A normal creatine kinase (CK) range is generally considered to be 22 to 198 U/L (units per liter) in healthy adults.
However, it's important to understand that the "normal" range can vary based on several factors, including:
- Gender: Men typically have higher CK levels than women.
- Race: Studies have shown that race can influence CK levels.
- Activity Level: Strenuous exercise can significantly increase CK levels.
- Muscle Mass: Individuals with more muscle mass tend to have higher CK levels.
- Lab Variations: Different laboratories might use slightly different measurement techniques, leading to variations in the reported normal range.
Therefore, it's always best to interpret CK levels in the context of an individual's specific circumstances and in consultation with a healthcare professional. They can consider these factors and determine if a CK level is within a healthy range for that person. Abnormally high or low CK levels can indicate various medical conditions, requiring further investigation.
