Endocarditis is inflammation of the inner lining of the heart's chambers and valves, called endocardium. Endocarditis is a rare but life-threatening disease. Learn the causes, who's at risk, and how it's treated.
Endocarditis
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Endocarditis
Endocarditis
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Endocarditis
Endocarditis
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Endocarditis
Endocarditis, also called infective endocarditis (IE), is an inflammation of the inner lining of the heart. The most common type, bacterial endocarditis, occurs when germs enter your heart. These germs come through your bloodstream from another part of your body, often your mouth. Bacterial endocarditis can damage your heart valves. If untreated, it can be life-threatening. It is rare in healthy hearts.
Risk factors include having
An abnormal or damaged heart valve
An artificial heart valve
Congenital heart defects
The signs and symptoms of IE can vary from person to person. They also can vary over time in the same person. Symptoms you might notice include fever, shortness of breath, fluid buildup in your arms or legs, tiny red spots on your skin, and weight loss. Your doctor will diagnose IE based on your risk factors, medical history, signs and symptoms, and lab and heart tests.
Early treatment can help you avoid complications. Treatment usually involves high-dose antibiotics. If your heart valve is damaged, you may need surgery.
If you're at risk for IE, brush and floss your teeth regularly, and have regular dental checkups. Germs from a gum infection can enter your bloodstream. If you are at high risk, your doctor might prescribe antibiotics before dental work and certain types of surgery.
Source: NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Endocarditis is inflammation of the endocardium — the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. Endocarditis is a rare but life-threatening disease. In endocarditis, clumps of bacteria or fungi from another part of your body get into your bloodstream and collect on the endocardium. These clumps occur more often on the heart valves than on the heart chambers. Pieces of these clumps can break off and travel to different parts of the body, blocking blood flow or spreading infection.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
What Is Infective Endocarditis?
Cardiovascular system - Endocarditis
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Cardiovascular system - Endocarditis
Endocarditis
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What Is Infective Endocarditis?
Infective endocarditis (IE) is an infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers (endocardium) and valves. This condition is sometimes called "endocarditis," although it is important to distinguish it from non-infective endocarditis. IE is caused by bacteria, fungi, or other germs invading the bloodstream and attaching to the heart. IE can damage the heart and cause serious and sometimes fatal complications. It can develop quickly or slowly depending on what type of germ is causing it and whether there is an underlying heart problem. Common symptoms of IE are fever and other flu-like symptoms, but signs and symptoms can vary. It can also cause problems in many other parts of the body besides the heart. IE is typically treated with antibiotics for several weeks; some individuals may need heart surgery to repair or replace heart valves or remove infected heart tissue.
Source: Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center
Additional Materials (5)
Cardiovascular system - Endocarditis 3 -- Smart-Servier
Endocarditis
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Cardiovascular system - Endocarditis 1 -- Smart-Servier
Endocarditis
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Cardiovascular system - Endocarditis 2 -- Smart-Servier
Endocarditis
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Cardiovascular system - Endocarditis 5 -- Smart-Servier
Endocarditis
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Endocarditis mitral
Imatge macroscòpica d'una endocarditis mitral
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Cardiovascular system - Endocarditis 3 -- Smart-Servier
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Cardiovascular system - Endocarditis 1 -- Smart-Servier
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Causes
Streptococcus mutans
Image by Photo Credit:Content Providers(s): Streptococcus mutansTranswiki approved by: w:en:User:Dmcdevit/Wikimedia
Streptococcus mutans
Streptococcus mutans. Gram stain.
Thioglycollate broth culture. Morphology is rod-like with chains when cultured on broth. Can cause subacute bacterial endocarditis and dental caries. Streptococci
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What Causes Endocarditis?
Bacteria are the most common cause of endocarditis, which occurs when bacteria and blood cells form clumps, typically on the heart valves. In most developed countries Staphylococcus aureus (staph infection) is the most common type of bacteria that causes endocarditis. Bacteria can enter the blood in many ways, including during a medical or dental procedure or through intravenous drug use. Streptococcus (strep) bacteria can also cause endocarditis, but this is more common in less developed countries.
Fungal endocarditis is caused by either Candida (yeast) or Aspergillus (mold). These infections are more common in people who have weakened immune systems from conditions such as HIV, cancer, or diabetes.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (15)
Viral myocarditis
imagen microscopica de una miocarditis/endocarditis viral y o bacteriana
Image by BellRap/Wikimedia
StreptococcusMutans
Streptococcus mutans. Gram stain.
Thioglycollate culture. Morphology is rod-like with chains when cultured on broth. Can cause subacute bacterial endocarditis and dental caries. Streptococci
Image by Photo Credit:
Content Providers(s): CDC/ Dr. Richard Facklam
/Wikimedia
Streptococcus viridans
This is a photomicrograph of Streptococcus viridans bacteria that had been grown in a blood culture.
The bacterium Streptococcus viridans, is responsible for approximately half of all cases of bacterial endocarditis, but is found in the mouth as normal oral bacterial flora.
Image by Photo Credit:Content Providers(s): CDC/Dr. Mike Miller/Wikimedia
endocarditis
An illustration of endocarditis.
Image by BruceBlaus
Inflammation and the Heart Video – Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Video by Brigham And Women's Hospital/YouTube
Myocarditis, Causes, Signs and Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment
Video by Medical Centric/YouTube
WHAT IS MYOCARDITIS? MYOCARDITIS EXPLAINED IN 4 MINUTES - CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT
Video by 5MinuteSchool/YouTube
Diagnosis of myocarditis and pericarditis (part 1) | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
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Myocarditis Research
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A blood clot blocking a major artery in the lung is called a pulmonary embolism. In most cases, multiple clots travel to the lungs from another part of the body, particularly in deep veins in the legs. Large embolisms can cause tissue damage and impair the lungs' ability to supply oxygen to the rest of the body. Symptoms can include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain and a cough with signs of blood. Although anyone can develop pulmonary embolisms, such clots are often associated with prolonged bed rest, long periods of sitting in a cramped position and old age.
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What Are the Symptoms of Endocarditis?
The symptoms of heart inflammation can happen suddenly or progress slowly. You may have severe symptoms or almost no symptoms.
If a virus causes your heart inflammation, you may have a cough, runny nose, or gastrointestinal (stomach or intestinal) symptoms a few weeks before you notice any symptoms of heart inflammation.
Endocarditis symptoms
Fever and chills
New or worsening heart murmur
Blood in urine
Spleen that is larger than normal
Stomach pain
Chest pain
Cough, with or without the presence of blood
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Muscle, joint, and back pain
Night sweats
Pain at the spot of a cardiac device, such as a pacemaker, which may mean it is infected
Shortness of breath
Skin changes, which may be tiny reddish-purple spots from broken blood vessels, red or purple bumps, or flat red spots on your palms or the soles of your feet
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (3)
Chest Pain
Angina
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Depiction of a person suffering from chest pain. The typical causes of chest pain have been mentioned.
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What Causes Endocarditis?
Description: Gross pathology of subacute bacterial endocarditis involving mitral valve.Left ventricle of heart has been opened to show mitral valve fibrin vegetations due to infection with Haemophilus parainfluenzae.
Image by CDC / Dr. Edwin P. Ewing, Jr.
Chest Pain
TheVisualMD
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https://www.myupchar.com
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What Causes Endocarditis?
CDC / Dr. Edwin P. Ewing, Jr.
Diagnosis
Testing & Diagnosis
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Testing & Diagnosis
In testing for an arrhythmia, the doctor may question the patient about conditions that trigger the arrhythmia. Arrhythmia-inducing tests may then be performed so that the arrhythmia can be diagnosed. Passive testing doesn't seek to trigger the arrhythmia, only to monitor the heart in its usual state.
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How Is Heart Inflammation Diagnosed?
Because the symptoms of heart inflammation vary depending on which type it is and from one person to the next, it is sometimes hard to diagnose endocarditis, pericarditis, or myocarditis. Your doctor may do a physical exam and order tests.
Physical exam
To help diagnose heart inflammation, your healthcare provider may ask some basic questions.
Have you had endocarditis, myocarditis, or pericarditis in the past?
Have you had a recent illness or injury to the chest?
Have you had any symptoms such as fever, chest pain, or shortness of breath?
Do you have any other medical conditions or any other risk factors for heart inflammation, including exposure to certain medicines or toxins or a travel history that may be significant?
They may also do one or more of the following steps:
Check your legs for swelling, a sign of heart failure.
Check your skin for any changes, as may be seen in cases of endocarditis
Check your temperature to determine if you have a fever
Feel your stomach, particularly for a spleen that is larger than normal, or to determine if you have abdominal pain, which may occur with endocarditis
Listen to your heart for a new murmur that may be heard with endocarditis, a pericardial rub that may be heard with pericarditis, or an abnormal heart rhythm
Listen to your lungs
Imaging tests and procedures
Your doctor may need to do images tests or procedures to look at your heart.
Heart imaging tests take pictures of your heart or its arteries or blood vessels to help your doctor see whether there are any problems.
Endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) tests very small pieces of the heart to look for myocarditis.
Heart valve tissue testing identifies tiny germs or microbes from the heart valve or other growths found there that may be causing your endocarditis.
Pericardiocentesis removes excess fluid in the pericardium, called pericardial effusion. Your doctor will insert a needle or tube, called a catheter, into the chest wall to remove this excess fluid. Your doctor will look at the fluid for bacteria, signs of cancer, or other causes of pericarditis.
Blood tests
Blood tests may help your healthcare provider find the cause of your heart inflammation.
Blood cultures may identify and treat the exact bacterium, virus, or fungus that is causing the infection in endocarditis or pericarditis.
Cardiac troponins or creatine kinase-MB are blood markers that increase when there is damage to your heart. Since there are no specific blood tests for myocarditis, these markers are useful to show injury to the heart muscle. However, they also increase with heart attack or heart failure and do not necessarily mean you have myocarditis. They are often normal in cases of subacute or chronic myocarditis.
C-reactive protein (CRP) or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) may indicate inflammation in the body if higher than normal.
Complete blood count looks for higher levels of white blood cells, which might indicate infection.
Serum cardiac autoantibodies (AAbs) are substances that your body can make if you have an autoimmune disease. These antibodies attack your own heart muscle.
Your doctor may also test for specific organisms such as Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease; Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which causes tuberculosis; HIV; or hepatitis C.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Diagnosis of myocarditis and pericarditis (part 1) | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
13:43
Diagnosis of myocarditis and pericarditis (part 2) | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
4:49
Diagnosis and Treatment of Viral Myocarditis
Mayo Proceedings/YouTube
C-Reactive Protein Test
C-Reactive Protein Test
Also called: CRP
A c-reactive protein test checks for inflammation in the body. Inflammation can be caused by infection, injury, or chronic disease.
C-Reactive Protein Test
Also called: CRP
A c-reactive protein test checks for inflammation in the body. Inflammation can be caused by infection, injury, or chronic disease.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
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mg/L
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Your result is Normal.
Test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, the lab and the method used for the test.
Related conditions
A c-reactive protein test measures the level of c-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood. CRP is a protein made by your liver. It's sent into your bloodstream in response to inflammation. Inflammation is your body's way of protecting your tissues if you've been injured or have an infection. It can cause pain, redness, and swelling in the injured or affected area. Some autoimmune disorders and chronic diseases can also cause inflammation.
Normally, you have low levels of c-reactive protein in your blood. High levels may be sign of a serious infection or other disorder.
A CRP test may be used to find or monitor conditions that cause inflammation. These include:
Bacterial infections, such as sepsis, a severe and sometimes life-threatening condition
A fungal infection
Inflammatory bowel disease, a disorder that causes swelling and bleeding in the intestines
An autoimmune disorder such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
An infection of the bone called osteomyelitis
You may need this test if you have symptoms of a serious bacterial infection. Symptoms include:
Fever
Chills
Rapid breathing
Rapid heart rate
Nausea and vomiting
If you've already been diagnosed with an infection or have a chronic disease, this test may be used to monitor your treatment. CRP levels rise and fall depending on how much inflammation you have. If your CRP levels go down, it's a sign that your treatment for inflammation is working.
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This process usually takes less than five minutes.
You don't need any special preparations for a CRP test.
There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.
If your results show a high level of CRP, it probably means you have some type of inflammation in your body. A CRP test doesn't explain the cause or location of the inflammation. So if your results are not normal, your health care provider may order more tests to figure out why you have inflammation.
A higher than normal CRP level does not necessarily mean you have a medical condition needing treatment. There are other factors that can raise your CRP levels. These include cigarette smoking, obesity, and lack of exercise.
If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
A CRP test is sometimes confused with a high-sensitivity-(hs) CRP test. Although they both measure CRP, they are used to diagnose different conditions. An hs-CRP test measures much lower levels of CRP. It is used to check for risk of heart disease.
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (20)
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Cardiovascular Inflammation
Heart disease is the number one killer of men and women in the U.S. The most common cause of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death is atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory response in the walls of arteries that leads to the hardening of arterial walls and the buildup of fatty deposits called plaques, or atheromas. Although the process of inflammation can be beneficial in other parts of the body, chronic inflammation within arterial walls is problematic as it seems to promote this underlying growth of plaque. The combination of arterial inflammation and the growth of plaque can lead to the rupture of the plaque, and result in a blood clot. Blood clots can lead to dangerous conditions such as heart attack or stroke.
Video by TheVisualMD
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Molecule
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver; infection and inflammation can trigger the release of CRP within hours. Elevated CRP levels are also seen after a heart attack or surgery. Levels can jump 1000-fold in response to acute inflammation, often rising before the appearance of pain, fever or other clinical symptoms. The high sensitivity version of the test (hs-CRP) measures the same molecule, but in very small amounts, and is used to assess the risk of heart disease in otherwise healthy people. The C-reactive protein (CRP) test is a general test for inflammation in the body; it can indicate that inflammation is present, but cannot determine the location or cause. The test is sometimes used to monitor flare-ups of inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. A version of the test called high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is used to evaluate a person's risk for heart disease.
Image by TheVisualMD
C Reactive Protein: Liver and Heart
C-Reactive protein is synthesized by the liver in response to either signals from fat cells (adipocytes) or when there is inflammation throughout the body.
Image by TheVisualMD
Lipoprotein (a) or Lp(a), Heart Attack
LDL, HDL and total cholesterol have become standard biomarkers for heart disease. And yet half of all people who suffer heart attacks have normal cholesterol levels. For that reason, researchers have looked for other biomarkers that might help identify people at risk for cardiovascular disease. Lp(a) is a lipoprotein that closely resembles LDL, and like LDL, elevated levels of Lp(a) are associated with a higher risk of heart disease. Unlike LDL, however, Lp(a) levels are believed to be largely genetic.
Image by TheVisualMD
NBC Nightly News and C-Reactive Protein
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Video by NURSINGcom/YouTube
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Video by EmpowHER/YouTube
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What Can Give False Readings on an hs-CRP Test? : Health Tips
Video by ehowhealth/YouTube
CRP Indicates Heart Disease Risk Video - Brigham and Women's Hospital
Video by Brigham And Women's Hospital/YouTube
C Reactive Protein: Fat cells
Researchers have found that fat cells trigger the production of C-reactive protein (CRP), which is why individuals who are overweight or obese tend to have chronically higher levels of CRP. High levels of CRP are sometimes treated with aspirin or statins.
Image by TheVisualMD
C-reactive Protein, Atherosclerosis and Heart Disease
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation. CRP levels also seem to be associated with an increased risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis, in which fatty deposits called plaque build up inside the arteries. For this reason, a high sensitivity C-reactive protein test (hs-CRP) is increasingly ordered along with other tests as part of a cardiovascular risk profile (other components of the profile include cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, glucose levels, lifestyle and family history).
Image by TheVisualMD
C-reactive Protein, Fat cells
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation and infection as part of the body's immune response. Researchers have found, however, that fat cells also seem to trigger the production of C-reactive protein (CRP), which is why individuals who are overweight or obese tend to have chronically higher levels of CRP.
Image by TheVisualMD
What is C-Reactive Protein & How to Lower it? – Dr.Berg
Video by Dr. Eric Berg DC/YouTube
C-reactive protein
Video by University of Rochester Introductory Biochemistry (Bio250H)/YouTube
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Inflammation | Acute phase reactant
Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube
C-reactive protein
C-reactive protein drawn from PDB: 1GNH by JFW | T@lk
Different white blood cells have specialized immune functions; certain WBCs, for example, are able to ingest harmful foreign particles, including pathogens, in a process called phagocytosis. CRP is believed to enhance this defense mechanism.
Image by TheVisualMD
The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) blood test and what the results can mean
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4:26
Cardiovascular Inflammation
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C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Molecule
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C Reactive Protein: Liver and Heart
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Lipoprotein (a) or Lp(a), Heart Attack
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2:33
NBC Nightly News and C-Reactive Protein
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CRP Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing
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2:12
CRP And Homocysteine Inflammation Markers, How Do They Relate To Coronary Artery Disease? - Dr. Lyel
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1:51
CRP High Sensitivity Cardiac Risk Assessment from Walk-in Lab
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2:25
What Can Give False Readings on an hs-CRP Test? : Health Tips
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CRP Indicates Heart Disease Risk Video - Brigham and Women's Hospital
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C Reactive Protein: Fat cells
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C-reactive protein
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12:14
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Inflammation | Acute phase reactant
The high-sensitivity c-reactive protein (hs-CRP) test is used to measure your heart disease risk even if you seem healthy. It can find much smaller changes in CRP levels than the regular CRP test.
The high-sensitivity c-reactive protein (hs-CRP) test is used to measure your heart disease risk even if you seem healthy. It can find much smaller changes in CRP levels than the regular CRP test.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
mg/L
1
3
10
Your result is Low.
You have a low risk of developing heart disease.
Related conditions
C-reactive protein (CRP) is produced in the liver in case of trauma or inflammation. It can also be produced in the case fever or some asymptomatic chronic disease.
The main function of CRP is to aid the people’s immune system. It notifies other protective cells (e.g., white blood cells) to take action against foreign bodies (bacteria, viruses, cancer cells) that may cause harm to your body.
In the hs-CRP test, the sensitivity to detect low-grade inflammation has been improved, which can aid in the detection of acute inflammation (injury, infection).
The hs-CRP test is most commonly used to assess the risk of heart disease. Heart and vascular diseases are often caused by the chronic inflammation of arteries.
Your doctor may want to order this test if you have a suspected heart disease, or if you have risk factors for cardiovascular disease. This includes:
Unbalanced diet
Physical inactivity (sedentarism)
Being overweight or obese
More than 50 years of age in women
More than 45 years of age in men
Cigarette smoking
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Family history of early heart disease
Previously diagnosed heart disease
Your doctor may also want to order this test in case that your blood analysis tests have shown increased levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol, or decreased levels of HDL cholesterol.
A small amount of blood will be drawn from a vein in your arm by using a needle.
Usually, no fasting or other special preparations are needed.
Only the risks related to blood extraction, which are temporary discomfort, bruising, little bleeding, and risk of infection in the place where the needle was inserted.
The levels of hs-CRP test are related to the risk of heart disease, its results indicate:
Low risk: 1.00 mg/L
Average risk: 1.00 - 3.00 mg/L
High risk: >3.00 mg/L
The levels of hs-CRP rise rapidly in the case of acute inflammation and decrease as the inflammation subsides.
You should inform your doctor about any medications that you are taking because some drugs (e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen or hormonal replacement therapy) may affect your tests results.
As your hs-CRP levels may vary over time, this test should be taken twice within a period frame of two weeks to properly assess the risk of coronary artery disease.
MedicineNet. C-Reactive Protein CRP Test, Ranges, Symptoms, and Treatment. Melissa Conrad Stöppler. [accessed on Aug 14, 2018]
Kiran Musunuru et al. The use of high-sensitive protein in clinical practice. Published online 2008 Aug 19. [accessed on Aug 14, 2018]
Cleveland Clinic. Blood Tests to Determine Risk of Coronary Artery Disease: C-Reactive Protein. Reviewed by Dr. Leslie Cho. [accessed on Aug 14, 2018]
Mayo Clinic Mayo Medical Laboratories. Test ID: HSCRP CReactive Protein, High Sensitivity, Serum. [accessed on Aug 14, 2018]
LabTests Online. High-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP). [accessed on Aug 14, 2018]
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Doc’s opinion. Blog About Heart Disease, Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle and Prevention of Disease. Hs-CRP. [accessed on Aug 14, 2018]
120766: C-Reactive Protein (CRP), High Sensitivity ... | LabCorp [accessed on Oct 11, 2018]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (17)
CRP And Homocysteine Inflammation Markers, How Do They Relate To Coronary Artery Disease? - Dr. Lyel
Video by EmpowHER/YouTube
Chronic Inflammation: The Root Cause of a Multitude of Diseases
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Inflammation and Type 2 Diabetes
Video by WEHImovies/YouTube
Part I - Inflammation
Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
Part II - Inflammation
Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
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What Is Inflammation?
Inflammation is the body's response to damage. It takes many forms. Chronic inflammation is common in overweight and obese people, because their fat cells manufacture damaging substances that trigger a reaction from the immune system's white blood cells. Keeping track of a key biomarker for inflammation, C-reactive Protein or CRP, helps doctors determine whether an overweight patient is at risk for such conditions as heart disease, dementia, diabetes, cancers, and more.
Video by TheVisualMD
C Reactive Protein: Liver and Heart
C-Reactive protein is synthesized by the liver in response to either signals from fat cells (adipocytes) or when there is inflammation throughout the body.
Image by TheVisualMD
C Reactive Protein: Fat cells
Researchers have found that fat cells trigger the production of C-reactive protein (CRP), which is why individuals who are overweight or obese tend to have chronically higher levels of CRP. High levels of CRP are sometimes treated with aspirin or statins.
Image by TheVisualMD
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Molecule
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver; infection and inflammation can trigger the release of CRP within hours. Elevated CRP levels are also seen after a heart attack or surgery. Levels can jump 1000-fold in response to acute inflammation, often rising before the appearance of pain, fever or other clinical symptoms. The high sensitivity version of the test (hs-CRP) measures the same molecule, but in very small amounts, and is used to assess the risk of heart disease in otherwise healthy people. The C-reactive protein (CRP) test is a general test for inflammation in the body; it can indicate that inflammation is present, but cannot determine the location or cause. The test is sometimes used to monitor flare-ups of inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. A version of the test called high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is used to evaluate a person's risk for heart disease.
Image by TheVisualMD
C-reactive Protein, Atherosclerosis and Heart Disease
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation. CRP levels also seem to be associated with an increased risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis, in which fatty deposits called plaque build up inside the arteries. For this reason, a high sensitivity C-reactive protein test (hs-CRP) is increasingly ordered along with other tests as part of a cardiovascular risk profile (other components of the profile include cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, glucose levels, lifestyle and family history).
Image by TheVisualMD
Phagocytosis - C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation and infection as part of the body's immune response.
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation and infection as part of the body's immune response. White blood cells are also mobilized by the immune system and CRP is believed to enhance the activity of the white blood cells called macrophages. Each type of white blood cell has its own specialized immune functions; macrophages, for example, basically engulf and \"eat\" foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. Macrophages in the spleen and the liver weed out old and defective red blood cells and break them into recyclables (iron, heme, and some globin) and wastes (such as bilirubin). The bilirubin is then used by the liver to produce bile, which is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to aid digestion.
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CRP High Sensitivity Cardiac Risk Assessment from Walk-in Lab
Video by Walk-In Lab LLC/YouTube
C-reactive Protein, Fat cells
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation and infection as part of the body's immune response. Researchers have found, however, that fat cells also seem to trigger the production of C-reactive protein (CRP), which is why individuals who are overweight or obese tend to have chronically higher levels of CRP.
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What Can Give False Readings on an hs-CRP Test? : Health Tips
Video by ehowhealth/YouTube
CRP Indicates Heart Disease Risk Video - Brigham and Women's Hospital
Video by Brigham And Women's Hospital/YouTube
This browser does not support the video element.
Cardiovascular Inflammation
Heart disease is the number one killer of men and women in the U.S. The most common cause of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death is atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory response in the walls of arteries that leads to the hardening of arterial walls and the buildup of fatty deposits called plaques, or atheromas. Although the process of inflammation can be beneficial in other parts of the body, chronic inflammation within arterial walls is problematic as it seems to promote this underlying growth of plaque. The combination of arterial inflammation and the growth of plaque can lead to the rupture of the plaque, and result in a blood clot. Blood clots can lead to dangerous conditions such as heart attack or stroke.
Video by TheVisualMD
Inflammation In Atherosclerotic Plaque Formation (VIDEO)
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2:12
CRP And Homocysteine Inflammation Markers, How Do They Relate To Coronary Artery Disease? - Dr. Lyel
EmpowHER/YouTube
1:35
Chronic Inflammation: The Root Cause of a Multitude of Diseases
Criticalbench/YouTube
5:09
Inflammation and Type 2 Diabetes
WEHImovies/YouTube
8:27
Part I - Inflammation
Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
7:54
Part II - Inflammation
Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
1:57
What Is Inflammation?
TheVisualMD
C Reactive Protein: Liver and Heart
TheVisualMD
C Reactive Protein: Fat cells
TheVisualMD
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Molecule
TheVisualMD
C-reactive Protein, Atherosclerosis and Heart Disease
TheVisualMD
Phagocytosis - C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation and infection as part of the body's immune response.
TheVisualMD
1:51
CRP High Sensitivity Cardiac Risk Assessment from Walk-in Lab
Walk-In Lab LLC/YouTube
C-reactive Protein, Fat cells
TheVisualMD
2:25
What Can Give False Readings on an hs-CRP Test? : Health Tips
ehowhealth/YouTube
3:37
CRP Indicates Heart Disease Risk Video - Brigham and Women's Hospital
Brigham And Women's Hospital/YouTube
4:26
Cardiovascular Inflammation
TheVisualMD
Inflammation In Atherosclerotic Plaque Formation (VIDEO)
TheVisualMD
Multigated Acquisition Scan
Multigated Acquisition Scan
Also called: MUGA Scan, Multiple gated acquisition, Radionuclide angiography (RNA), Equilibrium radionuclide angiogram, Gated blood pool scan, Blood pool scan
A multigated acquisition (MUGA) scan is a noninvasive diagnostic test that uses a radioactive tracer and a special camera to take pictures of the heart as it pumps blood. The test measures how well the heart pumps with every heartbeat.
Multigated Acquisition Scan
Also called: MUGA Scan, Multiple gated acquisition, Radionuclide angiography (RNA), Equilibrium radionuclide angiogram, Gated blood pool scan, Blood pool scan
A multigated acquisition (MUGA) scan is a noninvasive diagnostic test that uses a radioactive tracer and a special camera to take pictures of the heart as it pumps blood. The test measures how well the heart pumps with every heartbeat.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
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Your result is Normal.
Ejection fraction in a healthy heart is 50% to 75%. This means that with each heartbeat — when your heart fills with blood and contracts — it pumps out 50% to 75% of the total amount of blood it contains.
Related conditions
A MUGA scan, also known as a radionuclide angiogram, is a type of nuclear heart scan. For this test, a small amount of radioactive material will be injected into a vein in your arm. With the aid of a computer and a special camera sensitive to this radioactivity, pictures can be taken of your heart.
The MUGA can tell your doctor several things about your heart: how well your ventricles are working, specifically how well your left ventricle pumps blood (the ejection fraction), and how blood flows inside your heart. You may be scanned during rest, or during rest and exercise.
Two injections will be given to you through your vein. The first (which contains phosphate) prepares the blood for testing. Fifteen to twenty minutes later, a small amount of radioactive material (radionuclide technetium 99m) will be injected. during your stay or in the hospital.
You will be asked to lie on a flat, imaging table.
Electrodes will be placed on your chest, and a special camera will be positioned over your chest. As the camera takes pictures of your heart, you will be asked to stay still and breathe normally.
If an exercise study is planned, you will lie flat on the imaging table while your feet are slipped into bicycle pedals. Shoulder supports will help position you, as well. When the camera is placed over your chest, you will be asked to begin pedaling. A doctor or nurse practitioner will be present for this part of the test. Every 2 minutes, pedaling will become a little harder, but you must try to keep a steady pace. When you reach the hardest level (the last few minutes), a 2- to 3-minute picture of your heart will be taken. This picture is the reason for the test, so if you need to stop pedaling, please tell the staff member present at least 2 minutes before you stop.
The test lasts about 1 hour. If exercise is done, it will take about 2 hours.
If you have questions about the procedure, ask your nurse or your doctor. Report any symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, or light-headedness.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing, or pajamas with pants. A shirt or gown that opens in the front is also helpful. (This allows electrodes to be placed on your chest.) Women may wear a bra. If exercise is planned, wear well-fitting exercise shoes.
If you are having only a rest MUGA, you may eat a light breakfast.
If an exercise muga is also scheduled, do not eat breakfast.
If you are diabetic, do not take insulin or oral hypoglycemics the morning of your test. Bring your insulin and other medications you will need, as well as your glucometer, to the test.
You will want to feel your best before this test, so if you have been short of breath, bring light-headed, tired, or have had chest discomfort, tell your nurse.
Bring medications (including inhalers) you may need during your stay or in the hospital.
Let your healthcare team know if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding. Because this test uses radioactivity, this test is not usually performed on pregnant or breastfeeding women.
If you care for a newborn, let your healthcare team know so that they may give you special instructions.
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/sudden-cardiac-arrest [accessed on Dec 18, 2019]
Radionuclide Ventriculography or Radionuclide Angiography (MUGA Scan) | American Heart Association [accessed on Dec 11, 2018]
Multigated Acquisition Scan (MUGA) | Cleveland Clinic [accessed on Dec 11, 2018]
MUGA Scan: MUGA Test Procedure | NorthShore [accessed on Dec 11, 2018]
https://www.healthline.com/health/muga-scan#results [accessed on Dec 11, 2018]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Anti-DsDNA Test
Anti-DsDNA Test
Also called: Anti-double stranded DNA antibody, Double stranded DNA Antibody, Antinative DNA
An anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) test is usually ordered when a test for antinuclear antibodies (ANA) has come back positive. Anti-dsDNA is used to help diagnose and monitor a disease known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Anti-DsDNA Test
Also called: Anti-double stranded DNA antibody, Double stranded DNA Antibody, Antinative DNA
An anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) test is usually ordered when a test for antinuclear antibodies (ANA) has come back positive. Anti-dsDNA is used to help diagnose and monitor a disease known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
{"label":"Anti-DsDNA Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"units":[{"printSymbol":"U\/mL","code":"U\/mL","name":"enzyme unit per milliliter"}],"items":[{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Negative","long":"Negative","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":5},"text":"Testing negative for anti-dsDNA does not rule out the possibility of having systemic lupus erythematosus.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"borderline","label":{"short":"Indeterminate","long":"Indeterminate","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":5,"max":9},"text":"Results in this range may be due to other autoimmune disorders; however, it is strongly indicative of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Further testing may be needed to find a more accurate diagnosis.","conditions":["Systemic lupus erythematosus","Chronic liver disease","Sj\u00f6gren syndrome","Infectious mononucleosis","Intake of certain medications"]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Positive","long":"Positive","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":9,"max":20},"text":"High levels of anti-dsDNA are strongly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and are often significantly increased during or just prior to an SLE flare-up. If the anti-dsDNA is positive and the person tested has other clinical signs associated with SLE, then is it likely that she has SLE. ","conditions":["Systemic lupus erythematosus"]}],"value":2.5}[{"normal":0},{"borderline":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
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U/mL
5
9
Your result is Negative.
Testing negative for anti-dsDNA does not rule out the possibility of having systemic lupus erythematosus.
Related conditions
Anti-double stranded DNA antibody (anti-dsDNA) forms part of a group of autoantibodies called antinuclear antibodies (ANA).
Normally, the antibodies’ function is to protect against external agents that could cause harm or infection, such as bacteria, virus, etc. However, autoantibodies mistakenly attack the healthy cells of the person’s body, causing tissue and organ damage.
Anti-dsDNA attacks the genetic material stored in the cells (DNA); hence, the name "anti-dsDNA."
An anti-dsDNA test identifies the presence of these autoantibodies in a sample of your blood.
Your doctor may want to order an anti-dsDNA test if you have signs and symptoms that are compatible with a disease known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), along with a positive test for antinuclear antibodies (ANA).
This test can also be used to monitor the evolution of SLE.
A small amount of blood will be drawn from a vein in your arm by using a needle.
No fasting or other preparations are needed.
Only the risks related to blood extraction, which are temporary discomfort, bruising, little bleeding, and risk of infection in the place where the needle was inserted.
Normal ranges can vary among different laboratories depending on the technique used for analysis. It can be considered as:
Negative: less than 5 IU/mL
Indeterminate: 5 to 9 IU/mL
Positive: more than 9 IU/mL
The results of an anti-dsDNA test should be considered along with the person's signs and symptoms, medical history, and results of other autoantibody tests. Low Anti-dsDNA levels can be found in different disorders; however, it is strongly indicative of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
SLE is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks its own healthy cells, producing a chronic inflammatory response that can affect various tissues and organs such as the joints, kidneys, lungs, blood vessels, heart, skin, and brain.
You should visit your doctor if you experience symptoms that could be related to SLE, such as:
Persistent fatigue
Weakness
Chest pain when taking a deep breath
Swelling in the legs
Arthritis-like pain in one or more joints
A red rash across your nose and cheeks that resembles the wings of a butterfly
Skin sensitivity to sunlight
Mouth sores
Hair loss
Unexplained weight loss
Anti-dsDNA can result positive in diseases such as chronic liver disease, Sjögren syndrome (an autoimmune disorder), and infectious mononucleosis. It may also test positive in people who are taking drugs such as procainamide and hydralazine.
An antinuclear antibodies (ANA) test is usually indicated before an anti-dsDNA test (which forms part of the ANA group) because if an ANA test is negative, it indicates that the entire group is negative. Therefore, there would be no need to order an anti-dsDNA test separately.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3789337/ [accessed on Mar 21, 2019]
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24533624 [accessed on Mar 21, 2019]
https://www.hopkinslupus.org/lupus-tests/lupus-blood-tests/ [accessed on Mar 21, 2019]
https://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/test-catalog/Clinical+and+Interpretive/8178 [accessed on Mar 21, 2019]
https://labtestsonline.org/tests/anti-dsdna [accessed on Mar 21, 2019]
https://www.labcorp.com/test-menu/20086/anti-dsdna-double-stranded-antibodies [accessed on Mar 21, 2019]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000435.htm [accessed on Mar 21, 2019]
https://www.webmd.com/lupus/systemic-lupus-erythematosus#1 [accessed on Mar 21, 2019]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (4)
Systemic Lupus erythematosus - Research Highlights
Systemic lupus erythematosus, Butterfly rash
Image by National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Systems Potentially Affected by Lupus
This illustration shows the body systems that are potentially affected by lupus. These are the nervous (central), opthalmologic, dermatologic, hematologic, cardiopulmonary, renal, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal systems.
Image by National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health
Symptoms of Lupus
Illustration of common signs and symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus
Image by Mikael Haggstrom
Neurological Sequelae Of Lupus (Fact Sheet)
Systems Potentially Affected by Lupus . This illustration shows the body systems that are potentially affected by lupus. These are the nervous (central), opthalmologic, dermatologic, hematologic, cardiopulmonary, renal, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal systems.
Image by Norman Purvis Walker
Systemic Lupus erythematosus - Research Highlights
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Systems Potentially Affected by Lupus
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health
Computed tomography (CT) calcium score is a non-invasive and painless technique that uses x-rays to detect the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD), also called atherosclerosis. This is done to assess the person’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes.
Computed tomography (CT) calcium score is a non-invasive and painless technique that uses x-rays to detect the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD), also called atherosclerosis. This is done to assess the person’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
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1
10
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400
Your result is Not detected.
No evidence of atherosclerosis. You have a very low risk of cardiovascular disease.
Related conditions
Computed tomography (CT) calcium scoring is a non-invasive and painless method used to detect the presence, location, and extent of calcium in the coronary arteries, which are the blood vessels that supply oxygen to your heart.
The presence of calcium in the coronary arteries signals the presence of a disease of the vessel wall, called coronary artery disease (CAD) or atherosclerosis. People with this disease have an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart attacks and strokes.
Your doctor may want to order a CT calcium score test to determine your risk of developing coronary artery disease and, if necessary, guide you to reduce your risk.
Reduction of the CAD risk can be achieved by implementing diet changes, exercise, controlling blood pressure and diabetes, stopping smoking, and reducing the cholesterol levels in the blood.
You will be asked to lie flat on your back on the CT examination table; then, a few small sticky discs called electrodes will be attached to your chest and to an electrocardiograph (ECG) machine to record the electrical activity of your heart. The CT table will move in very small increments every few seconds to allow the scan to take several images of your heart.
You may be asked to hold your breath for 20-30 seconds, and you will need to hold completely still.
Make sure to wear loose and comfortable clothes, and leave your jewelry at home.
Avoid wearing any powder or lotion on your chest. Do not smoke, eat or drink anything (especially caffeine) for at least four hours prior to the exam.
As the procedure uses x-rays, there is some exposure to a very low dose of radiation. This procedure is painless, and it’s usually not associated with any side effects.
Pregnant women should notify their health professional before exposure.
Calcium Score:
0: No evidence of atherosclerosis. You have a very low risk of cardiovascular disease.
1-10: Minimal evidence of atherosclerosis. You have a low risk of cardiovascular disease; however, you may want to quit smoking, eat better, and exercise more.
11-100: Mild evidence of atherosclerosis. You have a moderate risk of cardiovascular disease. Talk with your doctor about changing your lifestyle habits and perhaps starting medical treatment.
101-400: Moderate evidence of atherosclerosis. You have a high risk of cardiovascular disease. Your doctor may want to perform more tests and start treatment.
Over 400: Extensive evidence of atherosclerosis. You have a very high risk of cardiovascular disease. Is highly likely that your doctor orders some more tests and begin treatment as soon as possible to prevent a heart attack.
There are several cardiovascular diseases associated with calcification of the coronary arteries, these include:
Coronary heart disease
Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
Sudden cardiac death
Angina
Heart failure
You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following signs or symptoms:
Chest pain
Difficulty breathing
Discomfort in your stomach that radiates to your neck, left shoulder, or left arm.
Dizziness along with sweating and nausea
Fainting
CT calcium scores are most informative when it comes to providing information about cardiovascular risk, for females aged between 35 and 70 years and males aged between 40 and 60 years.
Coronary CT calcium scan - Wikipedia [accessed on Oct 03, 2018]
Cardiac Calcium Scoring | University of Maryland Medical Center [accessed on Oct 03, 2018]
https://www.myvmc.com/investigations/ct-calcium-scoring/ [accessed on Oct 03, 2018]
Cardiac CT for Calcium Scoring [accessed on Oct 03, 2018]
Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring - InsideRadiology [accessed on Oct 03, 2018]
Coronary artery calcium score: current status [accessed on Oct 03, 2018]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (12)
DENSITY OF CORONARY ARTERY CALCIUM MAY HELP PREDICT RISK OF HEART ATTACK AND STROKE
Video by TheJAMAReport/YouTube
Dr Henson's Calcium Score
Video by Executive Health/YouTube
Detecting Heart Disease with Calcium Score - Scottsdale Medical Imaging
Video by SMILLTD/YouTube
What To Expect During a Coronary Calcium Scan
3D reconstruction of the thin multislice CT, covering human heart and lungs
Image by Semnic
atherosclerosis and calcification
Low magnification micrograph of the distal right coronary artery with complex atherosclerosis and luminal narrowing. Masson's trichrome.
Arteries have three layers (tunica intima, tunica media and tunica adventitia). These can be seen on the micrograph:
Adventitia (outermost layer) = green fluffy material (collagen),
Media (middle (muscular) part) = red (smooth muscle actin),
Intima (inner part, in contact with the blood) = green (collagen) with some red (smooth muscle actin).
Features of atherosclerosis seen on the micrograph:
The tunica intima is severely thickened; it measures up to approximately 1/3 of a millimetre. Normally, it is one cell layer thick (approximately 10 micrometres).
There is fragmentation of the internal elastic lamina (a very thin black wavy layer) between the intima and media.
There is a partial duplication of the internal elastic lamina.
There is smooth muscle infiltration of the intima (from the media), i.e. red staining of the intima.
There is significant luminal narrowing. The section of the artery shown has only 25-35% of the cross-sectional area it once had; the artery's original lumen was approximately where the double layer of elastin is seen (the internal elastic lamina).
Features that may be seen in atherosclerosis but are not evident in the micrograph:
Calcifications.
Cholesterol crystals.
Image by Nephron
Coronary Calcium Scan
Coronary Calcium Scan. Figure A shows the position of the heart in the body and the location and angle of the coronary calcium scan image. Figure B is a coronary calcium scan image showing calcifications in a coronary artery.
Image by NHLBI/NIH
What Is a Heart Attack?
Diagram showing a heart attack (mycardial infaction).
Image by NIH: National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute
Cholesterol, Healthy Heart
A heart-healthy lifestyle includes a diet based on the principles of balance, variety and moderation in the consumption of fats. Fats are essential nutrients and critical building blocks. The type of fat in a diet, however, turns out to be even more important than the total amount; there are \"good\" fats and \"bad\" dietary fats, just as there are \"good\" and \"bad\" types of cholesterol in our bloodstream. Other keys to cardiovascular health and wellbeing: get aerobic exercise, don't smoke, and drink alcohol only in moderation.
Image by TheVisualMD
Human Heart
Composited image profile of a heart as seen through various rendering techniques. With volume rendering software, slices of Magnetic Resonance Imagery (MRI), and Computer Tomography (CT) scans can be compiled to produce a three-dimensional (3D) model of an organ such as a heart. Models can be viewed in various ways. As individual slices, as is seen along the left or as enhanced color, gray scale volume and 3D transparency, as is seen along the right.
Image by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Beating Heart
A render of a 3D beating heart. While the heart is beating the camera rotates from an lateral view to a more anterior view. The heart itself looks as if it has a glossy texture map with a temporary image map. The sequence seems to rendered on an alpha channel judging from the lack of a background.
Video by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Overweight Boy with Fast Beating Heart
A video of an overweight boy holding his side during a physical education class. It begins as a still with the boy in color while everything else is in gray scale The camera zooms into his chest to view a fast beating heart. When the camera zooms out the scene is in color and the boy continues walking.
Video by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Beating Heart Focusing on Coronary Vessel
A 3D animation of a beating heart. The scene begins with a lateral view of the heart within an out of focus thorax. The camera zooms in on an extreme close up on the left anterior descending coronary vessels and then travels a up the vessels to end the animation.
Video by TheVisualMD
2:00
DENSITY OF CORONARY ARTERY CALCIUM MAY HELP PREDICT RISK OF HEART ATTACK AND STROKE
TheJAMAReport/YouTube
5:59
Dr Henson's Calcium Score
Executive Health/YouTube
3:51
Detecting Heart Disease with Calcium Score - Scottsdale Medical Imaging
SMILLTD/YouTube
What To Expect During a Coronary Calcium Scan
Semnic
atherosclerosis and calcification
Nephron
Coronary Calcium Scan
NHLBI/NIH
What Is a Heart Attack?
NIH: National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute
Cholesterol, Healthy Heart
TheVisualMD
Human Heart
TheVisualMD
0:12
Beating Heart
TheVisualMD
0:17
Overweight Boy with Fast Beating Heart
TheVisualMD
0:25
Beating Heart Focusing on Coronary Vessel
TheVisualMD
Troponin Test
Troponin Test
Also called: Cardiac Troponin, cTn, Cardiac-Specific Troponin, Troponin (I or T)
A troponin test measures the level of troponin in a sample of your blood. Troponin is a protein that's found in the cells of your heart muscle. High troponin levels may be a sign of a heart attack.
Troponin Test
Also called: Cardiac Troponin, cTn, Cardiac-Specific Troponin, Troponin (I or T)
A troponin test measures the level of troponin in a sample of your blood. Troponin is a protein that's found in the cells of your heart muscle. High troponin levels may be a sign of a heart attack.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
ng/L
47
Your result is Normal.
Normal troponin levels in the blood are usually so low, they can't be found on most blood tests. If your results show normal troponin levels for 12 hours after chest pain has started, it's unlikely that your symptoms were caused by a heart attack.
Related conditions
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
ng/L
22
Your result is Normal.
Normal troponin levels in the blood are usually so low, they can't be found on most blood tests. If your results show normal troponin levels for 12 hours after chest pain has started, it's unlikely that your symptoms were caused by a heart attack.
Related conditions
A troponin test measures the level of troponin in a sample of your blood. Troponin is a protein that's found in the cells of your heart muscle.
Normally, troponin levels in blood are so low that only the most sensitive types of tests can measure them. But if your heart muscle is damaged, troponin leaks into your bloodstream, and your troponin blood levels will rise.
Troponin testing is mainly used to help diagnose heart attacks. Heart attacks damage the heart by suddenly blocking the blood flow that brings oxygen to part of the heart muscle. Without oxygen from blood, heart muscle cells die and release troponin.
Troponin test results can confirm damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack. The more damage there is to the heart, the more troponin is released into the blood. So, measuring the amount of troponin in the blood can also help estimate how much of the heart has been damaged. Higher than normal troponin levels may also be found in other conditions that can damage heart muscle.
Two types of troponin maybe be measured to diagnose heart damage. They are called troponin I and troponin T. Tests can measure either type.
Other names: cardiac troponin I (cTnI), cardiac troponin T (cTnT), cardiac troponin (cTn), cardiac-specific troponin I and troponin T
A troponin test is mainly used to:
Confirm if a person is having a heart attack or recently had a heart attack. This is the most common reason for troponin testing. The test is usually done in the emergency room of a hospital along with other heart tests, such as an EKG (also called an ECG or electrocardiogram).
Diagnose and monitor unstable angina. Angina is chest pain that happens if part of the heart muscle doesn't get as much blood as it needs. Unstable angina is a type of angina that happens at any time, even during rest. It's a medical emergency because it can lead to a heart attack.
Check heart health after a surgery that could damage the heart. In this case, a troponin test may be done before and after surgery so that the results can be compared.
You may need a troponin test if you have symptoms of a heart attack. The symptoms can start slowly or suddenly. They may be mild or intense, and they can come and go over several hours. They include:
Chest pain, heaviness, or discomfort in the center or left side of the chest
Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, your back, shoulders, neck, jaw, or above your belly button
Trouble breathing when resting or doing light physical activity
Nausea and vomiting
Feeling unusually tired for no reason, sometimes for days
Dizziness and light-headedness
Sweating a lot for no reason
Rapid or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
If you have symptoms of a heart attack, call 911 immediately. Quick medical attention could save your life.
You may also need troponin testing if you're having surgery that could affect your heart.
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.
You don't need any special preparations for a troponin test. But, if you take vitamin B7, also called biotin, make sure you tell the health care provider who orders your test. Biotin and supplements that contain biotin can make your troponin levels appear lower than they really are.
There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.
To understand the results of a troponin test for chest pain and/or other symptoms of a heart attack, your provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and the results of other tests.
In general:
If your first troponin test results are normal, you'll probably be retested during the next 12 hours. That's because increased troponin levels usually don't show up for about 2 to 3 hours after a heart attack begins. So, results from a later test may show higher than normal troponin levels. In the meantime, the results of other tests and exams will help your provider know whether to start treatment for a heart attack right away.
If your troponin test results show normal troponin levels 12 hours after your symptoms began, you probably did not have a heart attack.
If your test results show higher than normal amounts of troponin in your blood, it usually means you have some damage in your heart muscle. Your provider will consider all the information about your condition to diagnose whether a heart attack caused the damage. Very high troponin levels most often mean you've had a heart attack.
Higher than normal troponin levels don't always mean you've had a heart attack. They can be caused by unstable angina many other conditions that can damage the heart, including:
Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), especially a heartbeat that's too fast
Heart failure
Heart valve disease
Infection or inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis)
Heart surgery
Intense exercise over a long time, such as running a marathon
Chest injuries
Chronic kidney disease
A blood clot in your lungs (pulmonary embolism)
Sepsis
A severe COVID-19 infection
If you have high troponin levels, but your provider doesn't think you've had a heart attack, you may have other tests to find the cause.
If you have questions about your test results, talk with your provider.
Troponin levels can continue to rise for about 24 hours after a heart attack begins. So, if your test results show high troponin levels, you'll probably be tested two or more times over a 24-hour period.
The results of these tests show how fast your troponin level increased and the highest level it reached. That information helps estimate how much of your heart muscle is damaged and how well you might recover.
Troponin Test: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 18, 2024]
Troponin Test (cTN) - Testing.com. Apr 12, 2022 [accessed on Jan 18, 2024]
Post-infarction echocardiographic views of ventricular septal defect
Image by Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator; C. Carl Jaffe, MD, cardiologist
Traumatized Muscle Tissue
This is a scanning electron microscope image of traumatized muscle tissue taken from a soldier injured during Operation Enduring Freedom. It shows a red blood cell (false color) entangled in nanofibrous extracellular matrix. Highly fibrotic regions such as these are thought to precede bone formation during abnormal wound healing, leading to heterotopic ossification, the formation of bone in locations outside the skeleton, such as soft tissue.
Image by Gregory Christopherson, Ph.D. and Leon Nesti, M.D., Ph.D., NIAMS Cartilage Biology and Orthopaedics Branch
Post-infarction ventricular septal defect, short axis echocardiography view
Image by Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator; C. Carl Jaffe, MD, cardiologist
Myocardial infarction
Inferior wall infarction, short axis echocardiography view
Image by Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator; C. Carl Jaffe, MD, cardiologist
Angiogram Revealing Coronary Blockage
Doctors use angiograms as an effective imaging tool for visualizing and locating blockages or inconsistencies in blood flow. Contrast dye is used to illuminate the interior of the coronary arteries as blood passes through them. This angiogram reveals blockage in the left main coronary artery, supplying the left side of the heart. The left ventricle of the heart is responsible for exerting a powerful force pushing blood out from the heart, through the aorta, to be delivered throughout the entire body. The patient may be at serious risk of heart disease, including heart attack. If the heart does not have the blood supply it needs to perform its job of pumping volumes of blood to the entire body, organ systems will not be able to function.
Image by TheVisualMD
Heart Attack Caused by Ischemia
Thromboembolisms can cause heart attacks. A clot may lodge in one of the heart's coronary arteries (the arteries that supply the heart muscle tissue with blood) and block blood flow. The tissue becomes starved of oxygen (a condition called ischemia) and is damaged or dies.
Image by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Blockage Leads to Heart Attack
Risk factors increase the likelihood that you'll develop cardiovascular disease, and the more risk factors you have, the greater your chances of developing it. Fortunately, most of these risk factors are within your control, like high cholesterol and high blood pressure levels, being overweight, smoking, lack of exercise, overconsumption of alcohol, unmanaged diabetes, and stress. Factors you can't control include genetics and aging.
Video by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Understanding Heart Attacks
Watch Dr. Mehmet Oz and other renowned cardiologists as they talk about this major killer, known in the medical world as a "myocardial infarction." Step inside the human body in a way that lets you completely understand what a heart attack is all bout, how and why they happen, what to do in the event of a heart attack, and how you can take steps to avoiding one.
Video by TheVisualMD
How tropomyosin and troponin regulate muscle contraction | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by Khan Academy/YouTube
Troponin I Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care Lab Values Nursing
Video by NURSINGcom/YouTube
Complications after a heart attack (myocardial infarction) | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Troponin Test
Video by DrER.tv/YouTube
Lipoprotein (a) or Lp(a), Heart Attack
LDL, HDL and total cholesterol have become standard biomarkers for heart disease. And yet half of all people who suffer heart attacks have normal cholesterol levels. For that reason, researchers have looked for other biomarkers that might help identify people at risk for cardiovascular disease. Lp(a) is a lipoprotein that closely resembles LDL, and like LDL, elevated levels of Lp(a) are associated with a higher risk of heart disease. Unlike LDL, however, Lp(a) levels are believed to be largely genetic.
Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator; C. Carl Jaffe, MD, cardiologist
Myocardial infarction
Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator; C. Carl Jaffe, MD, cardiologist
Angiogram Revealing Coronary Blockage
TheVisualMD
Heart Attack Caused by Ischemia
TheVisualMD
0:23
Blockage Leads to Heart Attack
TheVisualMD
3:52
Understanding Heart Attacks
TheVisualMD
9:22
How tropomyosin and troponin regulate muscle contraction | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Khan Academy/YouTube
2:42
Troponin I Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care Lab Values Nursing
NURSINGcom/YouTube
9:08
Complications after a heart attack (myocardial infarction) | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
4:58
Troponin Test
DrER.tv/YouTube
Lipoprotein (a) or Lp(a), Heart Attack
TheVisualMD
Complete Blood Count
Complete Blood Count
Also called: CBC, Full Blood Count, Blood Cell Count, Hemotology Panel
A complete blood count (CBC) is often part of a routine exam. It is used to measure different parts and features of your blood. A CBC can help detect a variety of disorders including infections, anemia, diseases of the immune system, and blood cancers.
Complete Blood Count
Also called: CBC, Full Blood Count, Blood Cell Count, Hemotology Panel
A complete blood count (CBC) is often part of a routine exam. It is used to measure different parts and features of your blood. A CBC can help detect a variety of disorders including infections, anemia, diseases of the immune system, and blood cancers.
A complete blood count, or CBC, is a blood test that measures many different parts and features of your blood, including:
Red blood cells, which carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body.
White blood cells, which fight infections and other diseases. There are five major types of white blood cells. A CBC test measures the total number of white cells in your blood. A different test called a CBC with differential measures the number of each type of these white blood cells.
Platelets, which stop bleeding by helping your blood to clot.
Hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body.
Hematocrit, a measurement of how much of your blood is made up of red blood cells.
Mean corpuscular volume (MCV), a measure of the average size of your red blood cells.
Other names for a complete blood count: CBC, full blood count, blood cell count
A complete blood count is a common blood test that is often part of a routine checkup. Complete blood counts can help detect a variety of disorders including infections, anemia, diseases of the immune system, and blood cancers.
Your health care provider may have ordered a complete blood count as part of your checkup or to monitor your overall health. The test may also be used to:
Help diagnose blood diseases, infection, immune system disorders, or other medical conditions
Check for changes in an existing blood disorder
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.
Usually there is no special preparation necessary for a complete blood count. But if your provider ordered other tests on your blood sample, you may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test. Your provider will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow.
There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may experience slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle went in, but most symptoms go away quickly.
A CBC counts the cells in your blood. There are many reasons your levels may not be in the normal range. For example:
Abnormal levels of red blood cells, hemoglobin, or hematocrit may be a sign of anemia, heart disease, or too little iron in your body.
Low white cell count may be a sign of an autoimmune disorder, bone marrow disorder, or cancer.
High white cell count may be a sign of an infection or a reaction to medicine.
If any of your levels are abnormal, it doesn't always mean you have a medical condition that needs treatment. Diet, activity level, medicines, a menstrual period, not drinking enough water, and other factors can affect the results. Talk with your provider to learn what your results mean.
A complete blood count is only one tool your health care provider uses to learn about your health. Your provider will consider your medical history, symptoms, and other factors to make a diagnosis. You may also need additional tests.
Complete Blood Count (CBC): MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Blood Tests - Blood Tests | NHLBI, NIH. Mar 24, 2022 [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Additional Materials (25)
Reticulocyte Count, Hemorrhage/Chronic Blood Loss
Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells (RBCs) released into the bloodstream from the bone marrow in which they developed. Normally, only a tiny percentage red blood cells circulating in the bloodstream are reticulocytes. The reticulocyte count rises, however, when bone marrow is called upon to produce more RBCs, in conditions such as heavy bleeding or certain types of anemia.
Image by TheVisualMD
Blood sample
During the blood collection process, medical personnel gather additional blood samples to test for an array of blood disorders and communicable diseases. Every unit of blood is rigorously tested before approved for transfusion into a patient.
Image by United States Marine Corps
Phlebotomy
Venipuncture (blood draw / collection) in the left arm of a male.
Image by MatthewLammers
Blood and Related Conditions
Blood and Related Conditions : Anemia results when there are too few red blood cells circulating in the bloodstream to deliver adequate oxygen to body tissues. There are different types and causes of anemia, including malnutrition, chronic bleeding, and diseases that result in red blood cells either being destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly.
Image by TheVisualMD
Components of Blood
Components of Blood : Our blood is composed of many different components, the largest categories being red and white blood cells (blood-clotting platelets are another key component) and the liquid portion known as blood plasma. A Complete Blood Count (CBC) includes several of the most basic, yet important, measurements of these components.
Image by TheVisualMD
Blood fractionation
Vial of separated blood. The middle layer is a type of sterile goo which separates the blood from the rest of what's drawn.
Image by Wheeler Cowperthwaite from Reno, USA
Whole Blood
A Red Cross whole blood donation before any separation
Image by Whoisjohngalt
White Blood Cells Rotation
This rotational interactive features five white blood cells. At the top left is a neutrophil (purple nucleus); center is a Monocyte-macrophage (orange nucleus); top right is a Lymphocyte (red nucleus); bottom left a Basophil (green nucleus); and bottom right an Eosinophil (yellow nucleus). These molecules are all part of a white blood cell count test. A white blood cell count is an important measure of this key component of the immune system; when the body is under attack, more WBCs are produced. White blood cells (also called leukocytes or WBCs) are in the front lines in the fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus. A white blood cell count is an important measure of this key component of the immune system; when the body is under attack, more WBCs are produced. Other factors, however, may also affect WBC counts, including allergies, chemotherapy, and other drugs, as well as leukemia.
Image by TheVisualMD
Medical Checkups
Image by TheVisualMD
Medical Checkups
Most doctors believe that people should have regular checkups as a part of preventive treatment. Regular health exams can help find problems before they begin, or in their early stages, when the chances of successful treatment are best.
Blood Pressure Reading: Photo Copyright 2005, James Gathany
Image by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health
Video Topics : Our lifeblood consists of many components and a complete blood count (CBC) includes measurements of the fundamental elements. The largest categories are red and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) and cell fragments called platelets, which play roles in blood clotting. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells in the body of an adult, each with a lifespan of about 100 days (RBCs contain an iron-containing protein called hemoglobin that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body and then return carbon dioxide to the lungs). WBCs are in the front lines in the body's ongoing fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus; when a pathogen enters the body, WBCs mobilize in a coordinated defense response to eliminate, neutralize or mark the invader for destruction. The liquid portion of blood is called plasma and it carries nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and hormones.
Video by TheVisualMD
Full Blood Count – what it tells your doctor about your health
Video by Pathology Tests Explained/YouTube
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube
Complete Blood Count
Video by Tom Wade MD/YouTube
high white blood cell count Video
Video by itbestshop/YouTube
Complete Blood Count pt1
Video by Med Immersion/YouTube
Complete Blood Count pt2
Video by Med Immersion/YouTube
This browser does not support the video element.
Normal Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count
An animation simulating a view of a healthy count of red blood cells as viewed in a slide projector or under a microscope. Initially, the screen in white with a circular black vignette along its borders. Then a still showing red blood cells slides up from the bottom left filling the screen and then comes into focus. The red blood cells resemble those taken from an scanning electron micrograph (SEM) and fill up the given space on the screen.
Video by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Anemic Blood Flow
Camera is stationary as it focuses on a capillary in a cell bed demonstrating anemic blood flow and it's lower red blood cell count.
Video by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Anemic Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count
An animation simulating a view of an unhealthy count of red blood cells as viewed in a slide projector or under a microscope. Initially, the screen in white with a circular black vignette along its borders. Then a still showing red blood cells on a light red background slides up from the bottom left filling the screen and then comes into focus. The red blood cells resemble those taken from an scanning electron micrograph (SEM). There are only a few red blood cells in this slide indicative of the low amount typical of some one who is anemic.
Video by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Anemic Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count
An animation simulating a close-up of an unhealthy count of red blood cells as viewed in a slide projector or under a microscope. Initially, the screen in white with a circular black vignette along its borders. Then a still showing red blood cells on a light red background slides up from the bottom left filling the screen and then comes into focus. Throughout the animation, the slide jitters a little. The red blood cells resemble those taken from an scanning electron micrograph (SEM). In this close up there are a few red blood cells along with a few white blood cells.
Video by TheVisualMD
Why Blood Tests Can Save Your Life
Video by Seeker+/YouTube
Introduction to lab values and normal ranges | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Low blood counts and the risk of infection in cancer patients | Norton Cancer Institute
Video by Norton Healthcare/YouTube
Dr. Erba Describes Proper Diagnostic Testing of CML
Video by OncLiveTV/YouTube
Reticulocyte Count, Hemorrhage/Chronic Blood Loss
TheVisualMD
Blood sample
United States Marine Corps
Phlebotomy
MatthewLammers
Blood and Related Conditions
TheVisualMD
Components of Blood
TheVisualMD
Blood fractionation
Wheeler Cowperthwaite from Reno, USA
Whole Blood
Whoisjohngalt
White Blood Cells Rotation
TheVisualMD
Medical Checkups
TheVisualMD
Medical Checkups
TheVisualMD
2:12
Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health
TheVisualMD
4:18
Full Blood Count – what it tells your doctor about your health
Pathology Tests Explained/YouTube
7:04
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube
4:11
Complete Blood Count
Tom Wade MD/YouTube
8:22
high white blood cell count Video
itbestshop/YouTube
16:12
Complete Blood Count pt1
Med Immersion/YouTube
22:14
Complete Blood Count pt2
Med Immersion/YouTube
0:06
Normal Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count
TheVisualMD
0:07
Anemic Blood Flow
TheVisualMD
0:14
Anemic Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count
TheVisualMD
0:14
Anemic Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count
TheVisualMD
8:29
Why Blood Tests Can Save Your Life
Seeker+/YouTube
10:42
Introduction to lab values and normal ranges | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
1:32
Low blood counts and the risk of infection in cancer patients | Norton Cancer Institute
Norton Healthcare/YouTube
2:39
Dr. Erba Describes Proper Diagnostic Testing of CML
OncLiveTV/YouTube
Red Blood Cells
Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count
Also called: Erythrocyte Count, RBC Count, Red Blood Count, Red Blood Cell Count, Red Count
A red blood cell (RBC) count is a blood test that measures the number of red blood cells in your blood. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. An abnormal RBC count can be a sign of a serious health problem.
Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count
Also called: Erythrocyte Count, RBC Count, Red Blood Count, Red Blood Cell Count, Red Count
A red blood cell (RBC) count is a blood test that measures the number of red blood cells in your blood. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. An abnormal RBC count can be a sign of a serious health problem.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
(10<sup>6</sup>)/μL
3.9
5.5
Your result is Normal.
Red blood cells (RBC) are made in the bone marrow and contain hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen to the tissues in the body. RBCs make up approximately 44% of the total blood volume.
Related conditions
A red blood cell (RBC) count measures the number of red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, in your blood. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to every cell in your body. Your cells need oxygen to grow, reproduce, and stay healthy. An RBC count that is higher or lower than normal is often the first sign of an illness. So the test may allow you to get treatment even before you have symptoms.
Other names: erythrocyte count, red count
A red blood cell (RBC) count is almost always part of a complete blood count, a group of tests that measure many different parts and features of your blood. The RBC measurement is used to help diagnose red blood cell disorders, such as anemia, a condition in which your body does not make enough healthy red blood cells.
You may get this test as part of a complete blood count, which is often included in a routine checkup. You may also need this test if you have symptoms of a low or high red blood cell count.
Symptoms of a low red blood cell count include:
Weakness
Fatigue
Pale skin
Rapid heartbeat
Symptoms of a high red blood cell count include:
Headache
Dizziness
Vision problems
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.
You don't need any special preparations for a red blood cell (RBC) count.
There is very little risk to having a blood test. There may be slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.
Your results will show whether you have a normal red blood cell count or a count that is too low or too high.
A low red blood cell count can be a sign of:
Anemia
Leukemia, a type of blood cancer
Malnutrition, a condition in which your body does not get the calories, vitamins, and/or minerals needed for good health
Multiple myeloma, a cancer of the bone marrow
Kidney failure
It may also be a sign of pregnancy.
A high red blood cell count can be a sign of:
Dehydration
Heart disease
Polycythemia vera, a bone marrow disease that causes too many red blood cells to be made
Scarring of the lungs, often due to cigarette smoking
Lung disease
Kidney cancer
If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
If results showed you had a low or a high red blood cell count, you may need more tests to help make a diagnosis. These include:
Reticulocyte count, a test that counts the number of reticulocytes in the blood. Reticulocytes are red blood cells that are still developing. These are also known as immature red blood cells.
Iron tests, which measure iron levels in the blood. Iron is essential for making red blood cells.
Vitamin B test, which measures the amount of one or more B vitamins in the blood. B vitamins are important for making red blood cells.
Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
RBC count: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) Test - Testing.com. Sep 27, 2022 [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (19)
Red blood cells
Red blood cells
Image by John Kalekos of Massachusetts image distribution for Science and Learning
Red Blood Cell
This image shows two red blood cells. The red blood cell is also called an erythrocyte: erythro is Greek for \"red,\" cyte is Latin for \"cell.\" The disc-shaped RBCs have the critical job of transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body's cells and bringing carbon dioxide from the cells back to the lungs to be expelled.
Image by TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell in Capillary
The cardiovascular system is vast network of arteries, veins and vessels that would extend 60,000 miles if stretched end-to-end. All but a tiny fraction of this vessel network is invisible to the naked eye. The smallest capillaries (from latin "hairlike") are so narrow that red blood cells must pass through in single file. Higher than normal blood iron levels have been linked to heart disease and the reason is believed to be the oxidative stress the excess iron places on the walls of the blood vessels. It is the biological counterpart of rust. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells (RBCs) in an adult's body. The life span of RBCs, which are produced in bone marrow, is about 100 days, which means that 2 million die (and are replaced) each second, but in that short lifetime they can make 75,000 round trips between lungs, heart and tissues in the body.
Image by TheVisualMD
Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count
Individual blood cells were first detected and described in the 17th century. Later, red blood cells (RBCs) were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope (blood analysis is now automated, though smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities and to check or confirm the results of other tests). Anemia results when there are too few RBCs in circulation because they are being destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly. Anemia can be temporary or long term and range from mild to severe. Folate (also known as vitamin B9) is necessary for red blood cell production and the prevention of anemia, as well as the metabolism of carbohydrates. But folate also plays key roles in the synthesis and maintenance of DNA and is especially important in cell division and growth in fetal development (deficiencies of the vitamin in pregnancy is a common cause of birth defects). Pernicious anemia is a disorder in which the body's loses its ability to utilize folate and vitamin B12.
Image by TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell (RBC)
There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells (RBCs) in an adult's body. The life span of RBCs, which are produced in bone marrow, is about 100 days, which means that 2 million die (and are replaced) each second. In their short lifetimes, however, red blood cells can make 75,000 round trips between lungs, heart and tissues in the body.
Image by TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell
The RBC is disc-shaped and concave on both sides. The concave shape increases the cells' surface area, which allows them to distribute more oxygen to the body's cells. The shape also enables the cells to bunch together more compactly, helping them travel through the bloodstream more efficiently. Some RBCs are a bit thicker or thinner, wider or longer than others, but can change their shape to suit the demands of their environment. The cell membranes of the RBCs are protein meshes that give them flexibility, allowing them to navigate the twists and turns of the blood vessel network. The nearly 300 million hemoglobin molecules contained within each RBC easily move and slide past each other within the cell, adjusting their positions to conform to the RBC's shifting shape. Diameter : 7 μm
Image by TheVisualMD
Capillary Revealing Red Blood Cell
A portion of a capillary wall has been cut away to reveal the red blood cells flowing within.
Image by TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell and White Blood Cell
Medical visualization of red blood cells and leukocytes.
Image by TheVisualMD
Blood Smear Showing Normal Red Blood Cell Count
Individual blood cells were first detected and described in the 17th century. Later, red blood cells were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope. Blood analysis is now automated, though blood smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities and to check or confirm the results of other tests. There are normally between 4.2-5.8 million red blood cells per microliter (about a drop), which means there are 20-30 trillion red blood cells circulating through the body of an adult.
Image by TheVisualMD
Tubule of Nephron Revealing Many Red Blood Cell
This image shows the cut distal convoluted tubule of nephron with surrounding capillaries cut to reveal many red blood cells and healthy amounts of Erythopoeitin, EPO, (yellow particles). Erythropoeitin, EPO, is produced by the endothelial cells of the capillaries and the fibroblasts in the interstitial tissue surrounding the distal tubules. Normally, the kidneys produce EPO in response to low oxygen levels in order to stimulate red blood cell production in the bone marrow. A normal amount of red blood cells allows for the delivery of an adequate supply of oxygen.
Image by TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell in Capillary
This image shows red blood cells traveling through capillaries, the smallest blood vessels in the body.
Image by TheVisualMD
Tubule of Nephron Revealing Few Red Blood Cell
Our kidneys are remarkable filters. Each day, they filter about 200 quarts of blood to extract about 2 quarts of wastes, which is then eliminated as urine. The kidneys' delicate filtration units are called nephrons; each kidney has about a million nephrons, and within each nephron are dense forests of tiny capillaries called glomeruli, which remove waste products from the blood while preventing the loss of other components, including proteins, electrolytes and blood cells. The glomerular filtration rate is the amount of blood that is filtered by the glomeruli per minute.
Image by TheVisualMD
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Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health
Video Topics : Our lifeblood consists of many components and a complete blood count (CBC) includes measurements of the fundamental elements. The largest categories are red and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) and cell fragments called platelets, which play roles in blood clotting. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells in the body of an adult, each with a lifespan of about 100 days (RBCs contain an iron-containing protein called hemoglobin that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body and then return carbon dioxide to the lungs). WBCs are in the front lines in the body's ongoing fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus; when a pathogen enters the body, WBCs mobilize in a coordinated defense response to eliminate, neutralize or mark the invader for destruction. The liquid portion of blood is called plasma and it carries nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and hormones.
Video by TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices (Anemia Labs)
Video by Nursing School Explained/YouTube
WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 1 with Bryan Walsh
Video by WellnessFX/YouTube
WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh
Video by WellnessFX/YouTube
Red Blood Cells Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing
Video by NURSINGcom/YouTube
This browser does not support the video element.
Flowing Red Blood Cell (RBC)
Animation of red blood cells flowoing quicly through a blood vessel. The camera is positioned in the lumen of the vessel and the rbc's are flowing towards the viewer. The rbc and and lumen are rendered with muted colors to give it a softer look.
Video by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Red Blood Cell Development
This video explains red blood cell development, following a pluripotent stem cell to red blood cell.
Video by TheVisualMD
Red blood cells
John Kalekos of Massachusetts image distribution for Science and Learning
Red Blood Cell
TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell in Capillary
TheVisualMD
Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count
TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell (RBC)
TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell
TheVisualMD
Capillary Revealing Red Blood Cell
TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell and White Blood Cell
TheVisualMD
Blood Smear Showing Normal Red Blood Cell Count
TheVisualMD
Tubule of Nephron Revealing Many Red Blood Cell
TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell in Capillary
TheVisualMD
Tubule of Nephron Revealing Few Red Blood Cell
TheVisualMD
2:12
Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health
TheVisualMD
7:45
Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices (Anemia Labs)
Nursing School Explained/YouTube
33:35
WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 1 with Bryan Walsh
WellnessFX/YouTube
28:05
WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh
WellnessFX/YouTube
3:01
Red Blood Cells Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing
NURSINGcom/YouTube
0:12
Flowing Red Blood Cell (RBC)
TheVisualMD
0:31
Red Blood Cell Development
TheVisualMD
White Blood Cells
White Blood Count (WBC)
Also called: WBC, WBC Blood Test, White Blood Count, White Blood Cell Count, Leukocyte Count, Leukopenia Test, Leukocytosis Test
A white blood count measures the number of white cells in your blood. White blood cells are part of the immune system. A count that is too high or too low can indicate an infection, immune system disorder, or another health problem.
White Blood Count (WBC)
Also called: WBC, WBC Blood Test, White Blood Count, White Blood Cell Count, Leukocyte Count, Leukopenia Test, Leukocytosis Test
A white blood count measures the number of white cells in your blood. White blood cells are part of the immune system. A count that is too high or too low can indicate an infection, immune system disorder, or another health problem.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
4500
11000
Your result is Normal.
Normally, people produce about 100 billion white blood cells (WBCs) a day. The total white blood cell count normally ranges between 4,500 and 11,000 WBCs per microliter.
Related conditions
A white blood count measures the number of white cells in your blood. White blood cells are part of the immune system. They help your body fight off infections and other diseases.
When you get sick, your body makes more white blood cells to fight the bacteria, viruses, or other foreign substances causing your illness. This increases your white blood count.
Other diseases can cause your body to make fewer white blood cells than you need. This lowers your white blood count. Diseases that can lower your white blood count include some types of cancer and HIV/AIDS, a viral disease that attacks white blood cells. Certain medicines, including chemotherapy, may also lower the number of your white blood cells.
There are five major types of white blood cells:
Neutrophils
Lymphocytes
Monocytes
Eosinophils
Basophils
A white blood count measures the total number of these cells in your blood. Another test, called a blood differential, measures the amount of each type of white blood cell.
Other names: WBC count, white cell count, white blood cell count
A white blood count is most often used to help diagnose disorders related to having a high white blood cell count or low white blood cell count.
Disorders related to having a high white blood count include:
Autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, conditions that cause the immune system to attack healthy tissues
Bacterial or viral infections
Cancers such as leukemia and Hodgkin disease
Allergic reactions
Disorders related to having a low white blood count include:
Diseases of the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS
Lymphoma, a cancer of the bone marrow
Diseases of the liver or spleen
A white blood count can show if the number of your white blood cells is too high or too low, but it can't confirm a diagnosis. So it is usually done along with other tests, such as a complete blood count, blood differential, blood smear, and/or bone marrow test.
You may need this test if you have signs of an infection, inflammation, or autoimmune disease. Symptoms of infection include:
Fever
Chills
Body aches
Headache
Symptoms of inflammation and autoimmune diseases will be different, depending on the area of inflammation and type of disease.
You may also need this test if you have a disease that weakens your immune system or are taking medicine that lowers your immune response. If the test shows your white blood count is getting too low, your provider may be able to adjust your treatment.
Your newborn or older child may also be tested as part of a routine screening, or if they have symptoms of a white blood cell disorder.
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out.
To test children, a health care provider will take a sample from the heel (newborns and young babies) or the fingertip (older babies and children). The provider will clean the heel or fingertip with alcohol and poke the site with a small needle. The provider will collect a few drops of blood and put a bandage on the site.
You don't need any special preparations for a white blood count.
After a blood test, you may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.
There is very little risk to your baby or child with a needle stick test. Your child may feel a little pinch when the site is poked, and a small bruise may form at the site. This should go away quickly.
A high white blood count may mean you have one of the following conditions:
A bacterial or viral infection
An inflammatory disease such as rheumatoid arthritis
An allergy
Leukemia or Hodgkin disease
Tissue damage from a burn injury or surgery
A low white blood count may mean you have one of the following conditions:
Bone marrow damage. This may be caused by infection, disease, or treatments such as chemotherapy.
Cancers that affect the bone marrow
An autoimmune disorder, such as lupus (or SLE)
HIV/AIDS
If you are already being treated for a white blood cell disorder, your results may show if your treatment is working or whether your condition has improved.
If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
White blood count results are often compared with results of other blood tests, including a blood differential. A blood differential test shows the amount of each type of white blood cell, such as neutrophils or lymphocytes. Neutrophils mostly target bacterial infections. Lymphocytes mostly target viral infections.
A higher than normal amount of neutrophils is known as neutrophilia.
A lower than normal amount is known as neutropenia.
A higher than normal amount of lymphocytes is known as lymphocytosis.
A lower normal amount is known as lymphopenia.
White Blood Count (WBC): MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
WBC count: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
White Blood Cell Count (WBC Blood Test) - Testing.com. Sep 28, 2022 [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (37)
White Blood Cell Count: Bone Marrow
Disease or damage to the bone marrow, caused by infection, cancer, radiation treatment, or chemotherapy can lower white blood cell count by impairing the marrow's ability to produce new white blood cells.
Image by TheVisualMD
White Blood Cells, Bone Marrow
Bone marrow is constantly producing blood cells, including white blood cells and red blood cells as well platelets, which are cell fragments important for blood clotting. Disease and disorders of the bone marrow can, in turn, affect the production of blood cells. Both cancer and cancer treatment (chemotherapy and radiation) can also have an impact on the bone marrow's ability to produce blood cells.
Image by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health
Video Topics : Our lifeblood consists of many components and a complete blood count (CBC) includes measurements of the fundamental elements. The largest categories are red and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) and cell fragments called platelets, which play roles in blood clotting. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells in the body of an adult, each with a lifespan of about 100 days (RBCs contain an iron-containing protein called hemoglobin that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body and then return carbon dioxide to the lungs). WBCs are in the front lines in the body's ongoing fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus; when a pathogen enters the body, WBCs mobilize in a coordinated defense response to eliminate, neutralize or mark the invader for destruction. The liquid portion of blood is called plasma and it carries nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and hormones.
Video by TheVisualMD
The Immune System Explained I – Bacteria Infection
Video by Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell/YouTube
Immune Response to Bacteria
Video by NIAID/YouTube
Immunology - Adaptive Immune System
Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
Immune System - Natural Killer Cell
Video by Kyle Thornthwaite/YouTube
Your Immune System: Natural Born Killer - Crash Course Biology #32
Video by CrashCourse/YouTube
White Blood Cell and Red Blood Cell
Medical visualization of blood cells. Depicted are numerous red blood cells and a single white blood cell.
Image by TheVisualMD
White Blood Cell and Red Blood Cell
Medical visualization of blood cells. Depicted are numerous red blood cells and a single white blood cell.
Image by TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell and White Blood Cell
Visualization of red blood cells and a white blood cell
Image by TheVisualMD
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Blood cells (from left to right: erythrocyte, thrombocyte, leukocyte)
A single drop of blood contains millions of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. One of each type is shown here, isolated from a scanning electron micrograph.
Image by Electron Microscopy Facility at The National Cancer Institute at Frederick (NCI-Frederick)
Bone structure
Anatomy of the bone. The bone is made up of compact bone, spongy bone, and bone marrow. Compact bone makes up the outer layer of the bone. Spongy bone is found mostly at the ends of bones and contains red marrow. Bone marrow is found in the center of most bones and has many blood vessels. There are two types of bone marrow: red and yellow. Red marrow contains blood stem cells that can become red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. Yellow marrow is made mostly of fat.
Image by Smart Servier website
Blood Cells
Formed Elements of Blood
Image by Blausen.com staff (2014). \"Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014\"
Phagocytosis - C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation and infection as part of the body's immune response.
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation and infection as part of the body's immune response. White blood cells are also mobilized by the immune system and CRP is believed to enhance the activity of the white blood cells called macrophages. Each type of white blood cell has its own specialized immune functions; macrophages, for example, basically engulf and \"eat\" foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. Macrophages in the spleen and the liver weed out old and defective red blood cells and break them into recyclables (iron, heme, and some globin) and wastes (such as bilirubin). The bilirubin is then used by the liver to produce bile, which is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to aid digestion.
Image by TheVisualMD
White blood cells
Immune cells surrounding hair follicles in mouse skin. These hair follicles are home to a diverse array of commensal bacteria.
Image by NIAID
Neutrophil
Neutrophil function, relationship to disease, and location in the human body. Credit: NIAID
Image by NIAID
Innate immune system
Image by US Gov
Macrophage Capturing Foreign Antigen
Cell-mediated immunity is an immune response that does not involve antibodies or complement but rather involves the activation of macrophages, natural killer cells (NK), antigen-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, and the release of various cytokines in response to an antigen. Macrophages are white blood cells that engulf and digest cellular debris and pathogens
Image by TheVisualMD
Mast Cell
Mast cells produce histamine. Histamine is known for its role in inflammation. It affects a variety of behavior patterns including the sleep-wake cycle and food intake. Antihistamines may work at odds with inflammation and depression.
Image by TheVisualMD
Leukocytes
Image by OpenStax College
Innate immune system
Illustration of the Innate Immune System responding to injury.
Image by OpenStax College
Eosinophilia
Drawing of an eosinophil white blood cell
Image by Iceclanl
Two neutrophils among many red blood cells. Neutrophils are one type of cell affected by chronic granulomatous disease.
Image by Uploaded by Mgiganteus
Eosinophils
Eosinophil function, relationship to disease, and location in the human body.
Image by NIAID
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Blood Cells
This is a scanning electron microscope image from normal circulating human blood. One can see red blood cells, several white blood cells including lymphocytes, amonocyte, a neutrophil, and many small disc-shaped platelets. Red cells are nonnucleated and contain hemoglobin, an important protein that contains iron and allows the cell to carry oxygen to other parts of the body. They also carry carbon dioxide away from peripheral tissue to the lungs where it can be exhaled. The infection-fighting white blood cells are classified in two main groups: granular and agranular. All blood cells are formed in the bone marrow. There are two types of agranulocytes: lymphocytes, which fight disease by producing antibodies and thus destroying foreign material, and monocytes. Platelets are tiny cells formed in bone marrow and are necessary for blood clotting.
Image by Bruce Wetzel (photographer). Harry Schaefer (photographer), National Cancer Institute
Immune System and Autoimmune Diseases
Normally, an individual's immune system learns to identify and ignore all of the distinctive little structures found on that individual's own cells. Sometimes, however, it will make a mistake and identify its own body as foreign. If that happens, the immune system produces antibodies that attempt to destroy the body's own cells in the same way it would try to destroy a foreign invader.
Image by TheVisualMD
Eosinophils
Drawing of an eosinophil white blood cell
Image by BruceBlaus
Eosinophils
On the left there is a segmented polymorphonuclear neutrophil, on the right and below is one eosinophil leucocyte. For comparison the red blood cell have a diameter of 7-8 micrometers. The picture was taken with a Nikon Eclipse 600 microscope, magnification was 1000x.
Image by Davidcsaba Dr. David Csaba L.
Neutrophil action - Inflammation
Neutrophil granulocyte migrates from the blood vessel to the matrix, secreting proteolytic enzymes, in order to dissolve intercellular connections (for improvement of its mobility) and envelop bacteria through Phagocytosis.
Image by Uwe Thormann/Wikimedia
Neutrophil
Image by BruceBlaus
White Blood Cells
A type of immune cell. Most white blood cells are made in the bone marrow and are found in the blood and lymph tissue. White blood cells help the body fight infections and other diseases. Granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes are white blood cells.
Image by Blausen.com staff (2014). "Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014"
high white blood cell count Video
Video by itbestshop/YouTube
What Are White Blood Cells | Health | Biology | FuseSchool
Video by FuseSchool - Global Education/YouTube
Learning to Decode Your Blood Test Results for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
Video by CLL Society/YouTube
WellnessFX: White Blood Cells And Differential with Bryan Walsh
Video by WellnessFX/YouTube
White Blood Count
White Blood Count
Image by TheVisualMD
White Blood Cell Count: Bone Marrow
TheVisualMD
White Blood Cells, Bone Marrow
TheVisualMD
2:12
Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health
TheVisualMD
6:49
The Immune System Explained I – Bacteria Infection
Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell/YouTube
1:47
Immune Response to Bacteria
NIAID/YouTube
14:59
Immunology - Adaptive Immune System
Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
3:02
Immune System - Natural Killer Cell
Kyle Thornthwaite/YouTube
15:02
Your Immune System: Natural Born Killer - Crash Course Biology #32
CrashCourse/YouTube
White Blood Cell and Red Blood Cell
TheVisualMD
White Blood Cell and Red Blood Cell
TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell and White Blood Cell
TheVisualMD
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Blood cells (from left to right: erythrocyte, thrombocyte, leukocyte)
Electron Microscopy Facility at The National Cancer Institute at Frederick (NCI-Frederick)
Bone structure
Smart Servier website
Blood Cells
Blausen.com staff (2014). \"Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014\"
Phagocytosis - C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation and infection as part of the body's immune response.
TheVisualMD
White blood cells
NIAID
Neutrophil
NIAID
Innate immune system
US Gov
Macrophage Capturing Foreign Antigen
TheVisualMD
Mast Cell
TheVisualMD
Leukocytes
OpenStax College
Innate immune system
OpenStax College
Eosinophilia
Iceclanl
Two neutrophils among many red blood cells. Neutrophils are one type of cell affected by chronic granulomatous disease.
Uploaded by Mgiganteus
Eosinophils
NIAID
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Blood Cells
Bruce Wetzel (photographer). Harry Schaefer (photographer), National Cancer Institute
Immune System and Autoimmune Diseases
TheVisualMD
Eosinophils
BruceBlaus
Eosinophils
Davidcsaba Dr. David Csaba L.
Neutrophil action - Inflammation
Uwe Thormann/Wikimedia
Neutrophil
BruceBlaus
White Blood Cells
Blausen.com staff (2014). "Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014"
8:22
high white blood cell count Video
itbestshop/YouTube
3:12
What Are White Blood Cells | Health | Biology | FuseSchool
FuseSchool - Global Education/YouTube
1:17:17
Learning to Decode Your Blood Test Results for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
CLL Society/YouTube
16:52
WellnessFX: White Blood Cells And Differential with Bryan Walsh
A platelet count test measures the number of platelets in your blood. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small blood cells that are essential for blood clotting. Platelets may be counted to monitor or diagnose diseases, or to look for the cause of too much bleeding or clotting.
A platelet count test measures the number of platelets in your blood. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small blood cells that are essential for blood clotting. Platelets may be counted to monitor or diagnose diseases, or to look for the cause of too much bleeding or clotting.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
(10³)/μL
50
150
450
Your result is Normal.
A normal platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. Platelets are tiny blood cells that are made in the bone marrow from larger cells. When you are injured, platelets stick together to form a plug to seal your wound. This plug is called a blood clot.
Related conditions
Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small blood cells that are essential for blood clotting. Clotting is the process that helps you stop bleeding after an injury. There are two types of platelet tests: a platelet count test and platelet function tests.
A platelet count test measures the number of platelets in your blood. A lower than normal platelet count is called thrombocytopenia. This condition can cause you to bleed too much after a cut or other injury that causes bleeding. A higher than normal platelet count is called thrombocytosis. This can make your blood clot more than you need it to. Blood clots can be dangerous because they can block blood flow.
Other names: platelet count, thrombocyte count
A platelet count is most often used to monitor or diagnose conditions that cause too much bleeding or too much clotting. A platelet count may be included in a complete blood count, a test that is often done as part of a regular checkup.
You may need platelet count testing if you have symptoms of having too few or too many platelets.
Symptoms of too few platelets include:
Prolonged bleeding after a minor cut or injury
Nosebleeds
Unexplained bruising
Pinpoint sized red spots on the skin, known as petechiae
Purplish spots on the skin, known as purpura. These may be caused by bleeding under the skin.
Heavy and/or prolonged menstrual periods
Symptoms of too many platelets include:
Numbness of hands and feet
Headache
Dizziness
Weakness
Most platelet tests are done on a blood sample.
During the test, a health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.
You don't need any special preparations for a platelet count test.
There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.
If your results show a lower than normal platelet count (thrombocytopenia), it may indicate:
A cancer that affects the blood, such as leukemia or lymphoma
A viral infection, such as mononucleosis, hepatitis, or measles
An autoimmune disease. This is a disorder that causes the body to attack its own healthy tissues, which can include platelets.
Infection or damage to the bone marrow
Cirrhosis
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Gestational thrombocytopenia, a common, but mild, low-platelet condition affecting pregnant women. It is not known to cause any harm to a mother or her unborn baby. It usually gets better on its own during pregnancy or after birth.
If your results show a higher than normal platelet count (thrombocytosis), it may indicate:
Certain types of cancer, such as lung cancer or breast cancer
Anemia
Inflammatory bowel disease
Rheumatoid arthritis
A viral or bacterial infection
Platelet Tests: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Platelet Count (PLT) Blood Test - Testing.com. Dec 19, 2023 [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Platelet count: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (8)
Platelet Development
Illustration of Platelet Development
Image by OpenStax College
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Platelet Disorders
From left to right: erythrocyte, thrombocyte, leukocyte
Image by Electron Microscopy Facility at The National Cancer Institute at Frederick (NCI-Frederick)
Scheme of a blood sample after centrifugation
scheme of a blood sample after centrifugation
Image by KnuteKnudsen (talk)
Decode Your Blood Test: Platelets 💉 | Merck Manual Consumer Version
Video by Merck Manuals/YouTube
This browser does not support the video element.
Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health
Video Topics : Our lifeblood consists of many components and a complete blood count (CBC) includes measurements of the fundamental elements. The largest categories are red and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) and cell fragments called platelets, which play roles in blood clotting. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells in the body of an adult, each with a lifespan of about 100 days (RBCs contain an iron-containing protein called hemoglobin that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body and then return carbon dioxide to the lungs). WBCs are in the front lines in the body's ongoing fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus; when a pathogen enters the body, WBCs mobilize in a coordinated defense response to eliminate, neutralize or mark the invader for destruction. The liquid portion of blood is called plasma and it carries nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and hormones.
Video by TheVisualMD
Platelets Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing
Video by NURSINGcom/YouTube
Platelets Explained in Two Minutes
Video by American Red Cross/YouTube
The life and times of RBCs and platelets
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Platelet Development
OpenStax College
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Platelet Disorders
Electron Microscopy Facility at The National Cancer Institute at Frederick (NCI-Frederick)
Scheme of a blood sample after centrifugation
KnuteKnudsen (talk)
0:48
Decode Your Blood Test: Platelets 💉 | Merck Manual Consumer Version
Merck Manuals/YouTube
2:12
Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health
TheVisualMD
3:54
Platelets Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing
NURSINGcom/YouTube
1:47
Platelets Explained in Two Minutes
American Red Cross/YouTube
10:35
The life and times of RBCs and platelets
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin Blood Test
Also called: Hemoglobin, Hgb
A hemoglobin test measures the levels of hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Abnormal levels may mean you have anemia or another blood disorder.
Hemoglobin Blood Test
Also called: Hemoglobin, Hgb
A hemoglobin test measures the levels of hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Abnormal levels may mean you have anemia or another blood disorder.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
g/dL
13.8
17.2
Your result is Normal.
Heme, an iron-containing molecule, combines with globin proteins to form hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in red blood cells from the lungs to the rest of the body.
Related conditions
A hemoglobin test measures the levels of hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. If your hemoglobin levels are abnormal, it may be a sign that you have a blood disorder.
Other names: Hb, Hgb
A hemoglobin test is often used to check for anemia, a condition in which your body has fewer red blood cells than normal. If you have anemia, the cells in your body don't get all the oxygen they need. Hemoglobin tests are measured as part of a complete blood count (CBC).
Your health care provider may order the test as part of a routine exam, or if you have:
Symptoms of anemia, which include weakness, dizziness, and cold hands and feet
A family history of thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, or other inherited blood disorder
A diet low in iron and other minerals
A long-term infection
Excessive blood loss from an injury or surgical procedure
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.
You don't need any special preparation for a hemoglobin test. If your health care provider has ordered other tests on your blood sample, you may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test. Your health care provider will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow.
There is very little risk to having a blood test. After the test, some people experience mild pain, dizziness, or bruising. These symptoms usually go away quickly.
There are many reasons your hemoglobin levels may not be in the normal range.
Low hemoglobin levels may be a sign of:
Different types of anemia
Thalassemia
Iron deficiency
Liver disease
Cancer and other diseases
High hemoglobin levels may be a sign of:
Lung disease
Heart disease
Polycythemia vera, a disorder in which your body makes too many red blood cells. It can cause headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
If any of your levels are abnormal, it doesn't always mean you have a medical condition that needs treatment. Diet, activity level, medicines, a menstrual period, and other factors can affect the results. You may also have higher than normal hemoglobin levels if you live in a high altitude area. Talk with your provider to learn what your results mean.
Some forms of anemia are mild, while other types of anemia can be serious and even life threatening if not treated. If you are diagnosed with anemia, be sure to talk to your health care provider to find out the best treatment plan for you.
Hemoglobin Test: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Hemoglobin: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Hemoglobin - Health Encyclopedia - University of Rochester Medical Center [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (16)
Hemoglobin | Human anatomy and physiology | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy
Video by Khan Academy/YouTube
Blood, Part 2 - There Will Be Blood: Crash Course A&P #30
Video by CrashCourse/YouTube
Haemoglobin
Video by Wellcome Trust/YouTube
Hemoglobin A1c & Diabetes
Video by DiabeTV/YouTube
Hemoglobin Molecule
Molecule of hemoglobin.
Image by TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin A1C Molecule
Hemoglobin is a protein found inside red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body. Hemoglobin also binds with glucose. Diabetics have too much glucose in the bloodstream and this extra glucose binds (or glycates) with hemoglobin. Glycated hemoglobin usually stays glycated for the life of the red blood cell (about 3 months). Therefore, the percentage of hemoglobin that is glycated (measured as A1C) reflects glucose levels that have affected red blood cells up to 3 months in the past. The hemoglobin A1C test measures the percentage of hemoglobin bound to blood sugar (glucose); the test is used to diagnose type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Because the test results reflect average blood sugar levels over a period of 2-3 months (rather than daily fluctuations), the hemoglobin A1C test is also used to gauge how well patients are managing their diabetes over time.
Image by TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin A1C: Red Blood Cells
Red blood cells use the iron-rich protein hemoglobin to carry oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body and return carbon dioxide to the lungs. The percentage of hemoglobin bound to blood glucose (hemoglobin A1C) is used to diagnose diabetes.
Image by TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin of Red Blood Cell
Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein found in red blood cells that binds oxygen and carbon dioxide for transport and delivery to different parts of the body.
Image by TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin Molecule
Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein that is packed inside RBCs. It is a structurally complex molecule that can change shape to either hold or release oxygen, depending on the body's need. There are close to 300 million hemoglobin molecules within each RBC.
Image by TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin Molecule Heme Group
A heme group in a hemoglobin molecule consists of an iron atom bound equally to four nitrogen atoms, all lying in one plane. The iron atom is the site of oxygen binding.
Image by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Hemoglobin Within Red Blood Cell (RBC)
A red blood cell rushes toward the camera, the camera enters the cell to focus on all of the hemoglobin molecules within
Video by TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin, Carbon Monoxide
Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein that enables red blood cells to deliver oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body. But the same binding site on the hemoglobin molecule has an even stronger affinity for carbon monoxide, which is why we are so susceptible to poisoning by this deadly gas; carbon monoxide grabs all the binding sites and starves the body's tissues of oxygen
Image by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Hemoglobin A1c
The hemoglobin A1c test measures the percentage of hemoglobin bound to blood sugar (glucose); the test is used to diagnose type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Because the test results reflect average blood sugar levels over a period of 2-3 months (rather than daily fluctuations), the hemoglobin A1C test is also used to gauge how well patients are managing their diabetes over time.
Video by TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin A1c
The hemoglobin A1c test measures the percentage of hemoglobin bound to blood sugar (glucose); the test is used to diagnose type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Because the test results reflect average blood sugar levels over a period of 2-3 months (rather than daily fluctuations), the hemoglobin A1C test is also used to gauge how well patients are managing their diabetes over time.
Image by TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin: O2 Binding Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin normally binds to life-sustaining oxygen. But the same binding site on the hemoglobin molecule has an even stronger affinity for carbon monoxide, which is why we are so susceptible to poisoning by this deadly gas.
Image by TheVisualMD
HemoglobinA1C
Hemoglobin Test for O2 Binding Hemoglobin : A hemoglobin test is a measurement of your blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. High levels of hemoglobin can be the result of dehydration, lung disease and other conditions. Low levels of hemoglobin indicate that there is a shortage of red blood cells; this can be the result of RBCs being lost or destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly. Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein that enables red blood cells to deliver oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body. But the same binding site on the hemoglobin molecule has an even stronger affinity for carbon monoxide, which is why we are so susceptible to poisoning by this deadly gas; carbon monoxide grabs all the binding sites and starves the body's tissues of oxygen.
Image by TheVisualMD
14:34
Hemoglobin | Human anatomy and physiology | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy
Khan Academy/YouTube
10:01
Blood, Part 2 - There Will Be Blood: Crash Course A&P #30
CrashCourse/YouTube
5:31
Haemoglobin
Wellcome Trust/YouTube
1:43
Hemoglobin A1c & Diabetes
DiabeTV/YouTube
Hemoglobin Molecule
TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin A1C Molecule
TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin A1C: Red Blood Cells
TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin of Red Blood Cell
TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin Molecule
TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin Molecule Heme Group
TheVisualMD
0:27
Hemoglobin Within Red Blood Cell (RBC)
TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin, Carbon Monoxide
TheVisualMD
0:27
Hemoglobin A1c
TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin A1c
TheVisualMD
Hemoglobin: O2 Binding Hemoglobin
TheVisualMD
HemoglobinA1C
TheVisualMD
Hematocrit
Hematocrit Blood Test
Also called: Hematrocit, HCT, Crit, Packed Cell Volume, PCV
Hematocrit is a blood test that measures how much of a person's blood is made up of red blood cells. Hematocrit levels that are too high or too low can be a sign of a blood disorder, dehydration, or other medical conditions that affect your blood.
Hematocrit Blood Test
Also called: Hematrocit, HCT, Crit, Packed Cell Volume, PCV
Hematocrit is a blood test that measures how much of a person's blood is made up of red blood cells. Hematocrit levels that are too high or too low can be a sign of a blood disorder, dehydration, or other medical conditions that affect your blood.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
%
40.7
50.3
Your result is Normal.
Normal hematocrit levels vary based on age and race. In adults, normal levels for men range from 41%-50%. For women, the normal range is slightly lower: 36%-44%.
Related conditions
A hematocrit test is a blood test that measures how much of your blood is made up of red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. The other parts of your blood include white blood cells (to help fight infection), platelets (to help make blood clots to stop bleeding), and a liquid called plasma.
Hematocrit levels that are too high or too low can be a sign of a blood disorder, dehydration, or other medical conditions that affect your blood.
Other names: HCT, packed cell volume, PCV, Crit; H and H (Hemoglobin and Hematocrit)
A hematocrit test is often part of a complete blood count (CBC). A CBC is a common blood test that measures the different parts of your blood. It is used to check your general health. It may also be used to help diagnose blood disorders, including anemia, a condition in which you don't have enough red blood cells, and polycythemia, an uncommon disorder in which you have too many red blood cells and your blood becomes too thick.
Your health care provider may order a hematocrit test as part of your regular checkup or to monitor your health if you are being treated for cancer or have an ongoing health condition. Your provider may also order this test if you have symptoms of a red blood cell disorder, such as anemia or polycythemia:
Symptoms of anemia (too few red blood cells) may include:
Shortness of breath
Weakness or fatigue
Headache
Dizziness
Arrhythmia (a problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat)
Symptoms of polycythemia (too many red blood cells) may include:
Headache
Feeling light-headed or dizzy
Shortness of breath
Weakness or fatigue
Skin symptoms such as itching after a shower or bath, burning, or a red face
Heavy sweating, especially during sleep
Blurred or double vision and blind spots
Bleeding gums and heavy bleeding from small cuts
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.
You don't need any special preparations for a hematocrit test. If your provider has ordered more tests on your blood sample, you may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test. Your provider will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow.
There is very little risk to having a hematocrit test or other type of blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.
Your hematocrit test results are reported as a number. That number is the percentage of your blood that's made of red blood cells. For example, if your hematocrit test result is 42, it means that 42% of your blood is red blood cells and the rest is white blood cells, platelets, and blood plasma.
A hematocrit level that's lower than normal may be a sign that:
Your body doesn't have enough red blood cells (anemia). There are many types of anemia that can be caused by different medical conditions.
Your body is making too many white blood cells, which may be caused by:
Bone marrow disease
Certain cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, or cancers that spread to the bone marrow from other parts of the body
A hematocrit level that's higher than normal may be a sign that:
Your body is making too many red blood cells, which may be caused by:
Lung disease
Congenital heart disease
Heart failure
Polycythemia
Your blood plasma level is too low, which may be caused by:
Dehydration, the most common cause of a high hematocrit
Shock
If your results are not in the normal range, it doesn't always mean that you have a medical condition that needs treatment. Living at high altitudes where there's less oxygen in the air may cause a high hematocrit. That's because your body responds to low oxygen levels by making more red blood cells so that you get the oxygen you need.
Pregnancy can cause a low hematocrit. That's because the body has more fluid than normal during pregnancy, which decreases the percentage that's made of red blood cells.
To learn what your test results mean, talk with your provider.
Normal hematocrit levels will be different depending on your sex, age, and the altitude where you live. Ask your provider what hematocrit level is normal for you.
Hematocrit Test: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Hematocrit: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Hematrocit Blood Test - Testing.com. Sep 13, 2022 [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (30)
This browser does not support the video element.
Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health
Video Topics : Our lifeblood consists of many components and a complete blood count (CBC) includes measurements of the fundamental elements. The largest categories are red and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) and cell fragments called platelets, which play roles in blood clotting. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells in the body of an adult, each with a lifespan of about 100 days (RBCs contain an iron-containing protein called hemoglobin that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body and then return carbon dioxide to the lungs). WBCs are in the front lines in the body's ongoing fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus; when a pathogen enters the body, WBCs mobilize in a coordinated defense response to eliminate, neutralize or mark the invader for destruction. The liquid portion of blood is called plasma and it carries nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and hormones.
Video by TheVisualMD
Vial of Centrifuged Blood
Blood is made up of red and white blood cell (as well as platelets), suspended in a liquid known as blood plasma. Plasma, which makes up 55% of our blood's volume, is a clear liquid (mainly water) that transports food molecules, hormones, waste as well as a wide range of dissolved chemicals. Red cells, which normally make up 40-50% of total blood volume, are produced continuously in our bone marrow at the rate of about 2-3 million cells per second. White cells make up a very small part of blood's volume-normally only about 1% in healthy people. This image shows two vials of centrifuged blood. The left vial shows healthy amount of red blood cells in female (36-44%) ; The right vial shows healthy amount of red blood cells in male (41-50%). The hematocrit (along with the hemoglobin test) is the central test to diagnosing anemia in that it indicates the amount of RBCs in the blood.
Image by TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cells, Bone Marrow
A skeleton may have a dry and lifeless Halloween image, but bone is actually dynamic, living tissue. Bone is not uniformly solid; within its interior is a network of cavities that house blood vessels and marrow. Bone marrow, particularly in larger bones, is where stem cells give rise to red blood cells (erythrocytes) as well as white blood cells (leukocytes) and blood clotting agents (platelets). As the source of blood cells, the bone marrow is critical to health. Disease or damage to bone marrow can result in either too many or too few blood cells.
Hematocrit Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing
Video by NURSINGcom/YouTube
Hematocrit, Dehydration
Blood is composed of cells (primarily red blood cells, but also white blood cells and cell fragments called platelets) along with a liquid portion known as plasma. The ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the volume of plasma is an important health indicator and is known as the hematocrit. The most common cause of a high hematocrit is dehydration, which is usually temporary and easily remedied by increasing fluid intake, thereby restores the balance between RBCs and blood plasma volume.
Image by TheVisualMD
Hematocrit, Anemia
Blood is composed of cells (primarily red blood cells, but also white blood cells and cell fragments called platelets) along with a liquid portion known as plasma. The ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the volume of plasma is an important health indicator and is known as the hematocrit. A low hematocrit usually indicates anemia, which occurs when red blood cells are being either destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly; with fewer red blood cells, less oxygen is delivered to body tissues.
Image by TheVisualMD
Vial of Blood for Hematocrit Test
This image is a vial of blood that has been centrifuged (and thus separated) to determine hematocrit. This vial shows, from top to bottom, 55% plasma, <1% white blood cells, <1% platelets , 45% red blood cells. Hematocrit measures how much of the blood, by volume, is taken up by RBCs. A normal range for hematocrit is 41 to 50 percent in men and 36 to 44 percent in women. In many cases, a reading below the normal range for hematocrit will lead to a diagnosis of CKD-related anemia.This other diagnostic test is the hemoglobin test, which measures the amount of hemoglobin molecules in the blood and is a good indicator of the body's ability to carry oxygen throughout the body.
Image by TheVisualMD
Hematocrit: Bone Marrow
Bone marrow produces about 2 million red blood cells (RBCs) a second to maintain a healthy hematocrit. Many conditions, including kidney disease, chemotherapy, and dietary deficiencies, can reduce RBC production, while others can result in too many RBCs.
Image by TheVisualMD
Hematocrit: Blood Cells
The hematocrit is another way to look at the health of red blood cells (RBCs). Blood is composed of cells (primarily RBCs) and a liquid portion called plasma. The proportions of RBCs and plasma must be kept in balance and this is what the hematocrit measures.
Image by TheVisualMD
Blood
Components of Blood : Blood is mostly made up of plasma and red and white blood cells. But it also contains many other substances as well, like platelets, hormones, nutrients such as glucose, and fats like cholesterol. Blood is the fluid of life, transporting oxygen from the lungs to body tissue and carbon dioxide from body tissue to the lungs.
Image by TheVisualMD
Hematocrit
Hematocrit Blood Vials : If you are at risk for cardiovascular disease, your doctor may order a cholesterol and triglyceride level test as well as a complete blood count (CBC). Abnormal results may be the first clue in determining risk of and in diagnosing cardiovascular disease.
Image by TheVisualMD
Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count
Individual blood cells were first detected and described in the 17th century. Later, red blood cells (RBCs) were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope (blood analysis is now automated, though smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities and to check or confirm the results of other tests). Anemia results when there are too few RBCs in circulation because they are being destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly. Anemia can be temporary or long term and range from mild to severe. Folate (also known as vitamin B9) is necessary for red blood cell production and the prevention of anemia, as well as the metabolism of carbohydrates. But folate also plays key roles in the synthesis and maintenance of DNA and is especially important in cell division and growth in fetal development (deficiencies of the vitamin in pregnancy is a common cause of birth defects). Pernicious anemia is a disorder in which the body's loses its ability to utilize folate and vitamin B12.
Image by TheVisualMD
Blood Smear Showing Normal Red Blood Cell Count
Individual blood cells were first detected and described in the 17th century. Later, red blood cells were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope. Blood analysis is now automated, though blood smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities and to check or confirm the results of other tests. There are normally between 4.2-5.8 million red blood cells per microliter (about a drop), which means there are 20-30 trillion red blood cells circulating through the body of an adult.
Image by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Red Blood Cells Carry Oxygen
This video focuses on one of the main components of blood, the red blood cell and its function to carry oxygen. The video begins with revealing the red blood cells and the heart that pumps the oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. Hemoglobin is the protein molecule found in these red blood cells that enable blood to transport oxygen. If the blood's capacity to transport oxygen to the tissues is reduced due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, anemia may occur.
Video by TheVisualMD
Components of Blood
Components of Blood : Our blood is composed of many different components, the largest categories being red and white blood cells (blood-clotting platelets are another key component) and the liquid portion known as blood plasma. A Complete Blood Count (CBC) includes several of the most basic, yet important, measurements of these components.
Image by TheVisualMD
Blood and Related Conditions
Blood and Related Conditions : Anemia results when there are too few red blood cells circulating in the bloodstream to deliver adequate oxygen to body tissues. There are different types and causes of anemia, including malnutrition, chronic bleeding, and diseases that result in red blood cells either being destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly.
Image by TheVisualMD
Pellet of Lymphocyte Cells Created in the Centrifuge
This photograph shows Wendy Watford, Ph.D. holding a test tube containing isolated lymphocyte cells. The cells were spun in a centrifuge to create a pellet at the bottom of the test tube. The cells will be labeled with CFSE dye, which will stain the membranes of the cells. After culturing the cells for three days she will determine the number of cell divisions that have taken place by measuring the dilution of the CFSE dye. The purpose of the work is to measure the proliferation of lymphocytes under various conditions. The principal investigator for this work is John J. O’Shea, M.D., NIAMS Scientific Director.
Image by NIAMS/Photographer: Rhoda Baer
Red Blood Cells
Digital holographic microscopy (DHM) image of red blood cells.
Image by Egelberg (talk)
Test Tube
Between 5,000 and 8,000 blood serum, fecal, urine, viral and respiratory samples arrive six days a week from U.S. Air Force hospitals and clinics worldwide, as well as some other Department of Defense facilities, for analysis at the Epidemiology Laboratory Service, also known as the "Epi Lab" at the 711th Human Performance Wing’s United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine and Public Health at Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio.The lab is a Department of Defense reference laboratory offering clinical diagnostic, public health, and force health screening and testing. (U.S. Air Force photo by J.M. Eddins Jr.)
Image by U.S. Air Force photo by J.M. Eddins Jr.
Phlebotomy
This image was uploaded as part of Wiki Loves e-textbooks contest in Poland.
Image by Sean Michael Ragan
Red Blood Cells Carry Oxygen
This video focuses on one of the main components of blood, the red blood cell and its function to carry oxygen. The video begins with revealing the red blood cells and the heart that pumps the oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. Hemoglobin is the protein molecule found in these red blood cells that enable blood to transport oxygen. If the blood's capacity to transport oxygen to the tissues is reduced due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, anemia may occur.
Image by TheVisualMD
Composition of Blood
Composition of Blood
Image by OpenStax College
Hematology | Hematocrit
Video by Ninja Nerd/YouTube
Erythrocyte indices (Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, MCV, MCH & MCHC) What Do These Lab Tests Mean?
Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube
How to Interpret RBC Indices (e.g. hemoglobin vs. hematocrit, MCV, RDW)
Video by Strong Medicine/YouTube
Haematocrit or PCV
Video by LabsforLifeProject/YouTube
Packed cell volume/ Hematocrit
Video by Pathology Simplified/YouTube
Fetal hemoglobin and hematocrit | Human anatomy and physiology | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy
Also called: MCV, MCV Blood Test, Mean Corpuscular Volume, Mean RBC Volume
A mean corpuscular volume (MCV) blood test measures the size of your red blood cells. If blood cells are too small or too large, it may indicate a blood disorder.
MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) Test
Also called: MCV, MCV Blood Test, Mean Corpuscular Volume, Mean RBC Volume
A mean corpuscular volume (MCV) blood test measures the size of your red blood cells. If blood cells are too small or too large, it may indicate a blood disorder.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
fL
76
96
Your result is Normal.
A normal MCV indicates that the red blood cells are normal average size, or normocytic. Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used.
Related conditions
MCV stands for mean corpuscular volume. An MCV blood test measures the average size of your red blood cells.
Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to every cell in your body. Your cells need oxygen to grow, reproduce, and stay healthy. If your red blood cells are too small or too large, it could be a sign of a blood disorder such as anemia, a lack of certain vitamins, or other medical conditions.
Other names: CBC with differential
An MCV blood test is often part of a complete blood count (CBC). A CBC is a common blood test that measures many parts of your blood, including red blood cells. It is used to check your general health.
An MCV test may also be used with other tests to help diagnose or monitor certain blood disorders, including anemia. There are many types of anemia. An MCV test can help diagnose which type of anemia you have.
Your health care provider may order a complete blood count, which includes an MCV test, as part of your regular checkup. You may also have the test if you have a chronic (long-lasting) condition that could lead to anemia or if you have the symptoms of anemia:
Shortness of breath
Weakness or fatigue
Headache
Dizziness
Arrhythmia (a problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat)
During the test, a health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.
You don't need any special preparations for an MCV blood test. If your provider has ordered more tests on your blood sample, you may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test. Your provider will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow.
There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.
An MCV test alone cannot diagnose any disease. Your provider will use the results of your MCV, other test results, and your medical history to make a diagnosis.
If your results show that your red blood cells are smaller than normal, it may be a sign of:
Certain types of anemia, including iron-deficiency anemia, the most common type
Thalassemia, an uncommon genetic condition
If your results show that your red blood cells are larger than normal, it may be a sign of:
Pernicious anemia, which may be caused by:
A lack of vitamin B12
A disease that affects your body's ability to use vitamin B12, such as certain autoimmune diseases, celiac disease, or Crohn's disease.
Anemia caused by a lack of folic acid
Liver disease
It's also possible to have anemia with a normal MCV. This may happen if anemia is caused by conditions, such as:
A sudden loss of blood
Kidney failure
Aplastic anemia (uncommon)
If your MCV levels are not in the normal range, it doesn't always mean that you have a medical problem that needs treatment. Diet, activity level, medicines, a menstrual period, and other conditions can affect the test results. Talk with your health care provider to learn what your results mean.
If your provider thinks you may have anemia or another blood disorder, you may have other red blood cell tests with an MCV. These tests may include a red blood cell count and measurements of hemoglobin. All together, these tests are called red blood cell indices.
MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume): MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (22)
Microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic anemias | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Non-megaloblastic Macrocytic Anemia
Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube
Microcytic anemia | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Living with and Managing Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Video by NHLBI/YouTube
Hemolytic Anemia
Video by DrER.tv/YouTube
Medical School - Anemia Made Easy
Video by iMedicalSchool/YouTube
Iron deficency anemia diagnosis | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 1 with Bryan Walsh
Video by WellnessFX/YouTube
WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh
Video by WellnessFX/YouTube
Blood Brain Barrier Endothelium
The blood-brain barrier keeps potentially toxic substances from entering the brain. The semipermeable membrane formed by the tightly spaced cells of capillaries in this area selectively screens out large molecules, while permitting the transport of essential nutrients such as glucose. The endothelium is the cellular lining of the blood vessel and is made up of endothelial cells connected to one another by tight junctions. These are the strongest cell-to-cell adhesions in the body. Toxic materials being transported in the blood are too large to pass through these junctions and exit the blood. Therefore, the brain is protected from exposure to many harmful substances. The barrier is does not, however, prevent fat-soluble materials from entering the brain; this includes alcohol and nicotine.
Image by TheVisualMD
Normal Blood Glucose Levels in Capillary
This image depicts a healthy capillary with normal glucose (pink) and insulin (yellow) levels. Capillaries, the smallest blood vessels in your body, are where nutrients are transferred from blood to cells, and waste from cells to blood. The body's cells depend on sugar in the blood, which is derived from carbohydrates, for food and energy. Allowing for the innumerable differences among individuals, the threshold for a normal blood-sugar (glucose) level in healthy people is 100 mg/dL; that is, 100 milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood. Lower-than-normal levels characterize hypoglycemia and higher than normal levels characterize hyperglycemia.
Image by TheVisualMD
Cross-Section of Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel with Normal Glucose and Insulin Levels
This image depicts a healthy capillary. Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels in your body and are where the transfer of nutrients from blood to cells and wastes from cells to the blood takes place.The cells of the body depend on sugar in the blood, derived from carbohydrates, for food and energy. Allowing for the innumerable differences among individuals, the threshold for a normal blood-sugar (glucose) level in healthy people is 100 mg/dL; that is, 100 milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood. Lower-than-normal levels characterize hypoglycemia and higher than normal levels hyperglycemia.
Image by TheVisualMD
Blood Vessels in the Brain
The Blood Brain Barrier and Astrocytes type 1
Image by Ben Brahim Mohammed
Cross-Section of Damaged Capillary Blood Vessel with Very High Glucose and Insulin Levels
This image depicts an unhealthy, damaged capillary with very high levels of insulin and glucose. Capillaries, the smallest blood vessels in your body, are where nutrients are transferred from blood to cells, and waste from cells to the blood The body's cells depend on sugar (glucose) in the blood, which is derived from carbohydrates, for food and energy. Without insulin, glucose is not able to enter cells to be used as fuel. Allowing for the innumerable differences among individuals, the threshold for a normal blood-sugar (glucose) level in healthy people is 100 mg/dL; that is, 100 milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood. Higher than normal levels lead to hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia is the hallmark of prediabetes (between 100 and 125 mg/dL) and diabetes (126 mg/dL and higher). It is caused by either too little insulin being released by the pancreas or the body's inability to use insulin properly. Hyperglycemia leads to microangiopathy, marked by endothelial cell apoptosis (programmed cell death), accumulation of AGEs (advanced glycation end products), and thickening of the basement membrane, which can lead to development of lesions, vasoconstriction, and altered vessel function
Blood Components
This image highlights the vital components of blood: 55% plasma Plasma is the liquid river that transports every blood cell to its destination. Oxygen-carrying RBCs couldn't move through arteries, veins and capillaries without it. Even though it is a watery, almost clear fluid, plasma contains many important substances, including blood-clotting agents called platelets and protective proteins called antibodies which help us fight infection. When the clotting agents are removed from blood plasma, it is called serum, which is essential in many life-saving medical situations such as transplant surgery and trauma. <1% white blood cells (wbcs or leukocytes) Some leukocytes are produced in the bone marrow, while others are generated in lymph nodes scattered throughout the body. They are far less numerous than their sister RBCs, but leukocytes are the bedrock of the immune system and are the body's front line of defense. Different types of leukocytes fight infections in different ways. Some target bacterial or fungal infections, while others respond to parasitic threats or allergic reactions. <1% platelets Platelets perform the vital function of clotting blood at wound sites. They are small, even in comparison to the other cells of your blood, but they pack a wallop when it comes to healing a scrape or staunching a more serious wound. When you cut yourself shaving, platelets arrive on the scene like your personal emergency medical team, creating a natural bandage of clotted blood, which eventually forms a scab. 45% red blood cells rbcs or erythrocytes) RBCs are produced in the bone marrow and perform the fundamental task of delivering oxygen to all of the body's cells. The vial is an example of the hematocrit, one of many tests that make up the complete blood count (CBC). Hematocrit measures the volume of RBCs in your blood. A normal hematocrit reading for women is between 36 to 44 percent; for men it's 41 to 50 percent.
Image by TheVisualMD
Test Tube Containing Blood
Visualization of a test tube containing blood. Blood comprises of 55% plasma, 1% platelets and white blood cells, and 45% red blood cells.
Image by TheVisualMD
Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count
Individual blood cells were first detected and described in the 17th century. Later, red blood cells (RBCs) were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope (blood analysis is now automated, though smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities and to check or confirm the results of other tests). Anemia results when there are too few RBCs in circulation because they are being destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly. Anemia can be temporary or long term and range from mild to severe. Folate (also known as vitamin B9) is necessary for red blood cell production and the prevention of anemia, as well as the metabolism of carbohydrates. But folate also plays key roles in the synthesis and maintenance of DNA and is especially important in cell division and growth in fetal development (deficiencies of the vitamin in pregnancy is a common cause of birth defects). Pernicious anemia is a disorder in which the body's loses its ability to utilize folate and vitamin B12.
Image by TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell in Capillary
The cardiovascular system is vast network of arteries, veins and vessels that would extend 60,000 miles if stretched end-to-end. All but a tiny fraction of this vessel network is invisible to the naked eye. The smallest capillaries (from latin "hairlike") are so narrow that red blood cells must pass through in single file. Higher than normal blood iron levels have been linked to heart disease and the reason is believed to be the oxidative stress the excess iron places on the walls of the blood vessels. It is the biological counterpart of rust. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells (RBCs) in an adult's body. The life span of RBCs, which are produced in bone marrow, is about 100 days, which means that 2 million die (and are replaced) each second, but in that short lifetime they can make 75,000 round trips between lungs, heart and tissues in the body.
Image by TheVisualMD
Kidney and Stem Cell Creating Red Blood Cell. B12 is critical for the creation of red blood cells.
We are used to thinking of our kidneys mostly as hardworking filters that rid our bodies of wastes and excess water. But the kidneys are also constantly monitoring and adjusting levels of key substances in the blood, depending on what the body needs. Specialized cells in the kidney that are very sensitive to low oxygen levels, for example, produce a hormone called erythropoietin (EPO), which in turn promotes the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. The boost in red blood cells increases the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
Image by TheVisualMD
Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel
Cross-section of Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel with Normal Glucose and Insulin Levels
Cross-Section of Damaged Capillary Blood Vessel with Very High Glucose and Insulin Levels
1
2
3
Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel and and Damaged Capillary Blood Vessel Caused by High Levels of Blood Glucose
1) Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel - This image depicts a healthy capillary. Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels in your body. They can be so thin in diameter that blood cells have to bend in order to pass through. Capillaries are where the transfer of nutrients from the blood to cells, and the transfer of waste from cells to blood, takes place. In a healthy body, the blood vessels are smooth and elastic.
2) Cross-Section of Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel with Normal Glucose and Insulin Levels - This image depicts a healthy capillary. The body's cells depend on sugar in the blood, which is derived from carbohydrates, for food and energy. Allowing for the innumerable differences among individuals, the threshold for a normal blood sugar (glucose, pink) level in healthy people is 100 mg/dL; that is, 100 milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood. Lower-than-normal levels characterize hypoglycemia and higher-than-normal levels characterize hyperglycemia. Without insulin (yellow), glucose is not able to enter cells to be used as fuel. Because of this, healthy insulin levels are a key factor in keeping blood glucose levels normal.
3) Cross-Section of Damaged Capillary Blood Vessel with Very High Glucose and Insulin Levels - This image depicts an unhealthy, damaged capillary with very high levels of insulin and glucose. Higher than normal levels of blood glucose lead to hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia is the hallmark of prediabetes (between 100 and 125 mg/dL) and diabetes (126 mg/dL and higher). It is caused by either too little insulin being released by the pancreas or the body's inability to use insulin properly. Hyperglycemia leads to microangiopathy, marked by endothelial cell apoptosis (programmed cell death), accumulation of AGEs (advanced glycation end products), and thickening of the basement membrane, which can lead to the development of lesions, vasoconstriction, and altered vessel function
Interactive by TheVisualMD
5:57
Microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic anemias | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
4:39
Non-megaloblastic Macrocytic Anemia
Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube
9:42
Microcytic anemia | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
3:56
Living with and Managing Iron-Deficiency Anemia
NHLBI/YouTube
3:24
Hemolytic Anemia
DrER.tv/YouTube
3:16
Medical School - Anemia Made Easy
iMedicalSchool/YouTube
9:54
Iron deficency anemia diagnosis | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 1 with Bryan Walsh
WellnessFX/YouTube
28:05
WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh
WellnessFX/YouTube
Blood Brain Barrier Endothelium
TheVisualMD
Normal Blood Glucose Levels in Capillary
TheVisualMD
Cross-Section of Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel with Normal Glucose and Insulin Levels
TheVisualMD
Blood Vessels in the Brain
Ben Brahim Mohammed
Cross-Section of Damaged Capillary Blood Vessel with Very High Glucose and Insulin Levels
Blood Components
TheVisualMD
Test Tube Containing Blood
TheVisualMD
Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count
TheVisualMD
Red Blood Cell in Capillary
TheVisualMD
Kidney and Stem Cell Creating Red Blood Cell. B12 is critical for the creation of red blood cells.
TheVisualMD
Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel and and Damaged Capillary Blood Vessel Caused by High Levels of Blood Glucose
TheVisualMD
Creatine Kinase Test
Creatine Kinase (CK) Blood Test
Also called: Creatine Kinase, Total CK, Creatine Phosphokinase, CPK
This test measures the amount of creatine kinase (CK) in a sample of your blood. CK is an enzyme that helps in producing energy from muscles. High CK levels may be a sign of damage or disease in your muscles, heart, or brain.
Creatine Kinase (CK) Blood Test
Also called: Creatine Kinase, Total CK, Creatine Phosphokinase, CPK
This test measures the amount of creatine kinase (CK) in a sample of your blood. CK is an enzyme that helps in producing energy from muscles. High CK levels may be a sign of damage or disease in your muscles, heart, or brain.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
U/L
24
204
Your result is Normal.
CK levels are a reflection of total muscle mass. The normal range for total CK varies by age and gender. Race is also known to affect CK levels. Black people have naturally higher levels of CK. Some people with a muscular build also have higher levels of CK. Women generally have lower CK levels than men, because they typically have less muscle mass. Additionally, a pregnant woman will display lower CK levels than a non-pregnant woman.
Related conditions
This test measures the amount of creatine kinase (CK) in a sample of your blood. CK is also called creatine phosphokinase (CPK).
CK is an enzyme. An enzyme is a protein that speeds up certain chemical reactions in your body. CK helps make energy. Most of the CK in your body is in your skeletal muscles. These are the muscles you use to move. You also have CK in your heart muscle and small amounts in your brain.
Normally, a small amount of CK gets into your blood from the usual wear and tear on your muscles. But if your muscles, heart, or brain tissues are damaged, larger amounts of CK leak out of your cells into your bloodstream.
A CK test is mainly used to help diagnose and monitor injuries and diseases that damage skeletal muscles and cause high levels of CK in your blood. But it may also be used for conditions that damage the heart muscle and the brain.
Other names: CK, total CK, creatine phosphokinase, CPK
A CK test is most often used to help diagnose and monitor:
Muscle injuries, including injuries from accidents, serious burns, or extreme exercise.
Muscle diseases, including:
Muscular dystrophy, a group of inherited muscle diseases that weaken muscles over time.
Rhabdomyolysis, or "rhabdo," a rapid breakdown of muscle tissue which releases proteins and electrolytes into the blood. This uncommon condition can damage the heart and lead to sudden kidney failure. Rhabdo has many causes, including serious injuries, working in very hot places, overusing muscles, and certain medicines and medical conditions that affect the muscles.
Myositis, a group of rare diseases that involve long-term muscle inflammation (swelling), weakness, and sometimes pain.
In certain cases, a CK test may be used to help diagnose a heart attack. Another blood test, called a troponin test is used more often. That's because troponin testing is better at finding damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack.
If you've had a stroke, a CK test may be done to find out how severe it was. The test may also help predict the chance that you may have another stroke.
You may need a CK test if you have symptoms of a muscular disorder. These include:
Muscle pain and/or cramps
Muscle weakness
Balance problems and/or falling a lot
Numbness or tingling
Dark colored urine (pee)
Swollen legs or feet
You may also need this test if you:
Have had an injury that crushed or tore your muscles
Have had serious burns
Take certain medicines that may cause muscle damage, such as statins to lower blood cholesterol
Have had a stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI)
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.
You don't need any special preparations for a CK test. To help make sure your results are accurate, your provider may ask you to avoid intense exercise and drinking alcohol for a few days before your test.
There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.
Normal CK levels for you will depend on:
Your age, sex, and race
How much muscle you have
How physically active you are
If your CK level is higher than normal, it usually means you have some type of muscle damage. CK levels may not reach their highest until up to two days after certain injuries. So, you may have more than one CK test to see if your levels go up or down. CK levels that stay high or increase may mean that muscle damage is continuing to happen.
But a CK test result can't show where the damage is or what's causing it. Your provider will consider your symptoms and medical history to understand what your test results mean.
If the source of high or increasing CK levels isn't clear, you may need a more specific type of CK test to find out if the CK is coming from your muscles, heart, or brain. This more specific test is called a CK isoenzymes test.
To diagnose the condition causing high CK levels, you may need other types of tests, too. The tests you have will depend on which types of CK enzymes are high as well as your symptoms and medical history.
If you have questions about any of your test results or diagnosis, talk with your provider.
Creatine Kinase: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 27, 2024]
Creatine phosphokinase test: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 27, 2024]
Creatine Kinase (Blood) - Health Encyclopedia - University of Rochester Medical Center [accessed on Jan 27, 2024]
HealthMatters.io LLC. Creatine kinase
- Lab Results explained | HealthMatters.io [accessed on Jan 27, 2024]
Creatine kinase (CK) Test - Bay Biosciences, LLC.. Oct 19, 2022 [accessed on Jan 27, 2024]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (16)
This browser does not support the video element.
Blockage Leads to Heart Attack
Risk factors increase the likelihood that you'll develop cardiovascular disease, and the more risk factors you have, the greater your chances of developing it. Fortunately, most of these risk factors are within your control, like high cholesterol and high blood pressure levels, being overweight, smoking, lack of exercise, overconsumption of alcohol, unmanaged diabetes, and stress. Factors you can't control include genetics and aging.
Video by TheVisualMD
This browser does not support the video element.
Women's Cardiovascular Health
Watch Dr. Mehmet Oz and other renowned cardiologists as they talk about this major killer, known in the medical world as a "myocardial infarction." Step inside the human body in a way that lets you completely understand what a heart attack is all bout, how and why they happen, what to do in the event of a heart attack, and how you can take steps to avoiding one.
Video by TheVisualMD
Heart attack (myocardial infarction) warning signs in women.
Image by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women's Health
Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
An illustration depicting a heart attack and chest pain.
Image by BruceBlaus
Myocardial infarction
Inferior wall infarction, short axis echocardiography view
Image by Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator; C. Carl Jaffe, MD, cardiologist
Post-infarction echocardiographic views of ventricular septal defect
Image by Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator; C. Carl Jaffe, MD, cardiologist
Heart Attack Symptoms
Symptoms of a heart attack are often more severe and longer-lasting than those of angina. Heart attacks can occur at any time or place, when you're resting or when you're in motion. Heart attacks can strike without warning, but there may be signs and symptoms, like angina, in advance.
Image by TheVisualMD
Heart Attack Symptoms
Symptoms of a heart attack are often more severe and longer-lasting than those of angina. Heart attacks can occur at any time or place, when you're resting or when you're in motion. Heart attacks can strike without warning, but there may be signs and symptoms, like angina, in advance.
Image by TheVisualMD
What Is a Heart Attack?
Sometimes the surface of a plaque in a coronary artery ruptures. The rupture releases substances that make platelets stickier, encouraging clots to form on the surface of the plaque. The clot can block the flow of blood through the already-narrowed artery entirely. Without blood, heart muscle tissue starts to die in what's termed a myocardial infarction- a heart attack.
Image by TheVisualMD
Lipoprotein (a) or Lp(a), Heart Attack
LDL, HDL and total cholesterol have become standard biomarkers for heart disease. And yet half of all people who suffer heart attacks have normal cholesterol levels. For that reason, researchers have looked for other biomarkers that might help identify people at risk for cardiovascular disease. Lp(a) is a lipoprotein that closely resembles LDL, and like LDL, elevated levels of Lp(a) are associated with a higher risk of heart disease. Unlike LDL, however, Lp(a) levels are believed to be largely genetic.
There are two main types of cholesterol particles found in the bloodstream: HDL (high-density lipoprotein, or \"good\" cholesterol); and LDL (low-density lipoprotein, or \"bad\" cholesterol). LDL often leads to the formation of plaque deposits that can clog arteries and increase the risk of heart disease. Each year 1.2 million people have a heart attack (for nearly half of them, it's not their first). More than 600,000 individuals die from heart disease each year, making it the leading cause of death for both men and women.
Image by TheVisualMD
Heart Attack Caused by Ischemia
Thromboembolisms can cause heart attacks. A clot may lodge in one of the heart's coronary arteries (the arteries that supply the heart muscle tissue with blood) and block blood flow. The tissue becomes starved of oxygen (a condition called ischemia) and is damaged or dies.
Image by TheVisualMD
Lipoprotein (a) or Lp(a), Cardiovascular Disease
In order for fats to travel freely in the bloodstream, they must be packaged as lipoproteins. The two main types are HDL (high-density lipoprotein, or \"good\" cholesterol) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein, or \"bad\" cholesterol). There are other lipoproteins, however. Lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a), is one that resembles LDL and, like LDL, elevated levels of Lp(a) are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Unlike LDL, however, Lp(a) levels are believed to be largely genetic.
Image by TheVisualMD
Heart attack (myocardial infarct) diagnosis | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
What causes a heart attack?
Video by multiedmedical/YouTube
0:23
Blockage Leads to Heart Attack
TheVisualMD
2:56
Women's Cardiovascular Health
TheVisualMD
Heart attack (myocardial infarction) warning signs in women.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women's Health
Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
BruceBlaus
Myocardial infarction
Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator; C. Carl Jaffe, MD, cardiologist
Heart attack (myocardial infarct) diagnosis | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
2:54
What causes a heart attack?
multiedmedical/YouTube
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Test
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Test
Also called: ESR, Westergren sedimentation rate
An erythrocyte sedimentation rate measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a test tube. It can help detect inflammation in the body.
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Test
Also called: ESR, Westergren sedimentation rate
An erythrocyte sedimentation rate measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a test tube. It can help detect inflammation in the body.
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Related conditions
An erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a type of blood test that measures how quickly erythrocytes (red blood cells) settle at the bottom of a test tube that contains a blood sample. Normally, red blood cells settle relatively slowly. A faster-than-normal rate may indicate inflammation in the body. Inflammation is part of your immune response system. It can be a reaction to an infection or injury. Inflammation may also be a sign of a chronic disease, an immune disorder, or other medical condition.
An ESR test can help determine if you have a condition that causes inflammation. These include arthritis, vasculitis, or inflammatory bowel disease. An ESR may also be used to monitor an existing condition.
Your health care provider may order an ESR if you have symptoms of an inflammatory disorder. These include:
Headaches
Fever
Weight loss
Joint stiffness
Neck or shoulder pain
Loss of appetite
Anemia
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.
You don't need any special preparations for this test.
There is very little risk to having an ESR. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.
If your ESR is high, it may be related to an inflammatory condition, such as:
Infection
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatic fever
Vascular disease
Inflammatory bowel disease
Heart disease
Kidney disease
Certain cancers
Sometimes the ESR can be slower than normal. A slow ESR may indicate a blood disorder, such as:
Polycythemia
Sickle cell anemia
Leukocytosis, an abnormal increase in white blood cells
If your results are not in the normal range, it doesn't necessarily mean you have a medical condition that requires treatment. A moderate ESR may indicate pregnancy, menstruation, or anemia, rather than an inflammatory disease. Certain medicines and supplements can also affect your results. These include oral contraceptives, aspirin, cortisone, and vitamin A. Be sure to tell your health care provider about any drugs or supplements you are taking.
An ESR does not specifically diagnose any diseases, but it can provide information about whether or not there is inflammation in your body. If your ESR results are abnormal, your health care provider will need more information and will likely order more lab tests before making a diagnosis.
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (6)
This browser does not support the video element.
What Is Inflammation?
Inflammation is the body's response to damage. It takes many forms. Chronic inflammation is common in overweight and obese people, because their fat cells manufacture damaging substances that trigger a reaction from the immune system's white blood cells. Keeping track of a key biomarker for inflammation, C-reactive Protein or CRP, helps doctors determine whether an overweight patient is at risk for such conditions as heart disease, dementia, diabetes, cancers, and more.
Video by TheVisualMD
Asthma - Inflammation in the Airways
Asthma is a condition in which the airways of your lungs are chronically inflamed. Allergens or other triggers can cause the smooth muscle tissue that surrounds your airways to constrict (narrow). These triggers can also prompt an inflammatory response from the immune cells that line your airways, causing them to release an excessive amount of mucus. The constriction and the mucus narrow your airways, creating symptoms that can include shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness.
Image by TheVisualMD
Mast Cell
Mast cells produce histamine. Histamine is known for its role in inflammation. It affects a variety of behavior patterns including the sleep-wake cycle and food intake. Antihistamines may work at odds with inflammation and depression.
Image by TheVisualMD
Subsiding Inflammation in blood vessels
Monocytes, having matured into macrophages continue to destroy pathogens and cellular debris by ingesting them, while the inflammation process begins to subside.
Image by TheVisualMD
Basophil
Visualization of a basophil. A type of leukocyte (white blood cell) responsible for combating infection.
Image by TheVisualMD
erythrocyte sedimentation rate
Westergren pipettes in automated StaRRsed ESR analyzer
Image by MechESR
1:57
What Is Inflammation?
TheVisualMD
Asthma - Inflammation in the Airways
TheVisualMD
Mast Cell
TheVisualMD
Subsiding Inflammation in blood vessels
TheVisualMD
Basophil
TheVisualMD
erythrocyte sedimentation rate
MechESR
Bacteria Culture
Bacteria Culture
Also called: Bacterial culture
Bacteria culture tests are used to diagnose bacterial infections. Bacterial cultures are typically collected from infected (or potentially infected) tissue, but can also be taken from blood, urine, skin, or other part of your body.
Bacteria Culture
Also called: Bacterial culture
Bacteria culture tests are used to diagnose bacterial infections. Bacterial cultures are typically collected from infected (or potentially infected) tissue, but can also be taken from blood, urine, skin, or other part of your body.
Bacteria are a large group of one-celled organisms. They can live on different places in the body. Some types of bacteria are harmless or even beneficial. Others can cause infections and disease. A bacteria culture test can help find harmful bacteria in your body. During a bacteria culture test, a sample will be taken from your blood, urine, skin, or other part of your body. The type of sample depends on the location of the suspected infection. The cells in your sample will be taken to a lab and put in a special environment in a lab to encourage cell growth. Results are often available within a few days. But some types of bacteria grow slowly, and it may take several days or longer.
Bacteria culture tests are used to help diagnose certain types of infections. The most common types of bacteria tests and their uses are listed below.
Throat Culture
Used to diagnose or rule out strep throat
Test procedure:
Your health care provider will insert a special swab into your mouth to take a sample from the back of the throat and tonsils.
Urine Culture
Used to diagnose a urinary tract infection and identify the bacteria causing the infection
Test procedure:
You will provide a sterile sample of urine in a cup, as instructed by your health care provider.
Sputum Culture
Sputum is a thick mucus that is coughed up from the lungs. It is different from spit or saliva.
Used to help diagnose bacterial infections in the respiratory tract. These include bacterial pneumonia and bronchitis.
Test procedure:
You may be asked to cough up sputum into a special cup as instructed by your provider; or a special swab may be used to take a sample from your nose.
Blood Culture
Used to detect the presence of bacteria or fungi in the blood
Test procedure:
A health care professional will need a blood sample. The sample is most often taken from a vein in your arm.
Stool Culture
Another name for stool is feces.
Used to detect infections caused by bacteria or parasites in the digestive system. These include food poisoning and other digestive illnesses.
Test procedure:
You will provide a sample of your feces in a clean container as instructed by your health care provider.
Wound Culture
Used to detect infections on open wounds or on burn injuries
Test procedure:
Your health care provider will use a special swab to collect a sample from the site of your wound.
Your health care provider may order a bacteria culture test if you have symptoms of a bacterial infection. The symptoms vary depending on the type of infection.
Your test sample doesn't contain enough cells for your health care provider to detect an infection. So your sample will be sent to a lab to allow the cells to grow. If there is an infection, the infected cells will multiply. Most disease-causing bacteria will grow enough to be seen within one to two days, but it can take some organisms five days or longer.
There are many different types of bacteria culture tests. Ask your health care provider if you need to do anything to prepare for your test.
There are no known risks to having a swab or blood test or to providing a urine or stool sample.
If enough bacteria is found in your sample, it likely means you have a bacterial infection. Your health care provider may order additional tests to confirm a diagnosis or determine the severity of the infection. Your provider may also order a "susceptibility test" on your sample. A susceptibility test is used to help determine which antibiotic will be most effective in treating your infection. If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
If your results show you don’t have a bacterial infection, you should not take antibiotics. Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections. Taking antibiotics when you don’t need them won’t help you feel better and may lead a serious problem known as antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance allows harmful bacteria to change in a way makes antibiotics less effective or not effective at all. This can be dangerous to you and to the community at large, as this bacteria can be spread to others.
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/bacteria-culture-test/ [accessed on Mar 19, 2019]
Additional Materials (3)
Why Physicians Order Blood Cultures
Video by Center for Phlebotomy Education/YouTube
Throat Culture
Image by BruceBlaus
AFB Smear and Culture
Tuberculosis is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, or M. tuberculosis. The disease is detected by the presence of acid-fast bacilli (AFB), which are a tube-shaped bacteria. AFB can be counted under a microscopic when smeared on a slide and treated with an \"acid-fast\" process wherein a fluorescent dye stains the cell walls of the bacteria. Though other bacteria types can be detected the same way, most fall under the genus of Mycobacterium and are tested for when tuberculosis is suspected.
A cardiac CT scan is an imaging test that uses X-rays to take many detailed pictures of your heart and its blood vessels. This test can help diagnose or evaluate ischemic heart disease, calcium buildup in the coronary arteries, problems with the aorta, problems with heart function and valves, and pericardial disease.
A cardiac CT scan is an imaging test that uses X-rays to take many detailed pictures of your heart and its blood vessels. This test can help diagnose or evaluate ischemic heart disease, calcium buildup in the coronary arteries, problems with the aorta, problems with heart function and valves, and pericardial disease.
A cardiac CT scan is a painless imaging test that uses x rays to take many detailed pictures of your heart and its blood vessels. Computers can combine these pictures to create a three-dimensional (3D) model of the whole heart.
This imaging test can help doctors detect or evaluate ischemic heart disease, calcium buildup in the coronary arteries, problems with the aorta, problems with heart function and valves, and pericardial disease. This test also may be used to monitor the results of coronary artery bypass grafting or to follow up on abnormal findings from earlier chest x rays. Different CT scanners are used for different purposes. A multidetector CT is a very fast type of CT scanner that can produce high-quality pictures of the beating heart and can detect calcium or blockages in the coronary arteries. An electron beam CT scanner also can show calcium in coronary arteries.
Many x-ray pictures are taken during a cardiac CT scan. A computer puts the pictures together to make a three-dimensional (3D) picture of the whole heart. This picture shows the inside of the heart and the structures that surround the heart.
Doctors use cardiac CT to detect or evaluate:
Coronary heart disease (CHD). In CHD, a waxy substance called plaque narrows the coronary arteries and limits blood flow to the heart. Contrast dye might be used during a cardiac CT scan to show whether the coronary arteries are narrow or blocked. When contrast dye is used, the test is called a coronary CT angiography, or CTA.
Calcium buildup in the walls of the coronary arteries. This type of CT scan is called a coronary calcium scan. Calcium in the coronary arteries may be an early sign of CHD.
Problems with the aorta. The aorta is the main artery that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body. Cardiac CT can detect two serious problems in the aorta:
Aneurysm (AN-u-rism). An aneurysm is a diseased area of a blood vessel wall that bulges out. An aneurysm can be life threatening if it bursts.
Dissection. A dissection is a split in one or more layers of the artery wall. The split causes bleeding into and along the layers of the artery wall. This condition can cause pain and may be life threatening.
A pulmonary embolism (PE). A PE is a sudden blockage in a lung artery, usually due to a blood clot.
Problems in the pulmonary veins. The pulmonary veins carry blood from the lungs to the heart. Problems with these veins may lead to an irregular heart rhythm called atrial fibrillation (AF). The pictures that cardiac CT creates of the pulmonary veins can help guide procedures used to treat AF.
Problems with heart function and heart valves. In some cases, doctors may recommend cardiac CT instead of echocardiography or cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to look for problems with heart function or heart valves.
Pericardial disease. This is a disease that occurs in the pericardium, the sac around your heart. Cardiac CT can create clear, detailed pictures of the pericardium.
Results of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). In CABG, arteries from other areas in your body are used to bypass (that is, go around) narrow coronary arteries. A CT scan can help determine whether the grafted arteries remain open after the surgery.
Doctors also might recommend cardiac CT scans before or after other heart procedures, such as cardiac resynchronization therapy. A CT scan can help your doctor pinpoint the areas of the heart or blood vessels where the procedure should be done. The scan also can help your doctor check your heart after the procedure.
Because the heart is in motion, a fast type of CT scanner, called multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), might be used to take high-quality pictures of the heart. MDCT also might be used to detect calcium in the coronary arteries.
Another type of CT scanner, called electron-beam computed tomography (EBCT), also is used to detect calcium in the coronary arteries.
Cardiac CT is done in a hospital or outpatient office. A doctor who has experience with CT scanning will supervise the test.
The doctor may want to use an iodine-based dye (contrast dye) during the cardiac CT scan. If so, a needle connected to an intravenous (IV) line will be put in a vein in your hand or arm.
The doctor will inject the contrast dye through the IV line during the scan. You may have a warm feeling when this happens. The dye will make your blood vessels visible on the CT scan pictures.
The technician who runs the cardiac CT scanner will clean areas on your chest and apply sticky patches called electrodes. The patches are attached to an EKG (electrocardiogram) machine. The machine records your heart's electrical activity during the scan.
The CT scanner is a large machine that has a hollow, circular tube in the middle. You will lie on your back on a sliding table. The table can move up and down, and it goes inside the tunnel-like machine.
The table will slide slowly into the opening in the machine. Inside the scanner, an x-ray tube moves around your body to take pictures of different parts of your heart. A computer will put the pictures together to make a three-dimensional (3D) picture of the whole heart.
The technician controls the CT scanner from the next room. He or she can see you through a glass window and talk to you through a speaker.
Moving your body can cause the pictures to blur. You'll be asked to lie still and hold your breath for short moments, while each picture is taken.
A cardiac CT scan usually takes about 15 minutes to complete. However, it can take more than an hour to get ready for the test and for the medicine to slow your heart rate.
Your doctor will tell you how to prepare for the cardiac CT scan. He or she may tell you to avoid caffeine and not eat anything for 4 hours before the scan. You’re usually allowed to drink water before the test.
If you take medicine for diabetes, talk with your doctor about whether you'll need to change how you take it on the day of your cardiac CT scan.
Tell your doctor whether you:
Are pregnant or might be pregnant. Even though cardiac CT uses a low radiation dose, the x rays may harm your fetus.
Have asthma or kidney problems or are allergic to any medicines, iodine, or shellfish. These problems can increase your chance of having an allergic reaction to the contrast dye that's sometimes used during cardiac CT.
A technician will ask you to remove your clothes above the waist and wear a hospital gown. You also will be asked to remove any jewelry from around your neck or chest.
If you don't have asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), or heart failure, your doctor may give you medicine to slow your heart rate. A slower heart rate will help produce better quality pictures. The medicine will be given by mouth or injected into a vein.
Cardiac CT involves radiation, although the amount used is considered small. Depending on the type of CT scan you have, the amount of radiation is similar to the amount you’re naturally exposed to over 1–5 years.
There is a small chance that cardiac CT will cause cancer because of the radiation. The risk is higher for people younger than 40 years old. New cardiac CT methods are available that reduce the amount of radiation used during the test.
Cardiac CT scans are painless. Some people have side effects from the contrast dye that might be used during the scan. An itchy feeling or a rash may appear after the contrast dye is injected. Normally, neither side effect lasts for long, so medicine often isn't needed.
If you do want medicine to relieve the symptoms, your doctor may prescribe an antihistamine. This type of medicine is used to help stop allergic reactions.
Although rare, it is possible to have a serious allergic reaction to the contrast dye. This reaction may cause breathing problems. Doctors use medicine to treat serious allergic reactions.
People who have asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), or heart failure may have breathing problems during cardiac CT if they're given beta blockers to slow their heart rates.
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/cardiac-ct-scan [accessed on Aug 25, 2021]
Additional Materials (8)
Cardiac CT scan
Video by UHP_NHS/YouTube
Having a Cardiac CT Scan in Hospital
Video by Oxford AHSN/YouTube
DENSITY OF CORONARY ARTERY CALCIUM MAY HELP PREDICT RISK OF HEART ATTACK AND STROKE
Video by TheJAMAReport/YouTube
Calcium Score: Detecing Heart Disease EARLY!
Video by HeartSmartMD/YouTube
Dr Henson's Calcium Score
Video by Executive Health/YouTube
Coronary Calcium Scan
Coronary Calcium Scan. Figure A shows the position of the heart in the body and the location and angle of the coronary calcium scan image. Figure B is a coronary calcium scan image showing calcifications in a coronary artery.
Image by NHLBI/NIH
Human Heart
Composited image profile of a heart as seen through various rendering techniques. With volume rendering software, slices of Magnetic Resonance Imagery (MRI), and Computer Tomography (CT) scans can be compiled to produce a three-dimensional (3D) model of an organ such as a heart. Models can be viewed in various ways. As individual slices, as is seen along the left or as enhanced color, gray scale volume and 3D transparency, as is seen along the right.
Image by TheVisualMD
Computed tomography of the heart
Contrast enhanced dual-source CT-angiograph.
Image by Scheffel H, Alkadhi H, Plass A, Vachenauer R, Desbiolles L, Gaemperli O, Schepis T, Frauenfelder T, Schertler T, Husmann L, Grunenfelder J, Genoni M, Kaufmann PA, Marincek B, Leschka S.
5:04
Cardiac CT scan
UHP_NHS/YouTube
4:59
Having a Cardiac CT Scan in Hospital
Oxford AHSN/YouTube
2:00
DENSITY OF CORONARY ARTERY CALCIUM MAY HELP PREDICT RISK OF HEART ATTACK AND STROKE
TheJAMAReport/YouTube
1:37
Calcium Score: Detecing Heart Disease EARLY!
HeartSmartMD/YouTube
5:59
Dr Henson's Calcium Score
Executive Health/YouTube
Coronary Calcium Scan
NHLBI/NIH
Human Heart
TheVisualMD
Computed tomography of the heart
Scheffel H, Alkadhi H, Plass A, Vachenauer R, Desbiolles L, Gaemperli O, Schepis T, Frauenfelder T, Schertler T, Husmann L, Grunenfelder J, Genoni M, Kaufmann PA, Marincek B, Leschka S.
Cardiac MRI
Cardiac MRI Test
Also called: Heart MRI, Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging, CMR, Cardiac MRI Scan
A cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is an imaging test that uses radio waves, magnets, and a computer to create detailed pictures of your heart. The test can provide detailed information on the type and severity of heart disease to help diagnose and treat heart problems.
Cardiac MRI Test
Also called: Heart MRI, Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging, CMR, Cardiac MRI Scan
A cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is an imaging test that uses radio waves, magnets, and a computer to create detailed pictures of your heart. The test can provide detailed information on the type and severity of heart disease to help diagnose and treat heart problems.
A cardiac MRI is a painless imaging test that uses radio waves, magnets, and a computer to create detailed pictures of your heart. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a safe, noninvasive test that creates detailed pictures of your organs and tissues. "Noninvasive" means that no surgery is done and no instruments are inserted into your body.
Cardiac MRI creates both still and moving pictures of your heart and major blood vessels. Doctors use cardiac MRI to get pictures of the beating heart and to look at its structure and function. These pictures can help them decide the best way to treat people who have heart problems.
Cardiac MRI is a common test. It's used to diagnose and assess many diseases and conditions, including:
Coronary heart disease
Damage caused by a heart attack
Heart failure
Heart valve problems
Congenital heart defects (heart defects present at birth)
Pericarditis (a condition in which the membrane, or sac, around your heart is inflamed)
Cardiac tumors
Cardiac MRI can help explain results from other tests, such as x rays and computed tomography scans (also called CT scans).
Doctors sometimes use cardiac MRI instead of invasive procedures or tests that involve radiation (such as x rays) or dyes containing iodine (these dyes may be harmful to people who have kidney problems).
Cardiac MRI takes place in a hospital or medical imaging facility. A radiologist or other doctor who has special training in medical imaging oversees MRI testing. Cardiac MRI usually takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on how many pictures are needed. The test may take less time with some newer MRI machines.
The MRI machine will be located in a special room that prevents radio waves from disrupting the machine. It also prevents the MRI machine's strong magnetic fields from disrupting other equipment.
Traditional MRI machines look like long, narrow tunnels. Newer MRI machines (called short-bore systems) are shorter, wider, and don't completely surround you. Some newer machines are open on all sides. Your doctor will help decide which type of machine is best for you. Cardiac MRI is painless and harmless. You'll lie on your back on a sliding table that goes inside the tunnel-like machine.
The MRI technician will control the machine from the next room. He or she will be able to see you through a glass window and talk to you through a speaker. Tell the technician if you have a hearing problem.
The MRI machine makes loud humming, tapping, and buzzing noises. Some facilities let you wear earplugs or listen to music during the test. You will need to remain very still during the MRI. Any movement can blur the pictures. If you're unable to lie still, you may be given medicine to help you relax.
The technician might ask you to hold your breath for 10 to 15 seconds at a time while he or she takes pictures of your heart. Researchers are studying ways that will allow someone having a cardiac MRI to breathe freely during the exam, while achieving the same image quality.
A contrast agent, such as gadolinium, might be used to highlight your blood vessels or heart in the pictures. The substance usually is injected into a vein in your arm using a needle. You may feel a cool sensation during the injection and discomfort when the needle is inserted. Gadolinium doesn't contain iodine, so it won't cause problems for people who are allergic to iodine.
Your cardiac MRI might include a stress test to detect blockages in your coronary arteries. If so, you'll get other medicines to increase the blood flow in your heart or to increase your heart rate.
You'll be asked to fill out a screening form before having cardiac MRI. The form may ask whether you've had any previous surgeries. It also may ask whether you have any metal objects or medical devices (like a cardiac) in your body.
Some implanted medical devices, such as man-made heart valves and coronary stents, are safe around the MRI machine, but others are not. For example, the MRI machine can:
Cause implanted cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators to malfunction.
Damage cochlear (inner-ear) implants. Cochlear implants are small, electronic devices that help people who are deaf or who can't hear well understand speech and the sounds around them.
Cause brain aneurysm (AN-u-rism) clips to move as a result of the MRI's strong magnetic field. This can cause severe injury.
Talk to your doctor or the MRI technician if you have concerns about any implanted devices that may interfere with the MRI.
Your doctor will let you know if you shouldn't have a cardiac MRI because of a medical device. If so, consider wearing a medical ID bracelet or necklace or carrying a medical alert card that states that you shouldn't have an MRI.
If you're pregnant, make sure your doctor knows before you have an MRI. No harmful effects of MRI during pregnancy have been reported; however, more research on the safety of MRI during pregnancy is needed.
Your doctor or technician will tell you whether you need to change into a hospital gown for the test. Don't bring hearing aids, credit cards, jewelry and watches, eyeglasses, pens, removable dental work, or anything that's magnetic near the MRI machine.
Tell your doctor if being in a fairly tight or confined space causes you anxiety or fear. If so, your doctor might give you medicine to help you relax. Your doctor may ask you to fast (not eat) for 6 hours before you take this medicine on the day of the test.
Some newer cardiac MRI machines are open on all sides. If you're fearful in tight or confined spaces, ask your doctor to help you find a facility that has an open MRI machine.
Your doctor will let you know whether you need to arrange for a ride home after the test.
Cardiac MRI has few risks. In rare instances, the contrast dye may harm people who have kidney or liver disease, or it may cause an allergic reaction.
The doctor supervising your scan will provide your doctor with the results of your cardiac MRI. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you.
Cardiac MRI can reveal various heart diseases and conditions, such as:
Coronary heart disease
Damage caused by a heart attack
Heart failure
Heart valve problems
Congenital heart defects (heart defects present at birth)
Pericarditis (a condition in which the membrane, or sac, around your heart is inflamed)
Cardiac tumors
Cardiac MRI is a fast, accurate tool that can help diagnose a heart attack. The test does this by detecting areas of the heart that don't move normally, have poor blood supply, or are scarred.
Cardiac MRI also can show whether any of the coronary arteries are blocked. A blockage prevents your heart muscle from getting enough oxygen-rich blood, which can lead to a heart attack.
Currently, coronary angiography is the most common procedure for looking at blockages in the coronary arteries. Coronary angiography is an invasive procedure that uses x rays and iodine-based dye.
Researchers have found that cardiac MRI can sometimes replace coronary angiography, avoiding the need to use x-ray radiation and iodine-based dye. This use of MRI is called MR angiography (MRA).
Echocardiography (echo) is the main test for diagnosing heart valve disease. However, your doctor also might recommend cardiac MRI to assess the severity of valve disease.
A cardiac MRI can confirm information about valve defects or provide more detailed information about heart valve disease.
This information can help your doctor plan your treatment. An MRI also might be done before heart valve surgery to help your surgeon plan for the surgery.
Researchers are finding new ways to use cardiac MRI. In the future, cardiac MRI may replace x rays as the main way to guide invasive procedures such as cardiac catheterization.
Also, improvements in cardiac MRI will likely lead to better methods for detecting heart disease in the future.
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/cardiac-mri [accessed on Aug 25, 2021]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003795.htm [accessed on Feb 25, 2022]
Additional Materials (32)
What To Expect During Cardiac MRI
Aberrant subclavian artery in MRI / MRA. Maximum intension projection.
Image by National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute / NIH
MRI of Aneurysm within Chest lateral cross section
Specialized test, like a computerized tomography (CT) scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, may be needed to confirm the presence of an aneurysm.
Image by TheVisualMD
Enlarged right ventricle with poor function in a patient with repaired tetralogy of Fallot by CMR
Enlarged right ventricle with poor function in a patient with repaired tetralogy of Fallot by CMR
Image by Jccmoon (talk)
Having a Cardiac MRI scan
Video by Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Trust/YouTube
MRI and CT Scan the differences
Video by Vijayan Ragavan/YouTube
British Heart Foundation - Your guide to a cardiac MRI, heart disease test
Video by British Heart Foundation/YouTube
Seeing Inside the Heart with MRI
Video by Mayo Clinic/YouTube
Cardiac MRI flow visualization
Cardiac MRI flow visualization
Image by Vasanawala
Cardiac MRI streamlines
Cardiac MRI streamlines visualization
Image by Vasanawala
Aberrant subclavian artery in MRI / MRA. Maximum intension projection.
Aberrant subclavian artery in MRI / MRA. Maximum intension projection.
Image by Hellerhoff
Spectrum of Medical Imaging
This composite image was created in recognition of The Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE) designation of 2015 as the “International Year of Light.” Medical imaging scientists and engineers contribute to the quest for the improved human condition by providing imaging that spans the entire usable electro-magnetic spectrum (seen at bottom). From the humblest of beginnings with simple magnification of objects and focusing with lenses, to the biological observation of cells with rudimentary microscopes in the visible spectrum, medical imaging today has both extended away from the visible spectrum towards longer and shorter wavelengths (low and high energies) and exploited the hyperspectral nature of the visible which was once considered “commonplace” or rudimentary. Considering yet a different cross-section through the various imaging modalities across the spectrum, the medically useful information gained spans anatomic, physiologic, and molecular regimes. Systems and algorithms have been developed as single-modality acquisition systems, and also as multiple-modalities with conjoint reconstruction, each informing the other in the quest to optimize image quality and information content. In addition, the role of light-based technologies in enabling advanced computations in tomographic reconstructions, computer-aided diagnosis, machine learning (neural networks, deep learning, etc.) , and 3D visualizations as well as in data-enriched storage of medical images has further extended the potential knowledge “seen” through imaging. The breadth of the electromagnetic spectrum offers limitless opportunities for improvement and inquiry, in our quest to answer human life’s difficult questions. This montage was first published on the cover of the SPIE’s Journal of Medical Imaging (July-Sept. 2015, vol. 3, no. 3) and is but a small tribute to the multitude of medical imaging scientists who have contributed to the wealth of new knowledge as we interrogate the human condition. The gray-scale whole body images (from Left to Right) are acquired from longer wavelength modalities to shorter wavelength modalities spanning the (currently) usable electromagnetic spectrum. The background images include: a coronal Magnetic Resonance Image (MRI) T2 weighted image slice, a posterior surface Infra Red (IR) heat map, a coronal non-contrast Computed Tomography (CT) slice, and a coronal 18F-fluoro-deoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography (FDG-PET) slice. The selection of color inset images includes (from Top-to-Bottom, then Left to Right): [1] diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) used to image long white matter tracts within and around the human brain illustrating neuronal connectivity (coloring refers to bluish=vertical direction; green=horizontal A-P direction; red=horizontal lateral direction) (courtesy of Arthur Toga, PhD); [2] registered and superimposed coronal proton-MRI (gray-scale) and a hyper polarized 129Xe ventilation MRI scan (color scale) within the same patient’s lungs, prior to their receiving a bronchial stent (courtesy of Bastiaan Driehuys, PhD); [3] coronal slice through a microwave-based image reconstruction of the Debye parameter ε (epsilon) in a heterogeneously dense human breast phantom (courtesy of Susan Hagness, PhD); [4] juxtaposed optical image of the retina and vertical and horizontal Optical Coherence Tomograph (OCT) slices showing pigmentosa retinopathy (courtesy of Jean-Michel Muratet, MD); [5] functional 3-D photoacoustic imaging of melanoma (gray scale) in vivo, surrounded by highly optically absorptive blood vessels (red) (courtesy of Lihong Wang, PhD); [6] optical micrograph of HeLa cells stained for microtubules (blue) and co-stained with DAPI for actin visualization (red); HeLa cells are the world's first stem cell line, originally derived from the aggressive cervical cancer cells of Henrietta Lacks (courtesy Tom Deerinck/NCMIR); [7] visualization of the pelvis highlighting the colon, which is imaged with contrast x-ray computed tomography (CT), and after digital surface rendering can be used in virtual colonoscopy, thus avoiding a physical visible light-based colonoscopy; [8] registered and fused sagittal 99mTc-sestamibi dedicated molecular single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT, heat color scale) and low-dose CT slice (gray scale) of a patient’s uncompressed, pendant breast containing two surgically confirmed DCIS loci in the posterior breast (courtesy of Martin Tornai, PhD); [9] classic, early x-radiograph of Wilhelm Röntgen’s wife’s hand (adapted from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/100_Photographs_that_Changed_the_World); [10] transverse pelvic CT (gray scale) with multiple superimposed simulated x-ray photon radiotherapy beams, and their cumulative 20Gy (red) deposited dose isocontours at the focus of a tumor (courtesy of Paul Read, MD, PhD); [11] false-colored scanning electron micrograph of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) particles (yellow) infecting a human H9 T-cell (turquoise) (adapted from http://biosingularity.com/category/infection/); [12] transverse 18F-dopa positron emission tomography (PET) slice through a Parkinson patient’s brain showing decreased in vivo quantitative uptake in the right caudate and putamen (courtesy of Christaan Schiepers, MD, PhD); [13] registered and fused transverse head CT (gray scale) and registered superimposed PET image (color) of a patient immediately after radio-therapeutic proton irradiation showing endogenously created 15O-positron emitter (2 min half-life) within the nasopharyngeal tumor focus (courtesy of Kira Grogg, PhD). [14] transverse (long axis) cardiac 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT slice illustrating thinned myocardial apical wall in a procedure performed thousands of times daily around the world (adapted from www.medscape.com). These images are but a small sampling of the breadth of the spectrum of light that is currently being investigated the world over by passionate scientists and engineers on a quest for the betterment of the human condition. All contributors for these images used herein have given their permission for their use, and are graciously thanked.
Image by Martin Tornai
Cardiac Cycle
CG Animated Human Heart cut section showing the atria, ventricles and valves, synced with wiggers diagram.
Image by DrJanaOfficial/Wikimedia
Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Figure A shows the heart's position in the body and the location and angle of the MRI pictures shown in figure C. Figure B is an MRI angiogram, which is sometimes used instead of a standard angiogram. Figure C shows MRI pictures of a normal left ventricle (left image), a left ventricle damaged from a heart attack (middle image), and a left ventricle that isn't getting enough blood from the coronary arteries (right image).
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NIH)
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging perfusion
Animated sagittal MRI slice of my beating heart
Image by Bionerd
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging perfusion
Animated image of an MRI of the heart, showing a large myxoma plunging to and fro from atrium to ventricle across the mitral valve.
Image by Jccmoon at English Wikipedia
Low-field MRI system for cardiac and lung imaging
Video by NHLBI/YouTube
Annual report : National Institutes of Health. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Advisory Council
At head of title, 1976: National Heart, Blood Vessel, Lung, and Blood Program
Title varies slightly
Reports describe the activities of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Description based on: 9th (Sept. 1981)
Subjects: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Advisory Council; Heart; Heart; Lungs; Lungs; Blood; Blood; Cardiology; Cardiovascular Diseases; Hematology; Lung Diseases
Document by
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Advisory Council
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. cn
/Wikimedia
Cardiac magnetic resonance Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia
A short axis view of the heart showing a cine cardiac magnetic resonance. In this case, the scan demonstrates features of Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia with fatty infiltration of the left and right ventricles.
Image by Jccmoon at English Wikipedia/Wikimedia
Cardiac MRI vector
Cardiac MRI vector visualization
Image by Vasanawala/Wikimedia
Cardiac MRI: What you should know if your doctor orders a cardiac MRI
Video by Cleveland Clinic/YouTube
Tests and Procedures~Cardiac MRI
Video by CardioSmart/YouTube
Cardiac MRI
Video by MRI Michigan/YouTube
Indications for Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Video by Medmastery/YouTube
Seeing Inside the Heart With MRI - Mayo Clinic
Video by Mayo Clinic/YouTube
Cardiac Stress Perfusion MRI Scan
Video by UHP_NHS/YouTube
New Cardiac MRI Leads to Better Diagnosis
Video by NationwideChildrens/YouTube
Looped MRI video of a healthy 13 year old female's heart beating.
Looped MRI video of a healthy 13 year old female's heart beating.
Image by Alith3204
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
John survived death: Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation
John Boudreaux is a colonel in the U.S. Air Force. In 2016, he suffered a critical sudden cardiac arrest. He was dead for several minutes. Less than 6% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims survive the trip to the hospital. John's doctors gave him less than 1%. Today, as a group commander at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, he bears the scars that remind him for every one of him, there are 99 others buried in the ground. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Lane T. Plummer)
Image by U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Lane T. Plummer
Lp-PLA2, Coronary heart disease
Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. There is no single biomarker that can perfectly predict a person's risk of heart disease; half of all people who suffer heart attacks have normal cholesterol. This is why researchers have developed additional biomarkers for heart disease, such as Lp-PLA2 (or lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2), an enzyme linked to the inflammation of blood vessels. Individuals with high levels of Lp-PLA2 are at much higher risk of heart attack and stroke even if their cholesterol levels are normal.
Image by TheVisualMD
Coronary Artery Blockage
This video shows blockage that can occur within coronary arteries of the heart. Coronary arteries is a network of blood vessels that delivers the heart its own supply of blood. Here, the video reveals an angiogram of a patient showing blockages in the 4 coronary arteries.
Image by TheVisualMD
Coronary catheterization
Representative Reconstructed Images of CTO Lesions at the Left Anterior Descending Coronary Artery (LAD) and Right Coronary Artery (RCA).1A, 1D: Coronary angiography (CAG) image; 1B, 1E: Multiplanar reconstruction images; 1C, 1F: Three-dimensional volume rendering (Tree) image.
An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a test that measures electrical signals in your heart. An abnormal EKG can be a sign of heart damage or disease.
Electrocardiogram
Also called: EKG, ECG
An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a test that measures electrical signals in your heart. An abnormal EKG can be a sign of heart damage or disease.
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EKG results are normal with a consistent heartbeat and rhythm.
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An electrocardiogram (EKG) test is a simple, painless, and quick test that records your heart's electrical activity. Each time your heart beats, an electrical signal travels through your heart. The signal triggers your heart's four chambers to contract (squeeze) in the proper rhythm so that your heart can pump blood to your body.
An EKG recording of these signals looks like wavy lines. Your provider can read these lines to look for abnormal heart activity that may be a sign of heart disease or damage.
An EKG can show:
How fast your heart is beating
Whether the rhythm of your heartbeat is steady or irregular
The strength and timing of the electrical signals passing through each part of your heart
Sometimes information from an EKG can help measure the size and position of your heart's chambers.
An EKG is often the first test you'll have if you have signs of a heart condition. It may be done in your provider's office, an outpatient clinic, in a hospital before surgery, or as part of another heart test called a stress test.
An EKG test is also called an ECG. EKG is based on the German spelling, elektrokardiogramm. EKG may be preferred over ECG to avoid confusion with an EEG, a test that measures brain waves.
An EKG test is used to help diagnose and monitor many types of heart conditions and their treatment. These conditions include:
Arrhythmia
Cardiomyopathy
Coronary artery disease
Heart attack
Heart failure
Heart valve diseases
Congenital heart defects
EKG tests are mainly used for people who have symptoms of a heart condition or have already been diagnosed with a heart condition. They are not generally used to screen people who don't have symptoms unless they have an increased risk of developing heart disease. Your provider can explain your risk for heart disease and let you know if need to have an EKG test. In certain cases, your provider may have you see a cardiologist, a doctor who specializes in heart diseases.
You may need an EKG test if you have symptoms of a heart condition, including:
Chest pain
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Shortness of breath
Dizziness
Fatigue
A decrease in your ability to exercise
You may also need an EKG to:
Find out if you had a heart attack in the past but didn't know it
Monitor your heart if you have a known heart condition
Check how well your heart treatment is working, including medicine and/or a pacemaker
Check your heart health:
Before having surgery
If you have an increased risk for developing heart disease because:
Heart disease runs in your family
You have another condition, such as diabetes, that makes your risk higher than normal
An EKG test only takes a few minutes. It generally includes these steps:
You will lie on an exam table.
A provider will place several electrodes (small sensors that stick to your skin) on your arms, legs, and chest. The provider may need to shave body hair to make sure the electrodes stay on.
The electrodes are attached by wires to a computer or a special EKG machine
You will lie very still while your heart's electrical activity is recorded on a computer or printed on paper by an EKG machine.
You don't need any special preparations for an EKG test.
There is very little risk to having an EKG. You may feel a little discomfort or skin irritation after the electrodes are removed. The EKG doesn't send any electricity to your body. It only records electrical signals from your heart, so there's no risk of electric shock.
Your provider will check your EKG results for a steady heartbeat and rhythm. If your results are not normal, it may be a sign of a heart condition. The specific condition depends on which part of your EKG wasn't normal.
You may need to have other heart health tests before your provider can make a diagnosis. Your provider can explain what your test results mean for your heart health and treatment.
An EKG is a "snapshot" of your heart's activity over a very short time. If you have heart symptoms that come and go, a regular EKG may not catch the problem. In that case, your provider may recommend that you wear a small portable EKG monitor that can record your heart for days or longer while you do your normal activities. You may also need a longer EKG recording if your provider wants to check how well your heart is working after a heart attack or to see if treatment is helping you.
There are many types of long-term EKG monitors. The two main groups are Holter monitors, which can be worn for up to two days, and event monitors, which may record your heart activity for weeks to years depending on the type.
A Holter monitor is about the size of a small camera. You usually wear it on a belt or strap around your neck for a day or two. Wires under your clothes attach to electrodes that stick to your chest. The monitor records your heart's electrical signals the whole time you're wearing it. You may be asked to keep a diary of your symptoms during the test period. After the test period, you remove the monitor and return it according to the instructions. A provider will review the recording of your heart's electrical activity from the monitor.
An event monitor records your heart's electrical activity when you press a button or when the device detects abnormal heart activity. There two main types of event monitors:
Event monitors that you wear or carry with you. You wear some monitors on your chest or wrist. Other monitors are designed to carry. If you have symptoms, you hold the monitor to your chest. These event monitors may be used for weeks to months. Some of them wirelessly transmit information about your heart to a provider. Others must be returned so a provider can examine the recorded information.
Event monitors that are inserted under the skin of your chest. These are called implantable event monitors. They are put under your skin during minor surgery that's often done in a doctor's office. These monitors can track your heart's electrical activity for years. You may need this type of EKG monitor if you had a stroke or frequent fainting, and your provider hasn't found the cause. Implantable monitors wirelessly transmit the information they record so your provider can regularly check it.
Electrocardiogram: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Mar 09, 2023]
Electrocardiogram: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Feb 04, 2019]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (35)
How to Read an Electrocardiogram (ECG): Introduction – Cardiology | Lecturio
Video by Lecturio Medical/YouTube
Major Types of Heart Block
Video by Jeff Otjen/YouTube
How An ECG Works
Video by LivingHealthyChicago/YouTube
This browser does not support the video element.
What are Arrhythmias?
Your heart is electric. In this video you'll see how your heart's electrical system works, and what happens when it malfunctions. Voyage inside the human body as Dr. Mehmet Oz and others explain the dangers of heart arrhythmias, including tachycardia, bradycardia, and atrial fibrillation.
Video by TheVisualMD
12 Lead ECG Explained, Animation
Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube
Bundle Branch Block, Animation.
Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube
QRS Transitional Zone. See link for real voice update in description!
Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube
ECG Interpretation Basics - ST Segment Changes. See link for real voice update in description!
Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube
Cardiac Axis Interpretation. See link for real voice update in description!
Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube
Electrical system of the heart | Circulatory system physiology | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Cardiovascular | EKG Basics
Video by Ninja Nerd/YouTube
Cardiovascular | EKG's
Video by Ninja Nerd/YouTube
Normal sinus rhythm on an EKG | Circulatory System and Disease | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Cardiac Conduction System and Understanding ECG, Animation.
Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube
Willem Einthoven and the ECG - Stuff of Genius
Video by Stuff of Genius - HowStuffWorks/YouTube
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
A useful tool for determining whether a person has heart disease, an electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. An ECG, which is painless (no electricity is sent through the body), is used to measure damage to the heart, how fast the heart is beating and whether it is beating normally, the effects of drugs or devices used to control the heart (such as a pacemaker), and the size and position of the heart chambers.
Image by TheVisualMD
Cardiac cycle
Cardiac Cycle vs Electrocardiogram
Image by OpenStax College
Medical Checkups
Image by TheVisualMD
Electrocardiogram
Electrocardiograms (EKGs) are the most commonly given test used to diagnose coronary artery disease. They record the heart's electrical activity and show evidence of angina or heart attack.
Image by TheVisualMD
electrocardiogram-illustration made up from Medications
A normal tracing shows the P wave, QRS complex, and T wave. Also indicated are the PR, QT, QRS, and ST intervals, plus the P-R and S-T segments.
Image by CNX Openstax
What To Expect After an Electrocardiogram
Normal ECG/EKG complex with labels
Image by Derivative: Hazmat2 Original: Hank van Helvete
Cardiac Stress Test
The image shows a patient having a stress test. Electrodes are attached to the patient's chest and connected to an EKG (electrocardiogram) machine. The EKG records the heart's electrical activity. A blood pressure cuff is used to record the patient's blood pressure while he walks on a treadmill.
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
Relationship between the Cardiac Cycle and ECG
Initially, both the atria and ventricles are relaxed (diastole). The P wave represents depolarization of the atria and is followed by atrial contraction (systole). Atrial systole extends until the QRS complex, at which point, the atria relax. The QRS complex represents depolarization of the ventricles and is followed by ventricular contraction. The T wave represents the repolarization of the ventricles and marks the beginning of ventricular relaxation.
Image by CNX Openstax
The Electric Heart
Image by TheVisualMD
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
Electrocardiogram (EKG) is a test used to measure the electrical activity of the heart.
Image by U.S. National Library of Medicine
Comparison of Arrhythmia and Normal ECG
As the muscle tissue in an overstressed heart expands, it tears and scars. The resulting tissue - hardened and marred - does not conduct electricity well. The result is that the system can no longer be relied on to deliver the carefully synchronized pattern of jolts needed to keep the heart pumping smoothly. Doctors call it \"arrhythmia.\" The heart is literally \"skipping a beat.\" This can be measured by an electrocardiogram (ECG). In some cases, arrhythmia can mean simply that the heartbeat is too fast or too slow - a bothersome but not necessarily life-threatening condition. In the worst cases, the arrhythmia indicates a potentially lethal instability in the heart's electric system. The signals that control the heart's contractions get crossed and the heart spasms. If not corrected immediately, this fibrillation of the heart is often fatal. In the U.S., more than 1,000 people die every day from sudden cardiac death, or cardiac arrest.
Image by TheVisualMD
Heart Revealing Chamber and Valve
Your heart beats faster or slower depending on information from your brain, which monitors your body's need for blood. However, the basic rhythm of your heart is automatic; it does not depend on signals from your brain. Your heart cells can generate their own electrical signals, which trigger the contractions and cause the entire heart to pump in synchrony. A specialized bundle of muscle and nerve cells called the sinoatrial node (SA node) sits at the top of the right atrium and is the pacemaker of the heart. It generates the signal for the atria to contract and send blood to the ventricles. A similar node - the atrioventricular or AV node - sits at the atrioventricular septum near the bottom of the right atrium and relays the signal from the SA node to the ventricles to contract and pump blood out of the heart. An electrocardiogram (ECG) measures the electrical signals given off by these two nodes and their conduction through the heart. By looking at the frequency and the height of the peaks and valleys of these signals on an ECG, healthcare professionals get a very good idea of how well the electrical system of your heart is working.
Image by TheVisualMD
Electrocardigram
An electrocardiogram (EKG) detects and records the heart's electrical activity. When the electrical impulse passes through the atria a small peak is recorded (P), followed by a steep spike as it erupts through the ventricles (R), and then another small peak (T) as the wave passes through and the heart repolarizes (recharges) itself for the next beat.
Image by TheVisualMD
Electro- cardiogram
Electrocardiograms, or EKGs, record the electrical activity of the heart. Since injured heart muscle conducts electrical impulses abnormally, the EKG shows if the patient has had or is having a heart attack. It is usually the first test performed.
Image by TheVisualMD
SinusRhythmLabels
Schematic diagram of normal sinus rhythm for a human heart as seen on ECG. In atrial fibrillation, however, the P waves, which represent depolarization of the atria, are absent.
Image by Agateller (Anthony Atkielski)
How To Use an Automated External Defibrillator
The image shows a typical setup using an automated external defibrillator (AED). The AED has step-by-step instructions and voice prompts that enable an untrained bystander to correctly use the machine.
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
Who Needs an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator?
Lead II (2) ECG EKG strip of an AICD ICD converting a patient back into thier baseline cardiac ryhthm. The AICD fires near the end of the strip, where the straight line is seen.
Image by Public Domain
Cardiac Cycle
CG Animated Human Heart cut section showing the atria, ventricles and valves, synced with wiggers diagram.
Image by DrJanaOfficial/Wikimedia
Mammalian Heart and Blood Vessels
The beating of the heart is regulated by an electrical impulse that causes the characteristic reading of an ECG. The signal is initiated at the sinoatrial valve. The signal then (a) spreads to the atria, causing them to contract. The signal is (b) delayed at the atrioventricular node before it is passed on to the (c) heart apex. The delay allows the atria to relax before the (d) ventricles contract. The final part of the ECG cycle prepares the heart for the next beat.
Image by CNX Openstax
9:53
How to Read an Electrocardiogram (ECG): Introduction – Cardiology | Lecturio
Lecturio Medical/YouTube
9:23
Major Types of Heart Block
Jeff Otjen/YouTube
2:45
How An ECG Works
LivingHealthyChicago/YouTube
3:27
What are Arrhythmias?
TheVisualMD
3:27
12 Lead ECG Explained, Animation
Alila Medical Media/YouTube
3:48
Bundle Branch Block, Animation.
Alila Medical Media/YouTube
3:50
QRS Transitional Zone. See link for real voice update in description!
Alila Medical Media/YouTube
1:24
ECG Interpretation Basics - ST Segment Changes. See link for real voice update in description!
Alila Medical Media/YouTube
3:32
Cardiac Axis Interpretation. See link for real voice update in description!
Alila Medical Media/YouTube
9:43
Electrical system of the heart | Circulatory system physiology | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
52:29
Cardiovascular | EKG Basics
Ninja Nerd/YouTube
20:37
Cardiovascular | EKG's
Ninja Nerd/YouTube
8:53
Normal sinus rhythm on an EKG | Circulatory System and Disease | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
3:45
Cardiac Conduction System and Understanding ECG, Animation.
Alila Medical Media/YouTube
1:46
Willem Einthoven and the ECG - Stuff of Genius
Stuff of Genius - HowStuffWorks/YouTube
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
TheVisualMD
Cardiac cycle
OpenStax College
Medical Checkups
TheVisualMD
Electrocardiogram
TheVisualMD
electrocardiogram-illustration made up from Medications
GDJ
Electrocardiogram
CNX Openstax
What To Expect After an Electrocardiogram
Derivative: Hazmat2 Original: Hank van Helvete
Cardiac Stress Test
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
Relationship between the Cardiac Cycle and ECG
CNX Openstax
The Electric Heart
TheVisualMD
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
U.S. National Library of Medicine
Comparison of Arrhythmia and Normal ECG
TheVisualMD
Heart Revealing Chamber and Valve
TheVisualMD
Electrocardigram
TheVisualMD
Electro- cardiogram
TheVisualMD
SinusRhythmLabels
Agateller (Anthony Atkielski)
How To Use an Automated External Defibrillator
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
Who Needs an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator?
A Doppler ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to evaluate the blood flow and blood pressure within the arteries and veins of any part of your body. The test shows the speed and direction of blood flow in real time.
A Doppler ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to evaluate the blood flow and blood pressure within the arteries and veins of any part of your body. The test shows the speed and direction of blood flow in real time.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
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A normal result indicates that you have no abnormalities that could affect the normal blood flow in the examined area. It also means that the blood pressure in your arteries is normal.
Related conditions
A Doppler ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to show blood moving through blood vessels. A regular ultrasound also uses sound waves to create images of structures inside the body, but it can't show blood flow.
Doppler ultrasound works by measuring sound waves that are reflected from moving objects, such as red blood cells. This is known as the Doppler effect.
There are different types of Doppler ultrasound tests. They include:
Color Doppler. This type of Doppler uses a computer to change sound waves into different colors. These colors show the speed and direction of blood flow in real time.
Power Doppler, a newer type of color Doppler. It can provide more detail of blood flow than standard color Doppler. But it cannot show the direction of blood flow, which can be important in some cases.
Spectral Doppler. This test shows blood flow information on a graph, rather than color pictures. It can help show how much of a blood vessel is blocked.
Duplex Doppler. This test uses standard ultrasound to take images of blood vessels and organs. Then a computer turns the images into a graph, as in spectral Doppler.
Continuous wave Doppler. In this test, sound waves are sent and received continuously. It allows for more accurate measurement of blood that flows at faster speeds.
Doppler ultrasound tests are used to help health care providers find out if you have a condition that is reducing or blocking your blood flow. It may also be used to help diagnose certain heart diseases. The test is most often used to:
Check heart function. It is often done along with an electrocardiogram, a test that measures electrical signals in the heart.
Look for blockages in blood flow. Blocked blood flow in the legs can cause a condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Check for blood vessel damage and for defects in the structure of the heart.
Look for narrowing of blood vessels. Narrowed arteries in arms and legs can mean you have condition called peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Narrowing of arteries in the neck can mean you have a condition called carotid artery stenosis.
Monitor blood flow after surgery.
Check for normal blood flow in a pregnant woman and her unborn baby.
You may need a Doppler ultrasound if you have symptoms of reduced blood flow or a heart disease. Symptoms vary depending on the condition causing the problem. Some common blood flow conditions and symptoms are below.
Symptoms of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) include:
Numbness or weakness in your legs
Painful cramping in your hips or leg muscles when walking or climbing stairs
Cold feeling in your lower leg or foot
Change in color and/or shiny skin on your leg
Symptoms of heart problems include:
Shortness of breath
Swelling in your legs, feet, and/or abdomen
Fatigue
You may also need a Doppler ultrasound if you:
Have had a stroke. After a stroke, your health care provider may order a special kind of Doppler test, called transcranial Doppler, to check blood flow to the brain.
Had an injury to your blood vessels.
Are being treated for a blood flow disorder.
Are pregnant and your provider thinks you or your unborn baby might have a blood flow problem. Your provider may suspect a problem if your unborn baby is smaller than it should be at this stage of pregnancy or if you have certain health problems. These include sickle cell disease or preeclampsia, a type of high blood pressure that affects pregnant women.
A Doppler ultrasound usually includes the following steps:
You will lie a table, exposing the area of your body that's being tested.
A health care provider will spread a special gel on the skin over that area.
The provider will move a wand-like device, called a transducer, over the area.
The device sends sound waves into your body.
The movement of blood cells causes a change in the pitch of the sound waves. You may hear swishing or pulse-like sounds during the procedure.
The waves are recorded and turned into images or graphs on a monitor.
After the test is over, the provider will wipe the gel off your body.
The test takes about 30-60 minutes to complete.
To prepare for a Doppler ultrasound, you may need to:
Remove clothing and jewelry from the area of the body that is getting tested.
Avoid cigarettes and other products that have nicotine for up to two hours before your test. Nicotine causes blood vessels to narrow, which can affect your results.
For certain types of Doppler tests, you may be asked to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test.
Your health care provider will let you know if you need to do anything to prepare for your test.
There are no known risks to having a Doppler ultrasound. It is also considered safe during pregnancy.
If your results were not normal, it may mean you have:
A blockage or clot in an artery
Narrowed blood vessels
Abnormal blood flow
An aneurysm, a balloon-like bulge in the arteries. It causes the arteries to become stretched and thin. If the wall becomes too thin, the artery can rupture, causing life-threatening bleeding.
Results may also show if there is abnormal blood flow in an unborn baby.
The meaning of your results will depend what area of the body was being tested. If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/doppler-ultrasound/ [accessed on May 31, 2019]
https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=av2854 [accessed on Mar 17, 2019]
https://www.mayoclinic.org/doppler-ultrasound/expert-answers/faq-20058452 [accessed on Mar 17, 2019]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003775.htm [accessed on Mar 17, 2019]
https://www.healthline.com/health/doppler-ultrasound-exam-of-an-arm-or-leg [accessed on Mar 17, 2019]
https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/glossary/glossary1.cfm?gid=96 [accessed on Mar 17, 2019]
http://www.imagingpathways.health.wa.gov.au/index.php/consumer-info/imaging-procedures/doppler-ultrasound [accessed on Mar 17, 2019]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (43)
Clogged Artery
Plaque lining the intima of an artery.
Image by Scientific Animations Inc.
Coronary Artery Disease
Figure A shows the location of the heart in the body. Figure B shows a normal coronary artery with normal blood flow. The inset image shows a cross-section of a normal coronary artery. Figure C shows a coronary artery narrowed by plaque. The buildup of plaque limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood through the artery. The inset image shows a cross-section of the plaque-narrowed artery.
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Insitute (NIH)
Carotid ultrasonography
color flow ultrasonography (Doppler) of a carotid artery - scanner and screen
Image by Etan J. Tal
What Is Transesophageal Echocardiography?
Figure A shows a transesophageal echocardiography probe in the esophagus, behind the heart. Sound waves from the probe create high-quality pictures of the heart. Figure B shows an echocardiogram of the heart's lower and upper chambers (ventricles and atrium, respectively).
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NIH)
Image by Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator/Wikimedia
Atherosclerosis
The illustration shows an artery with normal blood flow (Figure A) and an artery containing plaque buildup (Figure B).
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Insitute (NIH)
Schematic diagram of normal sinus rhythm for a human heart as seen on ECG.
Schematic representation of normal ECG trace (sinus rhythm) with waves, segments, and intervals labeled. The QT interval is marked by blue stripe at bottom.
Image by Created by Agateller (Anthony Atkielski), converted to svg by atom.
This browser does not support the video element.
Atherosclerosis
Obesity and Atherosclerosis : Atherosclerosis is a disease in which hard, fatty deposits called plaque build up inside your arteries. Being obese-defined as having a body mass index over 30--makes it much more likely that you'll develop atherosclerosis.
Video by TheVisualMD
Spectrum of Medical Imaging
This composite image was created in recognition of The Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE) designation of 2015 as the “International Year of Light.” Medical imaging scientists and engineers contribute to the quest for the improved human condition by providing imaging that spans the entire usable electro-magnetic spectrum (seen at bottom). From the humblest of beginnings with simple magnification of objects and focusing with lenses, to the biological observation of cells with rudimentary microscopes in the visible spectrum, medical imaging today has both extended away from the visible spectrum towards longer and shorter wavelengths (low and high energies) and exploited the hyperspectral nature of the visible which was once considered “commonplace” or rudimentary. Considering yet a different cross-section through the various imaging modalities across the spectrum, the medically useful information gained spans anatomic, physiologic, and molecular regimes. Systems and algorithms have been developed as single-modality acquisition systems, and also as multiple-modalities with conjoint reconstruction, each informing the other in the quest to optimize image quality and information content. In addition, the role of light-based technologies in enabling advanced computations in tomographic reconstructions, computer-aided diagnosis, machine learning (neural networks, deep learning, etc.) , and 3D visualizations as well as in data-enriched storage of medical images has further extended the potential knowledge “seen” through imaging. The breadth of the electromagnetic spectrum offers limitless opportunities for improvement and inquiry, in our quest to answer human life’s difficult questions. This montage was first published on the cover of the SPIE’s Journal of Medical Imaging (July-Sept. 2015, vol. 3, no. 3) and is but a small tribute to the multitude of medical imaging scientists who have contributed to the wealth of new knowledge as we interrogate the human condition. The gray-scale whole body images (from Left to Right) are acquired from longer wavelength modalities to shorter wavelength modalities spanning the (currently) usable electromagnetic spectrum. The background images include: a coronal Magnetic Resonance Image (MRI) T2 weighted image slice, a posterior surface Infra Red (IR) heat map, a coronal non-contrast Computed Tomography (CT) slice, and a coronal 18F-fluoro-deoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography (FDG-PET) slice. The selection of color inset images includes (from Top-to-Bottom, then Left to Right): [1] diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) used to image long white matter tracts within and around the human brain illustrating neuronal connectivity (coloring refers to bluish=vertical direction; green=horizontal A-P direction; red=horizontal lateral direction) (courtesy of Arthur Toga, PhD); [2] registered and superimposed coronal proton-MRI (gray-scale) and a hyper polarized 129Xe ventilation MRI scan (color scale) within the same patient’s lungs, prior to their receiving a bronchial stent (courtesy of Bastiaan Driehuys, PhD); [3] coronal slice through a microwave-based image reconstruction of the Debye parameter ε (epsilon) in a heterogeneously dense human breast phantom (courtesy of Susan Hagness, PhD); [4] juxtaposed optical image of the retina and vertical and horizontal Optical Coherence Tomograph (OCT) slices showing pigmentosa retinopathy (courtesy of Jean-Michel Muratet, MD); [5] functional 3-D photoacoustic imaging of melanoma (gray scale) in vivo, surrounded by highly optically absorptive blood vessels (red) (courtesy of Lihong Wang, PhD); [6] optical micrograph of HeLa cells stained for microtubules (blue) and co-stained with DAPI for actin visualization (red); HeLa cells are the world's first stem cell line, originally derived from the aggressive cervical cancer cells of Henrietta Lacks (courtesy Tom Deerinck/NCMIR); [7] visualization of the pelvis highlighting the colon, which is imaged with contrast x-ray computed tomography (CT), and after digital surface rendering can be used in virtual colonoscopy, thus avoiding a physical visible light-based colonoscopy; [8] registered and fused sagittal 99mTc-sestamibi dedicated molecular single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT, heat color scale) and low-dose CT slice (gray scale) of a patient’s uncompressed, pendant breast containing two surgically confirmed DCIS loci in the posterior breast (courtesy of Martin Tornai, PhD); [9] classic, early x-radiograph of Wilhelm Röntgen’s wife’s hand (adapted from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/100_Photographs_that_Changed_the_World); [10] transverse pelvic CT (gray scale) with multiple superimposed simulated x-ray photon radiotherapy beams, and their cumulative 20Gy (red) deposited dose isocontours at the focus of a tumor (courtesy of Paul Read, MD, PhD); [11] false-colored scanning electron micrograph of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) particles (yellow) infecting a human H9 T-cell (turquoise) (adapted from http://biosingularity.com/category/infection/); [12] transverse 18F-dopa positron emission tomography (PET) slice through a Parkinson patient’s brain showing decreased in vivo quantitative uptake in the right caudate and putamen (courtesy of Christaan Schiepers, MD, PhD); [13] registered and fused transverse head CT (gray scale) and registered superimposed PET image (color) of a patient immediately after radio-therapeutic proton irradiation showing endogenously created 15O-positron emitter (2 min half-life) within the nasopharyngeal tumor focus (courtesy of Kira Grogg, PhD). [14] transverse (long axis) cardiac 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT slice illustrating thinned myocardial apical wall in a procedure performed thousands of times daily around the world (adapted from www.medscape.com). These images are but a small sampling of the breadth of the spectrum of light that is currently being investigated the world over by passionate scientists and engineers on a quest for the betterment of the human condition. All contributors for these images used herein have given their permission for their use, and are graciously thanked.
Image by Martin Tornai
Atherosclerosis - Stable vs. Unstable Plaque
Stable vs. Unstable Plaque
Image by BruceBlaus
Atherosclerosis - Normal vs. Partially-Blocked Vessel
Normal vs. Partially-Blocked Vessel
Image by BruceBlaus
New Compact Ultrasound
A new compact ultrasound-delivering device helps alleviate osteoarthritis of the knee. An osteoarthritic knee has damaged joint surfaces, inflammation and swelling. This creates a stagnant environment. Just like a saturated sponge will not accept more water, the osteoarthritic joint is slow to soak up nutrients. However, ultrasound delivered at a low volume for a long time through a newly designed compact transducer agitates remaining cartilage and tissues. The ultrasound penetrates the joint and tissues. It stimulates the joint thermally and mechanically and improves permeability, creating a dynamic environment conducive to healing. Similar to a sponge that has been wrung out, the treated knee is now able to absorb nutrients. The waste is removed and swelling subsides.
Image by Zina Deretsky, National Science Foundation
What Is Atherosclerosis?
Figure A shows a normal artery with normal blood flow. The inset image shows a cross-section of a normal artery. Figure B shows an artery with plaque buildup. The inset image shows a cross-section of an artery with plaque buildup.
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Insitute (NIH)
Micrograph of the distal right coronary artery with complex atherosclerosis and luminal narrowing
Low magnification micrograph of the distal right coronary artery with complex atherosclerosis and luminal narrowing. Masson's trichrome.
Arteries have three layers (tunica intima, tunica media and tunica adventitia). These can be seen on the micrograph:
Adventitia (outermost layer) = green fluffy material (collagen),
Media (middle (muscular) part) = red (smooth muscle actin),
Intima (inner part, in contact with the blood) = green (collagen) with some red (smooth muscle actin).
Features of atherosclerosis seen on the micrograph:
The tunica intima is severely thickened; it measures up to approximately 1/3 of a millimetre. Normally, it is one cell layer thick (approximately 10 micrometres).
There is fragmentation of the internal elastic lamina (a very thin black wavy layer) between the intima and media.
There is a partial duplication of the internal elastic lamina.
There is smooth muscle infiltration of the intima (from the media), i.e. red staining of the intima.
There is significant luminal narrowing. The section of the artery shown has only 25-35% of the cross-sectional area it once had; the artery's original lumen was approximately where the double layer of elastin is seen (the internal elastic lamina).
Features that may be seen in atherosclerosis but are not evident in the micrograph:
Calcifications.
Cholesterol crystals.
Image by Nephron
Atherosclerosis - Glossary
Atherosclerosis disease progression. Progression of atherosclerosis to late complications.
Image by Npatchett
Atherosclerosis
Illustration of Atherosclerosis and plaque that may lead to Angina.
Image by OpenStax College
What Are the Risks of Echocardiography?
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE SPEICHER, TIKRIT, Iraq - Col. John Scott, of Silver Spring, Md., the only American pediatric cardiologist in Iraq, is joined by the father of Dayah to look at the boy's echocardiogram at the 47th Combat Support Hospital, Sept. 17. The examination was part of a diagnostic cardiovascular screening session designed to link potential sponsors from various non-governmental organizations to fund the children's heart surgery.
Image by U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jazz Burney, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team
Start with an Exam
Doctors may find evidence of atherosclerosis in the course of a physical exam. Signs may include:Whooshing sounds (bruits), heard with a stethoscope
Weak or absent pulse in affected regions
Decreased blood pressure in a limb
Poor wound healing in affected regions
Signs of an aneurysm in the abdomen or below the knee
Image by TheVisualMD
Diagnosing Atherosclerosis
Doctors may find evidence of atherosclerosis during a physical exam, such as sounds (bruits) heard through a stethoscope, weak pulse, or poor wound healing. If signs of atherosclerosis are present, diagnostic tests may be performed. These can include blood tests, electrocardiograms (EKGs), angiograms or other imaging tests, and Doppler ultrasounds. If signs of atherosclerosis are present, diagnostic tests may be performed. Diagnostic tests may include one or more of the following:
Image by TheVisualMD
Image by Kristoffer Lindskov Hansen, Michael Bachmann Nielsen and Caroline Ewertsen / https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Doppler_ultrasound_of_systolic_velocity_(Vs),_diastolic_velocity_(Vd),_acceleration_time_(AoAT),_systolic_acceleration_(Ao_Accel)_and_resistive_index_(RI)_of_normal_kidney.jpg
Ultrasonography of orchitis
Doppler ultrasound of the scrotum, in the axial plane, of a 70 year old man with left-sided pain in the region, as well as CRP elevation. It shows orchitis (as part of epididymo-orchitis) as a hypoechogenic and slightly heterogenic left testicular tissue (right in image), with an increased blood flow. There is also swelling of peritesticular tissue.
Image by Mikael Häggström, M.D. - Author info - Reusing imagesWritten informed consent was obtained from the individual, including online publication./Wikimedia
Carotid arterial ultrasound
A patient has an ultrasonic transducer placed against their neck during a carotid arterial ultrasound at Yokota Air Base, Japan, May 11, 2016. The transducer works on similar principals to radar and sonar systems, converting ultrasound waves into electrical signals. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman David C. Danford/Released)
Image by U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman David C. Danford/Released
Spectral Doppler
Medical spectral Doppler of common carotid artery By Daniel W. Rickey 2006
Image by Drickey/Wikimedia
Doppler ultrasound image of inferior vena cava
Pulsed wave Doppler ultrasound image of inferior vena cava
Echocardiography, animation of a mitral valve insufficiency in a dog, left apical view.
Image by Kalumet
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Vaginal Ultrasound
Vaginal Ultrasound
Image by BruceBlaus
Fetal Ultrasound
Ultrasound image (sonogram) of a fetus in the womb.
Image by BruceBlaus/Wikimedia
Transcranial Doppler
Transcranial Doppler Insonation of the Cerebral Circulation
Image by Runeaaslid at English Wikipedia
Angiogenesis of a breast tumor can be viewed in an Doppler ultrasound and in magnetic resonance imaging after contrast agent has been injected.
Tumor angiogenesis is the proliferation of a network of blood vessels that penetrates into cancerous growths, supplying nutrients and oxygen and removing waste products. Tumor angiogenesis actually starts with cancerous tumor cells releasing molecules that send signals to surrounding normal host tissues. This signaling activates certain genes in the host tissue that, in turn, make proteins to encourage growth of new blood vessels. Angiogenesis of a breast tumor can be viewed in an Doppler ultrasound and in magnetic resonance imaging after contrast agent has been injected.
Image by TheVisualMD
Tumor angiogenesis signaling activates certain genes in the host tissue that, in turn, make proteins to encourage growth of new blood vessels.
Tumor angiogenesis is the proliferation of a network of blood vessels that penetrates into cancerous growths, supplying nutrients and oxygen and removing waste products. Tumor angiogenesis actually starts with cancerous tumor cells releasing molecules that send signals to surrounding normal host tissues. This signaling activates certain genes in the host tissue that, in turn, make proteins to encourage growth of new blood vessels. Angiogenesis of a breast tumor can be viewed in an Doppler ultrasound and in magnetic resonance imaging after contrast agent has been injected.
Image by TheVisualMD
Doppler Ultrasound, Investigation
Image by Beeki/Pixabay
Sonoline fetal doppler - Ultrasound - 5412
Sonoline B fetal doppler - 3MHz Ultrasound
Image by Amada44
Ultrasound is partly reflected by blood cells and plasma back toward the speaker-microphone. Because the cells are moving, two Doppler shifts are produced—one for blood as a moving observer, and the other for the reflected sound coming from a moving source. The magnitude of the shift is directly proportional to blood velocity.
Schematic diagram of normal sinus rhythm for a human heart as seen on ECG.
Created by Agateller (Anthony Atkielski), converted to svg by atom.
2:23
Atherosclerosis
TheVisualMD
Spectrum of Medical Imaging
Martin Tornai
Atherosclerosis - Stable vs. Unstable Plaque
BruceBlaus
Atherosclerosis - Normal vs. Partially-Blocked Vessel
BruceBlaus
New Compact Ultrasound
Zina Deretsky, National Science Foundation
What Is Atherosclerosis?
National Heart Lung and Blood Insitute (NIH)
Micrograph of the distal right coronary artery with complex atherosclerosis and luminal narrowing
Nephron
Atherosclerosis - Glossary
Npatchett
Atherosclerosis
OpenStax College
What Are the Risks of Echocardiography?
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jazz Burney, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team
Start with an Exam
TheVisualMD
Diagnosing Atherosclerosis
TheVisualMD
Kristoffer Lindskov Hansen, Michael Bachmann Nielsen and Caroline Ewertsen / https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Doppler_ultrasound_of_systolic_velocity_(Vs),_diastolic_velocity_(Vd),_acceleration_time_(AoAT),_systolic_acceleration_(Ao_Accel)_and_resistive_index_(RI)_of_normal_kidney.jpg
Ultrasonography of orchitis
Mikael Häggström, M.D. - Author info - Reusing imagesWritten informed consent was obtained from the individual, including online publication./Wikimedia
Carotid arterial ultrasound
U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman David C. Danford/Released
Angiogenesis of a breast tumor can be viewed in an Doppler ultrasound and in magnetic resonance imaging after contrast agent has been injected.
TheVisualMD
Tumor angiogenesis signaling activates certain genes in the host tissue that, in turn, make proteins to encourage growth of new blood vessels.
TheVisualMD
Doppler Ultrasound, Investigation
Beeki/Pixabay
Sonoline fetal doppler - Ultrasound - 5412
Amada44
Openstax
Cardiovasc Ultrasound LVNC 2
The original uploader was Dexcel at English Wikipedia./Wikimedia
7:01
Doppler Ultrasound Imaging for Detection of Deep Vein Thrombosis in Plastic Surgery Outpatients
ASJOnline/YouTube
12:25
Carotid Duplex Exam
Sonographic Tendencies/YouTube
6:59
Ultrasound Physics Scanning Modes Color Doppler
POCUS Geek/YouTube
27:32
Doppler Features, Pitfalls and Artifacts
Radiology Video/YouTube
58:32
Understanding Doppler
Radiology Video/YouTube
2:42
What is Doppler Ultrasound and its Usage?
ERemedium/YouTube
4:31
doppler ultrasound
DrER.tv/YouTube
venous duplex of varicose veins
BruceBlaus
Doppler ultrasound analyzer of blood velocity
Юрий Петрович Маслобоев / Yury Petrovich Masloboev
Treatment
Cardio surgery
Image by Dominique Cappronnier/Wikimedia
Cardio surgery
heart surgery
Image by Dominique Cappronnier/Wikimedia
How Is Endocarditis Treated?
Medicines
Antibiotics treat bacterial infections. Side effects of antibiotics depend on which antibiotic is used but may include diarrhea, problems with hearing, balance, kidneys, or decreased white blood cell counts. Some of these side effects may not happen until treatment is finished.
Antifungal medicines treat fungal infections. Sometimes your doctor may recommend lifelong oral antifungal treatment to prevent the infection from returning. Possible side effects of antifungal medicines include allergic reactions, diarrhea, dizziness, itching, blisters or hives, difficulty breathing, weight loss, and skin and eye yellowing called jaundice.
Procedures
Your doctor may consider procedures and surgeries to treat your heart inflammation.
Heart surgery can manage damage to valves or nearby heart tissue from endocarditis. It may involve removal of infected tissues or reconstruction of the heart, including repairing or replacing the affected valve.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (3)
A medical illustration depicting open heart surgery.
A medical illustration depicting open heart surgery.
Image by BruceBlaus
Antibiotics
Image by Memed_Nurrohmad
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Heart surgery
Human heart with sutures in place ready to set canulae for extracorporeal circulation
Image by Alexperf/Wikimedia
A medical illustration depicting open heart surgery.
BruceBlaus
Antibiotics
Memed_Nurrohmad
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Heart surgery
Alexperf/Wikimedia
Recovery
Blood Tests
Image by TheVisualMD
Blood Tests
Blood tests show whether the levels of different substances in your blood fall within a normal range. Some common blood tests are the complete blood count, which includes red blood cell, white blood cell, and platelet counts; the blood glucose test; and the lipoprotein panel, which measures cholesterol levels. Certain types of blood tests can help detect cancer, but additional tests are necessary to confirm diagnosis.
Image by TheVisualMD
Recovery After Heart Inflammation
Following treatment for pericarditis, myocarditis, or endocarditis, it is important to see your healthcare provider regularly for follow-up visits. Depending on the type of heart inflammation that you have, you may be at risk for the inflammation to come back for several months or longer. Talk to your provider about your risk and what to watch for.
Receive routine follow-up care
Blood tests detect the bacteria causing endocarditis and may be needed every 24 to 48 hours until the infection is gone from the bloodstream. For pericarditis, blood tests that look for increased levels of inflammation — C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) — may be repeated periodically until the levels return to normal. Your doctor may also continue anti-inflammatory treatment until these levels return to normal.
Heart imaging tests, such as cardiac MRI or echocardiograms, take images of your heart after treatment to help your healthcare providers monitor your condition and look for any changes.
Prevent serious problems or getting the disease again
People with endocarditis have a lifelong risk of getting the disease again. People with pericarditis can have the disease again in the first 18 months after treatment. People with myocarditis are at risk of having the disease years after their first time.
It is important to prevent other health problems and lower the risk of having heart inflammation again.
Continue all medicines as directed by your doctor, including those for other health problems such as heart failure, arrhythmia, or for medical conditions that may have caused your endocarditis, myocarditis, or pericarditis. Treatment for endocarditis and pericarditis often lasts weeks. You may need to take some medicines throughout your lifetime. If prescribed, lifelong use of antifungals for fungal endocarditis or colchicine for pericarditis may lower your risk of having the disease again.
Do not exercise until your doctor tells you it is safe.
Avoid known causes and risk factors.
Make healthy lifestyle changes as recommended by your doctor. These may include avoiding amphetamines, cocaine, or IV drugs.
Get regular dental care.
Tell your doctor if you experience fever or chills; or symptoms of heart failure, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling in your legs.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
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Endocarditis
Endocarditis is inflammation of the inner lining of the heart's chambers and valves, called endocardium. Endocarditis is a rare but life-threatening disease. Learn the causes, who's at risk, and how it's treated.