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Cardiac Troponin I and B, Blood — Concentration

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

Measures cardiac troponin I and troponin B in a blood sample to help assess injury to the heart muscle.

Quick summary

["Elevated levels can indicate heart muscle injury, but symptoms and other tests are needed to determine the cause."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
82698-2
Short code
CT Ribs-L W contr IV
Synonyms
CT Ribs-L W contr IV
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Cardiac troponin I and troponin B are proteins released from heart muscle cells when they are injured or stressed. This test measures their concentration in blood.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be ordered to evaluate chest pain, shortness of breath, or other symptoms that could be related to heart muscle injury. It may also be used to monitor people with a known heart condition.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory or with a point-of-care instrument. Some tests measure the two troponin components together, while others provide separate results.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but follow any instructions from your healthcare professional. Tell the care team about recent heart symptoms, chest pain, or strenuous exercise because these can affect the results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cardiac troponin I and B

Frequently asked questions

Does an elevated troponin result mean I am having a heart attack?
Not necessarily. Elevated troponin suggests heart muscle injury but does not identify the cause by itself, and it may be elevated for several other reasons.
Why might my troponin level be checked more than once?
Repeat testing can show whether the level is rising, falling, or staying stable. A pattern over time is often more informative than a single result.
Do I need to fast before this blood test?
Fasting is usually not needed. Follow the specific instructions provided by the laboratory or ordering clinician, especially if other tests are being performed at the same time.
  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