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Serum Creatinine Phosphokinase (CPK) Isoenzyme Distribution (Total CPK)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the levels of different types of Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK), an enzyme found in heart, muscle, and brain cells. It helps identify which tissues may be damaged or stressed.

Quick summary

["Assessing tissue injury or metabolic strain by breaking down CPK subtypes."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60614-5
Short code
CD-GN
Synonyms
Cd-Gn Skull XR
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Not applicable - this is an imaging-based measurement, not a serum-based chemistry test. Digital radiographic archive (DICOM) for measurement documentation.
Units
N/A
Ref low
105
Ref high
135
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
6–99 years
Method
xr-measured
CPT
70350
SNOMED
258590000
Specimen volume
Not applicable - imaging study; no specimen volume required
Stability
Not applicable - radiographic images stored per institutional PACS retention policy; measurements reproducible from stored DICOM data
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
1–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting heart, muscle, or brain tissues. For example, it can help identify heart attacks, muscle injuries, or neurological issues by detecting elevated levels of specific CPK subtypes.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re taking blood from a vein in your arm, you might feel a brief pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort afterward.

What the Results Mean

The test measures the total CPK enzyme activity and the proportion of different CPK isoenzymes (e.g., MB, MM, BB). Elevated levels of certain isoenzymes can indicate tissue damage, such as heart muscle injury (MB isoenzyme) or muscle strain (MM isoenzyme).

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or assess conditions like heart attacks (myocardial infarction), muscle injuries (e.g., from overexertion or trauma), stroke, or other neurological disorders. It can also help track recovery or progression of these conditions.

Reference range

Adult male: 110-135 mm; Adult female: 105-128 mm. Values vary with ethnicity, age, and craniofacial morphology. Pediatric values should be interpreted using age-specific cephalometric growth standards.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Patient should remove all metallic objects (jewelry, hair accessories, eyeglasses, dentures, orthodontic appliances) from the head and neck region prior to imaging. Patient should be positioned in a cephalostat with natural head position and teeth in centric occlusion.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

CPK isoenzyme profiles are critical for pinpointing the source of tissue damage. For instance, a high MB isoenzyme suggests heart muscle injury, while elevated MM isoenzyme levels may indicate skeletal muscle damage. These findings guide treatment decisions, such as adjusting medications or planning physical therapy.

Short name

CPK Isoenzyme Profile

Frequently asked questions

What does a CPK isoenzyme profile test measure?
This test measures the total activity of the Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK) enzyme and the relative amounts of its three main isoenzymes: MB (heart muscle), MM (skeletal muscle), and BB (brain). These proportions help identify which tissues may be affected by injury or disease.
Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you’re experiencing symptoms like chest pain, muscle weakness, or neurological symptoms (e.g., confusion, weakness on one side of the body). It can also be used to monitor conditions like heart disease, muscle disorders, or stroke.
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy