A troponin test is used along with other tests to evaluate the likelihood of aheart attack.
The test results generally come back fairly quickly.
However, urgent treatment for a heart attack might need to be initiated even before the test results return.
Wavebreakmedia / Getty Images
However, when the heart is damaged, this protein is released into the bloodstream.
Even a slight increase in your troponin level can signal some damage to the heart.
Very high levels of troponin indicate that a heart attack has occurred.
You might have a troponin test if you have signs of a heart attack or severeheart failure.
A heart attack generally begins suddenly and worsens rapidly.
It can be characterized by a cold sweat, dizziness, and generalized weakness.
What Are Normal Troponin Levels?
Troponin levels are measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) or liter (ng/L).
However, elevated troponin levels can be sparked by other types of injury to the heart.
About Troponin Tests
A troponin level is obtained using a standard blood draw.
It will likely be done at the same time as other tests to assess heart health.
The results of your troponin test may be ready in just a few minutes.
But it can take up to an hour, depending on the laboratory.
If you have a high troponin level, your healthcare provider might initiate treatment for a heart attack.
It can also indicate injury to the heart because of surgery, inflammation, shock, and more.
2019;157:26-35. doi:10.1016/j.rmed.2019.08.011
University of California San Francisco Health.Troponin test.
UpToDate.Causes of elevated troponin.
American College of Cardiology.A brief review of troponin testing for clinicians.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.Heart attack.