CK-NAC

About Test

The Creatine Kinase (CK) assay measures the levels of CK, an enzyme found predominantly in muscle tissue, in the bloodstream. This test is vital for assessing muscle health and diagnosing various medical conditions affecting muscles, including muscle injury, inflammation, or diseases such as muscular dystrophy. CK plays a crucial role in energy production within muscle cells, and its levels in the blood rise following muscle damage or breakdown. Elevated CK levels are often observed after strenuous exercise, trauma, or surgery involving muscles. Additionally, certain medical conditions such as myocardial infarction (heart attack), rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown), or inflammatory myopathies may also cause increased CK levels. Conversely, low CK levels are less common but could indicate severe muscle wasting or conditions affecting CK production. Doctors frequently order CK testing to evaluate patients with muscle-related symptoms such as muscle pain, weakness, or swelling, helping to diagnose and monitor various muscle disorders.