Role of CK-MB and Troponin-I in Diagnosing Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

It is now well known that, as compared to all other cardiac markers the cardiac Troponin-I and CK-MB are found to be more reliable for the diagnosis of myocardial infarction (MI). The aim of our study was to assess the comparative role of CK-MB and Troponin-I in the diagnosis of non-ST elevation MI (NSTEMI) where there is minimal cardiac damage. Design: The study comprised of 50 patients presenting with history of chest pain and no ST segment elevation on electrocardiogram. Troponin-I was estimated on admission and CK-MB was measured 12 hrs after admission by commercially available kit. The patients were divided into two groups i.e. Troponin-I positive and Troponin-I negative. Results: The Troponin-I was positive in 17 (34%) patients but CK-MB was elevated in 12 (24%) patients. The 5 (30%) patients were Troponin-I positive but CK-MB within normal limit. Conclusion: Therefore it can be concluded that Troponin-I can identify the minimal cardiac damage which will be useful for the physician to start immediate intervention.