What is an ST4 laboratory test?

An ST4 laboratory test measures the level of ST4 protein in a person's blood. ST4 is a biomarker that is associated with myocardial fibrosis, which is the scarring of the heart muscle. Myocardial fibrosis can occur due to a variety of causes, including heart disease, heart failure, and diabetes.

High levels of ST4 in the blood may indicate the presence of myocardial fibrosis. ST4 testing is often used to evaluate patients with suspected or known heart disease or heart failure. It can also be used to monitor the progression of these conditions and to assess the effectiveness of treatments.

ST4 testing is typically performed on a blood sample that is drawn from a vein in the arm. The test results are usually available within a few days.

Normal ST4 levels vary depending on the person's age and sex. The typical range for adults is 20-70 ng/mL. ST4 levels that are greater than 70 ng/mL may indicate myocardial fibrosis.

In addition to myocardial fibrosis, high ST4 levels may also be associated with other conditions, such as:

Kidney disease

Liver disease

Cancer

Sepsis

Inflammatory diseases

If you have a high ST4 level, your doctor may recommend further testing to determine the cause of the elevated level.