Serum Creatinine Phosphokinase (CPK) Isoenzyme Assay (Total CPK)
This test measures the total activity of Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK), an enzyme found in heart, skeletal muscle, and brain tissues. It helps assess muscle damage or heart-related conditions.
["CPK levels can indicate muscle or heart injury; higher levels may signal damage to these tissues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47435-3
- Short code
- EBV EA IgA Titr Ser
- Synonyms
- EBV EA IgA Titr Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK)?
CPK, or Creatine Phosphokinase, is an enzyme that plays a role in energy production in cells. It exists in different forms (isoenzymes) in various tissues, including the heart, skeletal muscles, and brain. When tissues are damaged—such as from a heart attack, muscle injury, or stroke—the CPK enzyme leaks into the bloodstream, raising its levels.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like heart attacks, muscle injuries (e.g., from overexertion or trauma), or other muscle-related disorders. It can also help assess recovery after surgery or illness.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw if your doctor recommends it. Avoid strenuous exercise or consuming certain medications (like some pain relievers) that could affect results.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it typically takes only a few minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated CPK levels often signal muscle or heart damage. For example, a heart attack can sharply increase CPK in the blood, especially in the first few hours. Muscle injuries, infections, or certain medications can also raise CPK. However, CPK alone isn’t diagnostic—your doctor will consider symptoms, medical history, and other test results to make a full assessment.
Short name
Total CPK (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
What Are Common Causes of High CPK Levels?
What Are Common Causes of Low CPK Levels?
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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