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Troponin - Troponin I
Overview & Description
This test measures the amount of troponin I in the blood. Troponin I is a protein found in the heart muscle fibers. It is used to help a doctor diagnose a heart attack.
Who is a candidate for the test?
If a doctor suspects a heart attack has occurred or is in the process of occurring, he or she may order this test.
How is the test performed?
In order to measure the amount of troponin I in the blood, a blood sample is taken from a vein on the forearm or hand. First, the skin over the vein is cleaned with an antiseptic. Next, a rubber tube called a tourniquet is tied around the upper arm. This enlarges the veins in the lower arm by restricting blood flow through them. A fine needle is gently inserted into a vein, and the tourniquet is removed. Blood flows from the vein through the needle and is collected in a syringe or vial for testing in the laboratory. After the needle is withdrawn, the puncture site is covered for a short time to prevent bleeding.
Preparation & Expectations
What is involved in preparation for the test?
Normally, no preparation is required for this test.
Results and Values
What do the test results mean?
If a heart attack has taken place, the amount of troponin I in the blood will start to rise within the first 4 to 6 hours. Almost half of the time, it will be elevated before the fourth hour. This blood test usually becomes positive earlier than other blood tests that are used to diagnose a heart attack. This test is very important to ensure the earliest treatment of a heart attack. The normal value for troponin I is less than 0.7 mg/ml.
Attribution
Author:Melinda Ratini, DO, MS
Date Written:
Editor:Crist, Gayle P., MS, BA
Edit Date:06/21/02
Reviewer:Kathleen A. MacNaughton, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed:06/10/02