Q: What is the process involved in assessing Cardiac markers?
A: Cardiac markers assays require a sample of blood. The standard vein puncture procedure is done to obtain blood. Apply pressure to the puncture site until the bleeding stops so as to reduce bruising.
Q: Do I have to fast before testing for cardiac markers?
A: Except for Homocysteine tests, the patient need not fast prior to the test for cardiac markers.
Q: Are there any risks associated with cardiac marker tests?
A: No. There are no known complications.
Q: How often should I test for cardiac markers?
A: The New England Journal of Medicine April 20, 2000 reported that on a yearly basis, doctors miss heart attacks in 2.1% of emergency room patients . This can be prevented by more widespread use of the rapid cardiac marker tests as screening devices might. Periodical testing is recommended for every patient at high-risk for an acute coronary event.
Q: Are tests for cardiac markers diagnostic?
A: The tests for cardiac markers have been proved to be a immense value in the early detection of a number of clinical conditions like acute coronary syndrome (ACS), acute myocardial infarction.
