Troponin and CK-MB are both cardiac markers used in diagnosing acute myocardial infarction (AMI), but they differ in their release patterns and duration of elevation.
Here's a breakdown of the key differences:
Troponin vs. CK-MB
| Feature | Troponin | CK-MB |
|---|---|---|
| Rise Time | 3-12 hours | 3-12 hours |
| Peak Time | 24-48 hours | 24 hours |
| Duration of Elevation | 5-14 days | 2-3 days |
| Detection Window | Longer, allowing for detection of AMI even days after the event. [1] | Shorter, requiring timely testing for accurate diagnosis. [1] |
In summary, while both rise within a similar timeframe initially, troponin remains elevated for a significantly longer period than CK-MB. This extended duration makes troponin a more useful marker for detecting AMI even if the patient presents to the hospital several days after the onset of symptoms. [1]
