Creatine Kinase (CK), Total Test
The total creatine kinase (CK) test measures the level of CK, an enzyme found mainly in muscle and heart tissue, in a blood sample. Quest lists it under names including Creatine Kinase (CK) and Total CPK.
About this test
CK exists in the body as several forms, called isoenzymes: CK-MM, found in muscle and heart tissue; CK-MB, found mainly in heart tissue; and CK-BB, found in brain and smooth muscle. This test reports the total of all forms combined, measured using spectrophotometry on a serum sample.
Quest describes total CK as used to help assess muscle and heart-related tissue damage. An increase is often seen with inflammatory myopathy, muscular dystrophy, rhabdomyolysis or malignant hyperthermia, and may be the earliest finding in some neuromuscular disorders.
Who might consider this test?
- Often being evaluated for possible muscle or heart tissue involvement
- Following symptoms such as unexplained muscle weakness or pain
- As part of investigating a suspected neuromuscular condition
Test details
| Quest code | 374 |
|---|---|
| Methodology | Spectrophotometry |
| Sample type | 1 mL serum |
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports one value: total CK activity, combining the CK-MM, CK-MB and CK-BB isoenzymes, measured by spectrophotometry from a serum sample. It reflects an increase from any of the three forms rather than identifying which one is elevated.
Order online and a physician order is included — no doctor's visit and no insurance needed. Your sample is collected at a Quest Diagnostics patient service center.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does the total CK test measure?
It measures the combined activity of creatine kinase isoenzymes (CK-MM, CK-MB and CK-BB) in a serum sample, using spectrophotometry.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a serum sample from a routine blood draw at a Quest Diagnostics patient service center.
Do I need to prepare for a CK test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
Why might a clinician order a total CK test?
Quest describes total CK as used to help assess muscle and heart-related tissue damage, with increases seen in conditions such as inflammatory myopathy, muscular dystrophy, rhabdomyolysis, malignant hyperthermia, heart attack, hypothyroidism, chronic kidney failure, muscle trauma or strenuous exercise.
Does a high CK result mean I have a specific condition?
No. Total CK can rise for many different reasons, so Quest notes that results are interpreted together with relevant clinical and family history and physical examination findings, not read on their own.
How much is a CK Total test?
$35, paid once at checkout. The price includes the physician's order this test requires and sample collection at a Quest patient service center.