Final answer:
The blood tests performed to determine cardiac damage in an acute myocardial infarction are the measurement of creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) and cardiac troponin levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
The blood test performed to determine cardiac damage in an acute myocardial infarction is the measurement of elevated levels of creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) and cardiac troponin. These substances are released into the bloodstream from damaged cardiac muscle cells. An acute myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack, is confirmed by these biomarkers in combination with an ECG showing changes in the ST and Q components and imaging techniques like echocardiography or cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.
CK-MB is significant because it is the first enzyme to increase in the blood plasma following a heart attack. Elevated cardiac troponin, which is specific to heart muscle damage, has a longer detection window and thus, can provide confirmation of cardiac injury even if the blood test is performed a bit later after the onset of symptoms. Both tests are crucial for diagnosing an MI and guiding the treatment plan.