for this test. Serum gel tubes should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Red-top tubes should be centrifuged and the serum aliquoted into a plastic vial within 2 hours of collection.
Limitations
Exercise, muscle trauma, drugs like statins, and other conditions can cause elevated CK levels, which might interfere with diagnostic clarity. CK levels are generally higher in black populations. Distinguishing CK level changes caused by muscle damage due to other conditions might require consideration of patient medical history and other diagnostic information.
New York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2157-6
- 2157-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Serum gel tubes should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Red-top tubes should be centrifuged, and the serum aliquoted into a plastic vial within 2 hours of collection.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |