What does it mean if CK-MB levels are elevated, and what should be done?

Under normal circumstances, CK-MB refers to creatine kinase isoenzyme. Elevated levels of creatine kinase isoenzyme may be caused by intense physical exercise, skeletal muscle cell damage, myocardial cell injury, myocarditis, or acute myocardial infarction. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital to avoid delaying treatment. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Intense Exercise

CK-MB (creatine kinase isoenzyme MB) is an enzyme typically found in muscle tissue and primarily exists in cardiac muscle. The normal reference range is 0–18 U/L under the enzymatic rate method at 37°C, and less than 0.05 U/L under electrophoresis. Elevated levels of this marker may result from muscle strain due to intense physical activity. Values usually return to normal after adequate rest.

2. Skeletal Muscle Cell Damage

In conditions affecting the skeletal muscle system such as polymyositis, muscular atrophy, or trauma, CK-MB may be released into the bloodstream, leading to increased CK-MB levels. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, or Huoxue Zhitong capsules to alleviate symptoms.

3. Myocardial Cell Injury

If myocardial cells are damaged, the aforementioned marker may rise. Treatment may include medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cefixime dispersible tablets, or aspirin enteric-coated tablets, as prescribed.

4. Myocarditis

Myocarditis refers to inflammatory disease of the heart muscle, which may present with symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, and palpitations, and may also lead to elevated CK-MB levels. Patients may take antiviral or supportive medications such as ganciclovir capsules, acyclovir capsules, or furosemide tablets under medical guidance.

5. Acute Myocardial Infarction

Myocardial infarction occurs when coronary arteries become acutely blocked, causing myocardial ischemia or necrosis. Symptoms may include chest pain, fever, and nausea, and CK-MB levels may also increase. Patients should follow medical advice and take medications such as aspirin enteric-coated tablets, clopidogrel hydrogen sulfate tablets, or ramipril tablets for treatment.

Patients are advised to incorporate more foods rich in vitamins and protein into their daily diet.