Troponin
Also written: hs-cTn
What it measures
A heart muscle protein released into blood when heart muscle cells are damaged.
Why it is ordered
Ordered with chest pain or symptoms suspected to be cardiac. Usually taken more than once a few hours apart, because the TREND between samples is the key information.
How to prepare
Nothing required — this is an acute test.
Units
ng/L · pg/mL — convert here
What to ask
- Why is a second sample needed
- How does it compare with the first
- Can I go home or must I stay for observation
This page does not include reference ranges and does not say whether your number is high or low. Reference ranges differ between laboratories and between people — read yours on your own report, with your clinician.