Creatine Kinase (CK) primarily affects skeletal muscles and the heart muscle.
CK, or Creatine Kinase, is an enzyme found in several tissues in the body. When tissue or muscle damage occurs, CK leaks into the blood. Therefore, high CK levels indicate tissue or muscle damage. CK exists in different forms, called isoenzymes, that are specific to certain tissues. The two major isoenzymes are CK-MM and CK-MB. According to the reference material:
- CK-MM is primarily associated with skeletal muscle damage. This damage can stem from various causes, including diseases, injuries, certain medications, or even intense exercise.
- CK-MB is primarily associated with heart muscle damage.
In summary, CK elevations in the blood can signify damage to either skeletal muscles or the heart, depending on which isoenzyme is elevated.
