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Fatty Acid Binding Protein, Cardiac Muscle (FABP-C) - Serum

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

This test measures a protein found in heart muscle cells that may rise after heart damage or stress.

Quick summary

["FABP-C helps assess heart injury or strain with a simple blood test."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
95786-0
Short code
Gene XXX Fam Mut Anl Bld/T
Synonyms
Gene XXX Fam Mut Anl Bld/T
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
molgen
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat, or if you’re at risk for heart problems. It can also be used after a heart attack or during heart monitoring to check for ongoing damage or stress.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. Avoid strenuous activity or heavy meals 24 hours before the test if instructed.

What the Results Mean

Higher than normal levels may indicate recent or ongoing heart muscle damage, inflammation, or stress. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is often used alongside other heart-related blood tests (like troponin) to diagnose or monitor conditions like myocardial infarction (heart attack), angina, or heart failure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated FABP-C levels can signal acute or chronic heart muscle injury, helping doctors assess severity, guide treatment, or monitor recovery. It’s particularly useful for detecting subtle heart damage in conditions like myocarditis or stress-induced heart issues.

Short name

Cardiac FABP

Frequently asked questions

What triggers elevated FABP-C levels?
Elevated levels can occur after heart attacks, severe heart strain (e.g., from angina or high blood pressure), or conditions like myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle). Stress from exercise or emotional distress may also temporarily raise it.
How soon after heart damage might results show?
Results may rise within hours to days after heart injury, depending on the extent of damage. Your doctor will track levels over time to monitor recovery.
Can lifestyle changes affect FABP-C levels?
While lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, or smoking may influence heart health, they don’t directly alter FABP-C levels. However, managing conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes can reduce heart stress and potentially lower risk.
  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