CK-MB blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Creatine kinase exists in several forms. CK-MB is the form concentrated in heart muscle, although smaller amounts are also found in skeletal muscle. When heart muscle cells are injured, CK-MB is released into the blood, which is why it was used for many years to assess heart damage. In current NHS practice, troponin has largely replaced it in emergency care because troponin is more specific to the heart.

Important: this is not an emergency test. If you have chest pain, pressure or tightness, pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back, sudden breathlessness, or symptoms of a blood clot, call 999 or go to A&E straight away. Do not book a test.

The price includes the blood sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result with you, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You have been advised to follow up a heart-related question in a non-urgent setting.
• You have had a previous raised CK and want to understand whether heart muscle forms part of it.
• You are an athlete with a raised total CK and your practitioner wants more detail.
• You are building a broader picture of heart health alongside cholesterol and other markers.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your CK-MB value with the laboratory reference range. CK-MB can be raised by heart muscle injury, but it can also rise after heavy exercise, muscle injury or with some long-term muscle and kidney conditions, because skeletal muscle contains a small amount too. A single value is therefore read together with total CK, your history and any symptoms.

A normal result does not rule out heart disease, and a raised result does not confirm it. Any result outside the range is a prompt for discussion with your practitioner, who will refer you to your GP or urgent care where needed.

Preparing for your test

No fasting is required. Avoid strenuous or unusual exercise for 48 hours beforehand, since skeletal muscle strain can raise CK-MB. Tell us about any recent injury, surgery or heart procedure and the medicines you take. If you develop any of the warning symptoms above before your appointment, call 999 instead of attending.

CK-MB is one of the heart and circulation markers in Omnia Signature, our most comprehensive check. You can also compare every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a CK-MB test in Chiswick?

A CK-MB blood test at Omnia Lifestyle costs £59. This includes the sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request.

Can this test tell me if I am having a heart attack?

No. A suspected heart attack needs emergency assessment in hospital, where troponin and an ECG are used. If you have chest pain or other warning signs, call 999.

What is the difference between CK and CK-MB?

Total CK measures all forms of the enzyme, mostly from skeletal muscle. CK-MB is the portion found in greater amounts in heart muscle, so the two are often read side by side.

Why might CK-MB be raised if my heart is healthy?

Intense exercise, muscle injury, some muscle disorders and reduced kidney function can all raise CK-MB. This is why your practitioner considers your history before deciding on any next steps.