What is the duration of elevation for Creatine Kinase MB after an MI?

After a myocardial infarction (MI), the elevation of Creatine Kinase-MB (CK-MB) is typically observed as a marker for myocardial injury. The elevation occurs within a few hours after the infarct and usually peaks around 24 hours. However, it is significant because CK-MB levels can remain elevated for approximately 2 to 4 days following the event. This timeframe is essential for diagnosing myocardial infarction and assessing its timing in clinical practice.

In a clinical setting, knowing that CK-MB levels rise and fall within this 2-4 day window allows healthcare professionals to understand when the myocardial damage occurred and to differentiate between a new infarction and reinfarction in a patient with prior cardiac history.