Pathology tests database

Sample and container requirements

Serum Lithium Heparin Plasma (paediatrics only)

Minimum volume required

80 µL serum/plasma

Special requirements

None

Patient preparation

None

Sample viability

Turnaround time

This assay is run throughout the day and night. The in-lab turnaround time is normally less than 24 hours. The test can be ordered as an urgent request.

Reference range

Females: 29 – 168 U/L Males: 30 – 200 U/L (Source: Abbott Diagnostics) CK levels are higher in males than in females, and in black race populations. Exercise, muscle trauma (contact sports, traffic accidents, intramuscular injections, surgery, convulsions, wasp or bee stings, and burns), and drugs such as cholesterol-lowering statins can damage muscle and increase serum CK concentrations.

Clinical guidance

Creatine Kinase (CK) is an enzyme found primarily in the heart and skeletal muscles, and to a lesser extent in the brain. Significant injury to any of these structures will lead to a measurable increase in CK levels. Once elevated, CK remains elevated for several days, if the injury is acute. If there is on-going injury, the CK will remain elevated indefinitely. Please refer to LabTestsOnlineUK to learn more about CK. https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/creatine-kinase-ck-test

Notes