what is a ck

Creatine kinase (CK), also known as creatine phosphokinase (CPK), is an enzyme found in various tissues and cell types, including skeletal muscle, heart muscle, and brain tissue. It catalyzes the conversion of creatine and uses adenosine triphosphate to create phosphocreatine, which is involved in the generation of energy in muscle cells. When these tissues are damaged, CK is released into the bloodstream, and elevated levels of CK in the blood can indicate muscle injury or disease, such as myocardial infarction (heart attack), rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown), muscular dystrophy, autoimmune myositides, and acute kidney injury. CK is often assayed in blood tests to detect muscle damage, and elevated levels of CK may also be related to high intracellular CK, such as in individuals of African descent, or as a result of strenuous exercise. The test is used to help diagnose and monitor muscle injuries and diseases that damage skeletal muscles, heart muscles, and the brain. It is important to note that a CK test cannot show where the damage is or what is causing it, so healthcare providers consider the patients symptoms and medical history to interpret the test results. Additionally, CK may be ordered along with other blood chemistry tests to evaluate kidney function and assess muscle damage.