Blood tests play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of many cardiovascular conditions. Tropin is a cardiac biomarker that is very sensitive to impaired cardiac blood supply, being released 4 to 6 hours after injury and usually peaking within 12 to 24 hours.[34] Two troponin tests are usually performed—one at initial presentation, and the second at 3 to 6 hours,[71] and the diagnosis is made based on the observed elevation in troponin concentration. The BNP test can also be used to assess the presence of heart failure, as it rises when there is pressure on the left ventricle. These tests are considered biomarkers because they are highly specific for heart disease.[72] The creatine kinase MB test also provides information on cardiac blood supply, but it is less used because it is less specific and sensitive.[73]
Other blood tests are often done to help understand your general condition and risk factors that may contribute to heart disease. These tests often include a complete blood count to check for anemia, and a basic metabolic panel test that may detect any disturbances in electrolytes. Coagulation testing is also required to ensure that the appropriate level of anticoagulants is given. Fasting lipids and fasting blood sugar (or an HbA1c level test) are ordered to estimate blood cholesterol and diabetes status, respectively.[74]
