What is this test?
This laboratory test is performed on a blood sample to detect very low levels of troponin T in the blood. Troponin T is a commonly used cardiac biomarker because it is highly specific to the heart and stays longer in the blood as compared to other biomarkers.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- To detect low levels of troponin T in the blood
- To rapidly diagnose heart attack
- To help in the diagnosis of other hear-conditions such as:
- Obstructive coronary artery disease
- Stable angina
- Congestive heart failure
- Cardiomyopathy.
- What are other causes of increased high-sensitivity troponin T levels?
Although high sensitivity Troponin T is strongly indicative of heart damage or heart attack it is also increased in other medical conditions, such as:
- Heart inflammation (myocarditis)
- Congestive heart failure
- Kidney disease
- Blood clot in lungs
- Cardiotoxic chemotherapy
- Severe blood infection
- Excessive exercise
- Chest trauma.
- What is a heart attack?
Heart attack or myocardial infarction is a life-threatening condition characterized by compromised blood flow towards the heart resulting in irreversible tissue damage. It is usually due to blocking of heart arteries by deposition of fat or cholesterol.
- What are the symptoms of a heart attack?
Chest pain and difficulty in breathing are the typical symptoms of heart attack. Other common symptoms include:
- Chest tightness
- Pain in chest, arm, jaw, and throat
- Sweating
- Indigestion or abdominal pain
- Dizziness (lightheadedness)
- Fatigue
- Abnormal heartbeat
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- What are the risk factors of heart disease?
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol)
- Old age
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- How to prepare for this test?
No special preparations are required for this test. Inform your doctor about your complete medical and drug history. Wear a short-sleeved or loose shirt to aid the collection of sample.
- What are the risks of this test?
Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Lightheadedness.
Normal range: 14 ng/l
Interpretation of test results:
Levels greater than 14 ng/l may indicate heart damage or heart attack.