CPK test

CPK test is a very important biochemical test used to diagnose specially conditions associated with muscle. CPK test also has a place in emergency care to diagnose myocardial infarctions. CPK Enzyme or the Creatine phosphokinase is found in almost all the cells of the body. But it is found in significant amounts in Heart, Brain and skeletal muscles. So when there is a heart attack, Brain cell necrosis or a muscle trauma the CPK enzyme contained with in these cells are released to the blood. So the plasma level of CPK enzyme is elevated. The objective of the CPK test is to measure this elevated CPK enzyme. Even in a normal individual there is a basal blood level of CPK enzyme. It is due to the normal wear and tear of the cells. In CPK test this amount is always measured. So when the CPK test result comes it is not something to get alarmed. Normal basal level of CPK enzyme in a properly conducted CPK test is 24-195U/L. But please keep in mind the outcome of the CPK test is laboratory and method specific. So you should always take into account the reference range given by the laboratory for the CPK test. Not only diseases there are drugs which can give rise to exaggerated results in CPK test.