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C ardiac M arkers : The Role of Laboratories in Cardiovascular Diagnosis and Management

C ardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment. Cardiac markers are specific sub stances released into the bloodstream in response to cardiac injury or stress. These markers are essential for diagnosing and monitoring various cardiovascular conditions. Laboratories play a pivotal role in analyzing cardiac markers, providing healthcare professionals with valuable information for risk stratification, diag nosis, and treatment decision-making. In this article, we will explore the significance of cardiac markers and the crucial role laboratories play in their analysis. Cardiac Markers Cardiac markers are biomolecules that can be measured in the blood to assess myocardial damage, stress, or dysfunction. They include enzymes, proteins, and other molecules released from damaged heart tissue or affected cells. Common cardiac markers in clude troponins (T and I), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), myoglobin, and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) or N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). Elevated levels of these markers in the blood indicate myocardial injury or dysfunction. Cardiac Markers: What You Need to Know Early Diagnosis of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS): Cardiac markers play a critical role in the early diagnosis of ACS, such as myocardial infarction (heart attack). Troponins are the primary markers used in the diagnosis of ACS, as they are highly specific to cardiac tissue. Their detection and serial monitoring aid in risk stratification, enabling prompt initiation of appropriate treatments, including revascularization procedures or anticoagulant therapy. Risk Stratification and Prognosis: Cardiac markers help assess the severity and prognosis of cardiovascular conditions. Elevat ed levels of troponins or BNP/NT-proBNP are associated with worse outcomes and increased mortality. Measuring these markers allows healthcare professionals to identify high-risk patients who may require intensive interventions or closer monitoring. Monitoring Treatment Response: Cardiac markers are used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments in patients with cardio vascular diseases. Serial measurements of cardiac markers can indicate the success of interventions, such as coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). A decrease in cardiac markers over time suggests improved myocardial function and treatment response.

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