Question

Why would lab tests look at cardiac enzymes?

A) To assess liver function
B) To evaluate kidney function
C) To diagnose heart attacks or heart muscle damage
D) To measure blood oxygen levels

Answer 1

Lab tests measure cardiac enzymes like LDH and CPK to diagnose heart attacks or heart muscle damage because these enzymes are released into the blood when damage occurs.

Step-by-step explanation:

Lab tests look at cardiac enzymes to diagnose heart attacks or heart muscle damage. This is because certain enzymes, like lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine phosphokinase (CPK), are released into the blood when heart muscle cells are damaged. For instance, myocardial infarction (heart damage) results in elevated levels of the LDH1 isoenzyme, while LDH5 indicates liver damage. On the other hand, CPK is a marker enzyme that increases rapidly in blood plasma following a heart attack.