What is the purpose of a creatine kinase test?

A creatine kinase (CK) test measures the level of creatine kinase in your blood. Creatine kinase is an enzyme that helps supply energy to your muscles. High levels of creatine kinase can indicate damage to your muscles or other health problems.

Why is a creatine kinase test done?

A CK test may be done to:

* Diagnose muscle damage or disease.

* Monitor the effectiveness of treatment for muscle damage or disease.

* Screen for genetic muscle disorders, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

* Investigate unexplained muscle pain or weakness.

* Evaluate chest pain or other symptoms that may be caused by a heart attack.

What do the results of a creatine kinase test mean?

The normal range for CK levels varies depending on your age, sex, and ethnicity. High levels of CK can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

* Muscle damage, such as from injuries, surgery, or muscle diseases

* Heart attack

* Stroke

* Thyroid disease

* Kidney disease

* Liver disease

* Certain medications, such as statins and niacin

If you have high levels of CK, your doctor will order additional tests to determine the cause.

How is a creatine kinase test done?

A CK test is a blood test. A healthcare professional will take a sample of your blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for testing.

Are there any risks associated with a creatine kinase test?

There are no major risks associated with a CK test. However, you may experience some discomfort when the blood sample is taken.

What are the limitations of a creatine kinase test?

A CK test can only measure the level of CK in your blood. It cannot identify the specific cause of high CK levels. Additional tests may be needed to determine the cause of high CK levels.