Cardiac Biomarkers
Cardiac biomarkers are substances released into the bloodstream when the heart is damaged or stressed. These proteins, enzymes, or hormones help doctors assess heart health and diagnose conditions like myocardial infarction (heart attack) or heart failure. Common cardiac biomarkers include troponin, BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide), and CK-MB (creatine kinase-MB).
Measuring these biomarkers can provide valuable information about the severity of heart conditions and guide treatment decisions. Elevated levels of cardiac biomarkers often indicate that the heart is under strain, allowing healthcare professionals to take timely action to improve patient outcomes.